Thursday, June 28, 2007

New Arrivals

Just In- A Few Great Summer Wines

Domaine De Pouy Cotes de Gascogne 2006 $9.5
Easily the best white wine value in stock at the moment. 60% Ugni Blanc (Trebbiano)/40% Colombard from the Armagnac region in Southwestern France, bottled w/screw Cap. Crisp and dry, but with abundant fruit and aromatics. Cold maceration and fermentation, and stainless steel aging for maximum freshness. I reccomend buying two at a time, as this simply delicious wine practically drinks itself!

Laurenz Gruner Veltliner 2005 Austria $12
Another great value that's all about freshness and purity. Has subtle pear and snap pea aromatics along with white pepper spiciness that is very typical of this variety. Will compliment a delicate fish such as tilapia or something with a bit more substance, say tuna or swordfish steaks off the grill.

Au Bon Climat Pinot Gris/Blanc Santa Barbara 2005 $17
Since I'm always looking for new wines to try, I have a pretty short list of go to wines that I always have on hand. This is one of them. Bright citrus and mineral notes are balanced with delicate almond richness. Partial barrel aging gives great texture to the wine without overt oakiness. I feel pretty comfortable pouring this with just about anything from seafood to pork roast to picnic fare.

Morgan Metallico Chardonnay 2005 Monterey $22
A very taut, focused style of chardonnay. Just 4months in neutral barrels and no malolactic fermentation. Pour this blind for any Cali chardonnay haters at the table and smile as the bottle quickly disappears.

Garry Farrel Chardonnay Russian River Valley 2005 $32
This wine is a blend of several different vineyards in the cool Russian River Valley. Barrel Fermented and aged in equal parts new, one and two year old french oak. I wine of elegance and restraint, with acidity and vibrant fruit character balanced with and richness and intensity. 93pts Wine Spectator.

Chateau de Trinquevedel Rose Tavel 2006$16
Excuse me. Yes you, Mr. "Cab Guy". The gentleman drinking a 14.9% ABV red on the porch in 95F heat. Put down the Cigar Aficionado for just a moment and lend me your ear. Are you STILL reluctant to pick up a bottle of rose? Just between me and you, wouldn't you rather be drinking something that is light, refreshing and perfect for enjoying with light summer meals? If you are ready to give in to the pink, I have the perfect one for you. Very fresh, expressive nose of tart berries and a hint of mineral. Intensely fruity and full bodied, but quite dry on the palate. This is one sophisticated-and, dare I say manly-rose.

Monday, June 18, 2007

NEW BEERS IN STOCK THAT YOU WILL ENJOY DRINKING BECAUSE THEY ARE DELICIOUS

Two Brothers Brewing Co. Dog Days Dortmunder Style Lager
It is HOT outside-cool off with this thirst-quenching brew from the Brothers Ebel. The Dortmunder style is a bit fuller and maltier than a Pilsner, but remains delicate and light, with just a hint of floral hop aroma and a crisp finish.

New Holland Brewing Co. Zoomer Wheat Ale
Belgian Style Wit beer that is light, bright and refreshing with hints of citrus and a soft, delicate mouthfeel. Perfect alone or with salads and light fish dishes.

Urthel Hop-It Belgian Blonde Ale
Pilsner malt, a boat load of European hops and top fermenting yeast. Rich, spicy, fruity and yes, quite hoppy. Serve this royal beer in giant chalice and consume with a smug sense of superiority.

Avery Brewing Company 14
Each year Avery brews somethin' special to mark the anniversary and the '07 version is quite an eccentric offering. On the Label, 14 is ambiguously described as "A Very Dark Different, Dry Hopped Brew". It's big, malty and chewy with sweet, caramelized fruit flavours on the mid-palate and a dry, zesty finish. Pour with grilled meats and game or as a nightcap.