Hi Everyone,

I hope everyone’s Mother’s Day was fabulous! It certainly was a great weekend for relaxation and fun.

Our Austrian wines were a big hit. If you weren’t able to make last Satuurday’s tasting and would like to read more about Austrian wines just pick up today’s Manchester Union Leader. Jim Beauregard has an article on Austria and the Austrian wines that we carry at Bella Vino. This week he is focusing on the Whites and next week he will focus on the Reds.

We have another busy week. We have our wine tasting on Thursday with Kristen from Martignetti Companies featuring 5 delicious wines.

And on Friday we will be hosting the Windham Helping Hands Fundraiser. We will have 11 wines being poured by Joe from Pine State, Mike from Crush Distributers and Paulette from LaBelle Winery. We will also be tasting a selection of craft style beer.

Windham’s Helping Hands is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that strives to reach out to its neighbors and lend a helping hand when needed. It offers help in a variety of ways to a variety of people in the Windham community. It strives to lessen burdens that could otherwise be overwhelming due to illness or unforeseen circumstances. Bella Vino will be hosting a Beer & Wine Tasting event from 7:00 to 8:30 on May 18th. Come with friends and enjoy a sampling of delicious wine and beer, with an assortment of fruit, cheeses and crackers. Tickets for the event and for the raffles can be purchased at Bella Vino. The donation is twenty-five dollars per person.

Thursdays Wine Tasting – Kristen from Martignetti Companies – 4:30 to 7:00

2011 Santa Ema – 100% Sauvignon Blanc - Maipo Valley, Chile - Clear and lightly straw in color with apple, grass and citrus on the nose. Taste is on the light side, with apple dominating, then citrus and finally pear on the finish. Moderately crisp acidity with a finish that’s a bit longer than most Sauvignon Blancs. Nice and light summer wine. ($13.99)

2010 The Show – 100% Pinot Noir – Leyda Valley, Chile  - The cool Chilean winds keep the Pinot Noir fruit yields naturally small, giving the wines depth and rich concentration. Beautiful aromas and flavors of pie spice, wild cherries and red fruit lead to refreshing acidity, silky tannins and good minerality. ($14.99)

“New Wine” 2011 Padrillos - 100% Malbec – Mendoza Argentina - Aromas of dark fruit with hints of chocolate. A plate of black cherry and red currant with notes of sweet spices, soft supple tannins and balanced acidity. ($14.99)

“New Wine” 2008 Hess Collection 19 Block Cuvee - 69% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Malbec, 8% Merlot, 8% Syrah, 1% Cabernet Franc, 1% PetitVerdot – Mt. Veeder, Napa Valley, California – 90 Pts WE - Aromas of black cherry compote and ripe plum are accentuated with hints of vanilla and cardamom.  A silky mouthfeel of cassis and milk chocolate leads into an immensely satisfying and lengthy finish. ($37.99)

“New Wine” 2011 Frisk Prickly Riesling- 100% Riesling – Victoria, Australia - It’s a mouth-revving Riesling with a bite that sings with mountain-stream purity. Its flavors dart all over. You may see notes of lemon sorbet, bath salts and white lilies layered with spices from your favorite childhood pie shop. But you can’t deny its raciness and versatility, sidling up suggestively to food that’s both sweet and spicy. Its intensity will slap you in the face…the oodles of length will have you scrambling for more. ($14.99)

Until Then - Cheers

Paula

Hi Everyone,

Hope everyone is doing well and you can enjoy the pockets of sunshine we are getting. Saturday looks to be a great day so I hope you can make it to our Austrian Wine Tasting, Mom’s Day Celebration and Art Exhibit. We will have 8 Austrian Wines (all delicious and described below) being poured by Megan from Crush distributers. Our Mother’s Day Celebration will include lots of delicious food to sample and a flower and chocolates for every mom. Our Art Exhibit will be presented by Drew Irvine, a local artist who resides in Windham, NH. Drew’s expressions “pop” as he combines the use of multiple mediums on canvas. His style comes to life with the application of acrylics, water color, pastels and occasionally, he will finish a piece with touches of spray paint and pens. We hope you can join us on Saturday from noon to 4.  It is sure to be lots of fun! 

We will have our Thursday tasting with me pouring!!

