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.
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Toy Boat..., Chateau Ducasse Bordeaux Blanc, Glen Carlou Grand Classique, Abeja Cabernet
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
Blog: - http://newlondonwine.blogspot.com/
There is so much going on this week that we are running a bit late - But fear not, the wines for Friday has been selected with care.
The list id just below a few items of interest.
• TWO count them two - cruise ships arriving this week for your dining and dancing pleasure -
Friday - The Veendam, with 1,400 passengers and 560 crew members, makes her first visit to New London this week. A sister to the Maasdam, the Veendam will be at State Pier from 9 AM to 6 PM on Friday, September 28.
Saturday - Our old friend - The Explorer of the Seas third visit to New London on Saturday, Sept. 29 will be much shorter than her two previous visits. The ship's 3,100 passengers will be in port from 7 AM to 2 PM. So, it is likely those visiting New London will be downtown early and will be returning to the ship shortly after Noon. - Why not watch the departure from our front row seats at Brie and Bleu - a great place for lunch and the "show."
• Last chance to reserve the remaining seats for the Far East dinner for Saturday night, September 29 - 6 p.m.
The fantastic Asian cuisine is matched with wine for every course. The menu is posted on our calendar of events page -
take a look here: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
• Best pickles ever? - from the Farmers Market at Michael's Dairy on Montauk Ave.
Jim Morrison: "I went to the weekend market at Micheal's Dairy, and they had a great , if small collection of local vegetables and fresh baked bread. And they had pickles that were the best I've ever had . I mean way better than any pickle I've ever had. We bought a bunch of stuff and were able to eat all fresh local food for days." We are lucky to have this type of market so close to us -
Wine Tasting - Please Join Us
Friday September 28 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Chateau Ducasse Bordeaux Blanc 2006 $14
This wine has verve and nerve for miles. Very dry and citrusy, the Chateau Ducasse offers a clean minerality with a dash of herb and shows a fantastic balance and finesse. If you are eating seafood, try this on for size. You won't be disappointed. This actually has become a cult wine in many places. The price is fantastic and you will want to try it this Friday.
2 - Glen Carlou Grand Classique Meritage 2003 $16 South Africa -
We had lunch at the Bee & Thistle this past week with David Finlayson, the Cellarmaster for Glen Carlou.
We ate, we drank, then we ate and drank some more - David was a wealth of knowledge and good vibrations - and the wines were excellent.
This particular wine is a classic Bordeaux blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot.
Great aromas of clove, sandalwood and fresh blackcurrant are followed by velvety smooth flavors of ripe berry fruit and by supple tannins and gentle oak.
This is a lot of wine for the dollar - Check out the web site here: http://www.glencarlou.co.za/
3 - Trapiche Broquel Malbec 2005 $15
This has intense, deep red-violet color, and ruby hues, showing the concentration of the grapes. The wine shows aromas of black fruit jam and liqueur, with notes of vanilla, chocolate and smoke. On the palate, it is ample and rich, with a long finish and soft tannins.
We are working on a Malbec Dinner with Gustavo Arroyat - from Trapiche - that will take place in October if we can put it together.
It will be available on a first come, first served basis - If you are interested please call and put your name on the list - we will call you and give you the details - date & time, etc. 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3 -
If you did not see Gustavo on our recent episode of WineRadio take a look here: http://newlondonwine.blogspot.com/
4 - Abeja Cabernet sauvignon 2004 $46
The wine maker says: "This is the varietal that we believe will increasingly be recognized as the icon varietal of Washington State and comprises the majority of our production. This Cabernet is stylish, elegant, and impeccably balanced. We accomplish this by meticulous viticultural management, utilization of a rare sorting system, gentle handling of the fruit and the wine, customized practices for every lot no matter how small, and carefully selected French oak." This is worth your time - try it on Friday. It will give you a better understanding of the high quality that is coming from this part of our country.
You may find that the price is well worth it.
Thanks for all of your support - we appreciate it. And thank for all of the email and calls - 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
Blog: - http://newlondonwine.blogspot.com/
There is so much going on this week that we are running a bit late - But fear not, the wines for Friday has been selected with care.
The list id just below a few items of interest.
• TWO count them two - cruise ships arriving this week for your dining and dancing pleasure -
Friday - The Veendam, with 1,400 passengers and 560 crew members, makes her first visit to New London this week. A sister to the Maasdam, the Veendam will be at State Pier from 9 AM to 6 PM on Friday, September 28.
Saturday - Our old friend - The Explorer of the Seas third visit to New London on Saturday, Sept. 29 will be much shorter than her two previous visits. The ship's 3,100 passengers will be in port from 7 AM to 2 PM. So, it is likely those visiting New London will be downtown early and will be returning to the ship shortly after Noon. - Why not watch the departure from our front row seats at Brie and Bleu - a great place for lunch and the "show."
• Last chance to reserve the remaining seats for the Far East dinner for Saturday night, September 29 - 6 p.m.
The fantastic Asian cuisine is matched with wine for every course. The menu is posted on our calendar of events page -
take a look here: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
• Best pickles ever? - from the Farmers Market at Michael's Dairy on Montauk Ave.
Jim Morrison: "I went to the weekend market at Micheal's Dairy, and they had a great , if small collection of local vegetables and fresh baked bread. And they had pickles that were the best I've ever had . I mean way better than any pickle I've ever had. We bought a bunch of stuff and were able to eat all fresh local food for days." We are lucky to have this type of market so close to us -
Wine Tasting - Please Join Us
Friday September 28 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Chateau Ducasse Bordeaux Blanc 2006 $14
This wine has verve and nerve for miles. Very dry and citrusy, the Chateau Ducasse offers a clean minerality with a dash of herb and shows a fantastic balance and finesse. If you are eating seafood, try this on for size. You won't be disappointed. This actually has become a cult wine in many places. The price is fantastic and you will want to try it this Friday.
2 - Glen Carlou Grand Classique Meritage 2003 $16 South Africa -
We had lunch at the Bee & Thistle this past week with David Finlayson, the Cellarmaster for Glen Carlou.
We ate, we drank, then we ate and drank some more - David was a wealth of knowledge and good vibrations - and the wines were excellent.
This particular wine is a classic Bordeaux blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot.
Great aromas of clove, sandalwood and fresh blackcurrant are followed by velvety smooth flavors of ripe berry fruit and by supple tannins and gentle oak.
This is a lot of wine for the dollar - Check out the web site here: http://www.glencarlou.co.za/
3 - Trapiche Broquel Malbec 2005 $15
This has intense, deep red-violet color, and ruby hues, showing the concentration of the grapes. The wine shows aromas of black fruit jam and liqueur, with notes of vanilla, chocolate and smoke. On the palate, it is ample and rich, with a long finish and soft tannins.
We are working on a Malbec Dinner with Gustavo Arroyat - from Trapiche - that will take place in October if we can put it together.
It will be available on a first come, first served basis - If you are interested please call and put your name on the list - we will call you and give you the details - date & time, etc. 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3 -
If you did not see Gustavo on our recent episode of WineRadio take a look here: http://newlondonwine.blogspot.com/
4 - Abeja Cabernet sauvignon 2004 $46
The wine maker says: "This is the varietal that we believe will increasingly be recognized as the icon varietal of Washington State and comprises the majority of our production. This Cabernet is stylish, elegant, and impeccably balanced. We accomplish this by meticulous viticultural management, utilization of a rare sorting system, gentle handling of the fruit and the wine, customized practices for every lot no matter how small, and carefully selected French oak." This is worth your time - try it on Friday. It will give you a better understanding of the high quality that is coming from this part of our country.
You may find that the price is well worth it.
Thanks for all of your support - we appreciate it. And thank for all of the email and calls - we are listening.
Please join us. It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Monday, September 17, 2007
Girls Night Out, Penfolds Grange, Trapiche, Jean-Claude Thevenet, Exaltos, Meerlust, WineRadio
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
Well, I hate to say it but this but, yesterday morning was actually cold enough to put on a sweater. And there was even a customer this week that was remarking on her holiday shopping. - Are there really people that organized?
I'll make that a New Years resolution - "try to shop for the holidays early - like August." That one may have to wait until "09".
Hey - we have a list for Friday that will make people absolutely giddy - again.
It features one of THE most famous wines in the world.
Possible side effects of tasting this wine may include a feeling or state of intense excitement and happiness, if this sensation lasts for more than four hours you are one lucky bast....... Well, I'm getting ahead of myself.
The list is just below these few items of interest.
• Ladies - do not forget A Girls Night Out - starting at
The Garde Arts Center this week - Wednesday September 19.
It's a musical, it's fun, and Lord knows that you need a night out. Make a couple of calls, round up your friends, and see what fun you can have in New London. And to help some of you rediscover a girls night out - if you start your evening at Brie & Bleu - enjoy a complimentary glass of wine with dinner.
Learn more about the show HERE: http://tickets.gardearts.org/show.asp
• All New On WineRadio -
Thanks to Gustavo Arroyat from Trapiche Vineyards in Argentina - And Thanks to Chris Williams from Meerlust Vineyards in South Africa.
Both men stopped in and are appearing on our new season of WineRadio. Look for them on our website and of course on iTunes.
• The Magic of Burgundy Dinner - is sold out - thank you.
• The last remaing seats for our "Far East" Asian Cuisine are available now -
Remember this is a Saturday Night - September 29.
