Greetings from New London -
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463 - 84 Bank Street
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817 - 70 State Street
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474 - 84 Bank Street
We have a great line up for the Friday tasting - the list is highlighted in RED just below the news.
But we have to say thank you to a couple of people first.
First - Thank you to Mr. Dan Kleck - http://www.silverstonewines.com/
Dan greeted customers in our cellar all night on Friday - His Silver Stone wines were fabulous and Dan had every reason to be proud - his limited production wines continue to please. He makes only two or three hundred cases of these wines - period. We are lucky to see any of them at all - let alone have the man responsible join us to drink them and reveal their secrets. And once again before he left, he paid the highest compliments of all to our customers - you - thanks for stopping by to meet Dan and for making us the talk of the industry. It would not happen without you.
Next - On Saturday night noted wine authority Roger Hoadley - stood before a group of men and women at the Thames Club here in New London and led a dinner that set new standards for the members and guests that attended.
Between courses that included poached salmon with white beans and beef so tender one could have used a teaspoon to eat it. He waxed poetic on the wine regions, the producers and the hedonistic aspects and qualities of the wine business that filled us all with envy. By the time dessert and port was served there wasn't a dry eye in the house! After dinner guests adjourned to the Presidents Room for drinks, and Davidoff's - thanks so much to everyone that attended and especially to Roger Hoadley for making it so much fun.
On Monday morning we will be on location in Boston.
We are setting up our "studio" at the Millenium Bostonian Hotel - We have been invited to interview some of the hottest winemakers working today. Names like Frederic Jaboulet, Nicolas Potel , Pascal Jolivet, and Patrick Leflaive to name just a few.
They have all agreed to be guests on our show - WineRadio.
Brie & Bleu -
Here are the featured cheeses for this week -
Wensleydale cheese - http://www.wensleydale.co.uk/
Traditional, hard cheese made from cow's milk. It has a shape of cylinder with natural rind. Wensleydale can be used as table cheese and is very tasty with apple pie. This cheese is based on the recipe that can be traced back to the Cistercian monks who came over with William the Conqueror in the 11 century. There are two types of the British classic Wensleydale: White, a flat disc that is highly-pressed and has a honey flavor to it and Blue or Yorkshire, which has blue veins, double cream and is a cousin of Stilton - the blue variety comes in large drums. Good Wensleydale has a supple, crumbly, moist texture and resembles a young Caerphilly. The flavor suggests wild honey balanced with a fresh acidity.
Bruder Basil cheese -
A cow's milk cheese from Germany that has a firm texture and a dark brownish colored natural rind. The pale yellow cheese is covered with small random holes and the flavor is rich with a slight smokiness. It is excellent for grilling and sandwiches and is often served as a snack or appetizer. It is produced in small brick shapes and is covered with wax.
BEER TASTING - Thursday March 30 - 5-8 p.m. - No Charge
Wine Tasting Friday March 31 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
The wines of Eric Solomon selections are featured
"The Name of Eric Solomon On A Bottle of Wine Is Synonymous With High Quality" -- Robert Parker
1 - Gramona Gessami 2004 - $16 - http://www.europeancellars.com/
Bright straw-colored yellow with mineral tones. An aromatic burst. Like a walk in the spring, this wine reminds one of the coolness of fresh air, a bunch of white flowers, (roses, jasmine, etc.), fennel, apricots and peaches all wrapped in a sweet atmosphere full of freshness, with a subtle mineral glow and a citric breeze. Long, smooth aftertaste. Great with fish and cheese.
2 - La Casenvoe Masiam - $14
Like so many other accomplished people, Etienne Montes parlayed the fruits of one successful carrer into a second as winemaker. An award-winning photojournalist, he retired in 1987 to his familly estate, La Casenove, nestled between the Pyrenees and the Mediterranean, within 10 miles of the Spanish frontier. One of the oldest viticultural areas of France, vines in the Roussillon were cultivated by the Romans, and perhaps even before that. With some of the most dramatic topography in France, many of the zones are composed of extremely steep hillsides. Much of the vineyard land looks more like that of the Priorat in Spain than it does like wine regions of France. This area of French Catalonia still possesses many cultural remnants of being part of the Catalan region including the language, cuisine, and art. The winemaking in the region has undergone a revolution in the last 10 years and you should take the time to try this one.
3 - Roger Sabon Cotes Du Rhone 2001 - $16
Roger Sabon is described by Robert Parker as "one of the more intellectual vignerons in Châteauneuf du-Pape"
His vineyard holdings are surprisingly small, around 14 hectares, which are divided between his properties in Lirac, Chateauneuf-du-Pape and Cotes du Rhône. The Châteauneuf vineyards are well situated in Les Cabrieres, La Crau, Courtherzon and Nalys and the average age of his vines is unusually high with some of them dating back to the early 1900s. Dense raspberry, plum, licorice, tar and bacon notes are supported by thick, muscular tannins in this concentrated, showy red. Solid, spicy and medium-bodied, with modest tannins, good balance and enough cherry and berry flavor to keep you interested.
4 - Clos Mimi Petite Rousse 2004 - $20
"A marvelous effort as well as a super value, Clos Mimi’s 2004 Petite Rousse No shy wine, it possesses lofty alcohol as well as loads of personality and soul. Aromas of Asian spices, licorice, pepper, herbs, blackberries, and cassis soar from the glass of this smoky, fragrant red. In the mouth, it is a plush, opulent, full-bodied offering that is impossible to resist. Enjoy it over the next 5-6 years. It’s a shame there are not more high quality, personality-filled wines such as this from California. Hats off to Clos Mimi! (92 points)" - Robert Parker - There is a lot of wine in this bottle for the price - give it a try.