Thursdays Wine Tasting – 4:30 to 7:00

“New Wine” 2010 Bell Wine Cellars – 100% Sauvignon Blanc – Lake County, California -  Cold, slow fermentation in stainless steel tanks has preserved the fresh citrus and mineral flavors, vivid melony aromatics and brisk acidity, underlain with subtle hints of fresh cut grass. ($19.99)

2009  Miralile – 100% Nero D’Avola – Sicily, Italy – Fresh from Sicily’s Mediterranean coast, Mirabile Nero d’Avola is a fruit forward and easy drinking expression of Sicily at its best. Teaming with flavors of ripe cherries and exotic spices, it represents an incredible value! ($17.99)

2009 Pavilion Crossing – 100% Merlot – Sonoma County, California – Dark with deep, rich dark fruit loaded with condensed plum, black cherry and caramelized vanilla. The palate is rich with explosive flavor of raspberries followed by soft, ripe tannins and hint dusty Indian spices to complete its elegant finish. ($18.99)

“New Wine” 2010 Calina Reserva - 100% Carmenere – Maule Valley, Chile  - The aromas are intense with ripe berries, smoked bacon, sweet cotton candy, “grandma’s spice box” and hints of vanilla. The tannins are well-integrated, providing the underlying structure to support the wine’s opulent fruit. The finish is medium-long and elegant with spice and hints of oak. ($14.99)

Saturdays Wine Tasting with Megan and Rafael – noon to 4:00

“New Wine” 2009 Steininger  Sekt – 100% Sauvignon Blanc – Langenlois, Austria - Brilliant yellowish-gold; fine mousseux; rich and fruity Sauvignon. I love these bubbles! ($27.99)

“New Wine” 2010 Tegernseerhof/Mittelbach T Rose - 100% Zweigelt - Wachau, Austria  - A beautiful hue of watermelon sets the right tone for this bright, disarmingly fun rose. Crisp, dry and ultra refreshing, this light to medium bodied wine has aromas of ripe cherry and crushed strawberry. The wine holds its balance throughout the finis. ($16.99)

“New Wine” 2010 Tegernseerhof/Mittelbach Terrassen – 100% Riesling  - Wachau, Austria - It´s peach, apple aroma flavors, mingle with a white pepper note in this scented yet powerful Riesling. Balanced and ending with a mineral aftertaste. This wine is simply delicious and a dry style Riesling. ($23.99)

“New Wine” 2011 Steininger Young – 70% Gruner Veltliner, 20% Sauvignon Blanc, 10% Muskateller - Langenlois, Austria - A complex blend. The Grüner Veltliner adds green apple and white pepper. The citrus and grapefruit are from the Sauvignon Blanc while the Muskateller dominates the finish with a floral bouquet. ($16.99)

“New Wine” 2011 Anton Bauer Gmork - 100% Gruner Veltliner – Wagram, Austria - The Grüner Veltliner Gmörk is a classic example of this varietal. Bright, ripe aromas of Granny Smith apples and clean citrus fruit dominate the nose of this wine. On the palate, the wine possesses crisp acidity as well as clean, pure citrus flavors that keep you coming back for more. ($16.99)

“New Wine” 2010 Leo Hillinger Eveline - 100% Pinot Noir – Burgunland, Austria - Pinot Noir from Austria! It has a typical Pinot Noir nose of strawberries and violets. Medium bodied with intense notes of herbs and pureed dark berries. ($23.99)

“New Vintage” 2010 Leo Hillinger Small  Red - Blend of  Pinot Noir, St. Laurent and Merlot – Burgunland, Austria - Aged for 3 months in French oak. Its fine, elegant nose leads to explosive dark fruit flavors, smooth soft tannins, and a lively long-lasting finish. ($18.99)

“New Wine” 2010 Netzl Carnuntum Cuvee - 40% Zweigelt, 40% Blaufrankisch 20% Merlot - Burgunland, Austria - An easy drinking red blend with ruby garnet and youthful reflexes, red berries in the nose and  herbal nuances, fresh and pleasing palate, smooth and ripe tannins. ($19.99)

Until Then - Cheers

Paula

Hi Everyone,

We had a great time last Thursday with Patrick and the Best Buddies Fundraiser. Thank you to all who were able to attend. We had 3 raffle groupings and the winners were, Emily Webber, Richard & Barbara Rue and Clint Fondo. Thank you again for all your support.

