[Notes from the Cellar]

Wine Tasting Class Reminder

Paula — Fri, 10 Sep 2010 16:13:04 +0000

Hi Everyone,

I just wanted to send a reminder that our next class is Wednesday September 15 – in just 5 days! Wow that really snuck up on me. We still have some limited availability, so please let me know if you would like to attend. Here is a brief recap of the class:

We will learn about wines in a different and fun way – we will be having a blind tasting. No, we won’t be blindfolded but we will conceal the identity of the wines. Our job is to try to discern certain aroma and flavor profiles that might make up the grape varietal we are tasting. Kevin from Vinlandia will be taking us through the process of how to identify wines based on certain varietal characteristics.

The grape varietals we will be tasting are:
A French Beaujolois – Gamay Grape
A Pinot Noir from Oregon
A Cabernet Sauvignon from California
A Syrah from California
A Petite Sirah from California
A Malbec from Argentina
A Red Blend from South Africa

If this appeals to you then please join us on Wednesday, September 15 from 6 pm to 8 pm. The cost for the class is $25.00 and will include wine education, wine tasting, food sampling and 10% off wines tasted that evening.

For further information or to register for the class please email me at paula@bellavinonh.com or call 893-8466. We look forward to seeing you.

Until then – Cheers!

Paula

This Week at Bella Vino – Patrick from Dunn Wine Brokers

Paula — Tue, 07 Sep 2010 17:54:33 +0000

Hi Everyone,

I hope you all had a fabulous Labor Day weekend. Hurricane Earl was nice enough to spare us any damage or bad weather.

As much as I will miss the hot weather of summer – this time of year always has some nice surprises – with the weather and the wine shop. We have lots of fun tastings in September starting with this Thursday. And October will be full of events and tastings – but lets focus on this week. Patrick from Dunn Wine Brokers will be pouring for us. We always look forward to talking to and tasting Patrick’s wines.

I hope you received our email regarding our “Blind Tasting Class”. Be sure to sign up soon – this will be a lot of fun!!

Thursday’s Wine Tasting – Patrick – 4:30 to 7:00

“New Wine” 2008 Saddleback Cellars – 100% Chardonnay – Napa Valley, California - Aromas of pear, lemon rind and brioche. The taste echoes the lovely nose and has a viscous mouth-feel due to the sur-lees process. The long finish has aftertastes of peach, pear, lemon and a hint of toast. ($28.99)

2007 Eternum Viti – 100% Tempranillo – Toro, Spain – 90 Pts. WA – The 2007 Eternum Viti was sourced from Tinta de Toro (Tempranillo) vines at least 30 years of age. It was barrel-fermented and aged in French oak, 50% new, for ten months. A glass-coating opaque purple in color, it offers up a fragrant bouquet of earth notes, mineral, spice box, and blackberry. This leads to a dense, ripe, powerful wine which manages to keep its tannins under control. ($23.99)

2002 Luna Beberide – 40% Cabernet, 30% Merlot and 30% Mencia – Castilla y Leon, Spain – Savory cherry, hints of sage leaf, green and black peppercorn and an unmistakable character of mature Cabernet family aromas (many people liken Mencia to Cabernet Franc, which completes this Graves style blend) make for one gorgeous bottle of wine ($22.99)

“New Wine” 2005 Terre di Confine - 80% Montepulciano, 20% Merlot. – Umbria, Italy - Fresh and floral with sweet red cherries, spices and earthiness. A beautifully balanced, yet full, red wine. The finish is long, sweet and finessed. ($31.99)

“New Wine” 2004 Saddleback Cellars - 100% Cabernet Sauvignon – Napa, California - 92 Pts WA - Wonderful, head aromas of all-spice and cassis with rich, smoky oak. Opulent, jammy black fruits accompany hints of almond and caramel with moderately firm tannins and a long finish. ($59.99)

2006 San Roman – 100% Tempranillo – Toro, Spain – 95 Pts WE, 15th of top 100 – The nose is a delectable blend of vanilla, spice, hickory, mocha and meaty blackberry. The palate is both magnetic and sly; it pumps black fruit galore, with controlled chocolate and spice. Finishes a mile long, with cream, intensity and guile. This wine does not mess around. ($66.99)