Thanks for your emails, your calls, and your support - we appreciate it.
Please join us. It's fun, informal and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA
Sunday, March 26, 2006
Sunday, March 19, 2006
Dan Kleck, Silverstone, Donhoff Spatlese, Brie & Bleu
Greetings from New London -
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463 - 84 Bank Street
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817 - 70 State Street
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474 - 84 Bank Street
We have a great tasting lined up for Friday - including the winemaker himself - the details are below the news.
First - Thanks to Mr. Dermit Hanafin for throwing one roaring party in New London last Friday.
Dermit is the proprietor of Hanafins Public House one of the finest Irish bars this side of the Pecos.
If you have not yet seen his place you should make the effort. Hannifins was St. Patrick's Day Headquarters for New London and the scene was absolutely inspiring. There was music and food and singing and dancing and people began to line up early in the day.
It is a great example of the kind of life people can bring to New London when they put their mind to it.
This week at Brie & Bleu -
Have you met the newest addition to our Cheese Market staff? - Colleen McNerney
Colleen is making it a habit of carefully selecting a couple of cheeses each week to feature and sample for you.
We think she has also memorized the "Food Group Pyramid" - so test her on it the next time you stop by.
Here are her selections for this week:
1 - "Toma is an Italian cheese from Piedmont region. It is a semi-hard cheese made from cow's milk. It exists in several versions depending on a period of maturation. The young cheese is sweet and milky, but if it is allowed to mature for up to 12 months, the flavour becomes more tangy, often sharp. Toma is cheese surface ripened, meaning it ripens from the rind inward. This simple mountain cheese has a thin rind with a custard-like interior with small pores and a gentle sweet-sour nature. Toma is a perfect table cheese but can also be used for cooking. It begs to be paired with a big Piedmont red."
2 - "Shropshire ia a cow's milk blue cheese from the United Kingdom that is technically a cross between Stilton and Cheshire. The orange color comes from the addition of annatto, a natural food coloring. Shropshire, while generally creamier and less nutty than Stilton, is sometimes stronger. This cheese is selected in Britain and then maintained at its peak ripeness in artisinal premium temperature and humidity controlled caves. The cheese is crumbly yet firm and creamy texture, sharp, rustic with a slightly tannic flavor. It is excellent on the cheese-board and is also very versatile in the kitchen; it makes fabulous soups and sauces. It is best accompanied by good English brown ale and as with Stilton, all big reds."
ALSO - As we close in on the last of the Comfort food dinners for the season, I want to make sure that I thank all of the folks that joined us.
Time after time - course after course and glass after glass - it is the wonderful people and dynamic conversation that have made this series such a success. Truly - thanks for making all of our dinners the best party in town.
We have just begun to look over the menus and wines for the "Alfresco Series" - the best is yet to come.
Wednesday Night Wine Dinner - It is Pan Asian foods and FIVE jaw dropping Rieslings -
Including the 2004 Donhoff Spatlese - $48 - rated 97 points!
This is one of our most popular themes and the dumplings seem to be the perfect way to share the love.
Thursday Night- Beer Tasting 5-8 p.m. - No Charge.
Jorgé Casablanca, our Senior Beer Analyst, has been out patrolling the seedy underbelly of the beer world looking for the perfect combination of hops, water and the 11 secret herbs & spices that make the original recipe so special. We have not seen him in days - but he will be in the cellar to share his story on Thursday night - please join us.
Wine Tasting - Meet Dan Kleck
Friday March 24th - 6-9 P.M. - No Charge
SILVER STONE owner and winemaker, Dan Kleck, has been producing premium wines for the past 26 years.
He began his career in the mid-1970’s, focusing upon the Long Island region in New York, where he was involved with Chardonnays, Merlots and other varietals at wineries such as Hargrave Vineyard, Bidwell Vineyards and Palmer Vineyards.
Winemaker Dan Kleck returns to our cellar - with the results of his hard work. -
You may recall Dan was here last season with samples and a First Look of a special project he was working on.
He tasted our customers took notes and went back to the vineyard - you won't be disappointed with the results.
And the wines are available - in our store - first come, first served. - very limited production.
Dan will be saying hello and signing bottles in our cellar - please join us.
1 - 2005 Sauvignon Blanc, Cedar Lane Vineyard, Arroyo Seco - $18 - www.silverstonewines.com
Sourced from the cool-climate appellation of Arroyo Seco, Cedar Lane Vineyard is planted in the well-drained cobblestone soils deposited at the mouth of Arroyo Seco Canyon in Monterey County. Distinctive climatic conditions ensure vibrant fruit character with crisp acidity, essential elements in styling a classic version of this exotically aromatic white wine. Barrel Fermented in the time-honored tradition of the white wines of Bordeaux’s Graves District, this Sauvignon Blanc has a supple texture to the finish. It is intended for immediate consumption, and partners well with shrimp, shellfish and grilled summer vegetables.
2 - 2003 Pinot Noir, Bien Nacido/Latchford Vineyard - $30
Crafted from fruit derived from two distinctive vineyards, this wine marries the best possible vineyard characteristics into a sumptuous offering that provides richness of texture, perfumed aromatics and fresh cherry fruit flavors. By combining these two exceptional sites, Dan has crafted a lovely wine of balance and grace. Fermented in small, open-top bins punched down by hand, the wine is minimally handled for optimal flavor retention. Aged for one year in small French cooperage, the wine was bottled, unfined and unfiltered, in the fall of 2004. Just 370 cases were produced.