And the fun doesn’t end there. We have another great event to look forward too, so SAVE THE DATE, Saturday May 12 from noon to 4. We will have an all Austrian Wine Tasting. I have been looking forward to having all of you taste the fabulous wines I was able to try when I was in Austria. We will also have a Mother’s Day Celebration and Art Show with guest artist Drew Irvine. I will have greater detail about the event next week but we will have lots of wine, delicious food, great art, great gifts for mom and oh Yeah, it’s my birthday!!

This week we will have Casey from M.S. Walker pouring some of his delicious wines. Hope you can join us!!

Thursdays Wine Tasting – Casey from M.S. Walker – 4:30 to 7:00

“New Wine” Kila Cava – Macabeo, Xarel-lo, Parellada - Penedes, Spain -  Estate bottled and aged over 12 months on its lees, this is a lovely sparkler. Fresh and crisp with great acidity and bright flavors of pear, apple and citrus. A perfect choice for any occasion and especially delicious with Asian influenced dishes. It’s KILA! ($15.99)

2010 Aquinas – 100% Chardonnay – Napa Valley, California - This golden, straw-colored wine has aromas of butterscotch, custard and vanilla. The palate is ripe with baked apple and caramel. The texture is very round and silky with a tropical fruit core including pineapple, guava and mango. The finish is supple with lemon zest, honey butter, vanilla and a hint of almond. ($21.99)

2009 Pertinance Barbera D’Alba – 100% Barbera – Piedmont, Italy - Purple color with a fruity, vinous bouquet, very expansive and persistent. Round, dry flavor, nicely tart. Considerable structure shows off its great personality. ($18.99)

“New Wine” 2010 Battle Ax - 100% Malbec – Mendoza, Argentina  - All the vineyards were harvested by hand using small boxes of 25lb capacity. Each bunch was then checked and sorted by hand prior to being used for the Battle Axe Malbec. With it’s deep, inky-red color and intense, complex flavor – particularly the distinct taste of plum – Battle Axe Malbec has notes of blackberry, pepper, tobacco and leather. The wine’s robust tannins make it perfect for pairing with steak. ($21.99)

2008 Freemark Abbey - 100% Cabernet Sauvignon - Napa Valley, California  - Medium dark ruby, this wine has aromas of sweet black cherry, blackberry and Santa Rosa plum. The oak is very well integrated with a light spice, clove, vanilla and toast. The depth in the nose has a complexity of dark chocolate and a hint of dried herbs. The entry is soft with dark fruit flavors and well resolved tannins. Velvety, floral, juicy and rich, this wine has great sex appeal. ($35.99)

Until Then - Cheers

Paula

Hi Everyone,

I am really looking forward to our Thursday wine tasting and Best Buddies event. It is shaping up to be lots of fun. You can’t go wrong with Patrick pouring his delicious wines. And we will have 6 of them to try. If you haven’t tried the San Ramon (or Happy Wine as Clint and Thom call it!!) you are in for a real treat.

We have decided to have raffle baskets at the event instead of a silent auction. Still some fabulous wines but just a different way to win them. We will also have Best Buddies clothing, gift certificates and much more. It will be a great event with wonderful wine, tasty appetizers and lots of chances to win some great products. Best of all it is going to support a great organization. For more information about Best Buddies and The Challenge just follow this link.

Thursdays Wine Tasting and Event – Patrick from Dunn Wine Brokers – 4:30 to 7:30

2010 Terre D’Alteni – 100%  Moscato Bianco – Lombardia, Italy - Soft white mousse; clear golden-yellow color; generous bouquet, very assertive, with notes of musk, rosewood, sage and ripe fruit; the palate is sweet, exceptionally gracious, fresh and lively, with a persistent backdrop that is, by turns, fruity and musky. Ideally savored with: cakes, oven pies, desserts in general, strawberries, raspberries, peaches. ($18.99)

2009 Leone d’Oro Gavi - 100% Cortese – Piedmonte, Italy - Created from 100% Cortese grapes, the Gavi has an aroma of ripe apple and wild flower bouquet. The taste is fresh and lively with a dry finish of almond. A well-structured and crisp wine that demonstrates good acidity and can be enjoyed with antipasto, fish and cheese. ($22.99)

