Grapevine Gazette July 2008 June gloom? Infernal may have been more appropriate for the first week of Summer 08. We are already facing some pretty serious heat spells, and we wish our brave firefighters the best as they try to save structures and forests in the North. While we are experiencing record breaking heat, we still are blessed with dry days with no flooding. We have started out the season on a bad foot, but there is still plenty to be thankful for. It’s summer, the kids are out of school, let the fun commence. Since fuel costs prohibit that cross country trek to see the Great Lakes, might as well enjoy the backyard, it’s not far. Throw a little party and have the friends over for a grill out. Pot luck, best dish wins a bottle of whatever is laying around. There is still a reason to celebrate and it is healthy to show that an uncertain economy won’t stop us from enjoying ourselves. That’s good for the economy, psyche and gets the creative juices flowing. For your next gathering, large or small, we have assembled some selections that might spur something spontaneous. Enjoy them and remember, drink outside the box.
Pierre Moncuit Cuvee Delos Blanc de Blanc Grand Cru
Reg $46.99 Gazette Special $36.99
In more than one person’s opinion, Champagne is grossly under-appreciated domestically. Until recently this enthusiastic and vivacious wine was thought of as a special libation saved for a few holidays and events that were tragically infrequent. The rest of the world however has embraced its splendor on a far more equitable and enjoyable rate. Here at home, we are familiar with a few trendy labels and packages that drive the market, yet there are hundreds of growers that have their own brands using their own fruit. Pierre Moncuit is a small family run Grand Cru house whom uses chardonnay from Le Mesnil (made famous by the incredibly expensive house of Krug) for this bubbly. The wine is rich and creamy with a beautiful supple mousse and essences of hazelnut, brioche and peaches with a clean citrus purity that holds it together. Ideal with white fish, poultry, salty foods or as an aperitif. Don’t wait until a graduation or wedding to enjoy such a treasure. Geoff Nicoll-Director, Beer Wine and Spirits
Domaine Dragon Provence Rosé
Reg $14.99 Gazette Special $12.99
It’s summertime, a time when rosés are just the ticket to enhance lighter fare and a refreshing complement to savor friendships. Domaine Dragon's organic rose is a wonderful expression of subtle flavors of ripe blood oranges and zesty sweet pink grapefruit. A beautiful pairing with a crisp salad with crumbled blue cheese, grilled chicken, shrimp or just savored on its own. Alex Brideau-Specialist, Westwood
Prieure De Montezargues Tavel Rosé
Reg $17.99 Gazette Special $14.99
A former Abbey founded by monks in the 12th century, the majestic Prieure De Montezargues stands deep in a protected corner of the southern Rhone Valley. Tavel is the only AOC areas in France that is exclusive to rosé wines only. These wines derive mainly from grenache and cinsault, dry, refreshing berry flavors and they tend to have high alcohol for rosé, up to 14 percent. This rosé has a beautiful salmon color, lusty mouth-feel with red berry, ripe peach and sweet spices in the finish. Serve this gem cold about 52 degrees and pair with light summer fare, shrimp salad, cold cuts and believe it or not, fried chicken.