New and Returning Wines

“New Wine” 2008 Evodia – 100% Old Vine Garnacha - Calatayud, Spain - 89 Pts IWC - Evodia is a project created for renowned importer Eric Solomon. Vinified from Grenache grown in high-elevation slate vineyards planted up to 100 years ago, this wine is a fantastic value. Intense black cherry, currant and raspberry overlay mineral, cedar and baking spice notes. The palate finishes dry, earthy and satisfying. ($14.99)

“Returning Wine – New Vintage” 2007 Ray’s Station – 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Syrah, 4% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc – North Coast, California – Rich, dense, layered. Mountain berries, cedar and vanilla spice fill the nose. Heaps of black cherry and blueberry please the palate. ($18.99)

Until then – Cheers!

Paula

“Can You Guess the Grape” Class!

Paula — Fri, 03 Sep 2010 18:40:29 +0000

Hi Everyone,

Time to start planning for our next class being held on Wednesday September 15. This class will be a little different as we sniff, swirl and taste our wines blindly. No, we won’t be blindfolded but we will conceal the identity of the wines. Our job is to try to discern certain aroma and flavor profiles that might make up the grape varietal we are tasting. Kevin from Vinlandia will be taking us through the process of how to identify wines based on certain varietal characteristics.

For further information or to register for the class please email me at paula@bellavinonh.com or call 893-8466. We look forward to seeing you.

Until then – Cheers!

Paula

This Week at Bella Vino – Brenden from R.P. Imports and Saturday Wine Tasting

Paula — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 18:27:31 +0000

Hi Everyone,

Today is the last day of August. Very hard to believe with the over 90 degree weather out there! Hope some of you can make it to the beach for some end of summer fun.

This Thursday Brenden from R.P Imports will be joining us. Stop by to taste some great wines for your Labor Day parties and festivities.

On Saturday we will be tasting our 3 Wines of the Month.

We are planning another “Wine Education” class on Wednesday, September 15. Details will be coming soon – but it will be fun – a blind tasting!!

Thursday’s Wine Tasting – Brenden – 4:30 to 7:00

2007 Hendry – 100% Unoaked Chardonnay – Napa Valley, California - A rich, UNOAKED Chardonnay with depth and balance to spare. Pineapple, tangerine and even apricot aromas; tangy green apple and citrus on the palate. A versatile wine with any light fish. A crispy roast chicken with herbs would be a nice match with the lemony notes and mouth-watering acidity. ($21.99)

2007 Eddy Family Wines – Elodian – 100% Pinot Noir – Willamette Valley, Oregon – An elegant and supple wine. This austere offering from Oregon blends classic flavors of strawberry and cherry with a subtle earthiness reminiscent of Old World Burgundian-style Pinot. The use of new oak is restrained and adds just another layer of complexity that is both subdued and satisfying on the palate. This wine is effortless to enjoy and will pair great with a variety of foods so indulge yourself in this hand-crafted and distinct wine. ($34.99)

2006 X Winery – Petite Syrah – Paso Robles, California – Beautiful aromas of dark cherry, raspberry, and blueberry. Dark berry flavors continue to dominate the mid-pallet with just a hint of coffee and pepper accompanying the strong but balanced tannins. ($19.99)

2007 Klinker Brick Winery - 100% Old Vine Zinfandel – Lodi, California - Aromas of fresh blackberry, raspberry, pepper and cedar. Showing exceptional balance on the palate, there are rich flavors of berry pie with a long, lingering finish. ($21.99)

Saturday Wine Tasting – Our Wines of the Month – 10% off – Tasting starts when you get here

“New Wine” 2005 Francis Ford Coppola Directors Cut – 100% Chardonnay – Russian River Valley, California – Using Russian River fruit, the grapes are whole-cluster and ferment entirely in French oak barrels to produce a wine with a seductive, round texture and notes of sweet vanilla. Not only does this technique create a lavish character, it works to highlight the green apple, honeysuckle, and citrus flavors, which are the hallmark of Russian River vineyards. ($16.99 – $15.49 WoTM great value)