“Returning Wine, New Vintage” 2008 Maurodos “Prima” – 90% Tempranillo, 10% Grenache - Toro, Spain- 90 Pts. WA, 89 Pts WS – This plump red is full of cherry, blackberry, chocolate and coffee flavors, supported by ripe tannins and with just enough acidity for balance. A meaty, savory tang adds interest. ($25.99)

2007 White Oak Vineyards and Winery – 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc – Napa Valley, California - Aromas of dark chocolate, cassis, and rose hip. Full and juicy in the mouth, the flavors of currants, black plum and tea are supported by ripe tannins. Black fruit and toasty oak combine to form the lingering finish. ($32.99)

2010 Macchia Mischievous – 100% Old Vine Zinfandel – Lodi, California – Sumptious, inviting and rich. Three words to describe this full-bodied Zinfandel from Lodi. Very pleasing to the nose and satisfying to the palate. Does very well on its own or can be paired with a variety of red meats. Hints of raspberry and blackberry. ($24.99)

“Returning Wine, New Vintage” 2006 San Ramon - 90% Tempranillo - Toro, Spain - 05 Vintage, 95 Pts WE and Wine Enthusiast Top 100 Wines of 2009 - The vines range up to 70 years in age producing small yields that make a very concentrated and powerful wine. Flavors of berries, plum and tobacco spice with depth and complexity. The palate is juicy and intense. Just delicious! ($76.99)

On Saturday we will be tasting a Rose, a Chardonnay,  a Cabernet Sauvignon and a Tempranillo – from noon to 4:00.

Until Then - Cheers

Paula

Hi Everyone,

We had a really fun time last Thursday with the Gamba’s. It was a great opportunity to meet a 6th generation winemaker. But the fun doesn’t end there. SAVE THE DATE for another great event at Bella Vino. On Thursday April 26 we will have a Wine Tasting and a Silent Wine Auction (featuring some wonderful wines). Patrick Dunn will be pouring and the event will support BEST BUDDIES CHALLENGE. My daughter along with Team Harrington will be participating in the  Challenge on June 2. All the money raised from the Silent Auction will go to support the challenge and that goes directly to Best Buddies. For more information about Best Buddies and The Challenge just follow this link.

We are happy to have Judy from Vinextra pouring wine for us on Thursday. We will taste some delicious wines from around the world, all under $20.00. Hope you can join us.

We will have a Friday Night Beer Tasting from 4:30 to 7:00. Hope you can join us.

Thursdays Wine Tasting – Judy from Vinextra – 4:30 to 7:00

“New Wine” 2010 Chateau Moncontour, Demi Sec Vouvray – 100% Chenin Blanc – Vouvray, Loire Valley, France - Chateau Moncontour is in the heart of the Vouvray region and overlooks the Loire River. This wine has a slight sweetness as to be expected with this off-dry wine, but a very clean taste with a bit of honey and mineral tartness. It has a long, elegant finish with a touch of lime. This a great food wine standing up nicely to spicy food. Try also with sea food and mild blue cheese. ($19.99)

“New Wine” 2009 Foris - 100% Gewurztraminer - Rogue Valley, Oregon - 90 Pts and Best Buy from WE - Citrus blossom, orange peel, wildflower honey and a hint of nutmeg are aromatically enticing. Beautifully balanced flavors of pineapple, guava, nectarine and a trace of ginger spice are rich yet restrained, opulent, but not over the top. ($17.99)

2009 Jovly – 100% Cabernet Franc – Loire Valley, France – A fresh and supple wine with a distinguished violet aroma. ($16.99)

2009 Emerald Bay – 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot - Central Coast, California - Notes of chocolate, toasted almonds and black cherry complement this wine’s mild tannins and subtle oak aging. A small blend of Merlot contributes smooth, soft finish and round, berry finesse.  ($14.99)

“New Wine” 2011 Mwitu - 100% Shiraz – Western Cape, South Africa  - A lightly oaked wine, vibrant purple/red in color, layered with sweet plum and berry notes.  Spicy black fruit and ripe soft tannins play out on the finish.  Made in a bright, modern style. ($16.99)

Until Then - Cheers

Paula

Hi Everyone,

I hope you all had a great Easter or are still enjoying your Passover.

