Greetings from all of us in New London,
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
Brie & Bleu - 860-447-2474
IMPORT - 860-443-6817
Calendar of events: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
A great week is ahead of us - The wine list for Friday includes a really big name too.
But first, these items of interest.
• This is our Big Hollywood Weekend - Friday night at the Garde Theater -
The World Premier of I N C L U S I O N S.
This movie was locally produced and shot right here in The Whaling City - All profits from this showing will be donated to Make a Wish Foundation and the Leukemia Lymphoma Society. Please join us to support this important local event. Start your evening with us, and then make your way up to The Garde for the show.
For more details go here: http://tickets.gardearts.org/show.asp
To see the preview go here: http://www.crlvideo.com/
• Many thanks to Doug Rankin and Mr. Terry Theise for making a visit to our store last week - watch for the episode on WineRadio in the next few days.
• Many of you know that we have been trying to work with RJ Julia Bookseller in Madison, (the best bookstore ...on the planet?) to feature their visiting authors right here in New London. What's better than a meet the author book signing and a glass of wine? Well, the planets have finally aligned themselves and we hope to have none other than Rudolph Chelminski - the author of "I'll Drink To That" right here in the store in mid-November. I'll Drink To That is The remarkable saga of the wine and people of Beaujolais and Georges Duboeuf, the peasant lad who brought world recognition to this little known region. Published this month by Penguin Books.
Mr. Chelminski was raised in Connecticut - but when Life magazine dispatched him to to Paris thirty years ago he decided to stay. His articles have appeared in numerous national magazines, ranging from People and Time to The Atlantic Monthly. His other recent books include The Perfectionist.
New York Times: "A riveting behind-the-scenes look at the world of three-star French "haute cuisine" as revealed through the biography of one of Frances most celebrated chefs, "The Perfectionist" is an unforgettable portrait of Bernard Loiseau, and the sophisticated, unforgiving world of French gastronomy."
So, if you would like to add your name to the reception list please CALL the store - there is no charge, but we need to know how many bottles of wine to open - I know the answer is to open all of them - but we would like to get a head count. The final date and all of the details will be added to the calendar of events page and we will keep you posted right here as well. 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3.
• Dinner with Etienne Hugel - Monday Oct. 29 - Sold Out - Thank you.
Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday October 2 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge.
1 - Domaine Les Hautes Noelles 2006 Muscadet cotes de Grandlieu $11
Here’s a challenge: scour the world for a riper, more concentrated, more explosively flavorful and joyous Muscadet than Hautes Noelles. You won’t be able to find one! From his 17 hectares in the Cotes de Grandlieu sub-zone, proprietor Serge Batard crafts staggeringly intense Muscadet that nonetheless displays all the zingy acidity and palpable minerality you’d expect from this seaside appellation. Prolonged lees aging and bottling without racking give the wines extra texture and richness. Furthermore, Batard vinifies his parcels separately, harvesting by hand and blending just before bottling for maximum control over the final wine. Truly amazing quality here - please try it on Friday night.
2 - Domaine du Grand Breviande 2005 Chinon $12
"Black olive, dried leaf, peppery, cranberry, earthy nose" -These are the things that reviewers say about this wine. Then they throw in a little - Soft, very dry, elegant entry with dried cedar, tobacco leaf, peppery, cranberry, smoky, floral flavors. The fact is even without all of the fancy descriptions, this is a lot of wine for the money. Please try it on Friday.
3 - Allegrini Palazzo Della Torre 2003 $20 - Wine Spectator 87 points.
Named one of the most influential wine personalities of the last 20 years by Robert M. Parker Jr. in 1998, Leonardo LoCascio is America’s foremost authority on Italian wine. Mr. LoCascio makes frequent trips to Italy throughout the year, scouring the countryside for undiscovered treasures. His meticulous selection process is geared to finding wines that combine high quality and good value. The result is dozens of wines turned down for every one selected. The process tends to favor small to mid-sized wineries, often independent and family-owned. This is one of those wines.
The Washington Post recently reviewed this wine and said: "Tastes Like a ripe bouquet of spring flowers, vanilla and baked fruit, followed on the palate by silky, red berry fruit with hints of raisins and plums...Winery Allegrini is one of the most important wineries in the Valpolicella region. Its winemaking style emphasizes the unique character of the indigenous grapes." You have to try this on Friday night.
4 - Shafer 2005 Merlot $50
Robert Parker places this wine in the "90 Point" category. It speaks for itself - this powerhouse will not last long, please be sure to arrive early and try this most famous of California's wines - And see our interview with Doug Shafer himself on WineRadio.
I hope that you can join us this Friday night for the tasting and at The Garde Theater for the premier of Gordan Videll's film Inclusions.
Thanks very much for supporting all of our efforts - we appreciate it. And thanks also for all of the suggestions, comments, calls and email concerning our decision to carry on the tradition that Parade News started almost 50 years ago - we have some great plans for the space.
Please join us. It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA
Sunday, October 28, 2007
Saturday, October 20, 2007
Terry Theise, Simon Bize Bourgeone Blanc , Marquis Phillips Sarah's Blend, Klinker Brick Zin, Terra Rouge Tete,
Greetings from all of us in New London -
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474
IMPORT - 860-443-6817
www.thamesriver.com
A great line up of wine for Friday - listed just below these items of interest.
• Thanks for so many of the emails and phone calls about our announcement concerning Parade News in New London. We love all of the suggestions and can hardly wait to put some of them to use. Please spread the word - it's going to be a lot of fun.
The name will change - but the tradition will continue. We will be adding a link to a new website on our gateway at www.thamesriver.com
Look there for the latest news. And we will keep you posted as we move along.
• Now onto another special note of interest.
Many of you know that we have just about become the largest provider when it comes to "Grower" Champagne. And we do not mean in New London - we mean in the North East. It is a bold statement - but its true.
Grower Champagne is made by very small producers, in tiny batches and with love - not in a big factory by technicians standing in front of a control panel - like a few of the big brand names you are familiar with.
The man responsible for the Grower Champagne movement - The man that Food & Wine Magazine has named Man of The Year - The same man that practically leaps tall buildings in a single bound - Mr. Terry Theise - will be in our store on Monday afternoon. Please drop by and give him a warm New London welcome - about 4 p.m. - and, just to kick it up a notch - we will open a bottle or two to taste. Please stop by - I know you will enjoy meeting him.