3 - 2003 Chardonnay, Bien Nacido Vineyard, Santa Maria Valley - $21
Consistently one of California’s highest ranking vineyards, Bien Nacido has produced outstanding chardonnays for over twenty years, leading Wine & Spirits magazine to declare it one of the “Top 25 Great Vineyards of the World.” Hand-harvested fruit arrived at the winery with textbook numbers. Whole-cluster pressed, the juice was settled overnight prior to barreling in 60% new French Oak for fermentation. That's a fancy way of saying that the result is rich, complex, and impeccably balanced. Only 392 cases produced.
4 - 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley - $35
Selecting fruit primarily from the valley floor near Rutherford, this was complemented with small lots derived from mountain fruit in the upper reaches of the Mayacamas Range. Bottled without any fining or filtration, this wine exhibits a tapestry of robust aromas and flavors, with the Cabernet Sauvignon providing concentration and intensity.Classic styling, richly structured and flavored.
Bring on the steak! Only 534 cases produced.
Dan Kleck is an important winemaker - AND he happens to be one of the nicest guys you can meet.
Stop in - say hello and have him sign a bottle of his wine for you.
Thanks for your support we all appreciate it.
Please join us - it's fun, informal and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463 - 84 Bank Street
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817 - 70 State Street
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474 - 84 Bank Street
We have a great tasting lined up for Friday - including the winemaker himself - the details are below the news.
First - Thanks to Mr. Dermit Hanafin for throwing one roaring party in New London last Friday.
Dermit is the proprietor of Hanafins Public House one of the finest Irish bars this side of the Pecos.
If you have not yet seen his place you should make the effort. Hannifins was St. Patrick's Day Headquarters for New London and the scene was absolutely inspiring. There was music and food and singing and dancing and people began to line up early in the day.
It is a great example of the kind of life people can bring to New London when they put their mind to it.
This week at Brie & Bleu -
Have you met the newest addition to our Cheese Market staff? - Colleen McNerney
Colleen is making it a habit of carefully selecting a couple of cheeses each week to feature and sample for you.
We think she has also memorized the "Food Group Pyramid" - so test her on it the next time you stop by.
Here are her selections for this week:
1 - "Toma is an Italian cheese from Piedmont region. It is a semi-hard cheese made from cow's milk. It exists in several versions depending on a period of maturation. The young cheese is sweet and milky, but if it is allowed to mature for up to 12 months, the flavour becomes more tangy, often sharp. Toma is cheese surface ripened, meaning it ripens from the rind inward. This simple mountain cheese has a thin rind with a custard-like interior with small pores and a gentle sweet-sour nature. Toma is a perfect table cheese but can also be used for cooking. It begs to be paired with a big Piedmont red."
2 - "Shropshire ia a cow's milk blue cheese from the United Kingdom that is technically a cross between Stilton and Cheshire. The orange color comes from the addition of annatto, a natural food coloring. Shropshire, while generally creamier and less nutty than Stilton, is sometimes stronger. This cheese is selected in Britain and then maintained at its peak ripeness in artisinal premium temperature and humidity controlled caves. The cheese is crumbly yet firm and creamy texture, sharp, rustic with a slightly tannic flavor. It is excellent on the cheese-board and is also very versatile in the kitchen; it makes fabulous soups and sauces. It is best accompanied by good English brown ale and as with Stilton, all big reds."
ALSO - As we close in on the last of the Comfort food dinners for the season, I want to make sure that I thank all of the folks that joined us.
Time after time - course after course and glass after glass - it is the wonderful people and dynamic conversation that have made this series such a success. Truly - thanks for making all of our dinners the best party in town.
We have just begun to look over the menus and wines for the "Alfresco Series" - the best is yet to come.
Wednesday Night Wine Dinner - It is Pan Asian foods and FIVE jaw dropping Rieslings -
Including the 2004 Donhoff Spatlese - $48 - rated 97 points!
This is one of our most popular themes and the dumplings seem to be the perfect way to share the love.
Thursday Night- Beer Tasting 5-8 p.m. - No Charge.
Jorgé Casablanca, our Senior Beer Analyst, has been out patrolling the seedy underbelly of the beer world looking for the perfect combination of hops, water and the 11 secret herbs & spices that make the original recipe so special. We have not seen him in days - but he will be in the cellar to share his story on Thursday night - please join us.
Wine Tasting - Meet Dan Kleck
Friday March 24th - 6-9 P.M. - No Charge
SILVER STONE owner and winemaker, Dan Kleck, has been producing premium wines for the past 26 years.
He began his career in the mid-1970’s, focusing upon the Long Island region in New York, where he was involved with Chardonnays, Merlots and other varietals at wineries such as Hargrave Vineyard, Bidwell Vineyards and Palmer Vineyards.
Winemaker Dan Kleck returns to our cellar - with the results of his hard work. -
You may recall Dan was here last season with samples and a First Look of a special project he was working on.
He tasted our customers took notes and went back to the vineyard - you won't be disappointed with the results.
And the wines are available - in our store - first come, first served. - very limited production.
Dan will be saying hello and signing bottles in our cellar - please join us.
1 - 2005 Sauvignon Blanc, Cedar Lane Vineyard, Arroyo Seco - $18 - www.silverstonewines.com
Sourced from the cool-climate appellation of Arroyo Seco, Cedar Lane Vineyard is planted in the well-drained cobblestone soils deposited at the mouth of Arroyo Seco Canyon in Monterey County. Distinctive climatic conditions ensure vibrant fruit character with crisp acidity, essential elements in styling a classic version of this exotically aromatic white wine. Barrel Fermented in the time-honored tradition of the white wines of Bordeaux’s Graves District, this Sauvignon Blanc has a supple texture to the finish. It is intended for immediate consumption, and partners well with shrimp, shellfish and grilled summer vegetables.