“New Wine” 2004 Blackstone Reserve – Pinot Noir – Sonoma County, California – This velvety wine is accented with delicious plum, raspberry and vanilla. The balance of fruit and acidity leaves a soft, lingering finish that’s perfect for salmon, grilled lamb chops, or your favorite gourmet pizza. ($14.99 – $13.49 WoTM great value)

“New Wine” 2003 Blackstone – Zinfandel – Sonoma County, California – Complex and full-bodied with elegant yet spicy aromas of clove and raspberry followed by robust, mouth-filling flavors of ripe berries, plum, and spice. This delicious Zinfandel is perfect for pairing with spicy barbecued short ribs pork tenderloin or your favorite soul food. ($14.99 – $13.49 WoTM great value)

Until then – Cheers!

Paula

This Week at Bella Vino – Megan from Crush Distributers

Paula — Tue, 24 Aug 2010 21:42:58 +0000

Hi Everyone,

I have been trying to ignore all the signs that “back to school” is looming. It inevitably means that summer is coming to an end and I refuse to accept that reality!! The next 2 weeks will be busy for lots of us – but what better time to pick up a bottle of wine to help minimize the stress.

We are looking forward to Thursdays tasting with Megan and 4 of her tasty wines. We also have some new “great deal” wines that will be in this week.

Thursday’s Wine Tasting – Megan – 4:30 to 7:00

2007 Slingshot – Sauvignon Blanc blended with Semillon- Napa Valley, California - Sourced from grapes grown near our Juliana Vineyard, this wine is characterized by slight floral and melon notes typical of ripe Sauvignon Blanc. The blend includes Semillon, which contributes hints of fig to the flavor and a feeling of richness in the mouth. Partial fermentation in French oak barrels brings the wine complexity and a touch of vanilla. ($16.99)

2006 Core Red – 49% Syrah, 33% Grenache, 18% Mourvedre - Santa Barbara County, California - Notes of creme de cassis, kirsch, blueberries, licorice, and truffles. Full-bodied, powerful, and silky-textured, it is stunningly complex with notes of flowers, red and black fruits, earth, and spice. Rich, layered, full-bodied. ($23.99)

2007 Stephen Test - 100% Syrah – Dry Creek Valley, Unti Vineyard, California - This is a delicious Syrah, with complex berry, plum and smoky roast meat character. This is a fruit forward syrah with very nice acidity. ($32.99)

2009 Arabella - 100% Shiraz – South Africa- Deep Burgundy red in color wth inviting aromas of Vanilla and mocha. The palate rewards with lingering flavours of liquorice and ripe black cherries, supported by soft, spicy tannins. ($12.99)

New Wines

“New Wine” 2007 Arbor Crest – 100% Riesling – Columbia Valley, Washington – Bright pineapple, honey and lemon characters that unfold on the palate as peach and almond. ($14.99)

“New Wine” 2005 Francis Ford Coppola Directors Cut – 100% Chardonnay – Russian River Valley, California – Using Russian River fruit, the grapes are whole-cluster and ferment entirely in French oak barrels to produce a wine with a seductive, round texture and notes of sweet vanilla. Not only does this technique create a lavish character, it works to highlight the green apple, honeysuckle, and citrus flavors, which are the hallmark of Russian River vineyards. ($16.99 – great value)

“New Wine” 2004 Blackstone Reserve – Pinot Noir – Sonoma County, California – This velvety wine is accented with delicious plum, raspberry and vanilla. The balance of fruit and acidity leaves a soft, lingering finish that’s perfect for salmon, grilled lamb chops, or your favorite gourmet pizza. ($14.99 – great value)

“New Wine” 2003 Blackstone – Zinfandel – Sonoma County, California – Complex and full-bodied with elegant yet spicy aromas of clove and raspberry followed by robust, mouth-filling flavors of ripe berries, plum, and spice. This delicious Zinfandel is perfect for pairing with spicy barbecued short ribs pork tenderloin or your favorite soul food. ($14.99 – great value)

Until then – Cheers!