If you want to learn more take a look at the WineRadio episode that we shot with Terry, on location at the Union League in New Haven. It is located at the bottom of our calendar of events page in the WineRadio section - here is the link: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
Terry devotes the entire second half of the show to Grower Champagne -
This is something you need to know about.
• Next - by popular demand, we have added a few additional seats for the
Meet The Winemaker Dinner with Etienne Hugel.
If you or a loved one is a wine lover - this is a night you should make room for on the calendar. Monday October 29 - 6 p.m.
Amazing wine from Hugel, paired to a menu carefully created by our own Anne Haviland - AND you will be sitting elbow to elbow with the man who made the wine. The 12th generation winemaker from one of the most famous names in Alsace France.
Please reserve now - 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3.
$75 plus tax and service - wine with each course and a surprise or two.
Check out the calendar page for more details and to see Etienne on WineRadio.
Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday, October 26 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Simon Bize Bourgeone Blanc $15
Domaine Simon Bize is one of the highly respected Burgundian addresses, a classic, or as the French are fond of saying, an ‘incontournable’ – ‘an absolute must’. This is a wine you will want to be greedy with - but at this price you may share the wealth if you so choose. It is amazing with food - in fact, French chefs are known to hang out in the cellars of Bize. One of the previous owners of the Château once fought for mules to be used in Burgundian vineyards stating that horses were too heavy and would compact the soil unnecessarily. His idea was considered to be undignified. Savigny has always been home to interesting folks. The wine is light, elegant and aromatic. Loads of flavor and long finish - you must try this on Friday night.
2 - Terra Rouge Tete - California - $ 16
We have had this wine in the store for a little while now and it has found a devoted following. This wine drinks better than most Côtes-du-Rhône Villages bottlings: sappy, spicy, fabulous flavor, and great texture. It is an eminently enjoyable everyday bottle. It has deep boysenberry fruit notes, smoky, complex flavor components that emphasize it's California terroir, and a lengthy finish. This is an affordable pleasure. Please give it a try this Friday.
3 - Marquis Phillips Sarah's Blend $18
This is what Robert Parker had to say about "Sarah's Blend":
"The dense ruby/purple-hued Sarah’s Blend is composed of 62% Shiraz and the rest equal parts Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. It offers abundant black cherry and cassis fruit in its smoky, earthy bouquet along with hints of licorice, dried herbs, and chocolate. Full-bodied, opulent, fruity, and long with surprising complexity as well as depth. Score: 91"
Marquis Philips is an American-Australian collaboration. This is a beautiful integration of the three varieties. It’s a joy to experience and taste the earthy spicy Merlot characters, the leafy berry fruits and firm structure from the Cabernet, and the chocolate and plum Shiraz flavors to finish. This harmony gives you a wine that is balanced, complex and has lots of fruit. It is hard to believe it is only eighteen dollars a bottle.
4 - Klinker Brick Zinfandel - California - $20
Steve and Lori Felten, fifth generation grape growers in the Lodi region, continue the tradition of cultivating “Old Vine” Zinfandel vineyards that their ancestors planted in the early 1900’s. Full of juicy flavors - cherries and plums mixed with the perfect balance of oak and spice. There is just a hint of mint and clove on the nose and a lingering, elegant finish. This wine was aged in American oak for 15 months. If you are a "Zin" fan, don't miss this one.
Thanks again for all of the comments and suggestions, we appreciate them. And thank you all for the tremendous support that you show each and every week. It is precisely that reason that people like Terry Theise visit our store - time and time again our suppliers and celebrity guests comment on the quality of our customers and the level of interest and support that you show. Thank you for making us stand out - and for making it so much fun.
Please join us. It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474
IMPORT - 860-443-6817
www.thamesriver.com
A great line up of wine for Friday - listed just below these items of interest.
• Thanks for so many of the emails and phone calls about our announcement concerning Parade News in New London. We love all of the suggestions and can hardly wait to put some of them to use. Please spread the word - it's going to be a lot of fun.
The name will change - but the tradition will continue. We will be adding a link to a new website on our gateway at www.thamesriver.com
Look there for the latest news. And we will keep you posted as we move along.
• Now onto another special note of interest.
Many of you know that we have just about become the largest provider when it comes to "Grower" Champagne. And we do not mean in New London - we mean in the North East. It is a bold statement - but its true.
Grower Champagne is made by very small producers, in tiny batches and with love - not in a big factory by technicians standing in front of a control panel - like a few of the big brand names you are familiar with.
The man responsible for the Grower Champagne movement - The man that Food & Wine Magazine has named Man of The Year - The same man that practically leaps tall buildings in a single bound - Mr. Terry Theise - will be in our store on Monday afternoon. Please drop by and give him a warm New London welcome - about 4 p.m. - and, just to kick it up a notch - we will open a bottle or two to taste. Please stop by - I know you will enjoy meeting him.
If you want to learn more take a look at the WineRadio episode that we shot with Terry, on location at the Union League in New Haven. It is located at the bottom of our calendar of events page in the WineRadio section - here is the link: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
Terry devotes the entire second half of the show to Grower Champagne -
This is something you need to know about.
• Next - by popular demand, we have added a few additional seats for the
Meet The Winemaker Dinner with Etienne Hugel.
If you or a loved one is a wine lover - this is a night you should make room for on the calendar. Monday October 29 - 6 p.m.
Amazing wine from Hugel, paired to a menu carefully created by our own Anne Haviland - AND you will be sitting elbow to elbow with the man who made the wine. The 12th generation winemaker from one of the most famous names in Alsace France.
Please reserve now - 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3.
$75 plus tax and service - wine with each course and a surprise or two.
Check out the calendar page for more details and to see Etienne on WineRadio.
Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday, October 26 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Simon Bize Bourgeone Blanc $15
Domaine Simon Bize is one of the highly respected Burgundian addresses, a classic, or as the French are fond of saying, an ‘incontournable’ – ‘an absolute must’. This is a wine you will want to be greedy with - but at this price you may share the wealth if you so choose. It is amazing with food - in fact, French chefs are known to hang out in the cellars of Bize. One of the previous owners of the Château once fought for mules to be used in Burgundian vineyards stating that horses were too heavy and would compact the soil unnecessarily. His idea was considered to be undignified. Savigny has always been home to interesting folks. The wine is light, elegant and aromatic. Loads of flavor and long finish - you must try this on Friday night.