2 - 2003 Pinot Noir, Bien Nacido/Latchford Vineyard - $30
Crafted from fruit derived from two distinctive vineyards, this wine marries the best possible vineyard characteristics into a sumptuous offering that provides richness of texture, perfumed aromatics and fresh cherry fruit flavors. By combining these two exceptional sites, Dan has crafted a lovely wine of balance and grace. Fermented in small, open-top bins punched down by hand, the wine is minimally handled for optimal flavor retention. Aged for one year in small French cooperage, the wine was bottled, unfined and unfiltered, in the fall of 2004. Just 370 cases were produced.
3 - 2003 Chardonnay, Bien Nacido Vineyard, Santa Maria Valley - $21
Consistently one of California’s highest ranking vineyards, Bien Nacido has produced outstanding chardonnays for over twenty years, leading Wine & Spirits magazine to declare it one of the “Top 25 Great Vineyards of the World.” Hand-harvested fruit arrived at the winery with textbook numbers. Whole-cluster pressed, the juice was settled overnight prior to barreling in 60% new French Oak for fermentation. That's a fancy way of saying that the result is rich, complex, and impeccably balanced. Only 392 cases produced.
4 - 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley - $35
Selecting fruit primarily from the valley floor near Rutherford, this was complemented with small lots derived from mountain fruit in the upper reaches of the Mayacamas Range. Bottled without any fining or filtration, this wine exhibits a tapestry of robust aromas and flavors, with the Cabernet Sauvignon providing concentration and intensity.Classic styling, richly structured and flavored.
Bring on the steak! Only 534 cases produced.
Dan Kleck is an important winemaker - AND he happens to be one of the nicest guys you can meet.
Stop in - say hello and have him sign a bottle of his wine for you.
Thanks for your support we all appreciate it.
Please join us - it's fun, informal and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Tuesday, March 14, 2006
Dominick Symington, Henri Bourgeois, E. Guigal, Ch. Bertineau, Dominus 2002
Greetings from New London,
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463 - 84 Bank Street
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817 - 70 State Street
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474 - 84 Bank Street
The information is late this week - so we will keep it short -
We have a huge tasting for Friday night - I hope that you can make it.
Quick reminders -
If you are interested in the Chateau Ychem tasting - (that is not a typo) - now is the time to call.
Very limited seating. But you must call - 860-443-9463 and speak to Jim Morrison - only Jim can assign seating.
And if you have interest in the big dinner at the Thames Club - wine dinner, vintage single malt's and Davidoff cigars -
Please contact Jim Morrison - this is the time to reserve seats.
But first I have to mention that we had a visit from one of the most prestigious names in the wine business stopped by to sat hello.
Mr. Dominick Symington - Dominick and his family own or control most of the great Port Houses in the world.
He was able to enjoy lunch, a visit to our cellar, and gave us an invitation to visit the next time we make it to his neighborhood.
Take a look: http://www.symington.com/
Don't forget to make your St. Patrick's Day party a wee bit special with our featured Irish Cheese -
Cashel Irish Blue - $15 lb.
Cashel Blue is a semi-soft blue cows’ milk cheese. It is unique, as it is Ireland’s first farmhouse blue cheese. It is all made on the dairy farm of Jane and Louis Grubb near Cashel in Co. Tipperary Ireland. While some milk is purchased, the majority of the milk comes from the pedigree Friesian dairy herd on the farm. The cheese is made from pasteurised whole milk. It is sold in speciality outlets in the U.K., United States and Ireland, as well as being listed by most of the British Multiples. Much of the cheese is sold young, while it is firm and crumbly, but for a fuller flavour it is best eaten at about three months of age, when it has a softer texture and more mature flavor.
Dubliner Irish Cheddar - $10 lb.
Dubliner Irish Cheese is a unique new cheese type with a distinctive rounded flavour, achieved by combining a secret recipe and the skills of the Master cheese maker. The cheese is typically matured over 12 months during which time it is checked by experienced cheese graders to ensure that it has a consistently high flavor profile. Dubliner is a versatile cheese, suitable for vegetarians, that can be used on a cheese board, in sandwiches and in a range of recipes. Dubliner is particularly delicious as an apéritif cheese served cut into cubes or sliced
BEER TASTING - Thursday Night - NO CHARGE - 5-8 p.m.
We will be joined in the Cellar by Sara Karlavage from the importer of fine wine & beer - Merchard . du. vin
sara will be happy to answer your questions.
Two from Germany
Pinkus Organic Münster Alt -
Alt is the German word for "old" or "ale" and this style is certainly among the earliest. Today, it is a specialty of Westphalia, in Northern Germany. Pale, golden color with excellent, herbaceous aroma, delicate fruit-acid palate, and long dry finish. Cured ham, sweetbreads, lasagna, as an aperitif with a dash of flavored syrup (raspberry, lime or cherry), light breads, croissants, pizza, corn tortillas. Serve in thin, delicate, straight glasses garnished with fresh fruit.
Pinkus Organic Ur Pils -
Bitter, golden pils was developed in Pilsen, Czechoslovakia. Like the original, Ur Pils is brewed with organic malt and hops. Pale golden in color; light to medium in body; dry and well-balanced; clean hop and malt character. Trout amandine, fresh salmon, hors d'oeuvres, Quiche Lorraine, Cobb salad, gazpacho, tabouli, garlic and shallot sauces, thick potato chips, fresh strawberries or cherries. Serve in delicate, straight-sided tumblers at 45 degrees.