Michael Gregory-Wine and Spirits Merchandising Specialist
Halter Ranch GSM Rosé
Reg $15.99 Gazette Special $12.99
Gone are the days of rosés as being sweet blush wines. Halter Ranch makes a rosé that’ll change your perception of “the pink stuff.” This is a Rhone-style blend of grenache, syrah, and mourvèdre from Paso Robles vineyards. After smelling the aromas of strawberries and ripe watermelon, the full-body kicks in with flavors of fresh bing cherries, raspberries, and hints of rhubarb with a nice dose of cracked pepper on the lasting finish. With a limited case production of less than 400 cases, this is not your typical mass-produced blush wine and it shows it upon first sip. Great with grilled pork steaks or chill it for an excellent summer sipper. Mario Salas-Specialist, Newport Beach
Tutu Pinot Grigio
Reg $11.99 Gazette Special $9.99
Much of the world’s pinot grigio is a light, mild white that is devoid of all character and flavor except a little acidic lemon-lime. Over time, this phenomenon had created an influx from washed out whites to some with some character and substance. Tutu is a joint effort from the makers of the award winning Hourglass cabernet and Pavi Wine Co, makers of domestic versions of Italian classics. Although it is labeled pinot grigio, it is more of a pinot gris styled wine. The difference between grigio and gris is debatable, but in common terms, gris is richer, fleshier and more aromatic, mimicking the style of Alsace. Tutu has a nice tropical fruit base with citrus, litchi, notes of pineapple and a fresh, zesty, lingering finish. It is not as lean as a typical grigio, but has much more weight and concentration. Great with white fish, ceviche or chicken with mango salsa. Geoff Nicoll-Director Beer, Wine and Spirits
Luna Freak Out Napa Valley White
Reg $14.99 Gazette Special $12.99
Luna is located on the Silverado Trail and is best known for producing some of the finest Italian varietals in Napa Valley. This particular blend is unusual and might “Freak You Out”, but the wine itself will not disappoint. It is a blend of ribolla gialla, pinot grigio, sauvignon blanc and chardonnay. To further “Freak You Out”, each varietal is treated separately, then married together only two months before bottling to create the ultimate blend. The wine is complex with a lush texture, intense tropical fruit aromas and rich flavors of citrus, dried apricot, honey and spice, combined with a slight minerality that leads to a brisk mouthwatering finish. Excellent with blue veined cheeses, seafood, creamy pasta dishes or all by itself. Cheryl Dash-Specialist, Long Beach
D’Arenberg The Hermit Crab South Australia White
Reg $15.99 Gazette Special $12.99
With Summer here, one tends towards cold and crisp whites, and d’Arenberg delivers with The Hermit Crab. Hermit offers a terrific stack of flavors including a mix of apricot and orange blossom with a touch of lemon zest making this wine a must for summer sipping. The crisp acidity balances the wine perfectly. It goes well with cold poached salmon salad or poached chicken breast on a bed of field greens with raspberry shallot vinaigrette dressing. David Yaquinto-Specialist, Palm Desert
Fairhall Downs Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc
Reg $14.99 Gazette Special $12.99
Produced from a small, family owned winery, Fairhall Downs produce artisan wines from an extremely low yield, single vineyard in the heart of the Marlborough. The Fairhall Downs sauvignon blanc is beautifully scented and richly flavored with passion fruit, pineapple and red bell pepper, while retaining the traditional southern Fairhall District, gooseberry, redcurrant and herbal aromas and flavors. Notes of melon, ripe lime, clove and violets back mouth-watering structure and mineral acidity. Enjoy with seafood, pasta, and poultry dishes. Jose Cortes-Specialist, South Pasadena
Justin Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc
Reg $15.99 Gazette Special $12.99
While Paso Robles is known for their full-bodied reds (and for good reason), the area has always crafted some of my favorite sauvignon blanc in the state. Justin Vineyards consistently crafts one of the best from the area. After hand-harvesting the grapes in late August of 2007 (due to the grapes ripening two weeks earlier than usual), the fruit was fermented in stainless steel tanks to showcase the qualities of the grape. Flavors of lemongrass, lime, and hints of mango and ripe kiwi dance on the tastebuds and leave with a crisp finish that’ll compliment many grilled fish entrees or salads, or pair it up with tuna rolls from our own sushi department. Mario Salas-Specialist, Newport Beach
Voss Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc
Reg $19.99 Gazette Special $16.99
Voss Vineyards grows this delicious sauvignon blanc from their estate vineyards in the Rutherford district in Napa Valley. After being night-harvested to retain the grapes’ flavors, vibrant aromas of grapefruit, guava, and hints of lemon combine with flavors of citrus, passion fruit, and notes of mangoes and herbs that linger on its crisp finish. Excellent with lightly-seasoned tilapia. Brian Moore-Specialist, Newport Beach
Joseph Drouhin Poully-Fuisse
Reg $26.99 Gazette Special $21.99
From the famous Burgundy region south of Macon Villages, this Poully-Fuisse is an absolute must for the summer nights at the Hollywood bowl. Crafted from 100% chardonnay, it is floral and fruity with a dominance of ripe fruit and fresh almonds with a dry finish. Try it with such cheeses as Gouda, Havarti, Port Salut and Swiss. Excellent with turkey, pork lion, veal, pasta with cream sauce even spicy Thai. Lisa Dawes-Specialist, Westchester
Sonoma Cutrer Chardonnay
Reg $26.99 Gazette Special $21.99
As the warmer months approach, it’s time to start thinking about great summer sippers and in my opinion there is none better than the 2005 Chardonnay from Sonoma Cutrer. In the glass it exhibits a beautiful light straw color and the nose is replete with honey, granite and lemon. On the palate you’ll find elegant flavors of tropical fruit, kiwi, and earth that dance together harmoniously to a tune called “Delicioso”. The best thing, however, about this gracious chard is the price tag that makes it affordable to buy a enough to get you through Summer.