2 - Terra Rouge Tete - California - $ 16
We have had this wine in the store for a little while now and it has found a devoted following. This wine drinks better than most Côtes-du-Rhône Villages bottlings: sappy, spicy, fabulous flavor, and great texture. It is an eminently enjoyable everyday bottle. It has deep boysenberry fruit notes, smoky, complex flavor components that emphasize it's California terroir, and a lengthy finish. This is an affordable pleasure. Please give it a try this Friday.
3 - Marquis Phillips Sarah's Blend $18
This is what Robert Parker had to say about "Sarah's Blend":
"The dense ruby/purple-hued Sarah’s Blend is composed of 62% Shiraz and the rest equal parts Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. It offers abundant black cherry and cassis fruit in its smoky, earthy bouquet along with hints of licorice, dried herbs, and chocolate. Full-bodied, opulent, fruity, and long with surprising complexity as well as depth. Score: 91"
Marquis Philips is an American-Australian collaboration. This is a beautiful integration of the three varieties. It’s a joy to experience and taste the earthy spicy Merlot characters, the leafy berry fruits and firm structure from the Cabernet, and the chocolate and plum Shiraz flavors to finish. This harmony gives you a wine that is balanced, complex and has lots of fruit. It is hard to believe it is only eighteen dollars a bottle.
4 - Klinker Brick Zinfandel - California - $20
Steve and Lori Felten, fifth generation grape growers in the Lodi region, continue the tradition of cultivating “Old Vine” Zinfandel vineyards that their ancestors planted in the early 1900’s. Full of juicy flavors - cherries and plums mixed with the perfect balance of oak and spice. There is just a hint of mint and clove on the nose and a lingering, elegant finish. This wine was aged in American oak for 15 months. If you are a "Zin" fan, don't miss this one.
Thanks again for all of the comments and suggestions, we appreciate them. And thank you all for the tremendous support that you show each and every week. It is precisely that reason that people like Terry Theise visit our store - time and time again our suppliers and celebrity guests comment on the quality of our customers and the level of interest and support that you show. Thank you for making us stand out - and for making it so much fun.
Please join us. It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Sunday, October 14, 2007
New London tradition, Hugel dinner, Green and Red,Bonnaventure Chinon,Berger Blauer Zweigelt, Salomon Gruner Veltliner
Greetings from all of us in New London
This is a very big week for news - the wine list for this Friday is just below these items of interest.
• First I want to answer one of the biggest questions of the week -
Many of you know that we own the building that Parade News is located in. Parade News and the Condon family have provided New London with newspapers and magazines, tobacco and impulsive necessities of all types for over fifty years. Parade News is a New London landmark - it has been in the same location since the 1950's - So,when the family decided recently to retire the business, many people wondered what's going to happen? Where will we get our newspapers and fine cigars? Where will we get that copy of European Men's Vogue for the train ride into The City?
Where will I be able to find those outlawed spiced, clove & honey cigarette's that are all the rage on The Continent?
The answer my friends is don't worry - we will carry on the proud tradition - we will not let the changing hands of time shut off the lights on a New London tradition. All of the Big City newspapers and magazines, fine cigars and tobacco, candy & chocolate, nuts & snacks, will be right there where you expect them to be. Your routine will not have to change. We will update things a bit - and make the whole thing as user-friendly as possible.
All of your requests, comments, and suggestions are welcome - and now is the time to let us know - and please spread the word.
• Next - get out your calendar and an indelible marker.
Friday, November 2 - 8 p.m.
The Garde Theater - World Premier Movie Event:
Join us on the Red Carpet and please be on hand to see the world premier of "Inclusions."
Flawless Films presents Inclusions, a locally written, shot, and produced dark comedy.
Our wine cellar is featured prominently in the movie - and we will be hosting a pre-theater bash starting at 6 p.m. in the cellar to celebrate the efforts of New London's own
Gordon Videll, the executive producer of the film.
We also hope to have a VIP lounge set-up at the Garde for all of the TV & press interviews and exclusive red carpet hijinks where the bubbly will flow like water. This will be a great night - and it is a very important cause that will benefit please join us.
All profits from this showing at the Garde will be donated to
Make a Wish Foundation and the Leukemia Lymphoma Society.
I hope to see you all "on location." For more details - go here: http://tickets.gardearts.org/show.asp
• FOOD STROLL -
Wednesday Oct. 17th - 5:30 - 8:30. Food & drink everywhere. We of course will be doing our part. Please stroll by.
• Meet The Winemaker Dinner Event: Monday October 29 - 6 p.m.
Meet Etienne Hugel - 12 Generation winemaker from Alsace France. This is your chance to sit elbow to elbow with a true legend in the wine business. We will eat, drink, and get to know this industry insider. And, the guy is "cool." -
Please check out the short video we have posted on the calendar of events page it will give you a glimpse into the line-up for the evening.
It was shot during Etienne's visit last year at Brie & Bleu: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
Seating is very limited - if you have a wine lover in your life - this is the perfect surprise "date night." Reserve early - 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3
• Green Party Fund Raiser at Muse Shoes & Gallery on Saturday October 20 - 6-10 p.m.
Corner of Golden and Green Streets Downtown New London - Enjoy music, food, and wine. Meet the candidates.
• Dave's Fave
Monday Tasting October 15th - No Charge
Domaine Santa Duc "Les Quatre Terres" Cotes du Rhone 2005 $16
Dave Says:
"We love all the wine these guys make, as Jim said, "They're too busy making great wine to worry about the label on the bottle."
So this bottle is often overlooked, but it's one of the best Cotes du Rhone in the house.
I haven't even tasted the 2005 vintage yet, so I'm looking forward to Monday too. How many times do you say that?
They're also so busy making great wine, they're not too worried about awkward English translations on the web page, "Here, wild and uncommon, a bird watches over the domain: the Grand-duc owl which sings, (known as "Canta Duc" in Provencal), his name has become over time "Santa Duc."
Come in on Monday, and we will sing of the owl!"
Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday October 19th - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Salomon Gruner Veltliner 2006 $17
This is remarkable in many ways. The estate has been in the family since 1792.
Fritz Salomon (1905-1971) was one of the true pioneers of dry wines in Austria; the first to import Pinot Blanc to Austria and he was also the first to export his wines to the USA, where they are highly regarded today. Erich Salomon has reinvigorated the fortunes of the estate and he produces beautifully typical wines, often with a characteristic understated elegance. These are not among the spectacularly alcoholic giants which are at times popular in Austria, but classical wines whose filigree fruit has earned many admirers. As they are usually in the Auslese range, they are also extremely long-lived.