Two from England
Melbourn Bros. Strawberry
Melbourn Bros. fruit beers are spontaneously fermented. The beers are subtle with a refined flavor and character. The malt and strawberry are beautifully balanced, making this beer a perfect beverage for barbecues and patio dining. The clean, fresh flavor of ripe strawberries shines through. It is delicious after a meal with fruit, cheese, or dessert. Serve chilled
Melbourn Bros. Apricot
Some say that beer was introduced to the British Isles by the Vikings around the year 1000. It would be another 550 years before hops were used as a beer seasoning and another 100 years before their use was widespread. Melbourn Bros. has reintroduced really old-fashioned all-malt beers with their spontaneously fermented Apricot. Simply delicious, fresh, satisfying and beautifully balanced. The dryness of this beer complements a meal, yet its fruitiness makes it a great warm weather refresher. Serve chilled.
Wine Tasting Friday March 17th - 6-9 p.m. - NO CHARGE
1 - Henri Bourgeois - La Demoiselle De Bourgeois - Pouilly-Fumé 2002 - $24
The last of this great vintage - first come, first served. The most amazing Sauvignon Blanc we have.
This wine has extraordinary depth of character and fruit, resulting from the low yields and old vines.
This is made in France by Henri Bourgeois a tenth generation wine maker The Pouilly-Fume has been made for many years and has special followers all over the world. Made from a strict selection of the best Sauvignon grapes, La Demoiselle is harvested on the Kimmeridgian marls of Saint Laurent l'Abbaye, where the first vines of this AOC were planted.
2 - E. Guigal - Cotes Du Rhone Rosé - $12
What a fabulous way to celebrate the arrival of SPRING.
"The 2003 Cotes du Rhone rose is a serious, dry, medium-bodied rose offering a copper hue along with plenty of framboise, cherry, pepper, and spice box notes." - Robert Parker, Jr. - 88 points.
3 - Chateau Bertineau St-Vincent Lalande-de-Pomerol - 1998 - $24
Has that opulent Pomerol character. Ripe confit fruit, rich texture, grip on the finish.
Delicious - and so much more than the price. Please try it.
4 - Dominus 2002 - rated 96 points by Robert Parker "collector classic" - $102
"...The deep, saturated purple-colored 2002 boasts an extraordinary perfume of roasted coffee intermixed with black currants, cherries, cocoa, cedar, cigar smoke, and leather. A classic, full-bodied palate possesses great structure, tremendous depth, loads of tannin, and a multilayered, concentrated yet elegant finish. It is difficult to predict when this beauty will plateau in terms of maturity"...RP.
First come, first served.
Thanks for your support - we appreciate it.
Please join us. It's fun, informal and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463 - 84 Bank Street
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817 - 70 State Street
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474 - 84 Bank Street
The information is late this week - so we will keep it short -
We have a huge tasting for Friday night - I hope that you can make it.
Quick reminders -
If you are interested in the Chateau Ychem tasting - (that is not a typo) - now is the time to call.
Very limited seating. But you must call - 860-443-9463 and speak to Jim Morrison - only Jim can assign seating.
And if you have interest in the big dinner at the Thames Club - wine dinner, vintage single malt's and Davidoff cigars -
Please contact Jim Morrison - this is the time to reserve seats.
But first I have to mention that we had a visit from one of the most prestigious names in the wine business stopped by to sat hello.
Mr. Dominick Symington - Dominick and his family own or control most of the great Port Houses in the world.
He was able to enjoy lunch, a visit to our cellar, and gave us an invitation to visit the next time we make it to his neighborhood.
Take a look: http://www.symington.com/
Don't forget to make your St. Patrick's Day party a wee bit special with our featured Irish Cheese -
Cashel Irish Blue - $15 lb.
Cashel Blue is a semi-soft blue cows’ milk cheese. It is unique, as it is Ireland’s first farmhouse blue cheese. It is all made on the dairy farm of Jane and Louis Grubb near Cashel in Co. Tipperary Ireland. While some milk is purchased, the majority of the milk comes from the pedigree Friesian dairy herd on the farm. The cheese is made from pasteurised whole milk. It is sold in speciality outlets in the U.K., United States and Ireland, as well as being listed by most of the British Multiples. Much of the cheese is sold young, while it is firm and crumbly, but for a fuller flavour it is best eaten at about three months of age, when it has a softer texture and more mature flavor.
Dubliner Irish Cheddar - $10 lb.
Dubliner Irish Cheese is a unique new cheese type with a distinctive rounded flavour, achieved by combining a secret recipe and the skills of the Master cheese maker. The cheese is typically matured over 12 months during which time it is checked by experienced cheese graders to ensure that it has a consistently high flavor profile. Dubliner is a versatile cheese, suitable for vegetarians, that can be used on a cheese board, in sandwiches and in a range of recipes. Dubliner is particularly delicious as an apéritif cheese served cut into cubes or sliced
BEER TASTING - Thursday Night - NO CHARGE - 5-8 p.m.
We will be joined in the Cellar by Sara Karlavage from the importer of fine wine & beer - Merchard . du. vin
sara will be happy to answer your questions.
Two from Germany
Pinkus Organic Münster Alt -
Alt is the German word for "old" or "ale" and this style is certainly among the earliest. Today, it is a specialty of Westphalia, in Northern Germany. Pale, golden color with excellent, herbaceous aroma, delicate fruit-acid palate, and long dry finish. Cured ham, sweetbreads, lasagna, as an aperitif with a dash of flavored syrup (raspberry, lime or cherry), light breads, croissants, pizza, corn tortillas. Serve in thin, delicate, straight glasses garnished with fresh fruit.
Pinkus Organic Ur Pils -
Bitter, golden pils was developed in Pilsen, Czechoslovakia. Like the original, Ur Pils is brewed with organic malt and hops. Pale golden in color; light to medium in body; dry and well-balanced; clean hop and malt character. Trout amandine, fresh salmon, hors d'oeuvres, Quiche Lorraine, Cobb salad, gazpacho, tabouli, garlic and shallot sauces, thick potato chips, fresh strawberries or cherries. Serve in delicate, straight-sided tumblers at 45 degrees.
