Mark Laderriere - Vina Robles Wines

Our Good Friend

Mark Laderriere was visiting from the West Coast and made time to visit with us on a typical Wednesday afternoon in New London. One of California's best producers Vina Robles sets the bar rather high - take a minute to watch Mark and get some behind the scenes information that is not printed in the press.

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Vina Robles is the realization of a long-held dream. It is the collaboration of international talents and recognition of an area of exceptional viticultural promise. It began as the world-wide search by Hans Nef, a Swiss restaurateur and developer, for the perfect place to grow Bordeaux and Rhone varietals.

Paso Robles is located approximately halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco in the northern part of San Luis Obispo County. Thirty miles inland, its warm climate is due to the Santa Lucia Mountains that block out most of the cooling Pacific Ocean influence during the day. The Templeton Gap is a saddle in the range that channels the moderating late afternoon breezes and cool air at night across the region.

The appellation of Paso Robles is geographically diverse. Numerous soil types and elevation changes, together with diverse valleys and canyons, account for varied climates and sites that yield high quality production of a diversity of varietals, notably reds.

Dominus, Moonstruck, "Tre Venezie", Zeni Pinot Grigio, Cono Sur, Luigi Baudana, Celebrity Ratings

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




Our Friday night line up is listed just below these items of interest and information.
Included on the list is a legendary name - Dominus.
Robert Parker rates this one 95 points - This is the 20th vintage of this powerhouse from California.

We hope to see you this Friday night.

• If you missed The Party last Friday night- it was hopping. Mild weather, spring fever, and calm seas brought the people out.
The heater on the deck was on and the tables were full - it was a beautiful night. The tasting in our cellar focused on the wines of Spain and Portugal and we saw lots of new faces. Thanks for making our weekly fete so much fun - we appreciate it.

• Remember, lots of people have discovered the best kept secret in New London: Buy wine at the wine store - then take it next door for dinner at Brie & Bleu. Dinner and a great bottle of wine that leaves you with enough money to fill your tank in the morning - oh yeah.

• Moonstruck Chocolates - http://www.moonstruckchocolate.com/Oscars2006.aspx
This is the company that has been featured on TV and supplies chocolate to the stars -
Now available at Brie & Bleu - take a peek in our display cooler - we are offering some of their favorite items.

This Week At Brie & Bleu:

Here are the dinner specials at Brie & Bleu for this week - our staff will help you pick the perfect wine

Friday 3/30/07- Crab Cakes with radish & lemon aoli and corn salsa.
Saturday 3/31/07 - Lasagna Bolognase with a fresh arugala salad.

Featured cheese: of the week at Brie & Bleu is Tallegio at $9/lb. The cheese is produced in Lombardy, Italy. The cheese is a cow's milk with a high fat content (48%) giving it a very creamy, semi-soft texture that turns runny as it ages. The rind is washed with a reddish-orange color that has mold. The taste of the cheese is extremely pungent, stinky cheese has a very creamy and mellow taste. It's initial salty impact is followed by fruity, yeasty undertones. The cheese pairs well with a young full-bodied wine such as Merlot or with a dessert Riesling and serve with fruit on a cheese board, in salads, or mixed into hot pasta or polenta since it melts well.
Give it a try,
Colleen


Wine Tasting Please Join Us -
Friday March 30 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge

1 - Zeni Pinot Grigio ramato $17
This is the first rosé tasting of the Spring - The northeastern Italian regions of Veneto, Trentino-Alto Adige, and Friuli-Venezia Giulia were historically referred to as the "Tre Venezie"(three Venices), and represent the vast chunk of territory once associated with the great city of Venice. Today, these regions are more politically distinct, but their wines converge on the tables of Venice, where the incomparable array of seafood - cuttlefish in their ink; scampi (shrimp) dressed in olive oil and lemon juice; flaky branzini (sea bass) baked in salt crust - is perfectly complemented by the Tre Venezie¹s minerally, crisp, fragrant white wines. - This wine is a classic of the Tre Venezie: A powerful pinot grigio with a slight pink tinge due to some skin contact during fermentation.
This is the kind of wine you'll see in Venice all the time but rarely does it make it Stateside. (the term "ramato" means "coppery," in reference to the coppery color of the wine due to the skin contact). Give this one a try - you might decide to keep a case around the house all season long.

2 - Cono Sur Pinot Noir - Rapel, Chile - $12
This is an interesting, if slightly odd Pinot Noir. The open nose is quite striking, with a slightly, herbal character, along with some sweet plummy fruit. The palate is rich, fruity and appealing. Pinot Noir is generally known as a sexy wine and this is a great choice for the latest food trends. In general terms this is a wine that will make any white meat look good. Also soups, stews, and flavorful fish dishes.


3 - Luigi Baudana Barbera D'Alba "Donatella" 2004 $26
This entire estate is only 4.5 hectares. And - just one half of a hectare is devoted to Barbera. The entire production less than 2100 cases.
Since 1975 Luigi and Fiorina Baudana have been growing grapes on their tiny estate. Their wines are remarkable for their power and their finesse, their depth of flavor and their sheer drinkability. This is a fantastic wiine for the price AND it drinks with the intensity of a 1963 Marchello Mastriani.

Most people don't realize it but we are the inventors of the "Celebrity Tasting Scale" -
We have used it for years here behind the scenes.
The world is full of 100 point scales, and descriptions of all manner - "gun flint, with a touch of raspberry, on a sunny day" (C&M-take note)
But I have always felt that a better way to describe wine is our system. For example "It's bold, raw, it reminds me of a 1951 Robert Mitchum.

4 - Dominus 2003 95 points $126 - The 20th vintage
Dominus is the proprietary red wine produced in the heart of Napa Valley by Christian Moueix and his team. Since 1983, their goal has been to express the unique terroir found at the historic Napanook Vineyard.

Robert Parker says: "The 2003 Dominus has turned out even better than I thought from barrel. There are 4,800 cases of this 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Petit Verdot blend. A big, sweet nose of roasted coffee, Provencal herbs, black currants, cherry jam, plums, allspice, and forest floor is followed by a spicy, rich, full-bodied, fragrant, intense wine. The tannins are sweet, but noticeable in this beautifully complex, strikingly aromatic 2003. It has much more similarity to a great Bordeaux than anything from Napa Valley. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2025."
We say:
This California Powerhouse drinks like a 1953 Ava Gardner - Think "Mogambo"

Thanks for all of your calls and emails this past week - we appreciate it.
It's all about sharing, having some fun and maybe discovering something or someone new - see you there.

Please join us. It is fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.


AAA

Spanish Wine Dinner, Dominic Symington On Location in Portugal

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Dominic Symington speaks candidly from Portugal

Greetings from New London

In case you have not seen it yet take a look at the video we shot on location in Portugal with Dominic Symington - this is a behind the scenes look at one of the greatest names in the wine industry. Exclusive - and only available right here -


The Spanish Wine dinner that we had on Thursday night was a perfect evening -
and the wine list was remarkable - we poured 13 wines in all.
Can you dig it - The surprise list of wine read like poetry. And it is why these special evenings are probably the greatest value that any food and wine lover could imagine.

Here is the full list:

• Txomin TTxaniz Txakolina $18
• Naiades Verdejo 2005 $30
• Barahonda Bellum El Principio 2005 $20
• Alto Moncayo 2003 $40
• Emilo Moro Malleolus 2002 $57
• Finca Sandoval 2004 $40
• Vinas Del Cenit 2003 $45
• Vinedos De Paganos El Pundito 2003 $55
• Bodegas El Nido Clio 2004 $45
• Vinos Pinol Mather Teresina 2003 $50
• Numanthia-Termes Termes 2004 $24
• Numanthia-Termes Numanthia 2004 $54
• Numanthia-Termes Termanthia 2003 $190

Do Over!, Altano Douro, Vale Do Bomfim, Prazo de Roriz, Quinta de Roriz

Greetings from all of us in New London,
www.thamesriver.com
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474
IMPORT - 860-443-6817

Well because of the "Storm Of The Century" - I think that's how it was described last week - we were forced to cancel last Friday night's tasting.
According to our records that was the first time we missed a scheduled Friday tasting since we opened.
We hope that you all enjoyed a nice day off.

So this week it is a "Do Over".

The wines are great and we know you will want to try them - they are listed just below this quick update about Brie & Bleu -


This Week At Brie & Bleu -
Dinner Specials:
Friday March 23 - lemon cod with panko bread crumbs and brown butter
Saturday March 24 - orange glazed grilled rack of pork Fred the cheese of the week is Piave Vecchio and Italian cheese.

Seats Still Available for dinners on: 3/20 & 3/27 - please call for more information.