We are very excited about our wine tasting on Thursday. Gus and Paulette Gamba, winemaker and owners of Gamba Vineyards and Winery will be here for our Thursday Night tasting.  Gamba wines are award winning Old Vine Zinfandels from the Russian River Valley. This is the Gamba’s first trip to New Hampshire and we are pleased to be the only independent wine shop in this area to host them. It’s a great opportunity to get a bottle signed for yourself or as a gift. For some history on the Gamba property follow this link. We hope to see you on Thursday.

Thursdays Wine Tasting – 4:30 to 7:0

2008 Gamba Vineyards and Winery – 100% Zinfandel – Russian River Valley, California - The 2008 vintage of  family ranches cuvee, “Russian River Valley”, is a blend of treasured family owned old vine grapes blended with extraordinary younger vine blocks. Always a favorite (Parker gave Gamba’s 2007 Old Vine Estate 92 points), this new release from these Zin specialists lives up to its past glories, offering loads of rippling dark and brambly fruits and a spicy, teeth staining finish that calls for meatballs, eggplant parmigiano, and other hearty family-style fare. ($34.99)

2009 Gamba Old Vine Zinfandel - Moratto Vineyard, Russian River Valley, California  –  A classic, bold and intense style from a legendary Russian River Valley hillside vineyard. This sumptuous Zin is packed with mouth coating flavor and silky richness, showcasing incredibly deep, dark fruit and luscious tannins. This wine is a must for the true Zin aficionado. ($49.99)

“New Wine” 2009 Gamba Old Vine Zinfandel - Gamba Estate Vineyard, Russian River Valley, California  - The  2009 vintage of  Gamba Estate Vineyard Russian River Valley, is a brilliant garnet color, the aromas are highlighted by luscious black cherry, raspberry with clove, and toasted oak accents. In the mouth this wine is soft and velvety, filling the senses with juicy cherry, boysenberry and blueberry, with layered, subtle, complex flavors of cardamom, nutmeg, toasty mocha, and hints of allspice.  ($49.99)

Until Then - Cheers

Paula

Hi Everyone,

Sorry for the delay in this email. Tonight (Friday) we will have a hard cider and beer tasting. On Saturday we will have a wine tasting and Easter Egg hunt. We will have 5 delicious wines, one of them is the Alycone!! For our Easter Egg hunt we will hide eggs and a prize will be hidden in each egg!

Fridays Hard Cider and Beer Tasting – 4:30 to 7:00

Magners Pear Hard Cider
Angry Orchard Apple Hard Ginger Cider
Magic Hat Edler Betty Seasonal Beer
Smuttynose Really Old Brown Dog
Oaked Arrogant Bastard Ale 

Saturdays Wine Tasting – noon – 4:00

“New Wine” 2009  Wente Riverbank – 83% White Riesling, 17% Gewurztraminer – Monterey California  –  This Riesling exhibits aromas of honeysuckle, lychee and fresh cut red apple, with a hint of nutmeg. The taste is crisp and fresh, delivering full, classic Riesling flavors of red apple and spice. The acid and the semi-sweetness are perfectly balanced for an excellent mouth feel. ($15.99)

“New Wine”  2010 Kim Crawford - 100% Pinot Noir - Marlborough, New Zealand - A fine combination of dark cherries and red fruit abound. This is a fruit focused and velvety wine with rich flavours and soft tannins. ($21.99)

“Returning Wine” 2011 Arabella – 100% Shiraz – South Africa – Inviting aromas of vanilla and mocha. The palate rewards with lingering liquorice and ripe black cherries, supported my soft spicy tannins. ($13.99)

2009 JaM Cellars Red Blend – A blend of Petite Syrah and Petite Verdot – Napa Valley, California – Generous aromas of luscious red berry are complemented by a subtle undertone of clove and cinnamon. The rich, luxurious palate reveals fresh raspberry flavors and savory, supple tannins with a hint of toasty oak and bright, lively acidity to add balance. The vibrant fruit mellows on the finish, leaving a lingering hint of silky dark chocolate. ($22.99)