Importers note: ”This is one of our front & center value GVs, always correct and snappy, This is richer and drier and it’s nutty, and zips with a nice snap and pepper." This is a great price for this wine, great with food - please try it on Friday night.
2 - Berger Blauer Zweigelt 2006 $12
This is a wine that surprised us - it comes in a liter sized bottle with a cap like a beer bottle. It is perhaps one of the best simple red table wines that we have ever had. It is hard to believe that it is only $12. It comes to us from Importer Terry Theise - the same man that Food & Wine magazine recently named Man of The Year. You will want to try this wine, and then you will want to "snag" as much as you can because it goes well with everything - a perfect everyday wine. It will go quickly. Watch our WineRadio interview with Terry Theise here: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
Just scroll down to the bottom of our calendar of events page - you can't miss it.
3 - Bonnaventure Chinon 2005 $20
Chateau de Coulaine is a family-owned estate rich in viticultural tradition which has been operating continuously since 1300! Since 1988, Etienne de Bonnaventure has assumed all viticulture and winemaking responsibilities and has grown the estate to its current 12 hectares, all situated on Chinon's plateaux. Planted to 100% Cabernet Franc, vineyards are organically farmed, all grapes are hand-harvested and vinification follows a non-interventionalist path. Coulaine's low yields result in a deeply concentrated, savory and succulent expression of Cabernet Franc with ripe and polished tannins - a harmonious balance between the traditional and modern worlds. We adore Cabernet Franc and this is simply one of the most deliciously approachable examples we have come across - This is big bang for the dollar.
And talk about a "story book" picture of a Chateau - take a look here: http://www.chinon.com/vignoble/chateau-coulaine/
4 - Green and Red Chiles Mill Zinfandel 2005 $28
Robert parker has said that they are one of his favorite Zinfendel producers.
Green & Red Vineyard, named for its red iron soils veined with green serpentine, is located in the steep hills on the east side of Napa Valley. The planting was started in 1972 on ground originally in vineyards in the 1890's. The vineyards are a small percentage of the 200-acre property, which ranges in elevation from 900 to 2,000 feet. Our separate vineyards are at different elevations with different exposures. This is the wine that was such a hit at our Asian wine dinner that one guest said it was the "best red wine he had ever had." Please try this - it may be your new favorite wine too.
Thanks for all of your support - we appreciate it.
And thanks for taking the time to call and sent email - you have a lot of great ideas - we are listening.
Please join us. It's fun informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
This is a very big week for news - the wine list for this Friday is just below these items of interest.
• First I want to answer one of the biggest questions of the week -
Many of you know that we own the building that Parade News is located in. Parade News and the Condon family have provided New London with newspapers and magazines, tobacco and impulsive necessities of all types for over fifty years. Parade News is a New London landmark - it has been in the same location since the 1950's - So,when the family decided recently to retire the business, many people wondered what's going to happen? Where will we get our newspapers and fine cigars? Where will we get that copy of European Men's Vogue for the train ride into The City?
Where will I be able to find those outlawed spiced, clove & honey cigarette's that are all the rage on The Continent?
The answer my friends is don't worry - we will carry on the proud tradition - we will not let the changing hands of time shut off the lights on a New London tradition. All of the Big City newspapers and magazines, fine cigars and tobacco, candy & chocolate, nuts & snacks, will be right there where you expect them to be. Your routine will not have to change. We will update things a bit - and make the whole thing as user-friendly as possible.
All of your requests, comments, and suggestions are welcome - and now is the time to let us know - and please spread the word.
• Next - get out your calendar and an indelible marker.
Friday, November 2 - 8 p.m.
The Garde Theater - World Premier Movie Event:
Join us on the Red Carpet and please be on hand to see the world premier of "Inclusions."
Flawless Films presents Inclusions, a locally written, shot, and produced dark comedy.
Our wine cellar is featured prominently in the movie - and we will be hosting a pre-theater bash starting at 6 p.m. in the cellar to celebrate the efforts of New London's own
Gordon Videll, the executive producer of the film.
We also hope to have a VIP lounge set-up at the Garde for all of the TV & press interviews and exclusive red carpet hijinks where the bubbly will flow like water. This will be a great night - and it is a very important cause that will benefit please join us.
All profits from this showing at the Garde will be donated to
Make a Wish Foundation and the Leukemia Lymphoma Society.
I hope to see you all "on location." For more details - go here: http://tickets.gardearts.org/show.asp
• FOOD STROLL -
Wednesday Oct. 17th - 5:30 - 8:30. Food & drink everywhere. We of course will be doing our part. Please stroll by.
• Meet The Winemaker Dinner Event: Monday October 29 - 6 p.m.
Meet Etienne Hugel - 12 Generation winemaker from Alsace France. This is your chance to sit elbow to elbow with a true legend in the wine business. We will eat, drink, and get to know this industry insider. And, the guy is "cool." -
Please check out the short video we have posted on the calendar of events page it will give you a glimpse into the line-up for the evening.
It was shot during Etienne's visit last year at Brie & Bleu: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
Seating is very limited - if you have a wine lover in your life - this is the perfect surprise "date night." Reserve early - 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3
• Green Party Fund Raiser at Muse Shoes & Gallery on Saturday October 20 - 6-10 p.m.
Corner of Golden and Green Streets Downtown New London - Enjoy music, food, and wine. Meet the candidates.
• Dave's Fave
Monday Tasting October 15th - No Charge
Domaine Santa Duc "Les Quatre Terres" Cotes du Rhone 2005 $16
Dave Says:
"We love all the wine these guys make, as Jim said, "They're too busy making great wine to worry about the label on the bottle."
So this bottle is often overlooked, but it's one of the best Cotes du Rhone in the house.
I haven't even tasted the 2005 vintage yet, so I'm looking forward to Monday too. How many times do you say that?
They're also so busy making great wine, they're not too worried about awkward English translations on the web page, "Here, wild and uncommon, a bird watches over the domain: the Grand-duc owl which sings, (known as "Canta Duc" in Provencal), his name has become over time "Santa Duc."
Come in on Monday, and we will sing of the owl!"
Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday October 19th - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Salomon Gruner Veltliner 2006 $17
This is remarkable in many ways. The estate has been in the family since 1792.