Two from England
Melbourn Bros. Strawberry
Melbourn Bros. fruit beers are spontaneously fermented. The beers are subtle with a refined flavor and character. The malt and strawberry are beautifully balanced, making this beer a perfect beverage for barbecues and patio dining. The clean, fresh flavor of ripe strawberries shines through. It is delicious after a meal with fruit, cheese, or dessert. Serve chilled
Melbourn Bros. Apricot
Some say that beer was introduced to the British Isles by the Vikings around the year 1000. It would be another 550 years before hops were used as a beer seasoning and another 100 years before their use was widespread. Melbourn Bros. has reintroduced really old-fashioned all-malt beers with their spontaneously fermented Apricot. Simply delicious, fresh, satisfying and beautifully balanced. The dryness of this beer complements a meal, yet its fruitiness makes it a great warm weather refresher. Serve chilled.
Wine Tasting Friday March 17th - 6-9 p.m. - NO CHARGE
1 - Henri Bourgeois - La Demoiselle De Bourgeois - Pouilly-Fumé 2002 - $24
The last of this great vintage - first come, first served. The most amazing Sauvignon Blanc we have.
This wine has extraordinary depth of character and fruit, resulting from the low yields and old vines.
This is made in France by Henri Bourgeois a tenth generation wine maker The Pouilly-Fume has been made for many years and has special followers all over the world. Made from a strict selection of the best Sauvignon grapes, La Demoiselle is harvested on the Kimmeridgian marls of Saint Laurent l'Abbaye, where the first vines of this AOC were planted.
2 - E. Guigal - Cotes Du Rhone Rosé - $12
What a fabulous way to celebrate the arrival of SPRING.
"The 2003 Cotes du Rhone rose is a serious, dry, medium-bodied rose offering a copper hue along with plenty of framboise, cherry, pepper, and spice box notes." - Robert Parker, Jr. - 88 points.
3 - Chateau Bertineau St-Vincent Lalande-de-Pomerol - 1998 - $24
Has that opulent Pomerol character. Ripe confit fruit, rich texture, grip on the finish.
Delicious - and so much more than the price. Please try it.
4 - Dominus 2002 - rated 96 points by Robert Parker "collector classic" - $102
"...The deep, saturated purple-colored 2002 boasts an extraordinary perfume of roasted coffee intermixed with black currants, cherries, cocoa, cedar, cigar smoke, and leather. A classic, full-bodied palate possesses great structure, tremendous depth, loads of tannin, and a multilayered, concentrated yet elegant finish. It is difficult to predict when this beauty will plateau in terms of maturity"...RP.
First come, first served.
Thanks for your support - we appreciate it.
Please join us. It's fun, informal and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA
Sunday, March 05, 2006
Illy Coffee, Harpoon Beer, Kermit Lynch, Bracco Pinot Grigio, Barossa Shiraz, Trefethen, Beckman Cabernet
Greetings from New London,
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463 - 84 Bank Street
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817 - 70 State Street
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474 - 84 Bank Street
BRIE & BLEU -
How many times have you asked yourself - "Why don't they serve coffee here?"
How many times have we heard people ask "Why don't you serve coffee here"?
Well, enough is enough - we took our time to get it right - and now we offer ILLY COFFEE.
The familiar red logo and shiny silver can seen all over europe will now shine in New London too.
We will serve it and sell it for your use at home too.
The coffee connoisseur's coffee.
Once you've tasted illy, you'll understand why it's the overwhelming favorite of coffee, wine and food enthusiasts who appreciate fine dining and home entertaining. You'll also see why illy is the #1 choice of celebrated chefs, culinary experts, and restaurateurs all over the world. Rich, smooth, balanced and never bitter—cup after cup, illy provides the same consistent and distinctive taste whether it's prepared in a fine restaurant or right in your home.
Authentic Italian espresso & coffee from the world's leading coffee authority.
illy is known throughout the world as the coffee of choice for people who know and love coffee. That's because illy has spent nearly 70 years perfecting the espresso coffee process to bring you the most satisfying coffee experience. illy's dedication to quality and excellence is a family passion that has spanned three generations. What Francesco illy began in Trieste, Italy in 1933, when he set out to produce the world's finest coffee, continues to this day under the expert guidance of his son, Dr. Ernesto Illy, and grandson, Andrea Illy. Combining authentic Italian tradition with advanced science and technology, illy has earned its reputation as the world's leading coffee authority.
ALSO - If you are planning a St. Paddy's day party consider these great Irish Cheeses:
Cashel Irish Blue - $15 lb.
Cashel Blue is a semi-soft blue cows’ milk cheese. It is unique, as it is Ireland’s first farmhouse blue cheese. It is all made on the dairy farm of Jane and Louis Grubb near Cashel in Co. Tipperary Ireland. While some milk is purchased, the majority of the milk comes from the pedigree Friesian dairy herd on the farm. The cheese is made from pasteurised whole milk. It is sold in speciality outlets in the U.K., United States and Ireland, as well as being listed by most of the British Multiples. Much of the cheese is sold young, while it is firm and crumbly, but for a fuller flavour it is best eaten at about three months of age, when it has a softer texture and more mature flavor.
Dubliner Irish Cheddar - $10 lb.
Dubliner Irish Cheese is a unique new cheese type with a distinctive rounded flavour, achieved by combining a secret recipe and the skills of the Master cheese maker. The cheese is typically matured over 12 months during which time it is checked by experienced cheese graders to ensure that it has a consistently high flavor profile. Dubliner is a versatile cheese, suitable for vegetarians, that can be used on a cheese board, in sandwiches and in a range of recipes. Dubliner is particularly delicious as an apéritif cheese served cut into cubes or sliced.