Vinedo de los Vientos “Alcyone” – 100% Tannat – Uruguay - This dessert wine is different to begin with, it is 100% tannat. It has a radiant amber, purple color and a honey-like texture, with a bouquet that offers hints of winter flowers, Madagascan vanilla bean and wild apple with a touch of white chocolate. Whoa ($38.99)

Until Then - Cheers

Paula

Hi Everyone,

April is here and that means Spring and sunshine – hopefully! I can’t believe it’s Easter this Sunday. It kinda snuck up on us. To celebrate Easter we will have 3 tastings this week. This email will have information about Thursdays tasting. I will send another email later this week about Friday and Saturdays tasting. We will do our best to have you taste wine that will pair with you Easter meal.

Another reminder to SAVE THE DATE ! We are very fortunate to have Gus and Paulette Gamba, winemaker and owners of Gamba Vineyards and Winery, come to Bella Vino on Thursday, April 12 from 4:30 to 7:00. Gamba wines are award winning Old Vine Zinfandels from the Russian River Valley. This is the Gamba’s first trip to New Hampshire and we are pleased to be the only independent wine shop in this area to host them. So mark your calendar and come on in and say hello to the Gamba’s. For some history on the Gamba property follow this link.

Thursdays Wine Tasting – 4:30 to 7:00

“New Wine” 2011 Frogs Leap Rose – 59% Valdiguie (Napa Gamay), 41% Zinfandel  - Napa Valley, California - One whiff and you are charmed by aromas of watermelon and white summer flowers. Light and crisp with a lovely depth of flavor which is balanced by bright acid and low alcohol. It’s the perfect partner to Serrano ham (great for Easter) or serve it on ice, we won’t tell! ($18.99)

2011 Borealis “The Northern Whites”- 45% Muller-Thurgau, 24% Gewurztraminer, 18% Pinot Gris and 13% Riesling. - Willamette Valley, Oregon  - Refreshing and crisp with just a hint of sweetness that is erased by a long, dry finish. Notes of ripe yellow apple and luscious melon dance on the palate. Exotic, tropical, aromatic and delicious. ($13.99)

“New Wine” Sokol Blosser Evolution Red – Blend of Pinot Noir, Zinfandel and Syrah – Dundee, Oregon - Sweet, pure fruit aromas of maraschino cherries, strawberry preserves and red plums. Notes of tangy cranberries, ripe raspberries and loganberries. Evolution Red has a bright edge of pomegranate and blood orange, with hints of warm earth and cinnamon. The overall mouthfeel is lighter-bodied with fine tannins, finishing smooth and juicy. ($21.99)

“New Wine” 2010  Flirt Red Blend – 70% Syran, 17% Tempranillo, 13% Zinfandel, California  –  A playful and provocative California Red Blend, with flavors of warm, juicy red plum, baked cherry spice and cherry cola layered with vanilla and butterscotch. Oak aging and a precise blend of quality Mendocino County fruit are responsible for the additional layers of complexity and rich flavor. ($16.99)

“New Wine”  2007 J. Lohr Hilltop - 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Petite Sirah, 4% Malbec, 4% Merlot, 3% Petit Verdot, 3% Cabernet Franc - Paso Robles, California - Aromas of black plum, cherry and fresh fig are wrapped in a bouquet of roasted hazelnut, coconut and Italian espresso. This wine offers large palate volume in a very soft package with a supple finish. This new world wine showcases the best of the varietal fruit, with complexity and structure reminiscent of the finest of Bordeaux. ($34.99)

Until Then - Cheers

Paula

Hi Everyone,

WHERE HAS SPRING GONE!! At least we had a sneak preview of Spring (and summer!) with last weeks weather!

I am sending a SAVE THE DATE heads up! We are very fortunate to have Gus and Paulette Gamba, winemaker and owners of Gamba Vineyards and Winery, come to Bella Vino on Thursday, April 12 from 4:30 to 7:00. Gamba wines are award winning Old Vine Zinfandels from the Russian River Valley. This is the Gamba’s first trip to New Hampshire and we are pleased to be the only independent wine shop in this area to host them. So mark your calendar and come on in and say hello to the Gamba’s. For some history on the Gamba property follow this link.

We have some fun wines to taste this week. 2 whites and 3 reds. Hope you can join us.