The featured cheese of the week at Brie & Blue is Piave Vecchio, which is a great Italian snacking cheese at $12/lb this week. Piave is made from the pasteurized milk of cows that graze on mountain pastures in Italy's Veneto region. It is not a farmstead cheese. It is made by a cooperative, in 15- pound wheels that are only about 2 inches tall, with the cheese's name impressed in the rind. As with many recently introduced cheeses, information on Piave's manufacture is scarce. From the dense texture and butterscotch aroma and flavor, it appears that the curd is both cooked and pressed, as for Gruyere, Gouda or Parmigiano-Reggiano. Piave may remind you of any or all of those cheeses. It has the texture of a young Parmigiano-Reggiano, not crystalline yet nor dry enough for grating, but heading in that direction. It has the toasted walnut character of Gruyere and the caramel-like sweetness of an aged Gouda. The cheese pairs well with a rich white or virtually any red wine should work.
Enjoy,
Mrs. Z


WINE TASTING PLEASE JOIN US
Friday March 23 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge


1 - Altano Douro Tinto 2004 $9
A red table wine from the Douro region of Portugal. Straight-forward, easy to drink and ideal for an improptu weeknight gathering. This wine is either at the head of its class in quality or below the curve in price. Altano Douro is a premium wine brand that Symington uses to market wines made from the traditional Port grapes from the Douro Valley in northern Portugal. Altano Douro is a delicious value and an excellent table wine. It’s a medium-bodied red that emits scents of red fruit, herbs, spices, and an earthy musk. For the price, the wine shows loads of finesse - just like Jim.

2 - Vale Do Bomfim Reserva 2004 $14
This is what the reviews have to say:
“An intense bouquet of ripe fruit seasoned with spicy vanilla oak leads the charge to flavors of vivid red-berry and cassis fruit gently layered over firm tannins.” - Ben Giliberti, Washington Post
"Best Buy", 88 Points
“… bold, exuberantly flavored blend… shows good depth of fruit…” - Wine Enthusiast

3 - Prazo de Roriz 2004 $16
The Prazo de Roriz table wine is made with a blend of Douro grapes; especially Tinta Roriz, a grape that acquired its name from the Roriz estate when it was first brought to the Quinta in the 19th century from Spain where the grape is known as Tempranillo.
"Best Buy", 89 Points
“The Symington family continues to make strides in their table wine production… full-bodied, smooth-textured… brining blackberry, blueberry and spice and mineral notes to the table.”
- Wine Enthusiast

4 - Quinta de Roriz Reserva 2000 $25
"Rich and deeply flavored, with brooding dark plum, dark chocolate and heady, spicy flavors. Almost like drinking a dry Port. Plenty of tannins in this as well, with good grip on the powerfully smoky and decadent finish. The preferred Port grape, Touriga Nacional, dominates as 45 percent of the blend. "
Score: 92 points - Wine Spectator

Thanks very much for your support - we appreciate it.
And we hope to see you on Friday night - weather permitting - the deck will be open.

Please join us. It is fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.


AAA.

Dominic Symington, Duckhorn, Constant Bliss, Symington Family, Altano Douro, Vale Do Bomfim, Prazo de Roriz, Quinta de Roriz

Greetings from all of us in New London,
www.thamesriver.com
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474
IMPORT - 860-443-6817


We have a great selection of wines for the Friday night tasting they are listed below - here are a couple of items of interest and the answers to a couple of questions that came in during the week.




• Well, our wine tasting on Friday night - the one that featured the "big guns" from Duckhorn Vineyards - brought the people out. Or was it the return of our own "Rascal from Rioja" Jim Morrison? Fresh from the trip to Spain, full of stories and a new outlook on life.

Lets just say it was a combination of both.

Our cellar was full of people. Chatting, sipping, meeting and greeting.
Thank you all for showing so much support and for making it so much fun every week.
There were lots of new people too. From places like Hartford, Madison, Old Saybrook and Providence.
Where else can you meet new people and share the experience of trying great wine? - For free.

"We wish we had a store like this at home" - That was the sentiment that was expressed - The out-of-towners said that they were tired of shopping in places with overwhelming selections, snobby unfriendly attitudes and feeling as if their local stores were doing them a favor by selling them a bottle of wine - or even worse making them feel like an idiot.

When it comes down to it - behind all of the fancy labels and famous names it is what is inside the bottle that counts. The best wines are not the ones that are the most expensive, they are the ones that bring the most enjoyment - that is why we are here. We want you to judge the wine for yourself - you are the best judge. We believe that by knowing our customers on an individual basis we can help them to feel comfortable trying new things and to experience the excitement of discovering their own tastes. Whether it is wine to go with Chinese take-out, a special gift, dinner party wine, or a large wedding, we are more than happy to use our "expertise" to help select the perfect wine for any occasion.

• Speaking of idiots...
We are often asked after pouring a glass of wine, "What should I be tasting?" Its a hard question to answer because no one can, or should, be able to tell you what to taste. I remember, reading the description of a wine I had tried and thinking "I don't taste any of those things, I must be an idiot." Now, the case could be made that I am an idiot, but not because I don't taste plums, saddle soap, figs and Converse All Stars in my Cote Rotie.

In addition to what you are actually tasting there is the problem of communicating that to another person. I had this discussion with a friend who sent along this essay that he found on a British website. Its called New English Review. The article is Language, truth and wine by Colin Bower.

Here is the link: http://www.newenglishreview.org/custpage.cfm?frm=5509&sec_id=5509



• We are in the process of switching all of our videos to the "Flash flv" format - in hopes of making it easier for everyone to view. At the moment they are all available in "Quicktime" only - This is a bunch of technical jargon that you do not have to worry about - when we switch it will be invisible to the user - that's you - your computer will will the work for you and it should allow everyone to see what all of the fuss is about. Thanks for your patience.




• All of the menus for our Tuesday and Wednesday night wine dinner series have been posted on the Calendar of Events page - If you see something that you like, it is best not to wait to make your reservations. Call, because seating is limited.


THIS WEEK AT BRIE & BLEU:

Dinner Specials:
Friday: Lemon Cod
Saturday: Lamb with fattoosh salad & garlic pilaf
The wine selections were not available to me at press time - but - rest assured that we will have a couple of choices just right for every pocket.
This has got to be the best food & wine dinner value in the area. Please give it a try.

The featured cheese is Constant Bliss.

The featured cheese of the week at Brie & Blue is Constant Bliss at $8. Constant Bliss is based on a Chaource recipe, which is modified to suit the production schedule and cheesemaking facility at Jasper Hill. The result is a cheese which hardly even resembles a Chaource. It is a slow ripened lactic curd made only with fresh, right out of the cow, uncooled, evening milk. We actually begin the cheesemaking process before the cows have finished milking. Constant Bliss is made with raw whole milk. This is not a double or triple crème cheese as is sometimes thought. Seasonal variations in the milk result in variations on the surface and flavor of the cheese. We like to use Constant Bliss to highlight our milk, and rather than overpowering the natural microflora of our milk with cotton white mold, we prefer to see a mottling of diverse molds and yeasts, which are prevalent particularly in the summer months when the cows are out on grass. It is aged 60 days before it leaves the farm, and is a ‘sell it or smell it’ item for retailers.

Constant Bliss is named after a revolutionary war scout killed in Greensboro by native Americans in 1781. He was guarding the Bayley Hazen Military Road with his compatriot Moses Sleeper, who died with him.
Enjoy,
"Mrs.Z"

WINE TASTING PLEASE JOIN US
Friday March 16 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge

The wines are all from the region that our own Jim Morrison - has just visited. The stories are still fresh in his mind and he can give all of us first hand information about each and everyone one of them. We would like to thank the Symington family for their generous hospitality and Dominic Symington in-particular for his personal attention. Thank You. And to Jim Kowalyshyn from Vineyard Brands for opening the doors and including us.

Take a minute to visit our calendar of events page - In the next 24 hours - you can watch video shot on location with Dominic Symington in Portugal - it will give you an idea of what it takes to produce a world-class wine. And please taste them on Friday they are truly wonderful.

1 - Altano Douro Tinto 2004 $9
A red table wine from the Douro region of Portugal. Straight-forward, easy to drink and ideal for an improptu weeknight gathering. This wine is either at the head of its class in quality or below the curve in price. Altano Douro is a premium wine brand that Symington uses to market wines made from the traditional Port grapes from the Douro Valley in northern Portugal. Altano Douro is a delicious value and an excellent table wine. It’s a medium-bodied red that emits scents of red fruit, herbs, spices, and an earthy musk. For the price, the wine shows loads of finesse - just like Jim.


2 - Vale Do Bomfim Reserva 2004 $14
This is what the reviews have to say:
“An intense bouquet of ripe fruit seasoned with spicy vanilla oak leads the charge to flavors of vivid red-berry and cassis fruit gently layered over firm tannins.” - Ben Giliberti, Washington Post
"Best Buy", 88 Points
“… bold, exuberantly flavored blend… shows good depth of fruit…” - Wine Enthusiast

3 - Prazo de Roriz 2004 $16
The Prazo de Roriz table wine is made with a blend of Douro grapes; especially Tinta Roriz, a grape that acquired its name from the Roriz estate when it was first brought to the Quinta in the 19th century from Spain where the grape is known as Tempranillo.
"Best Buy", 89 Points
“The Symington family continues to make strides in their table wine production… full-bodied, smooth-textured… brining blackberry, blueberry and spice and mineral notes to the table.”
- Wine Enthusiast

4 - Quinta de Roriz Reserva 2000 $25
"Rich and deeply flavored, with brooding dark plum, dark chocolate and heady, spicy flavors. Almost like drinking a dry Port. Plenty of tannins in this as well, with good grip on the powerfully smoky and decadent finish. The preferred Port grape, Touriga Nacional, dominates as 45 percent of the blend. "
Score: 92 points - Wine Spectator

We hope to see you Friday night.
Please join us. It is fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.