James Johnson-Specialist, Hollywood
Chappellet Napa Valley Chardonnay
Reg $29.99 Gazette Special $25.99
Winemaker Paul Titus hits it out of the park with his 2006 chardonnay. This wine is blessed with rich, intense, creamy notes along with flavors of gala apple, pear, and tropical fruit flavors. The nose also is quite impressive showing orange blossom and spice. This stellar bottling is no surprise taking in consideration Chappellet’s unbelievable track record, and will provide versatile service with all chicken and meaty fish dishes. Highly recommended. Mike Pagh-Specialist, Redondo Beach
ZD California Chardonnay
Reg $31.99 Gazette Special $26.99
When people think of California chardonnay they usually envision a rich and creamy full-bodied wine loaded with intense fruit. The ZD chardonnay is a great example of those big yet elegant wines. The fruit was hand harvested from cool coastal vineyards and then fermented in cool tanks to preserve the fresh fruit flavors. This was followed by ten months in small toasted oak barrels. These practices in the vineyard and in the winery combine to produce a wine rich in character while boasting juicy tropical fruit flavors. The nose is floral with apple and pineapple notes showing nicely. On the palate this wonderful white is packed full of fruit and spice with a lingering toasted coconut finish. Enjoy this great wine with chicken or seafood dishes.
Mark Eastom-Specialist, Redondo Beach
Vine Cliff Carneros Chardonnay
Reg $35.99 Gazette Special $28.99
Frankly, I'm not a great fan of ripe, unctuous California chards, but Vine Cliff is an exception. This is due to the great balance between fruit, acidity and mineral content allowing this wine to dispense a complex array of fresh apple, mango, citrus, peach and apricot aromas. The intense body comes on strong with clove and sweet vanilla that adds richness to the underlying nuance of honeysuckle. The finish is long and lingering with nutmeg and crème brulee flavors, all wrapped up in delectable minerality. The delicious 2006 received 91 Points Wine Spectator. Michael Cristillo-Buyer, Wine and Spirits
Laetitia Estate Pinot Noir
Reg $25.99 Gazette Special $21.99
Located in the Arroyo Grande Valley, four miles from the Pacific Ocean, the Laetitia Estate vineyard is part of a distinct viticultural area whose unique topography makes it one of California’s coolest grape growing regions. This pinot noir offers excellent texture, and a deep rich nose of cherries, and some dark fruits. Further complexity develops on the pallet with mineral flavors and a splash of smoke. Like all great pinot noir, Laetitia stays firm but has an elegant and smooth finish featuring some spicy notes. This is well worth the price tag, and is ready to drink now but could also be held for a few years. Joe Taormina-Specialist, Long Beach
Domaine Drouhin Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
Reg $47.99 Gazette Special $41.99
Going to a party and not sure what there are serving? Then go with a pinot noir, one of the most versatile red wines. Domaine Drouhin was founded by the Joseph Drouhin family of Burgundy France. 1988 was their first release and it has been credited for putting Oregon on the wine map. Fourth generation Veronique Drouhin is the wine maker for this fabulous dazzling wine from Willamette Valley in Oregon. Filled with fruit, floral tones and silky tannins, it matches well with options from grilled hamburger to chicken to wild caught salmon and swordfish. Lisa Dawes-Specialist, Westchester
Valle De Salinas Yecla Tinto
Reg $9.99 Gazette Special $7.99
At a recent tasting, this Spanish blend was a surprise hit. Coming from a small growing region in south-east Spain named Yecla. This blend of monastrell (mourvedre), merlot, and syrah has a fruit-forward nose with notes of spice. The full fruit gives way to plush flavors of dried cherries, vanilla, espresso, and hints of tobacco. Excellent with grilled sausages from our meat department. Brian Moore-Specialist, Newport Beach
Laurencin Emotion Grand Reserve
Reg $12.99 Gazette Special $8.99
A delicious blend of organically grown cabernet sauvignon and merlot grapes, bottled without fining or filtration, this great red is highly concentrated, ripe and aromatic like no other wine in this price range. Impeccably crafted by the highly respected Laurencin Family, this 2005 Bordeaux displays a deep ruby color, rich flavors and plenty of sweet tannins. After tasting it again, we think that Laurencin Emotion Grand Reserve is a terrific wine for a great price. Enjoy it with beef, lamb, veal or even vegetables.