Thursdays Wine Tasting – 4:30 to 7:00

“New Wine” 2009 Willamette Valley Vineyards – Mainly Pinot Gris – Willamette VAlley, Oregon - This wine opens with bright, clean aromas of pear and green apple. The sip is round and creamy, with a good acid balance that highlights flavors of key lime and lemongrass, with tart notes of kumquat balanced by just a hint of sweetness. The bright, strong finish invites another sip. The small addition of Pinot Blanc, picked very ripe, adds emollient mouthfeel, and contributes to this classic Oregon style. The barrel fermented portions of the Pinot Gris add a kiss of toast and richness. ($19.99)

2008 Beaucanon Estate – 100% Chardonnay – Napa Valley, California - The palate is full-bodied and rich but with a thrill of lemon acidity that keeps things lively.  Flavors of citrus and subtle oak dominate but the nose is echoed as well. ($24.99)

“New Wine” 2007 Jelu Reserve – 80% Malbec, 10% Syrah, 8 % Merlot, 2% Tempranillo – Uco Valley in Mendoza, Argentina - Complex aromas of plums, black peppers and hints of cigar box. The palate is rich and textured with black fruits and spicy cinnamon and sweet oak tannins. ($19.99)

“New Wine” 2005  BR Cohn Winery – 100% Merlot – Sonoma Valley, California  –  A blend of the finest Merlot vineyards of the Sonoma Valley. These grapes provide wonderful aromas and flavors of ripe blackberry, bright cherry and a hint of anise and mocha. Aging in the best tight-grain French oak barrels adds complexity, toasty vanilla, and supple tannins for a long, smooth finish. This wine compliments a wide range of foods such as lamb, duck and all cuts of steak and ribs. ($24.99)

“Returning Wine” 2008 Tete-a-Tete - 36% Mourvèdre,  32% Grenache, 32% Syrah - Sierra Foothills, California - Deep boysenberry fruit, smoky/meaty complex flavor components that emphasize the terroir, and a lengthy creamy texture. Aged for 16 months in a mixture of French barrels. This is a great California wine value ! ($19.99)

Until Then - Cheers

Paula

Hi Everyone,

HAPPY FIRST DAY OF SPRING!! What a great week of weather to look forward too. And what a great wine tasting we will be having on Thursday. Zach from Pine State Beverage will be pouring some terrific wines!! We will taste a prosecco to toast in Spring, 2 delicious whites, since it will be 85 degrees and 2 very delicious reds. Hope to see you all!

Thursdays Wine Tasting – Zach from Pine State Beverage

NV Angelini Montasolo Prosecco – 100% Prosecco – Veneto Region, Italy - Pale, straw yellow in color with a fruity aroma. Dry and well balanced and is perfect as an aperitif and a great accompaniment for hors d’oeuvres. ($16.99)

2010 Livon Classico – 100% Pinot Grigio – Fruili Region, Italy - Fragrant bouquet, reminiscent of vanilla and lime. Dry, well structured, soft and minerally with gentle undertones of nutmeg and almond and a long finish. ($19.99)

2010 Honig – 100% Sauvignon Blanc – Napa Valley, California - Aromas of orange blossom and grapefruit are accompanied by lemon, melon, peach, and nectarine flavors that are ripe, juicy and refreshing. Medium bodied, with a crisp, refreshing, slightly minerally finish. ($19.99)

2010  Route Stock – 100% Pinot Noir – Willamette Valley, Oregon  - Cinnamon, clove, rose petal, tobacco and ripe raspberry aromas lead to a mouth of fresh red cherry, sasparilla, and a focused middle of high-toned fruit leading to a spicy finish and fine tannins. ($24.99)

2008  Route Stock – 86% Cabernet Sauvignon - 6% Cabernet Franc, 4% Merlot, 2% Petit Verdot, 2% Malbec - Napa Valley (34% Rutherford), California - The highly aromatic nose showcases a variety of dark fruits with hints of leather, tobacco and violets. On the palate the wine delivers a rush of plum, currant, black cherry and anise, with a subtle oak structure and soft, approachable tannins. Vanilla and kirsch make an appearance in the finish, which is long and complete. ($25.99)

Until Then - Cheers

Paula