AAA

Stefano Inama, Duckhorn Tasting, Our Man In Madrid

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

Well this has been an exciting week - and we have a truly great line-up of wines for the tasting on Friday night.
The list is just below these other items of interest and information. I thought I would pull the corks on something special this week -
Let's do it - an all Duckhorn line up.

I am calling this Fridays tasting - The Welcome Home Jim Morrison Tasting.
And I hope that many of you can join us to taste and to listen as Jim tries to convince us that he was working very hard in Spain.
And that it really was no fun at all. Come On big Jim - you're talking to us.

As some of you know we have been getting erratic transmissions from our man in Madrid.
Jim has been using the Blackberry to phone in and keep us posted.
But every-time he calls, the music in the background is so loud, it is almost impossible to understand what he is saying.

The last call came in on Friday night - Jim was shouting something about being blind-folded and swinging at a Pinata -
Then there was the sound of a scuffle and a woman came on the line.
She said that Señor Morrison would have to call us back - "He very tired now."
Please join us on Friday night - lets see if we can get the rest of the story.


• Last Wednesday morning the front door opened and who waltzes in but Stefano Inama - one of the most exciting winemakers working in Italy today.
He was candid and shared many thoughts and ideas with us - we never know who might come through that front door.
You can watch a bit of our visit with Stefano on our calendar page -
Just scroll down a bit to the WineRadio section: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
You will need Quicktime to watch our videos - this is a fast & free download if you do not already have it.
Get it here: www.quicktime.com - The whole process should take less than a minute if you need it.

• Thanks to everyone at Connecticut College that made our big Saturday night bash up at Harris Hall so much fun.

• Our Tuesday & Wednesday food series continue with a new slate of menus will be posted very soon on the website - keep a lookout and if you see something that strikes your fancy - call & reserve. Space is limited. - 860-443-9463

• The Bulgarian Connection:
Two of our favorite local artists that have had recent residencies in Bulgaria are showing some of their results.
Kat Murphy is the featured artist for March at La Belle Aurore Bistro - 860-739-6767
Opening reception id Wednesday, March 7th - 6-9 p.m. - 75 Pennsylvania Ave., Niantic.
This is a wonderful organic bistro and a nice opportunity to "Dine Out For Art." www.labelleaurorebistro.com

AND - Mark Patnode - Showing 'Scenes From Bulgaria' - An art exhibit featuring a series of 14 works which were completed during a recent residency at the Sharon House in Smolyan, Bulgaria. Opening February 24 - March 24, 2007.
Located at 3rd Rail Studio, 49 Plain Avenue, New Rochelle, NY 10801 - 914-712-9831 or visit : http://www.3rdrailstudio.com


This Week At Brie & Bleu:
Featured This Week - An Amazing Marinated Feta -
The featured cheese this week at Brie & Blue is marinated feta from Australia at $19/lb. The marinated feta is definitively creamy with impeccable taste. The cheese is crafted with skill and care by a farmhouse cheesemaker in Victoria, Australia, 34° Marinated Feta is made from a combination of sheep and goat’s milk. Marinated in a blend of olive and canola oil, fresh thyme, whole peppercorns and garlic, this rich and flavorful cheese is exceptionally smooth and satisfying. Eat this creamy feta straight from the tub, or enjoy with 34° Fresh Australian olives and green salads. Pairs well with a light, dry wine with fruity, grassy flavors, such as Ruston Sauvignon Blanc purchased at Thames River Wine and Spirits for an additional 10% off the cheese.
Enjoy, "Mrs. Z"

ALSO Our own Jim Lalumiere
Will be serving up delicious Cheese & Beer Parings at the Riverside Restaurant in Danielson.
Saturday March 17 - St. Patricks Day
Beer Dinner @ The Riverside Restaurant, 13 Water St. Danielson, Connecticut - (860) 774-3508


Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday March 9 - 6-9 p.m. No Charge

I will let the reviews and accolades speak for themselves this week. Duckhorn is a name that does not need much introduction.
Please Join Us for great wine and a welcome back to our own Jim Morrison. We can debrief him together.

Co-founded by Dan and Margaret Duckhorn in 1976, Duckhorn Vineyards has spent a quarter century establishing itself as one of North America's premier producers of Bordeaux varietal wines. From its modest inaugural vintage of 800 cases of Cabernet Sauvignon and 800 cases of Merlot in 1978, to its addition of Sauvignon Blanc in 1982, Duckhorn Vineyards has crafted a tradition of quality and excellence that continues today. For nearly three decades, the commitment to crafting wines of distinction has remained at the heart of the Duckhorn Vineyards philosophy. As its Napa Valley estate properties continue to mature, the winery will continue creating world-class wines from exceptional vineyards.

1 - Duckhorn Sauvignon Blanc 2005 - $28
Wine Enthusiast
December 1, 2006
"I love this wine. Duckhorn has been on a roll with Sauvignon Blanc, and this is the best yet. It's dry and refreshingly crisp in acidity, with delicious citrus, fig, honeysuckle, green apple and spice flavors. A bit of barrel fermentation makes it even richer." 91 points, Editors' Choice

2 - Duckhorn Napa Merlot 2004 - $54
Wine Enthusiast
March 2007
"There's a beautiful Merlot in here but you're going to have to paddle against the powerful tannins to find it. It brings to mind the old Duckhorn Three Palms Merlots, which were similarly tough and tannic in youth, but aged well. This wine is ripe in chocolate, blackberry, cassis, coconut macaroon and plum sauce flavors, but needs four or five years to begin to come around." 90 points, Cellar Selection

3 - Duckhorn Estate Cabernet 2003 - $95
Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar
January/February 2007
"Ruby-red. Blackcurrant, dark chocolate, tar and licorice on the nose. Then spicy and bright if a bit lean and minty on the mouth, with cassis, licorice and mineral flavors. The tannins are supple." 88 points

4 - A Surprise. - It is going to a great night and we will let Jim pick something to share with us.
I hope you can join us.


Thanks very much for all of your support - we appreciate it.
And we especially appreciate people taking the time to send us their comments and suggestions.

Please Join Us - It Is fun, Informal, and a great way to start your weekend.


AAA

A visit with Baron Eric de Rothchild

Take a minute to listen to Baron Eric de Rothchild describe his wine - maybe they are underpriced.

Guest of Honor, Rioja, Dominick Symington, KWV Steen, Flying Fish, Spellbound Petite Sirah, Beckman Cuvee Le Bec

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

We hope all of your Oscar wishes came true - we have a great line up for Friday night. The wines are listed below these items of interest.

• Lets begin by saying - thank you. To everyone that attended The Spottswoode wine dinner. It was sublime.
A real connoisseurs delight. The food was stellar, thanks to everyone at Brie & Bleu - Pat Connair, Jim Lalumier. It was a classic steak house style menu - a la Smith & Wollensky. The filet mignon was buttery smooth and tender enough to cut with the edge of a fork. The wines were presented by Mr. Eoin Connors and our own Jim Morrison - and if anyone can find a better match than the steaks, side dishes, and the jaw dropping wines that were poured - give us a call.

And lets put something to rest - right now.

A few days ago a customer came into the store and said: "My wife and I would love to attend one of your dinners - but we really don't know that much about wine - and we thought we might feel out of place - everyone that goes is probably an expert."

Stop the music - that is exactly why we have these dinners - and that customer, the one that is interested but unsure - is our guest of honor.

ALL of our dinners are completely unpretentious - there are food and wine lovers of all kinds at the table. Beginners and experts alike are right at home.
Don't for a minute think that this is a bunch of snooty old farts, swirling wine around in a glass and saying things like - "I say, this is an amusing little number", "Bold, yet not too assertive on the attack." or "I get hints of toast, fennel, and just a nuance of raisin."

We are your friends - we're not like the others - we would would never put you through that.
We want to share the experience with as many people as possible - and it is also the reason we open so many pricey, hard to find wines - like the Spottswoode for example. Where else will you get the opportunity to try "hundred dollar" wine without a hassle?

So if you have been thinking about joining us for dinner - but were not sure it was right for you, give it a try. It is truly one of the best values and best kept secrets in the area. It's time - You deserve to be the guest of honor.

• The rumors are true - we are sending Jim Morrison into the field to get the hard facts. Jim will be crawling around on his hands and knees in the dusty bodegas and damp cellars of Spain and Portugal. He is taking little more than his passport and a crumpled brown paper lunch bag filled with cheese and a small notebook. In Portugal he will be the guest of Mr. Dominick Symington - the Symington family headquarters are in Oporto, the family produces Graham's, Dow's, Smith-Woodhouse and Warre Ports, as well as Quinta do Vesuvio, a Port that is estate bottled.
Check it out: http://www.symington.com/index.asp

I thought it might be nice to have a little "de-briefing" when he gets back next week - but when he starts to tell us how hard he was working - we will all know the truth - we have seen the website!