Check out the details on our Calendar of Events Page: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
• Lots of new items on the shop on line page - take a peek here: http://thamesriver.com/wine/instock.html
• Thanks to Steve & Jamie for driving all the way from Clinton to join in on Friday night's festivities - "You mean to say that you do this every Friday night?"
Yes, we do.
"Dave's Fave"
Monday Tasting - No Charge
Kaiken Malbec Reserva 2005 $12
Dave Says:
"Sooo, "Kaiken" is the name of a bird that lives on both sides of the Andes - both on the Chilean and the Argentian side. Kaiken wine is made in Argentina, in affiliation with Montes wines on the Chilean side. This Kaiken Malbec blends in 10% Cabernet, and has flavors of dark berries mingling with tobacco and a smooth, long finish. I've got "Malbec Fever" after Gustavo from Trapiche stopped in on Friday - so I'm taking my old friend Kaiken home for its curative and restorative powers. Stop in Monday to see how you like it."
Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday September 21 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Jean-Claude Thevenet Clos de L'ermitage Saint Veran. 2006 $24
Claude Thevenet is a third generation "vigneron" whose winery is located in the heart of the Maconnais in the village of Pierreclos. His grandfather was the winemaker for the Chateau de Pierreclos and his father developed a business as a supplier of rootstock. Between 1950 and 1952, Thevenet's father began to acquire vineyards and in 1971 when Jean-Claude reached the age of 17 they began to bottle their wine. The Thevenets now own 25 hectares of vineyards in the adjoining communes of Pierreclos, Prisse, and Rilly Lamartine.
Not a single drop of wine is sold to negociants.
Chardonnay from Burgundy. This is great white Burgundy at exactly half the price of Puligny and Chassagne Montrachet. At this price it's an everyday white Burgundy.
2 - Cognard-Taluau Cuvee les Malgagnes Saint-Nicolas de Bourgueil 2003 $ 21
Our fascination with the Loire Valley continues with this excellent example of Cabernet Franc from a very ripe year. Saint-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil is a small wine appellation on the northern banks of the Loire river, not too far from Tours. This wine combines the flavor characteristics of Cabernet with the classic stoniness of Loire wines. And we want you to try it side by side with our next wine -
3 - Dominio de Tares Exaltos 2003 $30
From old vines (cepas viejas) 60 yrs old, in Bierzo Spain, this wine is also made from Cabernet Franc. El Bierzo is a small border area which in Medieval times was the object of incessant territorial disputes. Nature has endowed it with particularly favorable conditions for wine growing, excellent red wines have been produced in the region since Benedictine monks settled there from Cluny in the XI century. However, in this remote part of North Western Spain the grape is called Mencia and was probably planted by Pilgrims on their way to the holy land centuries ago. The very hot climate and relative isolation have turned this Cab Franc into something quite different indeed. A rare chance to drink two great examples of the same grape from different regions. See for yourself, that geography is far more important than grape varietal.
4 - Penfolds Grange 2002 Bottle #10906 $255
Every year we open one bottle of Grange from the current release to taste and allow you to taste what is considered one of the greatest bottles of wine in the world . People always ask if Grange is worth the price. That question really misses the point. Is Grange is greatest wine produced on the Australian Continent , yes probably . Is it the greatest example of Syrah in the world? well, one of them anyway. Is it the greatest wine I'll ever drink ? Most likely yes. Is it true that E. Guigal's Cote- Rotie La Turque is now selling for $850 a bottle making Grange a relative bargain for ultra-Syrah .
That's right - think of the money your saving.
Thanks so much for all of the support and for making it so much fun. We appreciate it.
We hope to see you this week, please say hello when you visit the store.
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
Well, I hate to say it but this but, yesterday morning was actually cold enough to put on a sweater. And there was even a customer this week that was remarking on her holiday shopping. - Are there really people that organized?
I'll make that a New Years resolution - "try to shop for the holidays early - like August." That one may have to wait until "09".
Hey - we have a list for Friday that will make people absolutely giddy - again.
It features one of THE most famous wines in the world.
Possible side effects of tasting this wine may include a feeling or state of intense excitement and happiness, if this sensation lasts for more than four hours you are one lucky bast....... Well, I'm getting ahead of myself.
The list is just below these few items of interest.
• Ladies - do not forget A Girls Night Out - starting at
The Garde Arts Center this week - Wednesday September 19.
It's a musical, it's fun, and Lord knows that you need a night out. Make a couple of calls, round up your friends, and see what fun you can have in New London. And to help some of you rediscover a girls night out - if you start your evening at Brie & Bleu - enjoy a complimentary glass of wine with dinner.
Learn more about the show HERE: http://tickets.gardearts.org/show.asp
• All New On WineRadio -
Thanks to Gustavo Arroyat from Trapiche Vineyards in Argentina - And Thanks to Chris Williams from Meerlust Vineyards in South Africa.
Both men stopped in and are appearing on our new season of WineRadio. Look for them on our website and of course on iTunes.
• The Magic of Burgundy Dinner - is sold out - thank you.
• The last remaing seats for our "Far East" Asian Cuisine are available now -
Remember this is a Saturday Night - September 29.
Check out the details on our Calendar of Events Page: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
• Lots of new items on the shop on line page - take a peek here: http://thamesriver.com/wine/instock.html
• Thanks to Steve & Jamie for driving all the way from Clinton to join in on Friday night's festivities - "You mean to say that you do this every Friday night?"
Yes, we do.
"Dave's Fave"
Monday Tasting - No Charge
Kaiken Malbec Reserva 2005 $12
Dave Says:
"Sooo, "Kaiken" is the name of a bird that lives on both sides of the Andes - both on the Chilean and the Argentian side. Kaiken wine is made in Argentina, in affiliation with Montes wines on the Chilean side. This Kaiken Malbec blends in 10% Cabernet, and has flavors of dark berries mingling with tobacco and a smooth, long finish. I've got "Malbec Fever" after Gustavo from Trapiche stopped in on Friday - so I'm taking my old friend Kaiken home for its curative and restorative powers. Stop in Monday to see how you like it."
Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday September 21 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Jean-Claude Thevenet Clos de L'ermitage Saint Veran. 2006 $24
Claude Thevenet is a third generation "vigneron" whose winery is located in the heart of the Maconnais in the village of Pierreclos. His grandfather was the winemaker for the Chateau de Pierreclos and his father developed a business as a supplier of rootstock. Between 1950 and 1952, Thevenet's father began to acquire vineyards and in 1971 when Jean-Claude reached the age of 17 they began to bottle their wine. The Thevenets now own 25 hectares of vineyards in the adjoining communes of Pierreclos, Prisse, and Rilly Lamartine.
Not a single drop of wine is sold to negociants.
Chardonnay from Burgundy. This is great white Burgundy at exactly half the price of Puligny and Chassagne Montrachet. At this price it's an everyday white Burgundy.
2 - Cognard-Taluau Cuvee les Malgagnes Saint-Nicolas de Bourgueil 2003 $ 21
Our fascination with the Loire Valley continues with this excellent example of Cabernet Franc from a very ripe year. Saint-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil is a small wine appellation on the northern banks of the Loire river, not too far from Tours. This wine combines the flavor characteristics of Cabernet with the classic stoniness of Loire wines. And we want you to try it side by side with our next wine -
3 - Dominio de Tares Exaltos 2003 $30
From old vines (cepas viejas) 60 yrs old, in Bierzo Spain, this wine is also made from Cabernet Franc. El Bierzo is a small border area which in Medieval times was the object of incessant territorial disputes. Nature has endowed it with particularly favorable conditions for wine growing, excellent red wines have been produced in the region since Benedictine monks settled there from Cluny in the XI century. However, in this remote part of North Western Spain the grape is called Mencia and was probably planted by Pilgrims on their way to the holy land centuries ago. The very hot climate and relative isolation have turned this Cab Franc into something quite different indeed. A rare chance to drink two great examples of the same grape from different regions. See for yourself, that geography is far more important than grape varietal.
4 - Penfolds Grange 2002 Bottle #10906 $255
Every year we open one bottle of Grange from the current release to taste and allow you to taste what is considered one of the greatest bottles of wine in the world . People always ask if Grange is worth the price. That question really misses the point. Is Grange is greatest wine produced on the Australian Continent , yes probably . Is it the greatest example of Syrah in the world? well, one of them anyway. Is it the greatest wine I'll ever drink ? Most likely yes. Is it true that E. Guigal's Cote- Rotie La Turque is now selling for $850 a bottle making Grange a relative bargain for ultra-Syrah .
That's right - think of the money your saving.
Thanks so much for all of the support and for making it so much fun. We appreciate it.
We hope to see you this week, please say hello when you visit the store.
Please Join Us. It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Will The Real Pedro Gonzales Please Stand Up...
Which is the real Pedro Gonzales?Super Star wrestler or Winemaker to The Stars?
While the rumors have been rampant for years - no one can say that they have actually seen both men at the same time.
Coincidence?
Both were scheduled as presenters at last years Academy Awards ceremonies - but citing medical issues Pedro backed out at the last minute. Instead, Pedro - made the presentation to Nicole Kidman alone.
From his lavish compound in Chile, Pedro remarked the he and Pedro "are great friends." and they are in touch whenever their schedules allow.Pedro loves to crush the grapes with his bare hands and feet - he says that it helps him in the ring. "Everyone here at Trapiche loves when he comes to visit - he is a very generous man."
For now the rumors will continue - something to contemplate over a glass of Trapiche.