Constantin Zaharia-Specialist, Rolling Hills Estates
Querciabella Mongrana
Reg $18.99 Gazette Special $14.99
This is the first commercial release from Chianti’s great Querciabella from their vineyards located in the Maremma region in southern Tuscany; a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Sangiovese. A bit rustic on entry, it opens beautifully to reveal bright notes of black cherry, cassis and plum with hints of licorice. Medium bodied, and well balanced with firm tannins and trademark Tuscan acidity that keeps it bright and fresh on the palate. Pair this gem with grilled red meats, roasted fowl or traditional red sauced pasta dishes.
Fernando Damasco-Specialist, Beverly West
Villa Creek Mas De Maha
Reg $31.99 Gazette Special $26.99
Whether it’s Christmas in July or Spain meets the Rhone, call it what you want. This amazing central coast blend of tempranillo, grenache and mourvedre explodes on the nose with plums, cloves and all the spice of winter confections. The palate is further enticed with sweet cherries and the most velvety tannins. This is truly an enjoyable pop and pour wine that pairs well with the spiciest of Latin cuisine and your favorite recipe for grilled red meats.
Teo Santocono-Wine Specialist, La Jolla
Tantara Bien Nacido Syrah
Reg $39.99 Gazette Special $33.99
For syrah lovers, a tiny slice of heaven exists in the Santa Maria Valley appellation. Tantara’s syrah comes from a gentle west facing hillside slope just 12 miles from the ocean in the Bien Nacido Vineyard. The offering is 100% syrah with a mere 125 cases produced. It balances nicely between the dryer, structured Rhone blends and the extracted offerings from the Aussies. Reward yourself and create your own slice of heaven when you enjoy this beautifully balanced wine with a New York Strip or marbled rib eye.
Don Ziehm-Specialist, Mission Viejo
Winners Tank South Australian Shiraz
Reg $16.99 Gazette Special $14.99
This wine is a joint venture between David & Cathy Knight and Reid Bosward from the impressive Kaesler Vineyards. The name “Winner’s Tank” refers to an old water tank that sits in the corner of the vineyard. A strong rivalry exists between the three neighboring towns in the local Australian Rules Football competition. Each year when one of the town’s teams wins the premiership, they head out to the vineyard to paint the tank in their team’s colors. This wonderful, extremely well priced shiraz offers up aromas of fresh blackberry and mocha, accented by sweet dark berry flavors that verge on jammy but maintain balance due to lively tannin and minerality.