• One more thing to mention before we get to the list for Friday night -
Our friends at the River Walk in Mystic - 860-536-5220are having a special evening hosted by Eoin Conners.
On Tuesday the 27th at 5:30 p.m. they will tasting three very interesting wines.
1 - Villane Rully 1999 - $24 - this is a very serious Burgundy and not easy to locate.
2 - Inama Du Lot Soave 2002 - $26 - Stephano Inama the celebrated italian winemaker will be in OUR store on Wednesday morning the 28th.
He will be taping an episode of WineRadio - anyone wishing to have bottles signed or the chance to meet him is welcome to join us @ 10 a.m.
3 - Clos De Los Siete 2005 - $16 - from famed wine maker Michel Rolland
Try these wines at the River Walk - the cost is $10 - call them for more information.



This Week At Brie & Bleu
Dinner Specials:

Friday March 2 - Fire grilled Salmon w/ Cilantro Aioli lemon Sauce
A great wine choice would be: David Bruce Sonoma Coast pinot Noir $32
The wine is so smooth that it coats the mouth like fine melted chocolate - it's a very good example of California Pinot Noir.

Saturday March 3 - Garlic grilled Chicken w/ chile peppers
Wine: Kofererhof Kerner $25 - This is a delicious white that will open your eyes to a small region of Italy. Perfect with this chicken dish.


Cheese of the week: Saint Andre at $12/lb.

The featured cheese at Brie & Blue the week is Saint Andre at $12/lb. Saint-André cheese is a high (75%) milk-fat ("triple crème") cow's milk French cheese with a soft buttery texture in a powdery white bloomy skin of mold, like an intense version of Brie. Extra heavy cream is added to the cheese during manufacture. A traditional wheel of Saint-André is smaller and shaped higher than the familiar flat wheel of Brie. Saint-André is so fat it can make a white wine taste sour and metallic: a crust of baguette and a light beer or simply a slice of pear are often suggested as better complements. Any cracker used should be utterly bland.
Enjoy,
Colleen

Wine Tasting Please Join Us -
Friday March 2nd - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge


1 - KWV Steen 2005 $11 - South Africa - Chenin Blanc
KWV was established as a private wine co-operative in 1918 to stabilise the South African wine industry after several outbreaks of phylloxera vastatrix and a wine surplus. Made from specially selected vineyards from the Western Cape region. After the grapes are crushed, the must is fermented with selected yeast. Once fermentation is complete, the wine is racked, fined, filtered, stabilised and bottled. A very pale straw appearance with excellent varietal expressions. Very intense aromas, which range from country hay, floral, tropical fruit and apricots to spice. Plenty of ripe fruit flavors. Fresh and lingering A good option is fish of any kind as is grilled chicken, cheese soufflé, seafood pasta.


2 - Flying Fish Merlot 2004 $15 Washington State
We sell a lot of this wine. It is a great value and people have noticed. Small parcels of grapes were selected from several vineyards throughout the Columbia Valley. By blending grapes from different vineyards, the winemaking team created a well-balanced, fruit expressive wine, with a little oak that demonstrates the outstanding quality of Merlot available from the Columbia Valley. Each vineyard in the final blend contributes important aspects to the finished wine. This is a great everyday wine for the table.

3 - Spellbound Petite Sirah 2005 $15
Once one of the most widely planted grapes in California, PetiteSirah is known for deep color, luscious mouthfeel and wild berry fragrances. This definitely exemplifies the irresistible characteristics that are Petite Sirah. The purple color catches you immediately and your eyes begin to taste. Aromas of violet and rose jump out of the glass. Flavors of fresh berries along with mocha and coffee dance on your palate. A broad structure with integrated, delicate tannins, create a great mouthfeel and an unmistakable desire for the next sip.

4 - Beckman Cuvee Le Bec 2004 $18 - California only 3250 cases produced Rated: 88 - Robert Parker
Now is the perfect time to enjoy Beckman's Cuvee le Bec. This delicious red blend was awarded 88 points by Robert Parker. An excellent value, this medium-bodied red (35% Grenache, 30% Syrah, 20% Mourvedre, and 15% Counoise) reveals a lightly spicy bouquet with abundant amounts of currant and cherry fruit and no hard edges. A Mediterranean-style version of a Cotes du Rhone. Good deep medium red. Spicy dark raspberry, and chocolate on the nose. Light to medium in weight, with good life to its red fruit flavors. Finishes slightly dry.

Thanks for all of the emails, phone calls, and comments - we appreciate your interest and support.

Please Join us this Friday.
It is fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.


AAA.

DRC, Domaine de la Romanee-Conti, El Pundito" Rioja 2003, Scarborough, Santa Ema, El nido Clio

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

This is an abbreviated "Presidents Day" edition of the weekly newsletter.
We have great wines for Friday they are listed just below a couple of updates and items of interest.

• First a big note of thanks to Grace Magazine for including us in a great feature article about New London.
And to Karen C.L. Anderson for all of the kind words in the story.
If you did not get to see it here is the link: http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/daypubco/ss/058687/

• Thanks to everyone that came out last Friday night - The Clio from Spain was king.

• Speaking of Spanish wines we still have four seats left for our Spanish Wine Dinner on Thursday March 22nd - 6 p.m.
Featuring the new Power House names of Spanish Wine.
And each will be paired with a classic savory dish from Spain - just look at this line up of wine:
Alto Moncayo - $40
El nido Clio - $45 ( rated 96 points by Robert Parker two years in a row! )
El Puntido - $55
AND Termanthia - $190 ( from 140 year old vines.)
Of course it would not be one of our dinners without a few surprises.
Please reserve early - 860-443-9463


• For some of you these three little letters "DRC" make you weak at the knees.
They stand for Domaine de la Romanee-Conti
This is home to some of the most coveted and talked about wines in the world.
Names like: Grand Echezeaux, Romanee-St-Vivant, and Montrachet.
We have these wines in stock - take a peek: http://thamesriver.com/wine/instock.html
Wines like this are not easy to find - they are doled out carefully to prestigious wine shops that are located in fancy zip codes.

But because of the buzz that you are creating around us - we are finding that we are able to procure these types of wines.
Because of you spreading the word - our phone calls are returned promptly from suppliers.
When we first started and would make inquiries about special products for customers the response was something like:
"Hey, wait a minute, I want to put you on speakerphone so everyone here can enjoy this."
Thanks for getting us noticed - we really do appreciate it.

THIS WEEK - Dinner Specials at Brie & Bleu
Friday Night - February 23 - Smoked Rib-Eye and Goat Cheese Empanadas
We are recommending a couple of options
From Abita Brewing in New Orleans "Abita Restoration Ale" - $8 or a nice Rioja - We have several excellent choices in all price points.
Saturday Night - February 24 - Corned Beef & Cabbage Stew - try this with Babcock Fathom - $24, a Bordeaux blend from California or
Otter Creek Stove Pipe Porter - $8, an absolutely delicious beer that will compliment this perfectly.

Brie & Bleu - The featured cheese of the week at $17/lb is Gubbeen Cheese from Ireland. Gubbeen has been enjoyed across Ireland, Europe and America, and has won some of the key cheese awards both in Ireland and England. Gubbeen is vegetarian, semi-soft, table cheese. The terracotta brine-washed rind has fine, white and pale blue moulds. The taste of this dense, full-bodied cheese is rich and savory. It is excellent with burnt onions and grilled cheese. For an additional 10% off the cheese pari with a nice Chardonnay purchased at Thames River Wine and Spirits.
Cheers, Colleen.

Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday February 23 - 6-9 p.m.No Charge

1 - Scarborough Chardonnay 2002 - $18 - Hunter Valley Australia
Since 1987, the Scarborough wine label has emerged as a leading example of Australian Chardonnay. Owners Ian and Merralea Scarborough maintain a strong profile with their consumers, coordinating their own distribution and marketing direct from the vineyard. The Scarborough philosophy is to provide the discerning wine consumer with wine of international standing, classic character and style. Chardonnay is the Scarborough flagship wine. It may be time for you to re-visit Chardonnay - Lots of folks burned out on the over oaked Chard's that were coming out of California - give this one a try you might rediscover the subtle flavors that Charonnay can deliver.


2- Santa Ema Reserve Merlot 2004 $12 Maipo valley Chile.
Pedro Pavone Voglino in 1917 emigrated from the famous winemaking region of Piamonte, Italy, to the Maipo Valley in Chile.
Following his family's traditions Mr. Pavone planted carefully chosen european vine varieties, Cabernet sauvignon, Merlot and Sauvignon blanc, those grapes were sold to well established Chilean wineries for over 20 years. Until he decided, along with his son Felix Pavone Arbea to create the now prestigious Viña Santa Ema. Since its begining the company has been focused on the production of high quality wines. This wine is a delicious ruby red color. Unique and unmistakable, in this wine you will find the red fruits (plum and blackberry) mixed with chocolate and toasted coffe notes.
In the mouth, the tannins are mature, with a good structure, balance and roundness. The amount of finesse that is in this bottle, for just twelve dollars, is amazing. Please try it on Friday night.