Fritz Salomon (1905-1971) was one of the true pioneers of dry wines in Austria; the first to import Pinot Blanc to Austria and he was also the first to export his wines to the USA, where they are highly regarded today. Erich Salomon has reinvigorated the fortunes of the estate and he produces beautifully typical wines, often with a characteristic understated elegance. These are not among the spectacularly alcoholic giants which are at times popular in Austria, but classical wines whose filigree fruit has earned many admirers. As they are usually in the Auslese range, they are also extremely long-lived.
Importers note: ”This is one of our front & center value GVs, always correct and snappy, This is richer and drier and it’s nutty, and zips with a nice snap and pepper." This is a great price for this wine, great with food - please try it on Friday night.
2 - Berger Blauer Zweigelt 2006 $12
This is a wine that surprised us - it comes in a liter sized bottle with a cap like a beer bottle. It is perhaps one of the best simple red table wines that we have ever had. It is hard to believe that it is only $12. It comes to us from Importer Terry Theise - the same man that Food & Wine magazine recently named Man of The Year. You will want to try this wine, and then you will want to "snag" as much as you can because it goes well with everything - a perfect everyday wine. It will go quickly. Watch our WineRadio interview with Terry Theise here: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
Just scroll down to the bottom of our calendar of events page - you can't miss it.
3 - Bonnaventure Chinon 2005 $20
Chateau de Coulaine is a family-owned estate rich in viticultural tradition which has been operating continuously since 1300! Since 1988, Etienne de Bonnaventure has assumed all viticulture and winemaking responsibilities and has grown the estate to its current 12 hectares, all situated on Chinon's plateaux. Planted to 100% Cabernet Franc, vineyards are organically farmed, all grapes are hand-harvested and vinification follows a non-interventionalist path. Coulaine's low yields result in a deeply concentrated, savory and succulent expression of Cabernet Franc with ripe and polished tannins - a harmonious balance between the traditional and modern worlds. We adore Cabernet Franc and this is simply one of the most deliciously approachable examples we have come across - This is big bang for the dollar.
And talk about a "story book" picture of a Chateau - take a look here: http://www.chinon.com/vignoble/chateau-coulaine/
4 - Green and Red Chiles Mill Zinfandel 2005 $28
Robert parker has said that they are one of his favorite Zinfendel producers.
Green & Red Vineyard, named for its red iron soils veined with green serpentine, is located in the steep hills on the east side of Napa Valley. The planting was started in 1972 on ground originally in vineyards in the 1890's. The vineyards are a small percentage of the 200-acre property, which ranges in elevation from 900 to 2,000 feet. Our separate vineyards are at different elevations with different exposures. This is the wine that was such a hit at our Asian wine dinner that one guest said it was the "best red wine he had ever had." Please try this - it may be your new favorite wine too.
Thanks for all of your support - we appreciate it.
And thanks for taking the time to call and sent email - you have a lot of great ideas - we are listening.
Please join us. It's fun informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Meet The Winemaker - Dinner Event
Have dinner with Etienne Hugel.
12th Generation Winemaker from Alsace France.
10 seats only - first come, first served.
$75 plus tax and service.
Reserve now - 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3
Monday October 29 - 6 p.m.
12th Generation Winemaker from Alsace France.
10 seats only - first come, first served.
$75 plus tax and service.
Reserve now - 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3
Monday October 29 - 6 p.m.
Etienne Hugel
A couple of minutes from last year's visit.
watch the video here
A couple of minutes from last year's visit.
watch the video here
Tuesday, October 09, 2007
Joe Dressner, Clos Des Briords, Chateau d' Oupia Minervois, Chateau le Bosq, Chateau Pibran, Hugel Dinner
Greetings from all of us in New London,
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474
IMPORT - 860-443-6817
www.thamesriver.com
It is a short holiday week for us - so just a few items of interest before we list the wine for Friday night. New London was enjoying the long warm days all this week. There was theater in the Hygenic Art Park, music in the plaza, and lots of action in the restaurants. Take Brie & Bleu for example - If there was a better place to enjoy a glass of wine - by the way we are serving Calera Pinot Noir by the glass right now - and a remarkable selection of cheese, while looking out at the harbor - I want to know about it.
• Shawn Colvin at The Garde Arts Center Saturday October 20th -
Tickets and information here: www.gardearts.org
• New London's Fall Food Stroll Wednesday, October 17, 2007, 5:30-8:30 PM - http://newlondonmainstreet.org/events/fallfoodstroll2007.php
• Hygenic Creep Show Opening - October 13
• Meet The Wine Maker - Special Event: -.
Ten Seats Only - First come, first served -
Wine Dinner Monday October 29th 6pm $75 - plus tax and service.
Etienne Hugel - 12th generation wine maker will sit with us, eat with us and share his family's passion for producing some of the greatest wines in the world. The wines of the Alsace region of France are very special and the Hugel name is at the top of that group. Watch the Calendar of Events page for more details - but do not wait to make your reservations -
8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3
• Last week we were invited to the Slocum and Sons wine show at the Mohegan Sun. It is an annual slug-fest with hundreds of people pushing into the giant ballrooms trying to find some free food and a place to sit down - It is not for the squeamish. There are a few redeeming aspects though - and one of them is getting to meet and talk with industry experts. If one seeks them out it can be a "Yoda" like experience. Here are a few lines from our own Jim Morrison's note book - as he was able to meet and talk with Joe Dressner, a wine industry star.
"...I had my annual encounter with Joe Dressner. The room was full of the usual suspects, Duckhorn, Cliquot, Latour, but I came away feeling that this strange man from Queens New York was the future of the wine business. Joe simply puts the emphasis on wine instead of brands. He looks for wines that are made someplace , by somebody, a radical concept in today's mass produced wine market. All of his wines are organic and Biodynamic, and now Joe is searching out vineyards with clonal diversity. "Why would I want a vineyard of clones, when you could have a vineyard of thousands of individuals, producing unique flavors in a unique location? It's the essence of Terroir......."
This guy it way ahead of the curve - His web site is a must read for anyone with an interest in wine and a sense of humor. www.joedressner.com
Wine Tasting Please Join Us -
Friday October 12 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Clos Des Briords Muscadet Sevre et Maine 2006 $15
100% Muscadet from the western Loire Valley, fermented "sur lie" - that's a fancy way of saying they keep the wine in the barrel (on the lees or sur lie) all winter, this allows the wine's aromas, body and texture to develop, and the carbonic gas produced by this process imparts a liveliness on the palate. Only wines made from the best vineyards are permitted to use the Sur Lie designation. Absolutely perfect for seafood and shellfish - Including this recipe, that we managed to steal from the private recipe box of Dr. Henry Mann:
"Saute garlic and a small chopped onion slowly; add chopped fresh tomatoes and let it simmer; add 1/2 to one bottle of dry white wine. Add some fresh or dried thyme, Chile garlic paste, and a 1/4 cup of Pernod and you could add a little saffron. I also might add some Vietnamese fish sauce. Cook it until it is perfect and correct seasoning. Then cook the mussels for a very short time, stopping as soon as mot of them are open."