Paula

This week at Bella Vino – Kristen from Martignetti Co. NH and Saturday Wine Tasting

Paula — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 19:09:04 +0000

Hi Everyone,

We have 2 wine tastings this week. Our weekly Thursday tasting that I am really looking forward to and an additional Saturday tasting. Kristen from Martignetti will be bringing 5 higher end wines for us to sample. All are from California and all are environmentally friendly wines. Satururdays tasting will feature 4 great wines from Pine State Beverage Co. that are a little easier on the budget. Hope to see you at both tastings!!

Thursday’s Wine Tasting – Kristen – California, Environmentally Friendly Wines – 4:30 to 7:00

“New Wine” 2007 J. Lohr October Night – 100% Chardonnay – Arroyo Seco AVA, Monterey County, California - A youthful straw yellow color, with floral aromas, pear, lemon and vanilla. The winemaking techniques to enhance the spicy and exotic nature of this Chardonnay included barrel fermentation in largely one-year-old French oak barrels in the coldest corner of the barrel room, followed by malolactic fermentation with lees stirring, all contributing to a wonderfully complex bouquet that is echoed on the palate with textural richness. ($22.99)

“New Wine” 2006 Rombauer Vineyards - 100% Merlot – Caneros, Napa Valley, California - Rombauer Vineyards’ 2006 Carneros Merlot is sleek and well-structured. Beautiful floral aromas open to flavors of black cherries, pomegranates and blackcurrant. The well integrated tannins round out a long, firm finish with nuances of fruit, spice and vanilla. ($36.99)

“New Wine” 2007 Duckhorn Decoy Red - 43% Cabernet Sauvignon, 43% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc, 4% Petit Verdot – Napa Valley, California – 91 Pts WE – This vintage of our Decoy Napa Valley Red Wine offers enticing aromatics, sweet red fruit, supple tannins and firm, integrated oak. Beginning with aromas of raspberry, cherry pie, spice and cedar, the blend showcases an array of elements, from flavorful layers of cranberry, red currant and cassis to more nuanced hints of orange peel, amaretto and coffee. The medley of fruit continues throughout a long, enjoyable finish. ($33.99)

“New Wine” 2007 Seghesio “Old Vines” – 100% Zinfandel – Sonoma County, California - 93 Pts WE - Beautiful nose of crushed rose petals and red raspberry. Flavors of ripe black cherry, raspberry and spiced fruit with tones of French oak. Finishes with a lush velvety mouthfeel. Although Old Vine is often loosely interpreted in the wine industry, Seghesio’s benchmark is fifty years. The average age of the vines producing this wine nears 90 years! ($34.99)

2006 Frog’s Leap – 92% Cabernet Sauvignon 8% Cabernet Franc – Rutherford, Napa Valley, California – The Frog’s Leap Rutherford stands as a true representation of the bench lands of the Rutherford appellation. The wine reveals classic flavors of the “Rutherford Dust”: rich dark fruit, black olive, black current and cassis layered with hints of earth and cigar box. The splash of cabernet franc not only adds a soft textural component but contributes to the green tea aromatics. The lush velvety texture is balanced with subtle yet well defined tannins. ($79.99)

Saturday’s Wine Tasting – Starts when you get here

2008 MontAsolo – 100% Pinot Grigio – Veneto, Italy – A fresh and lively nose with citrus notes. Soft, delicate and well made. The complex flavors of fresh fruit continue throughout the wine with an almost sweet, yet dry finish. ($13.99)

2009 New Gewurz – 100% Gewurztraminer – Mendocino County, California – The fruit for the New Gewurz is sourced from cool climate vineyards in Mendocino County including sites that have been organically farmed for some 40 years. The wine greets you with ripe flavors of pear, apple, grapefruit and lychee and a bit of spice. There is a hint of sweetness that flows toward a beautiful dry minerality. ($14.99)

“New Wine” NV Marietta Old Vine Red – Zinfandel Based Blend – Geyserville, California– A non-vintage proprietary blend bursting with bright, fresh berry and cherry fruit and spice yet it boasts sufficient body, weight and texture to accompany barbeque, spicy salsa topped foods, blackened cajun chicken, or to sip with fresh fruit on a warm summer eve. Focused on fruit with just a hint of toasty oak, this Zinfandel based blend should be enjoyed over the next couple of years if you can let is last that long. ($16.99)

2007 Dry Creek Heritage Clone – 87% Zinfandel, 13% Petite Sirah – Dry Creek Valley AVA, Geyserville, California - Aromas of blueberry and raspberry are framed by notes of white pepper and chocolate. On the palate, an abundance of fresh berry fruit mingles with dollops of creamy oak. The tannins are refined and smooth, giving this wine a long and satisfying finish. ($21.99)

Until then – Cheers!