3- Dominio De Tares "Baltos" 2004 $16 Mencia from Bierzo Spain.
Wine Spectator magazine says "one of Spain’s 'Best Buys." 'Wine Spectator Rating 90 points Ranked 67th in the Wine Spectator Top 100.
"Mencía" - Few grape varieties better express the terroir of a region than this. The “mineral” grape par excellence, until recently it was erroneously disdained for having poor ageing potential and lacking color. Nothing could be further from the truth. Now enjoying unparalleled popularity, its combination of fruity mineral characteristics, in harmony with the contribution of new French and American oak, have shot the Mencía grape into the limelight as a star in its own right. Mencía wines stand out on the international stage among other Spanish grape types for their elegance and individuality, along with the world’s very best. This is a great food wine with an easy going price - give it a try.



4- Vinedos de Paganos "El Pundito" Rioja 2003 $55
This is the third vintage of this wine that we have carried, always impressive. Massive fruit, licorice and texture of heavy velvet. So thick it's almost syrupy, this red never loses its balance. Dense and thick, with blackberry, currant, mineral, dark chocolate and espresso flavors that build on each other through the long finish--yet it remains graceful and brings you back for another sip - and another, and another.... This alone is worth the trip downtown on Friday night.

We hope to see you this weekend - please say hello if you stop in - we love to hear your feedback.

Please join us - It is fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.




AAA

El nido Clio 2004, Casa Castillo, Barons de Rothschild,

Greetings and Happy Valentine's Day 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 lineup of wine awaits you on Friday night.
The list is just below these important items of interest.

• The Spottswoode Wine Dinner is Sold Out - Thank you.

• Spanish Wine Dinner March 22nd 6 p.m. $75
This dinner will feature the new powerhouse names of Spanish wine:
Alto Moncayo - Clio - El Pundito - AND
Termanthia, made from 140 year old Tinto de Toro vines and affordably priced at just $190.

• South African Wine Dinner - Thursday March 29 - 6 p.m. - $50 plus tax and service.
Food & Wine of South Africa. Featuring the wines from Boekenhoutkloof and Fairview.
Wine served with each course - I wonder what we will have with the Wild Ostrich?

• It's all the rage - Friday February 16 - Brie & Bleu Dinner Special will be:
Lamb Cassoulet with winter vegetables and sweet potatoes
Our own Jim Morrison has selected three great wines for your consideration - something for every pocketbook, and each one a nice choice for the dinner special.
Chateau Aney Bordeaux 2003 $24
Domaine de la Solitude Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2004 $30
Abeja Cabernet Sauvignon 2003 $44
If you are new to this - it works like this: You visit the wine-store and select a bottle of wine. Then you BYOB next door to Brie & Bleu. We set you up with glasses, buckets, corkscrews - whatever you need. Then you have a great evening of food and conversation - No fuss, no muss, no messy mop up.

• Saturday Night February 17th 6 p.m. -
Brie & Bleu will be Closed for a Private Function.
To schedule your own private party just give us a call. 860-437-2474



Private Cellars at Juan Gill -
Home of the CLIO







• Every once and awhile the planets align themselves correctly, and someone else on the other side of the globe tips over a shaker of salt and forgets to toss a pinch over their shoulder - and good fortune shines upon us.

This my friends is one of those times.
I am very happy to announce that we have acquired a new shipment of the impossibly hard to find "Clio."

This amazing wine from Spain has been given, for the second year in a row, a 96 point rating from Robert Parker.
We actually have people from California calling us about this wine. That is how scarce it is.

This wine comes from Jumillia Spain. A dusty village about an hour and-a-half outside of Valencia.
(Home to the Americas Cup 2007 - http://www.americascup.com/en/ )

Some of you may recall that we went right to the source and met with the winemaker himself last season.
We actually stood in the bodegas eating the grapes right off of the old wooden wagons that brought them in from the fields. The grapes were warm and sweet. See the photos here: http://thamesriver.com/wine/photos.html
The grapes we were eating then will be part of the 2005 vintage.
At the time the winemaker remarked that they were the best grapes in 10 years!

Now, does this have anything to do with our access to this wine? Maybe.
I can assure you that no cash has been exchanged for the privilege.
No crisp bills have been pressed into the rough hands of the farmers - honestly.
They just dig us.
And they dig our customers. And they love the attention and interest that you show them when they visit the store.
That is why we have this wine and no one else does - thank you.

We have more than a fair share of this wine - but it will go quickly.
Place your orders as soon as possible to get your slice of the pie.
First Come, First Served.
Order online: http://thamesriver.com/wine/instock.html

This Week At Brie & Bleu -
The featured cheese of the week is Wensleydale with cranberries for $14/lb .
This cheese is a nice Valentines addition to share with the one you love paired with a nice bottle of Champagne purchased at Thames River Wine and Spirits for an additional 10% off the cheese. The only true Wensleydale cheese in the world comes from the milk drawn from cows that graze the sweet limestone pastures on farms in Upper Wensleydale, England. First made there during the Norman invasion, when French monks from the Roquefort region were brought over to practice their cheese-making skills. The Wensleydale pastures give the cheese the unique, refreshing flavor for which it is renowned. The cheese is a fresh, young cheese taken at only three weeks old. It has a clean, mild, slightly sweet flavor with a honeyed aftertaste. The superb texture of fresh Wensleydale is perfectly complemented by the addition of all natural cranberries of the finest quality. Wensleydale with Cranberries is an innovative blend of flavors and a superb visual experience. Suitable for vegetarians.
Happy Valentine's Day,
Colleen

Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday February 16th - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge

1 - Barons de Rothschild (Lafite) Bordeaux Blanc 2005 $14
Many of you will recognize this legendary name from France. This is the white wine that they serve to guests at Château Lafite. It's their "house wine." Aromas of freshly mown grass with racy lime and passion fruit flavors. Round, soft and creamy too - this is white Bordeaux unlike any other. Your guests will be impressed with the name on the label, but you will have the added satisfaction of knowing just how little it cost. Try it as an aperitif, or with shrimp, maybe some cold roasted chicken - how very continental of you.

2 - Casa Castillo Crianza 2003 $11
This is one of our most popular wines. Bodegas Montecillo was founded by Celestino Navajas in 1874 in the town of Fuenmayor in Spain`s Rioja Alta region, the major and most traditional winemaking region in Spain. Thanks to the expertise that his son Alejandro acquired in France, the bodega was one of the first to adapt Bordeaux winemaking techniques to Spanish grapes, earning the reputation and prestige that it still enjoys today. Medium-bodied, rich and well-structured with a long finish. Excellent balance, big powerful and concentrated flavors with cherry and blackberry hints.
Ideal to accompany cheeses, especially creamy and medium-sharp. Don't be afraid to try it with fish too - such as salmon or tuna. Especially those prepared on the grill. You won't believe this for eleven dollars - please try it on Friday.

3 - Casa Castillo Las Gravas Jumilla 2001 $25


Take a look at the soil - or should I say rocks - where these grapes are grown you can get an idea of how rugged it is. Ripe and concentrated, this red is thick with plum, blackberry and coffee flavors. This vineyard is "just around the corner" from the fourth wine on our list for Friday. The folks that make this wine hosted an all day luncheon for us. And I mean just us - we ate, drank, and exchanged deeply personal information for hours. And the wine kept coming. Please try this wine on Friday.

4 - El nido Clio 2004 $45
The new vintage of Clio and the second consecutive 96 point rating from our friend Robert Parker.
In very high demand, and scarcely available - as mentioned previously.
We have enough to feature it on Friday night. Please try it - it is a great opportunity to try a special wine that is setting new standards.


Thanks for your support we appreciate it and we hope to see all of you this Friday.
Please Join Us. it is fun, informal and a great way to start your weekend.

AAA

Spottswoode, Pfizer Wine Club, Beer Dinner, Hugel Riesling, Pares Balta, Cantina del Pino Barbera D'alba, Chateau Pontac Monplaisir

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


Great wines for Friday night - they are listed just below these items of interest:


• A quick update - There are TWO seats left for The Spottswoode Wine Dinner.
If you missed the announcement last week here is a fast recap:

Thursday February 22nd - 6 p.m. Only 10 Seats Available -
$100 plus tax and service.


Spottswoode Vineyards and Tesseron Cognac Wine Dinner
A Classic Steak House Menu will feature:
Filet Mignon with black truffle butter, show stopping side dishes, and our own desserts.



THE WINE: Impossible to find - Coveted by collectors - we will be serving:
2003 Spottswoode Estate Cabernet - $155 - Wine Spectator - 94 points, Wine Advocate - 93 points, Tanzer - 94 points.
Tesseron Cognac lot 53 (1953) $145 100 points - Wine Enthusiast.
This will be a great night, full of fun and surprises, a night that will be remembered for years to come -
Perfect to share with someone special. Call now to reserve: 860-443-9463

• The feedback from posting the specials at Brie & Bleu in advance has been HUGE.
Here are this weeks specials AND our suggested pairing for the perfect wine to go with them:

Friday February 9 - Cornish Game Hen
The perfect wine: Domaine Ferret Tete de Cru Pouilly-fuisse 2002 $42

Saturday February 10 - Crab Cakes
The perfect wine: Joseph Drouhin Meursault-Perrieres 2004 $60

• Don't forget that we have Valentine's Day covered for you. One stop shopping & delivery - Flowers, wine, chocolate and more.
Call The Greenery to place your order - 860-443-6817 - or visit the website to get an idea or two. www.thamesriver.com

• ATTENTION PFIZER EMPLOYEES:
The 4th meeting of the Official Pfizer Wine Club is preparing to meet. If you are a Pfizer employee and you are interested in attending what have to be some of the best wine events in Connecticut, please contact our own Jim Morrison and he will be happy to give you details and assist in registration. 860-443-9463

• Not a Pfizer employee? Want to organize you own event?
We would be happy to work with you and show you how easy it can be. Small groups are welcome too.
There are no hidden fees involved - just happy, smiling faces and lots of wine.