You may draw your own conclusions.
Sunday, September 09, 2007
Cantina Parroco Barbera d'Alba, Clos du Tue-Boeuf Cheverny, Thierry et Pascale Matrot Meursault, Donna Laura Sangiovese, Bogel Phantom
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 have a tasty line up for Friday night. The list is just below a few items of news and interest.
• Thanks everyone that came out to support the Books, Brushes, Jazz & Blues weekend -
We were lucky enough to host a performance by Andre, Eddie, & Friends.
Andre Danford, Mary & Eddie Alida, and Phil the "horn doctor" - played a marvelous two hour show that filled the air with beautiful music.
Thanks for a great performance.
• We will begin taping all new episodes of our WineRadio show this week - as we enter the new season we have a great line up of guests and as requested we will be adding more "food guru's" to the line up. All of our shows are available on iTunes - and remember you can watch these shows on any computer - it works with Macs & PC's - and there is no charge to watch. And our video is enhanced for this new season - "High Res" and they say. We have also gotten a few requests to make our shows available on DVD's - we are looking into it - stay tuned.
• Our Burgundy Dinner is set - Tuesday October 2 - 6 p.m.
The menu will feature Beef Bourgogne -
AND just look at the wines that we have in store for you.
Reserve early - 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3
WHITES
Francine et Oliver Savary Chablis V.V. 2004
Domaine Francois et Antoine Jobard Meursault 200
Domaine Francois et Antoine Jobard Meursault-Poruzots 1er cru 2004
Domaine Bouchard Pere & Fils Corton Charlemagne Grand Cru 1999
REDS
Paul Pernot et ses Fils Pommard "Noizons" 2005
Bruno Colin Chassagne-Montrachet La Boudriotte 1er Cru 2004
Bruno Colin Chassagne-Montrachet En Remilly 1er Cru 2004
Domaine Bouchard Pere & Fils Le Corton grand Cru 2002
• Guest Chef Jina Taylor returns to guide us on another tour of Asian Cuisine.
Mark your calendars for SATURDAY September 29 - 6 p.m. - 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3
This is a very popular dinner - please call to reserve your seats early.
$75 plus tax & service - Wine will be served with each course.
And as many of you know - there may be a surprise or two.
The menu will include:
Appetizer
Vietnamese Shrimp Spring Roll w/ Dipping Sauce
Salad
Spring mix & Grilled Scallion w/ Korean Fusion Dressing
Entrée
Bul-go-gi Seasoned Grilled Flank Steak
Soba Noodle (Buck Wheat Noodle) with Cucumber
Asparagus with Black Bean Sauce
Dessert
Poached Asian Pears
***Vegetarian Option Available***
BUT We must know in advance -
• Dave's Fave
Monday Wine Tasting - No Charge
Dave says:
Cantina Parroco Barbera d'Alba $16
"This rustic, affordable Barbera is a bottle I've been enjoying all summer. I love this wine. I lurve it. I blurve this wine. This is one of those treasures that we always are seeking out - made traditionally, in this case by Italians for Italians, and by a small co-op of farmers and wine artisans. I sip this and marvel at how well it was made, with pleasant spices mingling with dark fruit, a long finish, and some smokiness. If you come in Monday afternoon maybe we can dwell on it together, this is truly one of my personal favorites."
Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday September 14 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Clos du Tue-Boeuf Cheverny 2005 $15
This is one of the most affordable and drinkable wines that we have had all summer. It is currently a staff favorite and we have all be drinking it with great abandon. Sauvignon Blanc from one of the lesser known villages of the Loire. This wine has all of the lime zest and minerality you would expect from Sancerre or Pouilly Fume at $8-$10 a bottle less. Organic and Biodynamic this wine is bottled unfiltered and has a slight cloudiness that adds to it's character and charm. Please try this on Friday night - it will find a place in your heart from the first sip.
2 - Thierry et Pascale Matrot Meursault 2005 $17 -(half bottles 375ml)
This White burgundy from the great 2005 vintage was rated 86 points by Wine & Spirits Magazine. Wine matures faster in smaller bottles so the 375 ml should give us some insight into where this great vintage will take us. This wine has a bright citrus nose and a lip-smacking crispness that is wonderful with food - and the small bottles are fun.
3 - Donna Laura Sangiovese di Toscana "Ali" 2004 $12
Very approachable and forward little sangiovese from Tuscany. A blend of two clones, one providing fruit the other structure. The wine captures terroir, yet is lush and affordable. This wine has aromas of juicy red berry fruit. Medium-bodied and soft on the palate, with balanced acidity and ripe tannins. Delicious with pastas and grilled meats, yet also very drinkable without food -
4 - Bogel Phantom 2004 $24
We have just one case of this wine -
People that have discovered this wine, wait for it all year long.
Here are the winemaker's notes for this vintage:
"The black magic is back…Phantom. Three unique varietals combine lush berry and fierce spice into a full-bodied wine. Intensely fruit forward on the entry, this deep ruby apparition begins with aromas of blueberries, violets and chocolate-covered cherries, dusted with touches of black pepper. From the deep dark depths, subtle notes of spice, clove and mocha emerge and compliment the concentrated fruit characters of this wine. Aging for two years in 1, 2 and 3 year-old American oak barrels has yielded a vexing array of toasty oak aromas to Phantom. Though this wine is remarkable now, age in the bottle will only integrate the three distinct varietals more. Welcome the winery ghost into your home again with this latest vintage, and enjoy with full-flavored and hearty meals…before it vanishes again."
We hope to see you this week. Thanks for all of the emails, comments, suggestions, and for your support. We appreciate it.
Please join us. It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474
IMPORT - 860-443-6817
www.thamesriver.com
We have a tasty line up for Friday night. The list is just below a few items of news and interest.
• Thanks everyone that came out to support the Books, Brushes, Jazz & Blues weekend -
We were lucky enough to host a performance by Andre, Eddie, & Friends.
Andre Danford, Mary & Eddie Alida, and Phil the "horn doctor" - played a marvelous two hour show that filled the air with beautiful music.
Thanks for a great performance.
• We will begin taping all new episodes of our WineRadio show this week - as we enter the new season we have a great line up of guests and as requested we will be adding more "food guru's" to the line up. All of our shows are available on iTunes - and remember you can watch these shows on any computer - it works with Macs & PC's - and there is no charge to watch. And our video is enhanced for this new season - "High Res" and they say. We have also gotten a few requests to make our shows available on DVD's - we are looking into it - stay tuned.
• Our Burgundy Dinner is set - Tuesday October 2 - 6 p.m.
The menu will feature Beef Bourgogne -
AND just look at the wines that we have in store for you.
Reserve early - 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3
WHITES
Francine et Oliver Savary Chablis V.V. 2004
Domaine Francois et Antoine Jobard Meursault 200
Domaine Francois et Antoine Jobard Meursault-Poruzots 1er cru 2004
Domaine Bouchard Pere & Fils Corton Charlemagne Grand Cru 1999
REDS
Paul Pernot et ses Fils Pommard "Noizons" 2005
Bruno Colin Chassagne-Montrachet La Boudriotte 1er Cru 2004
Bruno Colin Chassagne-Montrachet En Remilly 1er Cru 2004
Domaine Bouchard Pere & Fils Le Corton grand Cru 2002
• Guest Chef Jina Taylor returns to guide us on another tour of Asian Cuisine.
Mark your calendars for SATURDAY September 29 - 6 p.m. - 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3
This is a very popular dinner - please call to reserve your seats early.
$75 plus tax & service - Wine will be served with each course.
And as many of you know - there may be a surprise or two.
The menu will include:
Appetizer
Vietnamese Shrimp Spring Roll w/ Dipping Sauce
Salad
Spring mix & Grilled Scallion w/ Korean Fusion Dressing
Entrée
Bul-go-gi Seasoned Grilled Flank Steak
Soba Noodle (Buck Wheat Noodle) with Cucumber
Asparagus with Black Bean Sauce
Dessert
Poached Asian Pears
***Vegetarian Option Available***
BUT We must know in advance -
• Dave's Fave
Monday Wine Tasting - No Charge
Dave says:
Cantina Parroco Barbera d'Alba $16
"This rustic, affordable Barbera is a bottle I've been enjoying all summer. I love this wine. I lurve it. I blurve this wine. This is one of those treasures that we always are seeking out - made traditionally, in this case by Italians for Italians, and by a small co-op of farmers and wine artisans. I sip this and marvel at how well it was made, with pleasant spices mingling with dark fruit, a long finish, and some smokiness. If you come in Monday afternoon maybe we can dwell on it together, this is truly one of my personal favorites."
Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday September 14 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Clos du Tue-Boeuf Cheverny 2005 $15
This is one of the most affordable and drinkable wines that we have had all summer. It is currently a staff favorite and we have all be drinking it with great abandon. Sauvignon Blanc from one of the lesser known villages of the Loire. This wine has all of the lime zest and minerality you would expect from Sancerre or Pouilly Fume at $8-$10 a bottle less. Organic and Biodynamic this wine is bottled unfiltered and has a slight cloudiness that adds to it's character and charm. Please try this on Friday night - it will find a place in your heart from the first sip.
2 - Thierry et Pascale Matrot Meursault 2005 $17 -(half bottles 375ml)
This White burgundy from the great 2005 vintage was rated 86 points by Wine & Spirits Magazine. Wine matures faster in smaller bottles so the 375 ml should give us some insight into where this great vintage will take us. This wine has a bright citrus nose and a lip-smacking crispness that is wonderful with food - and the small bottles are fun.