Please try the wine this Friday night - and if you want to spice up your weekend - try the recipe too. You'll note that the exact measurements were not on the dog-eared copy of the Dr's stained 3x5 inch card - just cook with your heart, you will know when it is right.
2 - Chateau d' Oupia Minervois 2006 $14
This is another Joe Dressner Selection. Robert Parker has consistently praised this estate and rated the wine a “best buy.” He wrote:
“Château d'Oupia has produced the ideal bistro wine. Dark, ruby-colored, the wine is wonderfully clean and pure, with an exuberant personality, and gobs of rich, peppery, red and black fruit...Bravo to proprietor André Iché!”
Minervois is Languedoc in southern france. Comprised of Carignan , Syrah and Greanache. The wine has also been called " the ultimate bistro wine".
Created in a magnificent 13th century Chateau - this is the "Real McCoy" folks, please try it on Friday night.
3 - Chateau le Bosq 2003 $32
Robert Parker has rated this wine in the high 88/90 category -
Their commitment to exceptional quality is relentless.
Chateau Le Bosq is one of the great classics in the St. Estephe appellation. when you close your eyes and imagine a french chateau - this is the picture that you see. The Chateau itself is a majestic building built at the end of the 18th century, with one of the facades facing the vines, and the other giving a magnificent view of the Gironde estuary. 1996 saw a great deal of further investment at the Chateau including the complete renovation of the vinification complex. Talk about a food wine - this is perfect with roast turkey, bread stuffing and giblet gravy, leg of lamb with a rosemary, lemon, garlic, and roasted potatoes or the traditional roasted rib-eye steak with herbed mustard sauce and root vegetables - Start thinking Thanksgiving - and you will want this on your table. This is a pretty, elegant wine, with attractive berry and cherry aromas. Spicy, with a fine medium body, silky tannins and a long fleshy finish.
Gotta have it.
4 - Chateau Pibran 2003 $42
Rated 87/89 point by the Wine Advocate Situated on a beautiful rocky quartenary hillside, close to such presitigous neighbours as Mouton-Rothschild, Pontet-Canet and Lynch-Bages, the Château Pibran estate has benefitted from a thorough restructuring, including big dollar investment from it's owners.
Here is what Robert Parker said about this wine: "From a vineyard situated on the high plateau of Pauillac, near both Pontet-Canet and Mouton Rothschild, this blend of 65% Merlot and 35% Cabernet Sauvignon reveals excellent cassis fruit, impressive ripeness, good sweetness and depth on the palate, and a long, concentrated finish. A potential sleeper of the vintage, there are, sadly, only 5,000 cases."
This is a pricey bottle - but the holidays are just around the corner - consider adding a few bottles to your collection, you can dole it out carefully to the visiting relatives, or just snuggle up with someone special and share a great bottle of wine and a memorable experience.
Thanks very much for your support. Many new faces have discovered our updated food and wine menus at Brie & Bleu and enjoyed the late summer evenings on the deck - and of course all of our regular "clubhouse" members - thanks for making it so much fun. Lots of new announcements are just around the corner - stay tuned, we are listening.
Please join us - it's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474
IMPORT - 860-443-6817
www.thamesriver.com
It is a short holiday week for us - so just a few items of interest before we list the wine for Friday night. New London was enjoying the long warm days all this week. There was theater in the Hygenic Art Park, music in the plaza, and lots of action in the restaurants. Take Brie & Bleu for example - If there was a better place to enjoy a glass of wine - by the way we are serving Calera Pinot Noir by the glass right now - and a remarkable selection of cheese, while looking out at the harbor - I want to know about it.
• Shawn Colvin at The Garde Arts Center Saturday October 20th -
Tickets and information here: www.gardearts.org
• New London's Fall Food Stroll Wednesday, October 17, 2007, 5:30-8:30 PM - http://newlondonmainstreet.org/events/fallfoodstroll2007.php
• Hygenic Creep Show Opening - October 13
• Meet The Wine Maker - Special Event: -.
Ten Seats Only - First come, first served -
Wine Dinner Monday October 29th 6pm $75 - plus tax and service.
Etienne Hugel - 12th generation wine maker will sit with us, eat with us and share his family's passion for producing some of the greatest wines in the world. The wines of the Alsace region of France are very special and the Hugel name is at the top of that group. Watch the Calendar of Events page for more details - but do not wait to make your reservations -
8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3
• Last week we were invited to the Slocum and Sons wine show at the Mohegan Sun. It is an annual slug-fest with hundreds of people pushing into the giant ballrooms trying to find some free food and a place to sit down - It is not for the squeamish. There are a few redeeming aspects though - and one of them is getting to meet and talk with industry experts. If one seeks them out it can be a "Yoda" like experience. Here are a few lines from our own Jim Morrison's note book - as he was able to meet and talk with Joe Dressner, a wine industry star.
"...I had my annual encounter with Joe Dressner. The room was full of the usual suspects, Duckhorn, Cliquot, Latour, but I came away feeling that this strange man from Queens New York was the future of the wine business. Joe simply puts the emphasis on wine instead of brands. He looks for wines that are made someplace , by somebody, a radical concept in today's mass produced wine market. All of his wines are organic and Biodynamic, and now Joe is searching out vineyards with clonal diversity. "Why would I want a vineyard of clones, when you could have a vineyard of thousands of individuals, producing unique flavors in a unique location? It's the essence of Terroir......."
This guy it way ahead of the curve - His web site is a must read for anyone with an interest in wine and a sense of humor. www.joedressner.com
Wine Tasting Please Join Us -
Friday October 12 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Clos Des Briords Muscadet Sevre et Maine 2006 $15
100% Muscadet from the western Loire Valley, fermented "sur lie" - that's a fancy way of saying they keep the wine in the barrel (on the lees or sur lie) all winter, this allows the wine's aromas, body and texture to develop, and the carbonic gas produced by this process imparts a liveliness on the palate. Only wines made from the best vineyards are permitted to use the Sur Lie designation. Absolutely perfect for seafood and shellfish - Including this recipe, that we managed to steal from the private recipe box of Dr. Henry Mann:
"Saute garlic and a small chopped onion slowly; add chopped fresh tomatoes and let it simmer; add 1/2 to one bottle of dry white wine. Add some fresh or dried thyme, Chile garlic paste, and a 1/4 cup of Pernod and you could add a little saffron. I also might add some Vietnamese fish sauce. Cook it until it is perfect and correct seasoning. Then cook the mussels for a very short time, stopping as soon as mot of them are open."