Paula

Sonoma Wine Class and Weekly Wine Tasting – Kevin from Vinilandia NH

Paula — Tue, 10 Aug 2010 23:34:09 +0000

Hi Everyone,

All I can say about this summer is WOW. I may be in the minority but I absolutely love this weather.

We are planning 2 fun events this week. Wednesday is our Sonoma class. For more information about the wines we are tasting check out last weeks “Tastings and Notes” link.

Kevin will join us twice this week. Wednesday for our class and Thursday for our wine tasting. 3 of Kevins wines will be our wines of the month which means 10% off each of the wines. 2 of the wines were last months wines of the month but since we didn’t get a chance to taste them we decided to continue the sale to this month.

Thursday’s Wine Tasting – Kevin

“New Wine” NV Montsarra Cava - Macabeo, Xarello, and Parellada – Cataluyna, Spain – 90 Pts W&S - A pale, sparkling wine with lasting bubbles and a crisp finish. The bouquet is fruity and vigorous. Extremely refreshing: an ideal aperitif! ($18.99)

2008 Croney Estates Three Ton – 100% Sauvignon Blanc – Marlborough, New Zealand – Passion fruit, kiwifruit, pineapple and pear flavors dominate. These intense fruit characters are balanced with crisp vibrant acidity and a long richly textured finish. A full bodied purist style of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc. ($17.99 WoTM $16.19)

2007 Vina Honda -100% Monastrell, – Jumilla, Portugal - 90 Pts. WA- A fragrant nose of mineral, spice box, and blueberry. Layered, mouth-filling, and succulent. ($16.99 WotM &15.29)

2003 Clos St. Thomas – Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, Syrah – Lebanon – Deep cherry color and is distinguished by its character and complexity. It has fruity flavor with a hint of liquorice, and has fine and balanced tannins. ($21.99 WotM $19.79)

2006 Heller Estate – 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc – Cachagua region of Carmel Valley, California – 100% Organic, Estate Grown - A fruity-yet-dry medium-to-full body wine with ripe cherry and berry fruit and a touch of praline. Also look for a vibrant current of currants and dark plum underneath. Old World in style with an appealing, easy drinking core of fruit. A flavorful and balanced Cabernet to serve with the finest steaks. ($23.99)

Our wine tasting on Thursday is from 4:30 to 7:00.

Until then – Cheers!

Paula

Sonoma Wine Class Update

Paula — Thu, 05 Aug 2010 22:55:12 +0000

Hi Everyone,

I just wanted to update you on Wednesday’s Sonama Wine Tasting Class. Below is the the great line-up of the wines we will be tasting and remember that all of the below wines will be 10% off. And as aspecial treat Linda and Henri and will be bringing a special Sonama wine from their wine cellar for us to taste.

There is still availability so if you are interested please contact us by email or phone.

Robert Stemmler – Chardonnay – Los Caneros AVA – Delicious example of a California Chardonnay made in the French style. ($39.99)

Patassy – Pinot Noir – Russian River Valley AVA – Great expression of Russian River Valley Pinot Noir – light raspberry. cherry and strawberry fruit. ($32.99)

Klassen Wines – Merlot – Alexandra Valley AVA - The Klassen Merlot continues the fine tradition of producing full bodied Merlot. ($16.99)

Robert Young – Scion 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc, 2% Petit Verdot – Alexandra Valley AVA - Blackberry pie, plum jam and cherries are abundantly evident in this fruity yet complex wine. ($55.99)

Spann Mo Jo Super Tuscan – 50% Sangiovese, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Syrah, 3% Cabernet Franc & 2% Malbec – Sonoma Mountain AVA – This super-Tuscan style wine has super qualities, enticing and complex with excellent balance and a long lasting finish. ($35.99)

Dry Creek Heritage Clone – 100% Zinfandel – Dry Creek Valley AVA - An abundance of fresh berry fruit mingles with dollops of creamy oak- this is a Zinfandel you’ll love. ($21.99)

Until then – Cheers!