3 - Donna Laura Sangiovese di Toscana "Ali" 2004 $12
Very approachable and forward little sangiovese from Tuscany. A blend of two clones, one providing fruit the other structure. The wine captures terroir, yet is lush and affordable. This wine has aromas of juicy red berry fruit. Medium-bodied and soft on the palate, with balanced acidity and ripe tannins. Delicious with pastas and grilled meats, yet also very drinkable without food -
4 - Bogel Phantom 2004 $24
We have just one case of this wine -
People that have discovered this wine, wait for it all year long.
Here are the winemaker's notes for this vintage:
"The black magic is back…Phantom. Three unique varietals combine lush berry and fierce spice into a full-bodied wine. Intensely fruit forward on the entry, this deep ruby apparition begins with aromas of blueberries, violets and chocolate-covered cherries, dusted with touches of black pepper. From the deep dark depths, subtle notes of spice, clove and mocha emerge and compliment the concentrated fruit characters of this wine. Aging for two years in 1, 2 and 3 year-old American oak barrels has yielded a vexing array of toasty oak aromas to Phantom. Though this wine is remarkable now, age in the bottle will only integrate the three distinct varietals more. Welcome the winery ghost into your home again with this latest vintage, and enjoy with full-flavored and hearty meals…before it vanishes again."
We hope to see you this week. Thanks for all of the emails, comments, suggestions, and for your support. We appreciate it.
Please join us. It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA
Monday, September 03, 2007
Labor Day 2007, Beaux Freres, Domaines des Cantarelles, Mandolin Pinot Noir, Haut Terres de Comberousse
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 that you are all enjoying the holiday weekend - we are.
Just a couple of quick notes this week - Then our list of wine for Friday - it is full of great discoveries and one Block Buster -
it's all just below these items of interest.
• First I have to mention that the long awaited 2005 Burgundies have arrived - with more on the way. Several have already sold out - we will stock and restock as much as we can - but there is a limited supply, so if you are one of the people that just can not get enough of real Burgundy - this is the time to make your move. We have a really nice selection - you will not see them in most stores.
• Thanks to Cindy Scott for hosting a swell party last week for her friends - Arriving by boat, Cindy and her party of 14 wined and dined while watching the sun set on the mighty Thames. Our deck was just the right spot for a private party - Special menu, special wine, lots of laughter - it was perfect.
Remember - your own private party can be set with a single call. Special menu, special wine, lots of laughter - it will be perfect. 860-443-9463
• Thanks to everyone that attended the Cult Wine Series dinner last Wednesday night.
Impossibly hard to find Pinot Noir from Oregon and California was flowing like water. And Anne Haviland served the perfect menu of Wild Salmon & Risotto to go along with it - fantastic. Just wait until you see what's next for the series - you will have to read it twice to make sure you have it right. We will set the date and the menu soon - it will be posted to the calendar of events page and right here in the email - reserve early.
• Thanks for making the cruise ship visit a big success. One of the best vantage points in the city had to be our deck at Brie & Bleu - when the mighty Explorer of The Seas departed after its day in New London on Saturday, it passed our deck full of people that raised their glasses and cheered when the ship's horn rumbled through the air with its DEEP resonating "basso-profundo." One young woman remarked " Oooh - that tickled in places I didn't even know I had!" - her date had a surprised look on his face, and then he quickly refilled her glass of Prosecco - It was a great night.
• Wednesday September 5 - our Endless Summer wine dinner will feature a choice - Anne Haviland's menu of - Heirloom tomato salad, grilled veal chops OR grilled swordfish both served with a fresh gremolata, and a dessert of fire roasted peaches with marscapone cheese - It all starts at 6 p.m. - wine is served with each course - $50 plus tax & service - call early to reserve the last seats available - 860-443-9463.
• The new wine of the week at Brie & Bleu:
Our very own Michelle Dicesare had selected a chardonnay: Sonoma Cutrer Russian River Ranches - pronounced (koo-TRAIR)
"Pretty floral aromas fade to tropical fruits; citrus follows through to the palette, finishing with slight minerality."
What Michelle is saying is - this is a delicious, light on the tongue wine that is great with cheese - even for people that swear they do not like Chardonnay - try it. $7 Glass - $35 Bottle.
Wine Tasting Please Join Us Friday September 7 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Haut Terres de Comberousse " Roucaillat" - $15
Directed by a young Frenchman (Paul Reder) who, although working with the most basic equipment and in relatively primitive circumstances, is producing perhaps the most interesting white wines of the Languedoc region. These wines have a strong personality driven by the harsh conditions, the stony, spare soil, and the strong sea breezes from the Mediterranean. We think you will find this wine to be very desirable - but the production is very limited - If you like what you taste - snag it now.
2 - Mandolin Pinot Noir 2006 - $14 Monterey California
It is VERY hard to find a Pinot Noir under $15 that tastes like the real McCoy - but here it is.
The grapes for this Pinot Noir were sourced from the Santa Lucia Highlands, a mountain range running from the Monterey Bay to Paso Robles. Mandolin Pinot Noir features bright cherry and raspberry fruit flavors with hints of spice. This is luscious wine and will complement a wide array of foods, including grilled fish, lamb and aged cheeses. As the weather starts to cool this is a nice wine for your end of summer tables - and it is a great value at this price.
3 - Domaines des Cantarelles Syrah de Fayel 2005 - $11
This estate is located south east of Nimes. This region is the former delta region of the Rhone river and has the same warm climate and stoney soils of it's more famous neighbors. Full bodied, lush and complex, this wine has the added virtue of being affordable. Its color is extremely dark, and its nose reveals beautifully ripened black fruits. This wine is crammed full with flavors of blackberries, dark cherries, black olives, and cassis, intermingled with subtle smoky notes. It is concentrated, nicely extracted, and mouth-filling. On the finish, the wine reveals soft, supple tannins and even more layers of tangy black fruits. You must try it on Friday night. This is the kind of wine you should buy a case of - a great wine for everyday, at an unbeatable price.
4 - Beaux Freres Ribbon Ridge Pinot Noir 2005 $80 www.beauxfreres.com
This is a wine that has never received a score less than 90 points - more typically it is rated in the mid to high nineties by The Wine Spectator and every other major reviewer that's out there. All of them EXCEPT ONE. You will not see a review signed by Robert Parker - arguably the single most influential wine reviewer that ever sharpened a number two pencil and put words to paper. Why? You will not see RP's review because he owns the vineyard - along with his brother-in-law and one other partner. And they make this amazing wine without compromise. Here is what they have said about this vintage:
"The color is dark ruby with plenty of purple highlights. The nose is very extroverted and shows no intention of shutting down. At present the wine reveals pure blue and black fruits, (primarily black cherries, raspberries, and a hint of blackberries) along with tell-tale beet root, earth and herb notes. In the mouth the wine is rich and full bodied, yet displays a lighter, more delicate finish. It is somewhat of a paradox that such an intense wine could also be light on its feet, but that is the style of this vintage. We believe that this season.s unique growing conditions leading up to harvest gave us the ideal grapes to produce a wine with impeccable balance in acidity, alcohol, tannin, and depth of fruit."
This wine is produced in such limited quantities that even Robert Parker has a hard time getting a case when he needs it.
I can't tell you how many times the phone has rung late at night - and RP is trying to get us to loan him a bottle or two - he is relentless.
Anyway - we have two cases of this magic elixir - First come, first served. This is a great opportunity to try what many call the "Best of The Best."
We are very happy to share it with you on Friday night - stop by early - it will go quickly.
Finally, a reminder that the reason we can get these kind of wines is because of you.
Our suppliers, and the winemakers, and the distributors all continue to comment on the quality of our customers.
They remark about the genuine interest, the turnout at tastings and the questions - especially from the people just discovering wine.
You make us look good - and because of that we are offered products that are almost impossible to find anywhere else.
And it is also the reason that we have world famous winemakers visit our store and join us for intimate dinners.
And it is absolutely the reason that it is so much fun. - Thank you.
Please Join Us -
It is fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend - we hope to see you this week.
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
We hope that you are all enjoying the holiday weekend - we are.
Just a couple of quick notes this week - Then our list of wine for Friday - it is full of great discoveries and one Block Buster -
it's all just below these items of interest.
• First I have to mention that the long awaited 2005 Burgundies have arrived - with more on the way. Several have already sold out - we will stock and restock as much as we can - but there is a limited supply, so if you are one of the people that just can not get enough of real Burgundy - this is the time to make your move. We have a really nice selection - you will not see them in most stores.
• Thanks to Cindy Scott for hosting a swell party last week for her friends - Arriving by boat, Cindy and her party of 14 wined and dined while watching the sun set on the mighty Thames. Our deck was just the right spot for a private party - Special menu, special wine, lots of laughter - it was perfect.
Remember - your own private party can be set with a single call. Special menu, special wine, lots of laughter - it will be perfect. 860-443-9463
• Thanks to everyone that attended the Cult Wine Series dinner last Wednesday night.
Impossibly hard to find Pinot Noir from Oregon and California was flowing like water. And Anne Haviland served the perfect menu of Wild Salmon & Risotto to go along with it - fantastic. Just wait until you see what's next for the series - you will have to read it twice to make sure you have it right. We will set the date and the menu soon - it will be posted to the calendar of events page and right here in the email - reserve early.