Please try the wine this Friday night - and if you want to spice up your weekend - try the recipe too. You'll note that the exact measurements were not on the dog-eared copy of the Dr's stained 3x5 inch card - just cook with your heart, you will know when it is right.
2 - Chateau d' Oupia Minervois 2006 $14
This is another Joe Dressner Selection. Robert Parker has consistently praised this estate and rated the wine a “best buy.” He wrote:
“Château d'Oupia has produced the ideal bistro wine. Dark, ruby-colored, the wine is wonderfully clean and pure, with an exuberant personality, and gobs of rich, peppery, red and black fruit...Bravo to proprietor André Iché!”
Minervois is Languedoc in southern france. Comprised of Carignan , Syrah and Greanache. The wine has also been called " the ultimate bistro wine".
Created in a magnificent 13th century Chateau - this is the "Real McCoy" folks, please try it on Friday night.
3 - Chateau le Bosq 2003 $32
Robert Parker has rated this wine in the high 88/90 category -
Their commitment to exceptional quality is relentless.
Chateau Le Bosq is one of the great classics in the St. Estephe appellation. when you close your eyes and imagine a french chateau - this is the picture that you see. The Chateau itself is a majestic building built at the end of the 18th century, with one of the facades facing the vines, and the other giving a magnificent view of the Gironde estuary. 1996 saw a great deal of further investment at the Chateau including the complete renovation of the vinification complex. Talk about a food wine - this is perfect with roast turkey, bread stuffing and giblet gravy, leg of lamb with a rosemary, lemon, garlic, and roasted potatoes or the traditional roasted rib-eye steak with herbed mustard sauce and root vegetables - Start thinking Thanksgiving - and you will want this on your table. This is a pretty, elegant wine, with attractive berry and cherry aromas. Spicy, with a fine medium body, silky tannins and a long fleshy finish.
Gotta have it.
4 - Chateau Pibran 2003 $42
Rated 87/89 point by the Wine Advocate Situated on a beautiful rocky quartenary hillside, close to such presitigous neighbours as Mouton-Rothschild, Pontet-Canet and Lynch-Bages, the Château Pibran estate has benefitted from a thorough restructuring, including big dollar investment from it's owners.
Here is what Robert Parker said about this wine: "From a vineyard situated on the high plateau of Pauillac, near both Pontet-Canet and Mouton Rothschild, this blend of 65% Merlot and 35% Cabernet Sauvignon reveals excellent cassis fruit, impressive ripeness, good sweetness and depth on the palate, and a long, concentrated finish. A potential sleeper of the vintage, there are, sadly, only 5,000 cases."
This is a pricey bottle - but the holidays are just around the corner - consider adding a few bottles to your collection, you can dole it out carefully to the visiting relatives, or just snuggle up with someone special and share a great bottle of wine and a memorable experience.
Thanks very much for your support. Many new faces have discovered our updated food and wine menus at Brie & Bleu and enjoyed the late summer evenings on the deck - and of course all of our regular "clubhouse" members - thanks for making it so much fun. Lots of new announcements are just around the corner - stay tuned, we are listening.
Please join us - it's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Tuesday, October 02, 2007
Enrique Toso, Domaine du Tariquet, Josh Jensen Calera, Chateau de Lascaux , Meerlust South Africa
Greetings from New London,
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
Brie & Bleu - 860 - 437-2474
IMPORT - 860-443-6817
www.thamesriver.com
What a week it has been - Cruise ships, concerts, parties, and theater -
New London is buzzing.
We are running a little behind this week -
so just A few notes of interest before we list the wines for this Friday.
• Keep an eye on the calendar - we have some very exciting events on the horizon.
• Special Argentinean Wine Dinner -
Thursday October 11 - 6 p.m. Please Reserve Early - 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3
$75 plus tax & service - Limited Seating
We can now confirm the time and date for our private dinner with Gustavo Arroyat.
From Trapiche Vineyards in Mendoza Argentina, Gustavo will sit with us, eat with us, and indeed - drink with us.
Authentic South American cuisine will be the backdrop for a very special evening of wine and our usual "hijinks." Gustavo was recently a guest on our WineRadio show - you can see the interview on our calendar of events page. HERE: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
• Thanks to everyone that attended our Far East wine dinner -
Lots of new faces, lots of great food and some amazing wine pairings made it a great night.
• Thanks to all of the parents and students that came to visit from Connecticut College - Parents weekend was a lot of fun.
• Burgundy Dinner is Sold Out - thank you.
• WineRadio - Meet Enrique Toso from Pascual Toso vineyards in our latest episode.
Enrique is interviewed by Marissa Ocasio on his recent visit to New London. Look for Marissa in upcoming episodes, as we launch the WineRadio Spanish Edition.
Monday Tasting - "Dave's Fave"
Crios Rose of Malbec $12
Dave Says:
"With the gorgeous weather we've been having, I'm going to stretch out "Rose Season" just long enough to revisit one of the nicest little surprises of the summer: Malbec Rose made by one of our favorite wine-geniuses out there, Susanna Balbo from Mendoza, Argentina. This is one of the darkest Roses you'll find, and seems to me to fall somewhere between a Rose and a Pinot Noir, with layers of berry flavor and fruit. A fun wine I want to enjoy again before we all settle in for the winter with big reds!
Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday October 5 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Domaine du Tariquet Vin de pays des cotes de Gascogne 2006 $9
Serve chilled. Very refreshing at any time of the day, as an aperitif or with starters, seafood or fish.
Winemaker: "In the past, all that mattered was the wine making process but over the years, we have gradually learned to make wine that is an honest expression of the vineyard." Superbly intense for a dry fruity white, its bouquet reveals floral and citrus aromas with nice touches of tropical fruit. Light and well-balanced, this wine is a thirst-quenching pleasure. Always have a bottle in the fridge door, just in case…"
2 - Calera Central Coast Pinot Noir 2006 $26
Josh Jensen is a legend in the wine business. He has been to our store and many of you had the chance to meet him and have bottles signed by him.