Paula

This Week at Bella Vino – Jackie from Wineberries

Paula — Tue, 03 Aug 2010 18:57:51 +0000

Hi Everyone,

Jackie will be joining us on Thursday and pouring 4 of her yummy wines. All California wines that are definitely worth tasting.

I know I just sent an email yesterday announcing our Sonoma Class – but I have had quite a few people sign up already and it is only a week away! So be sure to sign up soon – it will be fun, informative and the wines will be delicious.

Thursday’s Wine Tasting – Jackie

“New Wine” 2006 Dierberg – 100% Chardonnay – Santa Ynez, California - 100% Estate Grown, Sustainable Farming - 92 Pts. WE - Smoky tangerine, apple and quince paste on the nose, with a good lashing of oak spices. Lush, creamy citrus and orchard fruit flavors are complemented by notes of peach pit, vanilla and clove, with gentle minerality lending spine. Supple, creamy and smoky chardonnay with strong finishing lift and sweet persistence. ($28.99)

“Returning Wine” 2007 Acorn Vineyards – 100% Sangiovese - Russian River Valley, California -100% Estate Grown, Sustainable Farming - Subtle yet seductive aromas of toasty oak and ripe plum mingle with hints of rich vanilla and earth notes. A creamy texture, rounded mouthfeel and bright acidity hold flavors of dark cherry, spicy plum, mocha, and black tea. The luscious vanilla oak layers over the spicy fruit and lingers into the long finish. ($29.99)

2004 Beaucanon Estate – 76% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc, 4% Cabernet Sauvignon – Napa Valley, California - 100% Estate Grown, Produced and Bottled, Sustainable Farming - Aromas of cherry liqueur, blackberry, licorice, black tea and brambly spice, touched with generous toasty oak burst from your glass. The palate is no less sumptuous, echoing the bouquet and adding layers of dark berries, apple and cherry. Tannins are big and velvety while the Cabernet Franc provides a bit of lively acidity that keeps the amazing fruit flavors dancing on your tongue for a long, smooth finish. A big wine without any rough edges. ($27.99)

“New Wine” 2007 Michael & David 6th Sense – 100% Syrah – Lodi, California – Striking aromas of ripe dark fruits radiate from the glass in an earthy, smoky tobacco context. Full, rich fruit flavors of dark berries, whole plum, and blackcurrant fill the palate and hold their flavors through a long and smooth moderately peppery finish. ($20.99)

Our wine tasting on Thursday is from 4:30 to 7:00.

Until then – Cheers!

Paula

Travel through Sonoma County at Bella Vino

Paula — Mon, 02 Aug 2010 18:38:13 +0000

Hi Everyone,

We will be holding our second class as we tour the would of wines. Kevin from Vinlandia will be taking us through Sonoma County, California.

Sonoma County is a special place to grow world-class grapes and make great wines. It is a beautiful and resource-rich place, boasting 60 miles of pristine Pacific coastline and many other natural wonders.

Blessed with amazing diversity of foods and produce, along with chefs who take full advantage of Sonoma’s bounty, it is no wonder that thousand upon thousand of visitors take full advantage of all Sonoma County has to offer.

Want to learn more about Sonoma County’s rich wine history, Sonoma’s 13 appellations, and other wine facts? Would you like to taste 6 amazing wines from 6 of Sonoma’s 13 appellations? Learn what makes all of these wines unique and why a wine from Sonoma’s Russian River Valley tastes different from a wine from Sonoma’s Dry Creek Valley?

If this appeals to you then please join us on Wednesday August 11 from 6 pm to 8 pm. The cost for the class is $25.00 and will include wine education, wine tasting, food sampling and 10% off wines tasted that evening.

For further information or to register for the class please email me at paula@bellavinonh.com or call 893-8466. We look forward to seeing you.

Until then – Cheers!

Paula