• Thanks for making the cruise ship visit a big success. One of the best vantage points in the city had to be our deck at Brie & Bleu - when the mighty Explorer of The Seas departed after its day in New London on Saturday, it passed our deck full of people that raised their glasses and cheered when the ship's horn rumbled through the air with its DEEP resonating "basso-profundo." One young woman remarked " Oooh - that tickled in places I didn't even know I had!" - her date had a surprised look on his face, and then he quickly refilled her glass of Prosecco - It was a great night.
• Wednesday September 5 - our Endless Summer wine dinner will feature a choice - Anne Haviland's menu of - Heirloom tomato salad, grilled veal chops OR grilled swordfish both served with a fresh gremolata, and a dessert of fire roasted peaches with marscapone cheese - It all starts at 6 p.m. - wine is served with each course - $50 plus tax & service - call early to reserve the last seats available - 860-443-9463.
• The new wine of the week at Brie & Bleu:
Our very own Michelle Dicesare had selected a chardonnay: Sonoma Cutrer Russian River Ranches - pronounced (koo-TRAIR)
"Pretty floral aromas fade to tropical fruits; citrus follows through to the palette, finishing with slight minerality."
What Michelle is saying is - this is a delicious, light on the tongue wine that is great with cheese - even for people that swear they do not like Chardonnay - try it. $7 Glass - $35 Bottle.
Wine Tasting Please Join Us Friday September 7 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Haut Terres de Comberousse " Roucaillat" - $15
Directed by a young Frenchman (Paul Reder) who, although working with the most basic equipment and in relatively primitive circumstances, is producing perhaps the most interesting white wines of the Languedoc region. These wines have a strong personality driven by the harsh conditions, the stony, spare soil, and the strong sea breezes from the Mediterranean. We think you will find this wine to be very desirable - but the production is very limited - If you like what you taste - snag it now.
2 - Mandolin Pinot Noir 2006 - $14 Monterey California
It is VERY hard to find a Pinot Noir under $15 that tastes like the real McCoy - but here it is.
The grapes for this Pinot Noir were sourced from the Santa Lucia Highlands, a mountain range running from the Monterey Bay to Paso Robles. Mandolin Pinot Noir features bright cherry and raspberry fruit flavors with hints of spice. This is luscious wine and will complement a wide array of foods, including grilled fish, lamb and aged cheeses. As the weather starts to cool this is a nice wine for your end of summer tables - and it is a great value at this price.
3 - Domaines des Cantarelles Syrah de Fayel 2005 - $11
This estate is located south east of Nimes. This region is the former delta region of the Rhone river and has the same warm climate and stoney soils of it's more famous neighbors. Full bodied, lush and complex, this wine has the added virtue of being affordable. Its color is extremely dark, and its nose reveals beautifully ripened black fruits. This wine is crammed full with flavors of blackberries, dark cherries, black olives, and cassis, intermingled with subtle smoky notes. It is concentrated, nicely extracted, and mouth-filling. On the finish, the wine reveals soft, supple tannins and even more layers of tangy black fruits. You must try it on Friday night. This is the kind of wine you should buy a case of - a great wine for everyday, at an unbeatable price.
4 - Beaux Freres Ribbon Ridge Pinot Noir 2005 $80 www.beauxfreres.com
This is a wine that has never received a score less than 90 points - more typically it is rated in the mid to high nineties by The Wine Spectator and every other major reviewer that's out there. All of them EXCEPT ONE. You will not see a review signed by Robert Parker - arguably the single most influential wine reviewer that ever sharpened a number two pencil and put words to paper. Why? You will not see RP's review because he owns the vineyard - along with his brother-in-law and one other partner. And they make this amazing wine without compromise. Here is what they have said about this vintage:
"The color is dark ruby with plenty of purple highlights. The nose is very extroverted and shows no intention of shutting down. At present the wine reveals pure blue and black fruits, (primarily black cherries, raspberries, and a hint of blackberries) along with tell-tale beet root, earth and herb notes. In the mouth the wine is rich and full bodied, yet displays a lighter, more delicate finish. It is somewhat of a paradox that such an intense wine could also be light on its feet, but that is the style of this vintage. We believe that this season.s unique growing conditions leading up to harvest gave us the ideal grapes to produce a wine with impeccable balance in acidity, alcohol, tannin, and depth of fruit."
This wine is produced in such limited quantities that even Robert Parker has a hard time getting a case when he needs it.
I can't tell you how many times the phone has rung late at night - and RP is trying to get us to loan him a bottle or two - he is relentless.
Anyway - we have two cases of this magic elixir - First come, first served. This is a great opportunity to try what many call the "Best of The Best."
We are very happy to share it with you on Friday night - stop by early - it will go quickly.
Finally, a reminder that the reason we can get these kind of wines is because of you.
Our suppliers, and the winemakers, and the distributors all continue to comment on the quality of our customers.
They remark about the genuine interest, the turnout at tastings and the questions - especially from the people just discovering wine.
You make us look good - and because of that we are offered products that are almost impossible to find anywhere else.
And it is also the reason that we have world famous winemakers visit our store and join us for intimate dinners.
And it is absolutely the reason that it is so much fun. - Thank you.
Please Join Us -
It is fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend - we hope to see you this week.
AAA.
Sunday, August 26, 2007
Explorer of The Seas, U.S. Open, Jonathan Edward's, Mas Cal Demoura, Grand Cuvee de La Mision, Viña Maquis Calcu,
Explorer of The Seas
Coming to New London Harbor.
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
The big Labor Weekend is here - and we have a nice line up of wine to go with it on Friday night - we hope you can join us.
The list is just below a couple of items of news and interest.
• Thanks to New York Times wine writer Eric Asimov for spreading the word about us and our WineRadio project. He is obviously a very gifted writer that is underpaid by The Times - Eric Asimov: asimov@nytimes.com
• Thanks to Mike Bowers for hosting a brilliant Scotch and Cigar tasting on our deck last week - really outstanding. Remember - you can have your own Big Smoke & tasting too - you just have to ask. - 860-443-9463.
• Seats for our Endless Summer - Wednesday night wine dinners are still available for some nights. Please call to reserve - 860-443-9463
• The excitement for this coming Saturday night is building every minute -
As many of you know, our deck will be one of the key vantage points for viewing the Royal Caribbean Explorer of The Seas when it arrives in port on Saturday. This is the largest ship to ever make port in New London. It will not fit under the Gold Star Bridge.
The scheduled departure and the required "ballet" for moving the ship back out to sea is set to begin at 7 p.m.
Our very own Cruise Director - Jim Morrison -
thought that Italy's answer to sparkling wine might be the perfect fit.
For your viewing pleasure - we will have a prosecco tasting that starts at 6 p.m. and extended food service if the ship leaves after regular hours.
If you missed the story about the ship - here is a link: http://www.theday.com/re.aspx?re=cc512dcf-7054-482f-96e8-6bc82d78c1be
• Tennis fans know that Monday is the start of the U.S. Open -
But If your not heading out Flushing Meadows - our very own "Rock Star Dave Anderson"
is ready with a Monday selection.
Dave's Fave
Monday Wine Tasting - No Charge
Prazo de Roriz Duoro 2005 $16
Dave Says:
"Ever since Jim went to Portugal we've been touting the brilliance and value of Duoro still wines - made from the same grapes as Port
(lots of Tourigas and Tintos), these reds are have stayed under the radar with flavors that outclass their price range.
A few clever patrons have organized their own blind under-$15 tastings and we slip them Vale do Bomfim Duoro as The Ringer...
Prazo de Roriz, The Sleeper, is a deeply fruity and velvety Duoro which you may not have tried yet. Come in on Monday for a sip and see what you think!"
Friday August 31
Wine Tasting - Please Join Us - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Jonathan Edwards Connecticut Chardonnay 2006 $19
Our good friends at Jonathan Edward's have released their second vintage of their Connecticut Chardonnay. Lots of people thought that it was fool hardy to plant grapes up in the woods of Stonington - well they were wrong.
This wine makes a significant statement about the will and determination of a family run enterprise and the wine speaks for itself.
Very bright, fruit forward citrus bouquet of green apples and lemons, with light nuances of smoky vanilla oak from their large French barrels.
This silky smooth, easy drinking wine pairs perfectly with seafood and fresh cheeses or is excellent all by itself on a lazy Sunday afternoon.
Please try it on Friday night. And you have never seen the vineyard, what are you waiting for? It is worth the drive.
Take a look: http://www.jedwardswinery.com/
2 - Viña Maquis - Calcu red wine 2005 $12 - from Chile
The Rivadeniera-Hurtado family has owned the Viña Maquis vineyard for more than a century, but it wasn’t until ten years ago that the family decided to make their own wine out of the terrific grapes in their own backyard. They built a gorgeous, state-of-the-art gravity flow winery and set out to make “Super Chilean” blend using the vineyard’s best red grapes.
Winemakers artfully blend the mineral notes and fresh acidity of grapes from the Andes foothills with the ripe tannins and red fruit from the center of the valley, and add richness and body from grapes grown closer to the Pacific Ocean. The resulting wine is lightly oaked, allowing the grapes’ natural, fresh fruit character to shine through. The price of this wine is impossible to beat, and like many of the wines coming from South America it is a great value.