• Our first Beer Dinner of 2007 is just around the corner:
Mardi Gras/Fat Thursday, February 15th:
Celebration Salad with Abita's Restoration Ale
Pecan Roasted Trout w/ Sweet Yams with Abita's Turbo Dog
Bourbon Chocolate Bread Pudding with Blue Grass Bourbon Barrel Stout
This is a feast worthy of Galatoire’s ( http://www.galatoires.com/index.html )
Please reserve early - seating is limited - $35 plus tax and service - 860-443-9463

Brie & Bleu
The featured cheese at Brie & Bleu this week is new to the shop. The cheese, Harlech is a horseradish and parsley cheddar cheese from Wales at $15/lb. This cow’s milk cheese is a creamy blend of mature cheddar, horseradish and parsley. This is a vegetarian friendly cheese without added coulorings or artificial flavors. Arguably named after Harlech Castle in Northern Wales or possible after the Welsch warriors from the middle ages, this cheese has a deliciously zesty taste. Pair with a nice Rioja from Thames River Wine and Spirits and receive an additional 10% off the cheese.
Enjoy,
Colleen

Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday February 9th - 6-9 p.m. - NO CHARGE

1 - Hugel Riesling 2004 $20 - http://www.hugel.com/
Hey everyone knows we love Hugel wines.
Some of you joined us for the private dinner with Etienne Hugel himself - the 12th generation - winemaker from Alsace.
Hundreds of you have watched and downloaded his interviews that we did on our show for WineRadio. ( www.wineradio.com )
If you have not had the opportunity to try this great wine please join us on Friday. Elegant and distinguished, it partners well with all the gastronomic specialities of Alsace, as well as seafood and grilled or poached fish. Etienne recommends spicy food too. It would be an amazing pair with some of the Cajun & Creole specialties that Brian Brother is dishing up at the New Raiders Roost restaurant- On the traffic circle at the end of Shaw and Howard Streets in New London, parking in the rear. You owe it to yourself to discover this great local eatery.

2 - Pares Balta Mas Elena 2003 $15
The surprise of their collection. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. It is surprisingly elegant, soft, and round with intense aromas. Its character and persistence are the stamp of a great wine. We had the great fortune to talk and taste with Patrico Brongo this past week at the store.
Take a look on our calendar page - just scroll down to the WineRadio section: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html

3 - Cantina del Pino Barbera D'alba 2004 $22
Renato Vacca takes care of the wine-making at this small Piedmont estate, while his father works the vineyards. Their Barbera is forthright and full of flavor, a lovely package of dark red fruits with earth and gamey undertones. Not as slick as some of the superstars, but it packs as much, if not more, flavor. This is wine true to its origins – honest and absolutely satisfying. Please try it on Friday night.

4 - Chateau Pontac Monplaisir Bordeaux 2003 $25
The wine of Château Pontac Monplaisir presents a very deep red purple color. The nose is rich and fruity, developing aromas of red fruits and well ripe and cocoa. On the palate, the attack is clear, the new wood offers notes of vanilla, the structure of the wine is robust. The wine is fat, remarkably fine with harmonious tannins. Very good length and as they say: "finale suave." It is a great value at this price.


It has been a great week - lots of interesting visitors and exciting prospects for the near future. I can hardly wait for the year to unfold.

And all of it - is directly due to your continued support and remarkable interest. We continue to hear from all of our guests about the quality of our customers, and this comes from people that have seen it all. We are proud to be a part of it - thank you for making it so much fun.

Please join us. It is fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.


AAA.

Spottswoode Dinner, Colome' Torrontes, Casa Viva Pinot Noir, Revolution Shiraz, Dalmau Rioja

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

We are a day or so late this week - but we did not want to send out a beta version of the email - you can read on with assurance - this is the full version. AND I would bet cash money, that it works with Windows Vista!

OK, we have a great selection of wines for Friday night they are listed just below these items of interest -
There are a few little things to remind you about first.

• A must have for that special Valentine's Day Dinner - Like the drinking the petals of fresh flowers -
Rated 93 points Wine Spectator
Condrieu "La Doriane" 2005 - Find it here: http://thamesriver.com/wine/instock.html

We also have some very special Valentines Day ideas that will make your loved-ones swoon.
Can you name one other wine shop that has a pastry chef on staff?
Who else can offer you hand made Petit Fours matched with 35 yr old Chienin Blanc?
(Brisebarre 1985 demi-sec Vouvray $22.)
Or Cocovino Chocolates with Warres 1989 Quinta Da Cavadinha Vintage Port $45?
Add flowers from The Greenery - & delivered right to the front door - one stop shopping.

• David Anderson - We like to call him Rock Star Dave Anderson - has come a long way since he started to work with us back in the fifties when this show first went on the air. Back then he could barely tell the difference between a red wine and a white wine - seriously, we thought he was color blind. Now, he claims to have developed his own "Palette", and he wants to share. Every Monday afternoon, Rock Star Dave will select a wine that will be open for tasting and debate.
He guarantees us that he has discovered the secret to finding the best wines that cost under $15 - you be the judge.

• Saturday nights at Brie & Bleu are getting quite interesting. In response to SO many people asking us to add more specials and featured items to the menu - we have added weekly specials. Friday and Saturday nights we call upon the talents of our amazing kitchen staff and they are creating seasonal dishes that are paired with our own wine suggestions - for example:

Friday 2/2/07 - Some winter nights demand a real Beef Stew, fresh baguettes and a full bodied red wine such as
Punto Final Malbec $12 or Fratelli Alessandria Barbera D'Alba $27 or Abeja Cabernet Sauvignon $44. All of the wines are available from the wineshop - price points to meet every budget - and all offering lots of value. AND people have discovered that they can order all of this TO GO. This has to be some of the best take out in town.

Saturday 2/3/07 - Or how about homemade Chicken and Dumplings, matched with
Ruston Sauvignon Blanc 2003 $18
Inama Vigneto Du Lot Soave 2002 $26 (not your father's soave)
Silverstone Pinot Noir 2003 $30
Calera Ryan Pinot Noir 2003 $45

Think of these weekly specials as one of our Wine Dinners "A la carte" - or maybe a Wine Dinner To Go. -
Every Friday & Saturday night.

• NOW - What I am about to tell you is a special announcement - This is one of those times that will require fast response.
This is the first mention - it will not be on the Calendar Page for HOURS:
Thursday February 22nd - 6 p.m. Only 10 Seats Available - $100 plus tax and service.

Spottswoode Vineyards and Tesseron Cognac Wine Dinner
A Classic Steak House Menu will feature Filet Mignon with black truffle butter and show stopping side dishes and of course our own Made by Lisa Desserts.
THE WINE: Impossible to find - & coveted by collectors - we will be serving:
2003 Spottswoode Estate Cabernet - $155 - Wine Spectator - 94 points, Wine Advocate - 93 points, Tanzer - 94 points.
Tesseron Cognac lot 53 (1953) $145 100 points - Wine Enthusiast.
This will be a great night, full of fun and surprises, a night that will be remembered for years to come -
Perfect to share with someone special.
Call now to reserve: 860-443-9463 - speak to Jim Morrison - only Jim can reserve your space.


This Week At Brie & Bleu - Cheese of The Week -
Bica de Quiejo is the featured cheese this week at $19/lb. Bica is a farmhouse cheese from Portugal made from a blend of cow, goat, and sheep's milk. Bica has a distinctive yet mild, buttery flavor and a satiny texture. Like most Portuguese cheeses, Bica has a slightly salty flavor because its milk comes from animals that graze on land that sits by the sea. Enjoy it with a medium-bodied red wine before the meal, or with a glass of sherry for dessert. For an additional 10% off the cheese pair with Altana douro Red only $8 a bottle at Thames River Wine and Spirits.
Cheers,
Colleen

Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday February 2nd - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge

1 - Colome' Torrontes 2006 $15
This is the highest vineyard in the world, and the oldest working vineyard in Argentina.
Swiss businessman Donald Hess bought this extraordinary estate up in the Andes in the Argentine province of Salta, close to the Bolivian border in 2001. Hess owns wineries in California (Hess Collection), South Africa (Glen Carlou) and Australia (Peter Lehmann) so has no excuse for making anything but the very best of his unique Argentine ingredients. And that is exactly what they have done here. Hard to beat for this price. The most popular white wine from Argentina, the Torrontes grape is a cross of Muscat of Alexandria and the Mission Grape of Galacia. Grown on the traditional Parral System, Colomé Torrontes is highly distinctive with its muscat character - always refreshing. The wine exhibits a high fruit nose with muscat and tropical notes that lead to a rich mid-palate and clean, crisp finish. Serve lightly chilled.