NEXT -
This Tuesday we will be On Location at The Harvard Club in New York City -
We have been invited to a tasting of the Kermit Lynch wine portfolio and what better setting than the venerable Harvard Club.
In 1972 he opened a retail wine shop and later began importing and distributing nationally. He has been named Wine Professional of the Year by the James Beard Foundation, and the French government presented him a medal and named him Chevalier de l'Ordre de Mérite Agricole.
His book Adventures on the Wine Route, won the Veuve Clicquot Wine Book of the Year award. He knows wine.
We will be serving some of his wine on Wednesday night at our French dinner.
Then on Tuesday night we will be back in New London to host the first of the Comfort Foood dinners for March. Remember that March is the last of the series. Check the calendar of events for more details - but don't wait to call for reservations - they go quickly.
ALSO - Lots of new items on the favorites list - take a look. Here is just one of the new listings:
We just received a very limited supply of Tesseron Cognac - Lot 29.
Rated a perfect 100 points by Robert Parker -
He said: "This is about as ethereal a Cognac as anyone could ever hope to drink."
French law prohibits a vintage date to be used but this extremely hard to find "elixer" is from 1929. - First come, first served.
THURSDAY MARCH 9 - BEER TASTING - 5-8 p.m. - No Charge
This week the President of our Beer Division - George Whitehouse discovered that he may be related in some fashion to famed Trefethen winemaker - David Whitehouse Jr. - Until the tests come back to confirm this - and trust me - it was not easy getting the samples from David to send to the lab - George will be in the cellar hosting our tasting as usual. Among the beers being sampled will be beer from Harpoon Brewing.
And there will be a representative from Harpoon handing out the swag and filling your glasses.
FRIDAY MARCH 10 - Wine Tasting - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Bracco Pinot Grigio - $12
WAIT - before you dismiss this wine as just another hollywood tax avoidance scheme - Who knew HBO's Soprano's star Lorraine Bracco knew wine? This Pinot Grigio is exactly what the wine is supposed to be - great with food - tangy, rich, lightly fruity making it perfect for parties or for sipping in front of the new season's shows. Delicioso!
2 - Barossa Valley Shiraz - $12
Vivid and youthful. Sweet smoky aromas with a subtle background of blackcurrant fruit. Integrated cedar oak sweetness and fresh acidity give this wine structure and balance. The Barossa Valley Estate Shiraz marries superbly with veal and lamb stews.
3 - Trefethen TT (double T) Red - $18 - http://www.trefethen.com/
Some of you got to say hello to Trefethen winemaker David Whitehouse Jr. when he appeared as a guest on our weekly show last Tuesday.
His 1976 Chardonnay was ranked "Best in the World" at the World Wine Olympics held in Paris. This was just the beginning for this Massachusetts native who had worked with Robert Mondavi and Callaway before settling into his tenure at Trefethen. The Double T is a whole lot of wine - well balanced and a very supple texture. The backbone of this wine is Cabernet Sauvignon. Cabernet Franc and Malbec bring both softness and floral fruit components, Petit Verdot adds intense color and structure, while Merlot adds lively spice and herbal character. Aged in French and American oak for one year, this is a lovely Bistro-style wine - please try it.
4 - Beckman Cabernet - $24 - http://www.beckmenvineyards.com/
Founded in 1994 by Judy and Tom Beckmen, Beckmen Vineyards is a family-run, estate-grown winery in the Santa Ynez Valley. Since its inception, Beckmen Vineyards has evolved through a harmonious marriage of insight and inspiration to become one of North America's premier producers of estate Rhône varietals. They were awed and inspired by a perfect convergence of soil, microclimate, wind and sun.This land would soon become Purisima Mountain Vineyard, possessing all of the necessary elements to produce world-class Rhône varietals. With elevations reaching 1250 feet, the initial planting and farming of Purisima Mountain Vineyard represented one of the most ambitious hillside vineyard endeavors in the history of the Santa Ynez Valley. The nose of this wine is bottomless with aromas of jammy black cherry, earth, and chocolate. Flavors start off big and complex with currant and cherry, backed up by a dense chewy core of bittersweet chocolate, following up with a seductively long finish.
Thanks so much for your support - we appreciate it.
And for all of the calls and email - we love to hear from you.
Please join us. It's fun, informal and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463 - 84 Bank Street
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817 - 70 State Street
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474 - 84 Bank Street
BRIE & BLEU -
How many times have you asked yourself - "Why don't they serve coffee here?"
How many times have we heard people ask "Why don't you serve coffee here"?
Well, enough is enough - we took our time to get it right - and now we offer ILLY COFFEE.
The familiar red logo and shiny silver can seen all over europe will now shine in New London too.
We will serve it and sell it for your use at home too.
The coffee connoisseur's coffee.
Once you've tasted illy, you'll understand why it's the overwhelming favorite of coffee, wine and food enthusiasts who appreciate fine dining and home entertaining. You'll also see why illy is the #1 choice of celebrated chefs, culinary experts, and restaurateurs all over the world. Rich, smooth, balanced and never bitter—cup after cup, illy provides the same consistent and distinctive taste whether it's prepared in a fine restaurant or right in your home.
Authentic Italian espresso & coffee from the world's leading coffee authority.
illy is known throughout the world as the coffee of choice for people who know and love coffee. That's because illy has spent nearly 70 years perfecting the espresso coffee process to bring you the most satisfying coffee experience. illy's dedication to quality and excellence is a family passion that has spanned three generations. What Francesco illy began in Trieste, Italy in 1933, when he set out to produce the world's finest coffee, continues to this day under the expert guidance of his son, Dr. Ernesto Illy, and grandson, Andrea Illy. Combining authentic Italian tradition with advanced science and technology, illy has earned its reputation as the world's leading coffee authority.