Josh Jensen built his California winery in the 1970's and continues to make the finest Pinot Noirs outside of Burgundy.
In a recent telephone conversation with Josh we thanked him for his support and for making his wine available to us - it is not easy to get. But before he hung up we tested the waters with this comment: "Josh, come on man - we know your holding something back...can't you send us some of the "good" stuff?"
This is the good stuff. Please try it on Friday night. We also have a few signed copies of the new edition of "The Heartbreak Grape." written about Josh and his magnificent obsession.
3 - Chateau de Lascaux 2002 Coteaux du Languedoc $14
Chateau de Lascaux is a 45 hectare family owned vineyard located in the Languedoc region of France. Current wine maker-owner Jean-Benoit Cavalier can trace his families involvement in wine on the site back to 1750, with records of ancestors working the land around Vacquieres existing as far back as 1151! There is history and amazing quality in every sip. And this is a great price for this wine - please try it on Friday night.
This is a Kermitt Lynch selection. Mr. Lynch only puts his name on wine that he selects himself - seeing his name on the label assures one that the wine inside is the best example of its kind.
4 - Meerlust Rubicon 2001 South Africa - $30
If you missed our interview with Cellar Master Chris Williams on WineRadio, you can see it on the Calendar of Events Page under the WineRadio section.This is the flagship wine of Meerlust Vineyards - and it was featured on the episode you can watch here: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
WineRadio Special Correspondent, Devin McGarry interviewed Chris and got him to say the most interesting things. With its deep purple ink color, Meerlust Rubicon 2001 has a bouquet reminiscent of spicy tobacco. Firm tannins, youthful palate. A well-balanced wine with good ageing potential. Enjoyable with all fine food. Watch the interview, taste the wine, enjoy a great night with us on Friday."
Thanks for all of your support and comments - 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
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
Brie & Bleu - 860 - 437-2474
IMPORT - 860-443-6817
www.thamesriver.com
What a week it has been - Cruise ships, concerts, parties, and theater -
New London is buzzing.
We are running a little behind this week -
so just A few notes of interest before we list the wines for this Friday.
• Keep an eye on the calendar - we have some very exciting events on the horizon.
• Special Argentinean Wine Dinner -
Thursday October 11 - 6 p.m. Please Reserve Early - 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3
$75 plus tax & service - Limited Seating
We can now confirm the time and date for our private dinner with Gustavo Arroyat.
From Trapiche Vineyards in Mendoza Argentina, Gustavo will sit with us, eat with us, and indeed - drink with us.
Authentic South American cuisine will be the backdrop for a very special evening of wine and our usual "hijinks." Gustavo was recently a guest on our WineRadio show - you can see the interview on our calendar of events page. HERE: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
• Thanks to everyone that attended our Far East wine dinner -
Lots of new faces, lots of great food and some amazing wine pairings made it a great night.
• Thanks to all of the parents and students that came to visit from Connecticut College - Parents weekend was a lot of fun.
• Burgundy Dinner is Sold Out - thank you.
• WineRadio - Meet Enrique Toso from Pascual Toso vineyards in our latest episode.
Enrique is interviewed by Marissa Ocasio on his recent visit to New London. Look for Marissa in upcoming episodes, as we launch the WineRadio Spanish Edition.
Monday Tasting - "Dave's Fave"
Crios Rose of Malbec $12
Dave Says:
"With the gorgeous weather we've been having, I'm going to stretch out "Rose Season" just long enough to revisit one of the nicest little surprises of the summer: Malbec Rose made by one of our favorite wine-geniuses out there, Susanna Balbo from Mendoza, Argentina. This is one of the darkest Roses you'll find, and seems to me to fall somewhere between a Rose and a Pinot Noir, with layers of berry flavor and fruit. A fun wine I want to enjoy again before we all settle in for the winter with big reds!
Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday October 5 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Domaine du Tariquet Vin de pays des cotes de Gascogne 2006 $9
Serve chilled. Very refreshing at any time of the day, as an aperitif or with starters, seafood or fish.
Winemaker: "In the past, all that mattered was the wine making process but over the years, we have gradually learned to make wine that is an honest expression of the vineyard." Superbly intense for a dry fruity white, its bouquet reveals floral and citrus aromas with nice touches of tropical fruit. Light and well-balanced, this wine is a thirst-quenching pleasure. Always have a bottle in the fridge door, just in case…"
2 - Calera Central Coast Pinot Noir 2006 $26
Josh Jensen is a legend in the wine business. He has been to our store and many of you had the chance to meet him and have bottles signed by him.
Josh Jensen built his California winery in the 1970's and continues to make the finest Pinot Noirs outside of Burgundy.
In a recent telephone conversation with Josh we thanked him for his support and for making his wine available to us - it is not easy to get. But before he hung up we tested the waters with this comment: "Josh, come on man - we know your holding something back...can't you send us some of the "good" stuff?"
This is the good stuff. Please try it on Friday night. We also have a few signed copies of the new edition of "The Heartbreak Grape." written about Josh and his magnificent obsession.
3 - Chateau de Lascaux 2002 Coteaux du Languedoc $14
Chateau de Lascaux is a 45 hectare family owned vineyard located in the Languedoc region of France. Current wine maker-owner Jean-Benoit Cavalier can trace his families involvement in wine on the site back to 1750, with records of ancestors working the land around Vacquieres existing as far back as 1151! There is history and amazing quality in every sip. And this is a great price for this wine - please try it on Friday night.
This is a Kermitt Lynch selection. Mr. Lynch only puts his name on wine that he selects himself - seeing his name on the label assures one that the wine inside is the best example of its kind.
4 - Meerlust Rubicon 2001 South Africa - $30
If you missed our interview with Cellar Master Chris Williams on WineRadio, you can see it on the Calendar of Events Page under the WineRadio section.This is the flagship wine of Meerlust Vineyards - and it was featured on the episode you can watch here: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
WineRadio Special Correspondent, Devin McGarry interviewed Chris and got him to say the most interesting things. With its deep purple ink color, Meerlust Rubicon 2001 has a bouquet reminiscent of spicy tobacco. Firm tannins, youthful palate. A well-balanced wine with good ageing potential. Enjoyable with all fine food. Watch the interview, taste the wine, enjoy a great night with us on Friday."
Thanks for all of your support and comments - we appreciate it.
Please join us. It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
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