2 - Casa Vina Pinot Noir 2004 $10
This is a small winery located in Casablanca Valley, a tiny, stunningly beautiful, seaside gem of a terroir, located in the sunny north of Chile's wine-making country. It is blessed by warm sun ( it is on an equivalent latitude to Casablanca, Morroco) and insistently cool Pacific breezes that are tempered by sheltering hills. This Chilean wine is Brick red in color with garnet hue. Elegant raspberry and blackcurrant aromas, with a touch of smoky oak. In your mouth, plum, berries and violet, balanced with firm acidity and a lingering finish. You won't believe this is only a ten dollar wine. Continues to prove that some of the best values are coming from South America.

3 - Revolution Shiraz 2005 $20 - Australia (Rated 93 points - Wine advocate)
The wine comes from one of the top growers in McLaren Vale and is essentially made from the highest grade fruit in the region. The project is born with winemaker Corrina Rayment, who fits into the group of young and progressive winemakers. Rayment is a progressive thinker and she’s willing to take risks. The grapes for Revolution come from the most revered sub-region of McLaren Vale, known as Seaview. This sub-region is where the best reds to come out of McLaren Vale are grown. The vines are relatively young at 5 years, but due to the extreme lack of soil nutrients & carefully regulated deficit irrigation practices, the vines are already producing voluptuous, flavor packed & rich fruit, perfect for Revolution.

4 - Marques de Murrieta Dalmau Rioja 2001 bottle # 6849
Our own Jim Morrison says: "The 1996 Dalmau was not only the best Rioja I've ever had , but among the best wines I've ever had. 2001 is a better vintage, and although this wine is quite young, I cannot resist the opportunity to preview what this wine will become over the next 10-20 years."
Jim is very tired - he works all of the time and he has almost no time for what's left of his personal life. Sometimes we come in in the morning and find him in the Cellar. Rocking back and forth on the balls of his feet and staring up at the racks of Spanish wines. Mumbling what sounds like "buenas dias my friends." - The good news is that this does not have to happen to you. Jim has already made the sacrifice. All you have to do is show up on Friday night and try the wine - humor him please, it would mean a lot to the rest of us.

We have a new slate of beer dinners coming and too many things to mention in this edition - keep your eyes on the Calendar Of Events Page and right here each week.

Trying to remember what that wine was from a couple of weeks ago?
A quick note to remind people that all weekly emails, along with their wine lists and other news are available in our archives - click here: http://newlondonwine.blogspot.com/

Thanks for all of your support - we appreciate it.
And thanks also for all of the feedback - it helps a lot.

Please Join Us. It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.



AAA.

Chignin-Bergeron, Bliss Maremma Toscana, Chateau Du Trignon Sablet, Gran Crucero Syrah, French Dinners, Argentinean Gaucho's

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

We have a great line up of wines for Friday - the list is just below these items of interest.


• A couple from New York stopped in at Brie & Bleu the other day and said:
"It is easier to get a table at Rao's, than it is to get in here."
But it's not true - it is not hard to to get into Brie & Bleu for dinner- really.
Here is the store schedule and I have listed the current menus too.

Brie & Bleu is closed on Monday.
Tuesday and Wednesday nights are reserved for our wine dinners and the seating is limited - BUT all you have to do to join us is check the menus on the website or call the store and ask, pick one you like and make a reservation.
Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights the kitchen opens at 5p.m. for dinner and the seating is available to all.

Tuesday Nights - French Dinner Series:
Sublime French Wine Served With Each Course
$40 plus tax and service:

1/30/07 - Mache salad with warm goat cheese and croutons
Duck a L'Orange
Baked lemon cheesecake with Champagne sorbet

2/06/07 - Frisse salad with lardons
Grilled Wild Sea Scallops with Curry Anise Cream
Almond puff pastry gateau

2/13/07 - French watercress salad
Grilled Salmon fillet with lentils
Creme brulee

2/20/07 - Carmalized pears with Roquefort and Champagne gastrique
Beef Tenderloin with Perigeaux Sauce (Maderia Truffle)
Rasberry Cream Charlotte

2/27/06 - Radish salad with baby romaine
Rack of Lamb en Croute with ratatouille
Strawberry Napolean

3/6/07 - Fennel and orange salad with wild argula
Trout Almondine
Apple tarte tatin



Wednesday Nights Comfort Food Series:
Wine Served With Each Course
$35 plus tax and service:


1/17/07 - Spinach Salad with Peppered Bacon
Chicken Marbella with Rice Pilaf
Old Fashioned Bread Pudding

1/24/07 - Vermont Star Salad
New England Pot Roast and Veggies
Brownies and Vanilla Ice Cream

1/31/07 - Cheese Plate
Rosemary Chicken and Butternut Squash
Apple Cake with Rum Glaze

2/7/07 - Tossed Greens with Chevre Crouton
Deviled Shortribs with Garlic Mashies
Pear Crisp with Whipped Cream

2/14/07 - Classic Ceaser Salad
Pasta Bolognese
Chocolate Bread Pudding

2/21/07 - Italian Cheese Plate
Beef and Veal Canneloni
Italian Cheesecake

2/28/07 - Tossed Greens
Classic Meatloaf with Mashies
Banana Walnut Cake

If you are not familiar with Rao's take a look here: http://www.raos.com/raos_restaurant.html



Colleen has picked a local cheese for Brie & Bleu this week:
The featured cheese is Farmstead cheese from Beaver Brook Farm - Old Lyme, CT
This is another new one produced at Beaver Brook Farm. The cheese is a bit dry and sharp with a natural rind. Beaver Brook Farm, a 175 acre sheep and cow farm located in the Pleasant Valley section of Lyme, CT.
At Beaver Brook Farm, they are committed to preserving the environment and producing goods of the highest quality.
Cheers,
Mrs. Z


Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday January 26 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge


1 - Andre et Michel Quenard Chignin-Bergeron 2005 $22
Bergeron is the local name for Roussanne. Made from 30-year-old Roussanne vines grown on the steep, chalk rich hillside slopes of Chignin. The grapes are hand-harvested parcel by parcel, and undergo a long fermentation in stainless steel. Malolactic fermentation helps give the wine additional richness on the palate. The wine has lots of fruit on the nose, with creamy apricot and white peach rising from the glass. The medium to full body of this wine, along with its subtle minerality, make it an ideal partner for fish in sauce, scallops, poached salmon or white meats.

2 - "I Vini Di Maremma" - Bliss Maremma Toscana 2004 $10
In 1954 a group of keen vine-growers founded the first wine-cellar of Tuscan Maremma, near Grosseto Italy.
Year after year, thanks to the enthusiasm and the tenacity of the people of Maremma, Cantina "I Vini di Maremma" has improved its production through the rigorous selection of grapes and the perfecting of the method of wine-making. Today the Cellar signs with the trade mark I vini di Maremma the great wines obtained from the grapes warmed by the sun of Tuscan Maremma, grown by more than 400 Maremman producers, and then processed at the historical establishment at the locality "Il Cristo", a beautiful stone building on the road from Grosseto to the seaside. This is a delightful surprise, and at this price, a good bargain too - please try it on Friday night.

3 - Chateau Du Trignon Sablet France - $16
You have seen this Chateau name before in our cellar - In fact, it was just last August that we featured this Kermit Lynch selection. But this time the wine is from a slightly different area. Just around the corner, so to speak, in Sablet. Château du Trignon has been in the hands of the Roux family since 1896. For many years it was run by André Roux - he retired in 1987 and the property is now managed by his nephew, Pascal. The château and winery are located in Sablet, one of the most picturesque Côte du Rhône villages that you can imagine. It produces a wide variety of wines but is most renowned for its Gigondas. My first visit to the village was last year and I have missed it ever since. Sablet is small, tidy and quiet, with church bells tolling on the hour.
There are two bakeries, two butchers, a place where you can buy the morning newspaper in different languages, a café and a good restaurant that serves sturdy Provençal fare. Not to be overlooked is the little cave des vignerons where you can buy, at bargain prices full, fruity local reds and fragrant rosés produced by local winegrowers under the highly regarded Sablet, Gigondas and Séguret appellations. The wine we have on Friday is dark ruby/purple in color and is accompanied by layers revealing herbs, blueberries, raspberries, and black cherries. Medium to full-bodied, elegant, pure, and well-balanced. Join us a try a taste of the french countryside.

Gran Crucero Syrah 2003 $24 Colchagua Chile
Around 150km south of Santiago, following the course of the Tinguiririca River down from the Andes, the Colchagua Valley runs from the foothills east of the Pan-American Highway westwards towards the Pacific Ocean. The river provides a ready source of irrigation water, essential in this dry area. The regular, warm climate combined with high fertility, meant that for years the valley floor was considered ideal for a large production of bulk wines. But, as in most of Chile, in the past decade the emphasis has been switching to quality rather than quantity. This is one of those great new wines. Sublime and seductive. Lovely, brilliant and deep ruby color. Aromas of very ripe black fruits, strawberry jam, notes of coffee and very delicate mint. Its fruity flavors are enhanced in mouth and remind me of a sweet fig. Most everyone knows that we have a fondness for the South American wines at the store - not just because of their low price - But because of the remarkable consistent quality. We are trying to arrange a trip into Chile and Argentina in the coming months. There is no substitute for actually walking the land, eating the food, and getting loaded with the winemakers themselves, in order to appreciate the wines and the lifestyle. - I'll keep you posted on the details.