ALSO - If you are planning a St. Paddy's day party consider these great Irish Cheeses:
Cashel Irish Blue - $15 lb.
Cashel Blue is a semi-soft blue cows’ milk cheese. It is unique, as it is Ireland’s first farmhouse blue cheese. It is all made on the dairy farm of Jane and Louis Grubb near Cashel in Co. Tipperary Ireland. While some milk is purchased, the majority of the milk comes from the pedigree Friesian dairy herd on the farm. The cheese is made from pasteurised whole milk. It is sold in speciality outlets in the U.K., United States and Ireland, as well as being listed by most of the British Multiples. Much of the cheese is sold young, while it is firm and crumbly, but for a fuller flavour it is best eaten at about three months of age, when it has a softer texture and more mature flavor.
Dubliner Irish Cheddar - $10 lb.
Dubliner Irish Cheese is a unique new cheese type with a distinctive rounded flavour, achieved by combining a secret recipe and the skills of the Master cheese maker. The cheese is typically matured over 12 months during which time it is checked by experienced cheese graders to ensure that it has a consistently high flavor profile. Dubliner is a versatile cheese, suitable for vegetarians, that can be used on a cheese board, in sandwiches and in a range of recipes. Dubliner is particularly delicious as an apéritif cheese served cut into cubes or sliced.
NEXT -
This Tuesday we will be On Location at The Harvard Club in New York City -
We have been invited to a tasting of the Kermit Lynch wine portfolio and what better setting than the venerable Harvard Club.
In 1972 he opened a retail wine shop and later began importing and distributing nationally. He has been named Wine Professional of the Year by the James Beard Foundation, and the French government presented him a medal and named him Chevalier de l'Ordre de Mérite Agricole.
His book Adventures on the Wine Route, won the Veuve Clicquot Wine Book of the Year award. He knows wine.
We will be serving some of his wine on Wednesday night at our French dinner.
Then on Tuesday night we will be back in New London to host the first of the Comfort Foood dinners for March. Remember that March is the last of the series. Check the calendar of events for more details - but don't wait to call for reservations - they go quickly.
ALSO - Lots of new items on the favorites list - take a look. Here is just one of the new listings:
We just received a very limited supply of Tesseron Cognac - Lot 29.
Rated a perfect 100 points by Robert Parker -
He said: "This is about as ethereal a Cognac as anyone could ever hope to drink."
French law prohibits a vintage date to be used but this extremely hard to find "elixer" is from 1929. - First come, first served.
THURSDAY MARCH 9 - BEER TASTING - 5-8 p.m. - No Charge
This week the President of our Beer Division - George Whitehouse discovered that he may be related in some fashion to famed Trefethen winemaker - David Whitehouse Jr. - Until the tests come back to confirm this - and trust me - it was not easy getting the samples from David to send to the lab - George will be in the cellar hosting our tasting as usual. Among the beers being sampled will be beer from Harpoon Brewing.
And there will be a representative from Harpoon handing out the swag and filling your glasses.
FRIDAY MARCH 10 - Wine Tasting - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Bracco Pinot Grigio - $12
WAIT - before you dismiss this wine as just another hollywood tax avoidance scheme - Who knew HBO's Soprano's star Lorraine Bracco knew wine? This Pinot Grigio is exactly what the wine is supposed to be - great with food - tangy, rich, lightly fruity making it perfect for parties or for sipping in front of the new season's shows. Delicioso!
2 - Barossa Valley Shiraz - $12
Vivid and youthful. Sweet smoky aromas with a subtle background of blackcurrant fruit. Integrated cedar oak sweetness and fresh acidity give this wine structure and balance. The Barossa Valley Estate Shiraz marries superbly with veal and lamb stews.
3 - Trefethen TT (double T) Red - $18 - http://www.trefethen.com/
Some of you got to say hello to Trefethen winemaker David Whitehouse Jr. when he appeared as a guest on our weekly show last Tuesday.
His 1976 Chardonnay was ranked "Best in the World" at the World Wine Olympics held in Paris. This was just the beginning for this Massachusetts native who had worked with Robert Mondavi and Callaway before settling into his tenure at Trefethen. The Double T is a whole lot of wine - well balanced and a very supple texture. The backbone of this wine is Cabernet Sauvignon. Cabernet Franc and Malbec bring both softness and floral fruit components, Petit Verdot adds intense color and structure, while Merlot adds lively spice and herbal character. Aged in French and American oak for one year, this is a lovely Bistro-style wine - please try it.
4 - Beckman Cabernet - $24 - http://www.beckmenvineyards.com/
Founded in 1994 by Judy and Tom Beckmen, Beckmen Vineyards is a family-run, estate-grown winery in the Santa Ynez Valley. Since its inception, Beckmen Vineyards has evolved through a harmonious marriage of insight and inspiration to become one of North America's premier producers of estate Rhône varietals. They were awed and inspired by a perfect convergence of soil, microclimate, wind and sun.This land would soon become Purisima Mountain Vineyard, possessing all of the necessary elements to produce world-class Rhône varietals. With elevations reaching 1250 feet, the initial planting and farming of Purisima Mountain Vineyard represented one of the most ambitious hillside vineyard endeavors in the history of the Santa Ynez Valley. The nose of this wine is bottomless with aromas of jammy black cherry, earth, and chocolate. Flavors start off big and complex with currant and cherry, backed up by a dense chewy core of bittersweet chocolate, following up with a seductively long finish.
Thanks so much for your support - we appreciate it.
And for all of the calls and email - we love to hear from you.
Please join us. It's fun, informal and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
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