3 - Grand Cuvee de La Mision 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon $16 - from Chile
One of the keys to Chile's success and singularity lies in the fact that historically, it is one of the oldest wine producing countries of the New World. The first recorded Chilean vineyards were created by Spanish Conquistadors in the 16th century, long before the familiar regions of Europe developed the wine styles for which they so well known today.
The Central Valley is also the single vineyard region where highly rated French varietals such as Cabernet Sauvignon, were preserved with their original clones from the pre-phylloxera era - This is a big wine but because of the many months of aging and the exacting attention to detail that is given to this vineyard this wine is open and expressive, a wine made in the tradition of the great wines of Bordeaux. When you taste this wine on Friday night it will open your eyes to the quality and the value that is coming to us from South America.
4 - Mas Cal Demoura Coteaux du Languedoc "L'Infidèle" $30
"A N I M A L I S T I C" -
This is how the wine was described by one of the people that are "in the know."
Other experts also said "Very distinctive spicy, the nose is intense. The palate is vividly fruited with a pronounced spiciness and some roast coffee character. Bold and distinctive. Very good."
I'm not sure that its possible to have that kind of fun for just thirty dollars - you be the judge.
Please try it on Friday night.
Thanks very much for all of the email, calls, and for your support - we appreciate it.
Please join us. It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
We'll see you on the Lido Deck.
AAA.
Coming to New London Harbor.
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
The big Labor Weekend is here - and we have a nice line up of wine to go with it on Friday night - we hope you can join us.
The list is just below a couple of items of news and interest.
• Thanks to New York Times wine writer Eric Asimov for spreading the word about us and our WineRadio project. He is obviously a very gifted writer that is underpaid by The Times - Eric Asimov: asimov@nytimes.com
• Thanks to Mike Bowers for hosting a brilliant Scotch and Cigar tasting on our deck last week - really outstanding. Remember - you can have your own Big Smoke & tasting too - you just have to ask. - 860-443-9463.
• Seats for our Endless Summer - Wednesday night wine dinners are still available for some nights. Please call to reserve - 860-443-9463
• The excitement for this coming Saturday night is building every minute -
As many of you know, our deck will be one of the key vantage points for viewing the Royal Caribbean Explorer of The Seas when it arrives in port on Saturday. This is the largest ship to ever make port in New London. It will not fit under the Gold Star Bridge.
The scheduled departure and the required "ballet" for moving the ship back out to sea is set to begin at 7 p.m.
Our very own Cruise Director - Jim Morrison -
thought that Italy's answer to sparkling wine might be the perfect fit.
For your viewing pleasure - we will have a prosecco tasting that starts at 6 p.m. and extended food service if the ship leaves after regular hours.
If you missed the story about the ship - here is a link: http://www.theday.com/re.aspx?re=cc512dcf-7054-482f-96e8-6bc82d78c1be
• Tennis fans know that Monday is the start of the U.S. Open -
But If your not heading out Flushing Meadows - our very own "Rock Star Dave Anderson"
is ready with a Monday selection.
Dave's Fave
Monday Wine Tasting - No Charge
Prazo de Roriz Duoro 2005 $16
Dave Says:
"Ever since Jim went to Portugal we've been touting the brilliance and value of Duoro still wines - made from the same grapes as Port
(lots of Tourigas and Tintos), these reds are have stayed under the radar with flavors that outclass their price range.
A few clever patrons have organized their own blind under-$15 tastings and we slip them Vale do Bomfim Duoro as The Ringer...
Prazo de Roriz, The Sleeper, is a deeply fruity and velvety Duoro which you may not have tried yet. Come in on Monday for a sip and see what you think!"
Friday August 31
Wine Tasting - Please Join Us - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Jonathan Edwards Connecticut Chardonnay 2006 $19
Our good friends at Jonathan Edward's have released their second vintage of their Connecticut Chardonnay. Lots of people thought that it was fool hardy to plant grapes up in the woods of Stonington - well they were wrong.
This wine makes a significant statement about the will and determination of a family run enterprise and the wine speaks for itself.
Very bright, fruit forward citrus bouquet of green apples and lemons, with light nuances of smoky vanilla oak from their large French barrels.
This silky smooth, easy drinking wine pairs perfectly with seafood and fresh cheeses or is excellent all by itself on a lazy Sunday afternoon.
Please try it on Friday night. And you have never seen the vineyard, what are you waiting for? It is worth the drive.
Take a look: http://www.jedwardswinery.com/
2 - Viña Maquis - Calcu red wine 2005 $12 - from Chile
The Rivadeniera-Hurtado family has owned the Viña Maquis vineyard for more than a century, but it wasn’t until ten years ago that the family decided to make their own wine out of the terrific grapes in their own backyard. They built a gorgeous, state-of-the-art gravity flow winery and set out to make “Super Chilean” blend using the vineyard’s best red grapes.
Winemakers artfully blend the mineral notes and fresh acidity of grapes from the Andes foothills with the ripe tannins and red fruit from the center of the valley, and add richness and body from grapes grown closer to the Pacific Ocean. The resulting wine is lightly oaked, allowing the grapes’ natural, fresh fruit character to shine through. The price of this wine is impossible to beat, and like many of the wines coming from South America it is a great value.
3 - Grand Cuvee de La Mision 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon $16 - from Chile
One of the keys to Chile's success and singularity lies in the fact that historically, it is one of the oldest wine producing countries of the New World. The first recorded Chilean vineyards were created by Spanish Conquistadors in the 16th century, long before the familiar regions of Europe developed the wine styles for which they so well known today.
The Central Valley is also the single vineyard region where highly rated French varietals such as Cabernet Sauvignon, were preserved with their original clones from the pre-phylloxera era - This is a big wine but because of the many months of aging and the exacting attention to detail that is given to this vineyard this wine is open and expressive, a wine made in the tradition of the great wines of Bordeaux. When you taste this wine on Friday night it will open your eyes to the quality and the value that is coming to us from South America.
4 - Mas Cal Demoura Coteaux du Languedoc "L'Infidèle" $30
"A N I M A L I S T I C" -
This is how the wine was described by one of the people that are "in the know."
Other experts also said "Very distinctive spicy, the nose is intense. The palate is vividly fruited with a pronounced spiciness and some roast coffee character. Bold and distinctive. Very good."
I'm not sure that its possible to have that kind of fun for just thirty dollars - you be the judge.
Please try it on Friday night.
Thanks very much for all of the email, calls, and for your support - we appreciate it.
Please join us. It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
We'll see you on the Lido Deck.
AAA.
Monday, August 20, 2007
Endless Summer, Ice Road Truckers, Penfolds RWT 2002, Lucien Crochet La Croix du Roy, Ostertag Pinot Blanc, Valdivieso
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 night - the list is just below a couple of items of interest.
• It was a lot of fun this past week - dinners and tastings, visitors from other lands, and it was all topped off by the kind of weather that gives people that live on the Connectricut shoreline bragging rights. Thanks to everyone that was a part of it.
• We have to start this week by saying thank you to everyone that attended the Taste of Chesapeake Maryland Cuisine Dinner -
And especially to Chef Buddy Suek - it was a night to remember. Buddy was able to preside over the evening with panache and skill and has ruined any chance of finding crab cakes that will match what he served that night without driving to Maryland. Thanks.
• This time of year brings a lot of change with it - for us it means changing menus, new portfolio tastings, and new faces, and New London offers a variety of activities for everyone with events like Boats, Books, Brushes, Jazz & Blues - for details go here: http://newlondonmainstreet.org/events/bbjb2007.php
• Our Wednesday dinners welcome back Anne Haviland
starting this week -
Endless Summer Wine Dinners -
The Search For The Perfect Wine.
Anne sources all of the fruits, vegetables, and deserts from local farms and markets and of course there is wine served with each course.
Seating is limited - $50 plus tax and service -
please reserve early - 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3
Here are a few highlights:
8/22 - Herb Rubbed Sirloin
With local Farmers Market greens for the salad with roasted hazelnuts, bing cherries, and St Marcellin cheese.
The steak is local from Old Lyme's Four Mile River Farm, and native peaches grilled with Mascarpone for dessert.
9/5 - Grilled Veal Chops with fresh basil gremolata.
9/12 - Butterflied Leg of Lamb with tomato fennel vinaigrette
9/19 - Grilled Salmon with green olive relish and capers.
August 29 - Cult Wine Dinner Series - Pinot Noir - Sold Out - Thank you.
Dave's Fave - Monday Tasting
Domaine Monpertuis Cotes du Rhone 2005 $16
Dave Says:
"I know your first question - how can a bass player afford to drink wine from one of the most prestigious houses in France? And the second: "You mean I too can taste the 2005 vintage already?"
Answer one: We tasted the Monpertuis Chateauneuf du Pape and it blew us away. Just a bit out of my price range though... Luckily, they make sub-$20 table wine - when I saw this Cotes du Rhone I jumped all over it and it's AWESOME.
Answer two: that's right - the big 2005 guns haven't been released yet, but judging by their little brother here, the vintage should live up to the hype!
Wine Tasting Please Join Us Friday August 24 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Valdivieso reserve Chardonnay 2004 $15
Viña Valdivieso dates back to 1879 when Alberto Valdivieso founded Champagne Valdivieso, the first company in Chile and South America to make sparkling wine. More than a hundred years later in the late 1980s, the company expanded in a new direction when it began commercial production of still wines, as Viña Valdivieso, in their Curicó Valley winery in Lontué. This wine puts the potential of the Casablanca Valley on display, with the complex and intense flavor and structure from the slow ripening that is possible in the coastal climate. This is a nice, full bodied New World Chardonnay with appley/lemony fruit and a touch of spice and a bite of acidity.