Jim has always wanted to dress up like an Argentinean Gaucho, but perhaps I've said too much already.








Thanks so much for all of the email on our trip to South Africa - we will be posting a few of the photos in the gallery and on the blog very soon. In addition, we are putting a special SA tasting/dinner together. If you are interested in attending please call the store and ask to be placed on the list. 860-443-9463

As always we appreciate your support - thanks for making it so much fun.

Please Join Us -
It's fun, informal and a great way to start your weekend.





AAA.

It's Only Kinky - The First Time, Naia 2005 Verdejo, Lancatay Cabernet, Vale do Bomfim Douro Reserva, Duckhorn Merlot

Greetings from all of us in New London -

Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463 - 84 Bank Street
Shop On Line: http://thamesriver.com/wine/instock.html
Calendar of Events: http://www.thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html

Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817 - 70 State Street - www.thamesriver.com
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474 - 84 Bank Street - : http://www.brieandbleu.com/
IMPORT - 860-443-6817 - 60 State Street - http://thamesriver.com/trg/featured.html


We have a great list of wine for Friday night - I hope you can join us.
it is a short holiday week - so we will get right to it -
The list can be found just below these items of interest:

• The website will have many changes on it in the next few days - Our normal schedule of updates was interrupted by the holidays and vacation - but now, we are tanned, rested, and ready for "07".

• YES - our weekly dinners begin this week - look for a full list with menus on the calendar of events page -

• YES - we are adding another night of dinners to choose from - due to popular demand and many requests for more seats at our popular Wednesday night dinners - Tuesday nights will offer a second choice - more great wine & food.
For example - Tuesday might be a French theme and Wednesday might be "Comfort Food".
Keep your eyes on the calendar page for all the information you will need.


This week at Brie & Bleu:
Feta from Beaver Brook is the featured cheese of the week.
Happy New Year again to all. The featured cheese this week is another new one sold at Brei & Bleu. The cheese is Feta from Beaver Brook at $16/lb. The Feta cheese is a pasteurized cheese soaked in a traditional brine giving it a creamy, yet racy flavor. The Beaver Brook Farm, a 175 acre sheep and cow farm is located in the Pleasant Valley section of Lyme, CT. The Sankows began working Beaver Brook Farm as a dairy farm in 1917 and in 1984, Stan and Suzanne Sankow introduced their first sheep, Sherry and Ding, to the farm. Now, Beaver Brook Farm is home to more than 600 sheep, some cows, a Wool Shop and a Farm Market. At Beaver Brook Farm, they are committed to preserving the environment and producing goods of the highest quality. Pairs well with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc white wine purchased at Thames River Wine and Spirits for an additional 10% off the cheese.

Cheers,
Mrs.Z

Wine Tasting - Please Join Us
Friday January 19 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge

1 - Naia 2005 Verdejo - Rueda Spain - $12
Located about an hour north of Madrid, Bodegas Naia’s winery, named Viña Sila, is situated along the southern bank of the Duero River in Rueda. The winery covers 40 hectares (about 96 acres) in the village of La Seca, which is referred to as Rueda’s "Grand Cru" village by local growers. The average age of these vines is 90 years old with most over 100. These vines produce low yields of fruit with unparalleled depth and concentration. It will pair well with briny shellfish (oysters, clams, mussels), fish "steaks" (tuna, swordfish, marlin, mahi mahi, Chilean sea bass) with lime or ginger marinades, and chicken with wild, fresh herbs. The secret of Naia is out—at least for Manhattan restaurants - many of which have it on their lists. This is yet another example of an excellent Spanish wine for under $15.

2 - Lancatay Cabernet Argentina - 2004 - $9
This brand new winery was established in 2002 by 3 fourth-generation descendants of the Piedmont-native Pasquale Toso (of Toso sparkling wine fame). The new company is based on old family vineyards that Pascual Toso planted in Barrancas, where they have 65 acres of Cabernet Sauvignon. The aromas of fruit, well defined tannins, and roundness with a long finish make this the perfect wine to go with red meat and other robust dishes. Sourced from grapes grown in Huarpe's high altitude vineyards in Mendoza. These are the Andes mountains we are talking about - take a look at the landscape: http://www.maplandia.com/argentina/mendoza/
Wines are vinified in stainless steel tanks, and then aged in French and American oak barrels and are not filtered.
Try a taste of Argentina on Friday.

3 - Vale do Bomfim Douro Reserva Red Wine - (Dow's) 2004 - $14
Wait! - I know this seems like a mouthful to pronounce - but take it slowly, you will get the hang of it.
When Dow's owner Dominick Symington was in our store last season he commented on the trouble that Americans have figuring out Port. He told us that his family's historic Port House of Dow's was about to release the inaugural Vale do Bomfim red table wine from Portugal's Douro Valley. He was hoping that it would familiarize people with their products and open their minds up to try new things - It's only kinky the first time. So, this is a dry red wine sourced from its primary vineyards including Quinta do Bomfim and Quinta da Senhora da Ribeira. Established in 1798 and wholly owned and managed by Symington Family Estates, Dow’s adds the Vale do Bomfim table wine to its existing line of renowned Ports. Well, port is still confusing to a lot of people - but give this a try on Friday night and see if you look at things in a new way.

4 - Duckhorn Merlot 2004 - $54
The name Duckhorn brings a smile to the lips of wine lovers - People quietly run their fingers over the name when they see it on wine lists in restaurants - Then they carefully eye the person across from them and wonder if the payoff is worth the investment? - Do I really want to share with this person? - Co-founded by Dan and Margaret Duckhorn in 1976, Duckhorn Vineyards has been crafting classic Bordeaux varietals from the Napa Valley for nearly 30 years. The winemaker says "Merlot is blended to offer the complexity and balance of a young wine, while embodying the diversity of the whole Napa Valley appellation. This wine is full-bodied with bright fruit and well-integrated tannins that lead to a lingering finish. The aroma is layered with raspberry and cherry, accented by notes of toasted oak, dried herbs, vanilla, and green olive. The flavors are ripe with blackberry and black cherry followed by spicy notes of clove, mint, and black pepper."
This Friday in an excellent opportunity to try this California legend - and it won't cost a penny - please join us.


Thanks so much for all of the feedback on the special report we filed from South Africa. We will be posting photos in the gallery AND we will have the interview with wine makers from Boekenhoutskloof - Makers of Porcupine Ridge and The Chocolate Block - up on the website in just a few days.

And, thank you for your continued support - we appreciate it.
We have a great line up of events, guests, and tastings in the works for the new year - the best is yet to come.

Please join us - It is fun, informal and a great way to start your weekend.


AAA.

Report From Cape Town - South Africa

Greetings from Cape Town South Africa -

As always, we have a great line up of wines for you next Friday -
January 12th - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge.

I cannot elaborate on them because I did not have the list at press time.
But rest assured that fun will be had by all.

Now a quick note to all of the faithful readers that have been waiting for the Cape Town Winelands update.

This morning I stood alone out on the rocks at the Cape of Good Hope. The spray from the surf filled the air. On a calm day, like today, the waves were stunning - Think Watch Hill during a big storm - I have been told that when it is rough the waves can be six meters high - not during a storm mind you - just on a rough day. The giant rock formations that break the ocean cause a thundering sound and it is hard to take it all in. It has to be the most dramatic natural setting that I have ever seen.

We were alone - no other people - Behind us in the scrub and grass that lead up to the ocean - we spotted a troop of baboons and a large family of wild ostrich - they roam free here.

What does this have to do with wine? - It's part of the journey and I wanted to share it.

Tomorrow we will be the guests of Marc Kent - the winemaker that is responsible for The Chocolate Block - We will travel to Boekenhoutskloof, founded in 1776, located far up the "Valley" in the Franschhoek foothills. Situated 40 minutes drive from Cape Town, it falls within the Cape's abundant winelands.

Many of you have seen the wine on our shelves and have had the opportunity to try it at recent tastings - I hope to interview the folks at the vineyard and have it available on our website soon - this is an episode that you will not want to miss -

We also will be stopping in at the home of Charles Back - Fairview Vineyards - Winemaking on the farm can be traced back to 1699, not quite a half-century after the first European settlers arrived in southern Africa. But its wines entered the modern era with the first bottling under the Fairview label in 1974 by the Back family, owners since 1937. Fairview is the source of Goats Do Roam and several other South African wines that we have in the store. Charles Back’s philosophy is that wine is an integral and joyful part of everyday life - just like we do. I could not come this far without a visit.

The home of Fairview wines is a 300ha farm on the south-west-facing slopes of Paarl Mountain, a granite rock outcrop in the heart of the Paarl wine district, viticulturally among the most historic and influential areas of the Cape winelands. We will be standing among the lavender beds in the terraced front garden of the winery,looking out across rolling fields at the distant flat-topped Table Mountain, a world-famous landmark standing guard over the city of Cape Town, on the Cape Peninsula at the southern tip of the African continent.

So, that's it for now - we hope to see you on Friday night at the tasting - and we want to thank you all for your continued interest and support - we appreciate it.

AAA.