91 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Michael Cristillo-Buyer, Wine and Spirits
Ciacci Piccolomini d’ Aragona Brunello di Montalcino
Reg $54.99 Gazette Special $47.99
The noble wine of Tuscany, Brunello di Montalcino has become quite fashionable as of late. Due to better marketing and a series of strong vintages, this dazzling wine is now a household word. Ciacci Piccolomini believes in preserving the balance, purity and elegance of the sangiovese grape, which flourishes in this region. Tuscany is known for its breathtaking views, and none are more breathtaking than of Montalcino. The 2003 is fermented in stainless steel and lined concrete, there is no oak influence until the long fermentation is completed and it is transferred into large oak vats. This controls the influence of the oak to preserve the freshness of the wine and keeps the brightness and vibrant acidity. The wine is silky yet complex with layer after layer of red and black fruits, leather, and mild spice. Showing well now, it will improve over the next half decade or more. Pair with grilled meats and aged hard cheeses. Geoff Nicoll-Director Beer, Wine and Spirits
The Bridesmaid Napa Valley Red
Reg $39.99 Gazette Special $34.99
A collaboration of three winemakers in Napa valley who are responsible for making Kongsgaard, Neiman Cellars, Crocker & Starr and Spottswoode has made this exciting wine from excess barrels from their respective wineries. The blend of cabernet sauvignon, merlot and a little syrah offer a dark concentrated red that beautifully enhances flavorful and seasoned dishes, mixed grill and complex sauces. This time it’s good to be the Bridesmaid. Alex Brideau-Specialist, Westwood
Larkmead Vineyards Napa Cabernet Sauvignon
Reg $58.99 Gazette Special $51.99
This wine is a blend of 92% cabernet sauvignon, 4% merlot, 2% cabernet franc, 2% petit verdot, aged for 20 moths in 60% new French oak barrels from the finest coopers and forests in France. Deep ruby/purple color. Intense aromatics of sweet black cherry, cassis and violets broaden to show floral perfume notes, dark cocoa powder and complex mineral. The palate features an explosive core of sweet black fruits and an elegant yet luscious mouth feel which deepens and concentrates with aeration. The youthful chewy tannins provide balance and length and the wine finishes with great inner-mouth purity. Enjoy with steak, lamb or pork. Jose Cortes-Specialist, South Pasadena
Laurona Montsant
Reg $36.99 Gazette Special $29.99
One of the newest DOC’s in Spain, in 2001 Montsant was carved from a section of Tarragona that hosted some of the oldest syrah vines in Spain. Laurona consists of about half grenache, with the remainder being merlot, syrah and cabernet. The Laurona project is a joint venture between the owner of EuropeVin Imports and Rene Barbier of Clos Mogador estate in Priorat. The wine is inky, almost black in color with superb intensity and incredible complexity. It is full bodied with compact cherry, berry and currant flavors teeming with tea, leather, toast and notes of mineral. The wine is quite expressive in its youth but will reward another decade of patient cellaring. Please decant before enjoying in order release the many layers. 91 Points Wine Advocate. Geoff Nicoll-Director Beer, Wine and Spirits
Melis Priorat
Reg $95.00 Gazette Special $84.99
The Melis project is the brain child of the same gent, Victor Gallegos, who is a partner in the iconic Sea Smoke pinot noir venture in Santa Ynez. Located near the 13th century town of Torroja del Priorat, the vineyard’s exceptional microclimate benefits from the Mediterranean winds that balance the vineyard’s warm southern exposure with a cooling maritime breeze. The result is a stunning wine that can be consumed now (decanting suggested), or lay down. This full bodied Spanish beauty exudes layers of opulent fruit flavors such as black cherry, blackberry and cassis, with an unctuous palate-feel of ripe tannins and a long, pure finish. The blend is of grenache, carignanne, syrah and cabernet sauvignon. Michael Cristillo-Buyer, Wine and Spirits
“The Wine Cellar”
Let the Bristol Farms Cooking School guide you into the delectable world of food and wine pairing! Discover new wines while savoring a menu designed to compliment our extraordinary wines.
Presented by Wine Buyer Michael Cristillo and Executive Chef Bruce Jacobs, classes are held Tuesdays 6-8 at Bristol Farms Manhattan Beach $35 per person per class. RSVP (310)233-4752.
Upcoming classes - July 8 Red, White & Revolutionary - Patriotic Wines
* While Bristol Farms takes every effort to ensure adequate supply, all offerings are subject to
availability.
** All selections are 750ml unless otherwise noted.