Great value for money - try it on Friday - even if you always say "I don't like chardonnay."
2 - Ostertag Pinot Blanc 2004 $20
This particular wine has routinely been rated in the high 80's and it is a Kermit Lynch selection - I would have to say that we routinely rate the Kermit Lynch wines at the top of our charts. The back story: Andre Ostertag studied in Burgundy and on his return decided to cut the yield on the estate from 120 hectolitres of wine per hectare to a mere 50! Since 1998 the 13-hectare estate has been run along biodynamic principles and the grapes are hand-harvested. The low yields and care taken in the vineyard make for fantastic wine quality.
"Since young Andre Ostertag took over his family's vineyards, he has done everything except shoot the directore of CIVA. (Committee Interprofessionnel du Vins d'Alsace.) He is both admired and avoided within Alsace itself for his open-minded, green-minded quality-conscious philosophy, which results in wines that range from sensational to positively bizarre. I cannot remember ever having an ordinary or uninteresting wine from this producer, although not a few have shocked me, for even his failures are extraordinary. I have never had an Ostertag wine that lacked richness, but in his search for the ultimate style by using only the most natural of means and through the severe restriction of yield, his efforts have occasionally created wines that have been curiously balanced, over opulent or excessively oaky." - Kermit Lynch. - - This is really a great example of handcrafted quality. Please try it on Friday night.
3 - Lucien Crochet Sancerre Rouge " La Croix du Roy" 2004 $35
The Crochet domaine evolved through the marriage of the Crochet and Picard families, and began vineyards in the Sancerre district as early as 1765.
It was the great-grandfather of Lucien Crochet who first installed that part of the family in the region and it was in 1934 that the first bottling of wines occurred at the domaine. The domaine now is under the direction of Lucien Crochet and his son, Gilles. The 2001 Lucien Crochet Sancerre La Croix du Roy was rated 89 points by Steven Tanzer - "Bright, pale color. Highly complex, musky nose hints at quinine, underripe peach and flowers. Pure and penetrating; very dry but nicely ripe and not at all rigid. Shows a strong grapefruit flavor - Classic Sancerre."
This is imported in very small numbers, something like 1500 cases for the entire country - we have it, and I hope you will try it this week.
4 - Penfolds RWT 2002 $85 Red Winemaking Trial www.penfolds.com
The name of Penfolds brings people out of the woodwork. The vineyard holds so many awards and high scoring numbers that it is almost impossible to list them all. And they deserve the accolades. This is one of the wines that has made Australian wine production famous and a world leader. This is a lot of money for a bottle of wine - however, it is still a bargain. They have been making wine for over 160 years and you can taste the expertise in every glass.
This will go quickly, don't wait until the last minute to try it.
Thanks for all of the support - we appreciate it.
This is a great time of year - remember, you can always set your TiVo to record that marathon of Ice Road Truckers - get out of the house, and come into town.
Please join us. It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
Please say hello the next time you are in the store.
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 night - the list is just below a couple of items of interest.
• It was a lot of fun this past week - dinners and tastings, visitors from other lands, and it was all topped off by the kind of weather that gives people that live on the Connectricut shoreline bragging rights. Thanks to everyone that was a part of it.
• We have to start this week by saying thank you to everyone that attended the Taste of Chesapeake Maryland Cuisine Dinner -
And especially to Chef Buddy Suek - it was a night to remember. Buddy was able to preside over the evening with panache and skill and has ruined any chance of finding crab cakes that will match what he served that night without driving to Maryland. Thanks.
• This time of year brings a lot of change with it - for us it means changing menus, new portfolio tastings, and new faces, and New London offers a variety of activities for everyone with events like Boats, Books, Brushes, Jazz & Blues - for details go here: http://newlondonmainstreet.org/events/bbjb2007.php
• Our Wednesday dinners welcome back Anne Haviland
starting this week -
Endless Summer Wine Dinners -
The Search For The Perfect Wine.
Anne sources all of the fruits, vegetables, and deserts from local farms and markets and of course there is wine served with each course.
Seating is limited - $50 plus tax and service -
please reserve early - 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3
Here are a few highlights:
8/22 - Herb Rubbed Sirloin
With local Farmers Market greens for the salad with roasted hazelnuts, bing cherries, and St Marcellin cheese.
The steak is local from Old Lyme's Four Mile River Farm, and native peaches grilled with Mascarpone for dessert.
9/5 - Grilled Veal Chops with fresh basil gremolata.
9/12 - Butterflied Leg of Lamb with tomato fennel vinaigrette
9/19 - Grilled Salmon with green olive relish and capers.
August 29 - Cult Wine Dinner Series - Pinot Noir - Sold Out - Thank you.
Dave's Fave - Monday Tasting
Domaine Monpertuis Cotes du Rhone 2005 $16
Dave Says:
"I know your first question - how can a bass player afford to drink wine from one of the most prestigious houses in France? And the second: "You mean I too can taste the 2005 vintage already?"
Answer one: We tasted the Monpertuis Chateauneuf du Pape and it blew us away. Just a bit out of my price range though... Luckily, they make sub-$20 table wine - when I saw this Cotes du Rhone I jumped all over it and it's AWESOME.
Answer two: that's right - the big 2005 guns haven't been released yet, but judging by their little brother here, the vintage should live up to the hype!
Wine Tasting Please Join Us Friday August 24 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Valdivieso reserve Chardonnay 2004 $15
Viña Valdivieso dates back to 1879 when Alberto Valdivieso founded Champagne Valdivieso, the first company in Chile and South America to make sparkling wine. More than a hundred years later in the late 1980s, the company expanded in a new direction when it began commercial production of still wines, as Viña Valdivieso, in their Curicó Valley winery in Lontué. This wine puts the potential of the Casablanca Valley on display, with the complex and intense flavor and structure from the slow ripening that is possible in the coastal climate. This is a nice, full bodied New World Chardonnay with appley/lemony fruit and a touch of spice and a bite of acidity.
Great value for money - try it on Friday - even if you always say "I don't like chardonnay."
2 - Ostertag Pinot Blanc 2004 $20
This particular wine has routinely been rated in the high 80's and it is a Kermit Lynch selection - I would have to say that we routinely rate the Kermit Lynch wines at the top of our charts. The back story: Andre Ostertag studied in Burgundy and on his return decided to cut the yield on the estate from 120 hectolitres of wine per hectare to a mere 50! Since 1998 the 13-hectare estate has been run along biodynamic principles and the grapes are hand-harvested. The low yields and care taken in the vineyard make for fantastic wine quality.
"Since young Andre Ostertag took over his family's vineyards, he has done everything except shoot the directore of CIVA. (Committee Interprofessionnel du Vins d'Alsace.) He is both admired and avoided within Alsace itself for his open-minded, green-minded quality-conscious philosophy, which results in wines that range from sensational to positively bizarre. I cannot remember ever having an ordinary or uninteresting wine from this producer, although not a few have shocked me, for even his failures are extraordinary. I have never had an Ostertag wine that lacked richness, but in his search for the ultimate style by using only the most natural of means and through the severe restriction of yield, his efforts have occasionally created wines that have been curiously balanced, over opulent or excessively oaky." - Kermit Lynch. - - This is really a great example of handcrafted quality. Please try it on Friday night.
3 - Lucien Crochet Sancerre Rouge " La Croix du Roy" 2004 $35
The Crochet domaine evolved through the marriage of the Crochet and Picard families, and began vineyards in the Sancerre district as early as 1765.
It was the great-grandfather of Lucien Crochet who first installed that part of the family in the region and it was in 1934 that the first bottling of wines occurred at the domaine. The domaine now is under the direction of Lucien Crochet and his son, Gilles. The 2001 Lucien Crochet Sancerre La Croix du Roy was rated 89 points by Steven Tanzer - "Bright, pale color. Highly complex, musky nose hints at quinine, underripe peach and flowers. Pure and penetrating; very dry but nicely ripe and not at all rigid. Shows a strong grapefruit flavor - Classic Sancerre."
This is imported in very small numbers, something like 1500 cases for the entire country - we have it, and I hope you will try it this week.
4 - Penfolds RWT 2002 $85 Red Winemaking Trial www.penfolds.com
The name of Penfolds brings people out of the woodwork. The vineyard holds so many awards and high scoring numbers that it is almost impossible to list them all. And they deserve the accolades. This is one of the wines that has made Australian wine production famous and a world leader. This is a lot of money for a bottle of wine - however, it is still a bargain. They have been making wine for over 160 years and you can taste the expertise in every glass.
This will go quickly, don't wait until the last minute to try it.
Thanks for all of the support - we appreciate it.
This is a great time of year - remember, you can always set your TiVo to record that marathon of Ice Road Truckers - get out of the house, and come into town.
Please join us. It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
Please say hello the next time you are in the store.
AAA.
Monday, August 13, 2007
Montecillo Rioja Crianza, Ceretto Arneis "Blange" , Tenuta San Leone Bardolino Superiore, Perrini Primitivo, Mas de Can Blau, Juan Gil
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 will get right to the list of wine for Friday night - just below these items of interest.
• August 15 - A Taste of Chesapeake Maryland Cuisine - Sold Out, Thank you.
• The Scotch & Cigar evening on Thursday August 23 is Sold Out - Thank You.
• For those of you that have been waiting: The 2002 Penfolds Grange has just arrived. It took a modest price increase and is now $255 a bottle just 6 bottles available - first come, first served.
Dave's Fave - Monday Tasting - 8/13/07
"Montecillo Rioja Crianza 2003 $12
Dave Says: "This takes me back to the days when my buddy Patrick and I would sit around broke with a bottle or two of Montecillo, a hunk of cheese and a crusty baguette for dinner. The murky midwinter boredom would slowly lift as the Rioja kicked in and we reviewed the great Miles Davis quintets. Ahh, but that was a simpler time, back in 2004.
This little number was still in oak casks way back then (for the "Crianza" designation, reds must see a minimum two years age --one in oak and one in the bottle). It's a spicy, lighter-bodied Tempranillo, ruby red and smoky. Come on in and try a taste Monday afternoon!"
Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday August 17 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Ceretto Arneis "Blange" 2006 $18
This is a traditional Piemontese white with a twist. Arneis produces a wine with very low acidity in good years and virtually no acidity at all in off years. Italians are not used to this, and to correct the problem Ceretto ferments the wine in sealed tanks that capture the CO2 given off. This CO2 is kept with the wine until bottling, and the wine consequently has a light sparkle to it that makes it considerably livelier than it would be otherwise.
Wine Makers Notes: "It's a pale greenish yellow, and has a surprisingly delicate bouquet, with some pleasant yeasty smells from the sparkle, and also hints of butterscotch. On the palate it is zesty, with nice fruit, and rather tart -- an impression produced by the CO2, because once it has bubbled away the acidity is much reduced. The finish is clean, with faint butterscotch notes. Again, a wine for fish, though in this case things that are not quite so elaborate -- say grilled sea bass. I think it would also go well with vegetable-based dishes. Clean fresh fruits with nuances of lemon zeal. Bright flavors and powerful, with a long elegant finish."
2 - Tenuta San Leone Bardolino Superiore 2005 $14
Italian Verone Winemaker Luigi Rizzi ages this wine with double the skin contact to produce a rich, supple wine with more plumpness and flavor than you would ever expect! This is a great value - and it deserves your attention on Friday night.
3 - Perrini Primitivo 2004 $16
The ancient ancestor of Zinfandel from southern Italy, the immigration from this part of southern Italy to California in the 19th and early 20th c. is the reason that California has such old Zinfandel vines . People brought what they had and over the years Primitivo evolved into Zinfandel. This wine is certified organic by ICEA. It has smooth cherry and blackberry aromas and an easy finish - enjoy it on friday night.
4 - Mas de Can Blau 2004 $45 - Rated 92 points -
POW! - this is a show stopper from Spain. And even at $45 it is a steal.
This is what Robert Parker's Wine Advocate said about this wine:
"The 2004 Mas de Can Blau, the first vintage of this cuvee, comes from the estate’s oldest Carinena, Garnacha, and Syrah vines. It received malolactic fermentation in barrel, was aged for 20 months in new French oak, and bottled unfiltered. Dark ruby/purple-colored, it offers a flamboyant nose of pain grille, scorched earth, tar, and kirsch. Full-bodied with a supple texture, the wine has layers of sweet fruit, nicely integrated oak, tannin, and acidity, in its racy personality. Drink this outgoing wine over the next 8-10 years." Be sure to try this wine on Friday night.
While I am on the subject of Spanish wine - I want to mention that we have recently received the 2005 vintage of a particular favorite of ours.
The 2005 Juan Gil is on the shelf and it is amazing. Robert Parker has consistently rated this wine in the 90's, and this vintage will be no exception.
We had the pleasure of being in Spain at the vineyard in Jumilla when the first grapes for the 2005 vintage arrived at the bodega for crushing.
(see photos here: http://thamesriver.com/wine/photos.html ) -
Visit their website here: http://www.juangil.es/ing/index.htm
We were standing in the warm sunshine and the tarp covering the old wooden wagon was pulled back. Vineyard owner Miguel Gil plucked a few grapes from the pile and handed them to us. We all ate the sweet, juicy, warm fruit - and I remember thinking to myself that "these are the best grapes I have ever tasted" - Then, Miguel looked at us and said that these were the best grapes he had tasted in the last ten years - "this will be a great vintage" - he said.
At $16 a bottle it has to be one of the best values we have ever offered. Ask for it, give it a try, you will not be disappointed. And as you take that first sip or two, imagine that you are standing in the warm spanish sunshine - it feels so good, don't you agree?
Thanks for all of your support - we appreciate it.
We have new programs and events that are about to be posted - please keep your eye on the Calendar & Events page of the website, and of course right here in the weekly email.
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
We will get right to the list of wine for Friday night - just below these items of interest.
• August 15 - A Taste of Chesapeake Maryland Cuisine - Sold Out, Thank you.
• The Scotch & Cigar evening on Thursday August 23 is Sold Out - Thank You.
• For those of you that have been waiting: The 2002 Penfolds Grange has just arrived. It took a modest price increase and is now $255 a bottle just 6 bottles available - first come, first served.
Dave's Fave - Monday Tasting - 8/13/07
"Montecillo Rioja Crianza 2003 $12
Dave Says: "This takes me back to the days when my buddy Patrick and I would sit around broke with a bottle or two of Montecillo, a hunk of cheese and a crusty baguette for dinner. The murky midwinter boredom would slowly lift as the Rioja kicked in and we reviewed the great Miles Davis quintets. Ahh, but that was a simpler time, back in 2004.
This little number was still in oak casks way back then (for the "Crianza" designation, reds must see a minimum two years age --one in oak and one in the bottle). It's a spicy, lighter-bodied Tempranillo, ruby red and smoky. Come on in and try a taste Monday afternoon!"
Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday August 17 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Ceretto Arneis "Blange" 2006 $18
This is a traditional Piemontese white with a twist. Arneis produces a wine with very low acidity in good years and virtually no acidity at all in off years. Italians are not used to this, and to correct the problem Ceretto ferments the wine in sealed tanks that capture the CO2 given off. This CO2 is kept with the wine until bottling, and the wine consequently has a light sparkle to it that makes it considerably livelier than it would be otherwise.
Wine Makers Notes: "It's a pale greenish yellow, and has a surprisingly delicate bouquet, with some pleasant yeasty smells from the sparkle, and also hints of butterscotch. On the palate it is zesty, with nice fruit, and rather tart -- an impression produced by the CO2, because once it has bubbled away the acidity is much reduced. The finish is clean, with faint butterscotch notes. Again, a wine for fish, though in this case things that are not quite so elaborate -- say grilled sea bass. I think it would also go well with vegetable-based dishes. Clean fresh fruits with nuances of lemon zeal. Bright flavors and powerful, with a long elegant finish."
2 - Tenuta San Leone Bardolino Superiore 2005 $14
Italian Verone Winemaker Luigi Rizzi ages this wine with double the skin contact to produce a rich, supple wine with more plumpness and flavor than you would ever expect! This is a great value - and it deserves your attention on Friday night.
3 - Perrini Primitivo 2004 $16
The ancient ancestor of Zinfandel from southern Italy, the immigration from this part of southern Italy to California in the 19th and early 20th c. is the reason that California has such old Zinfandel vines . People brought what they had and over the years Primitivo evolved into Zinfandel. This wine is certified organic by ICEA. It has smooth cherry and blackberry aromas and an easy finish - enjoy it on friday night.
4 - Mas de Can Blau 2004 $45 - Rated 92 points -
POW! - this is a show stopper from Spain. And even at $45 it is a steal.
This is what Robert Parker's Wine Advocate said about this wine:
"The 2004 Mas de Can Blau, the first vintage of this cuvee, comes from the estate’s oldest Carinena, Garnacha, and Syrah vines. It received malolactic fermentation in barrel, was aged for 20 months in new French oak, and bottled unfiltered. Dark ruby/purple-colored, it offers a flamboyant nose of pain grille, scorched earth, tar, and kirsch. Full-bodied with a supple texture, the wine has layers of sweet fruit, nicely integrated oak, tannin, and acidity, in its racy personality. Drink this outgoing wine over the next 8-10 years." Be sure to try this wine on Friday night.
While I am on the subject of Spanish wine - I want to mention that we have recently received the 2005 vintage of a particular favorite of ours.
The 2005 Juan Gil is on the shelf and it is amazing. Robert Parker has consistently rated this wine in the 90's, and this vintage will be no exception.
We had the pleasure of being in Spain at the vineyard in Jumilla when the first grapes for the 2005 vintage arrived at the bodega for crushing.
(see photos here: http://thamesriver.com/wine/photos.html ) -
Visit their website here: http://www.juangil.es/ing/index.htm
We were standing in the warm sunshine and the tarp covering the old wooden wagon was pulled back. Vineyard owner Miguel Gil plucked a few grapes from the pile and handed them to us. We all ate the sweet, juicy, warm fruit - and I remember thinking to myself that "these are the best grapes I have ever tasted" - Then, Miguel looked at us and said that these were the best grapes he had tasted in the last ten years - "this will be a great vintage" - he said.
At $16 a bottle it has to be one of the best values we have ever offered. Ask for it, give it a try, you will not be disappointed. And as you take that first sip or two, imagine that you are standing in the warm spanish sunshine - it feels so good, don't you agree?
Thanks for all of your support - we appreciate it.
We have new programs and events that are about to be posted - please keep your eye on the Calendar & Events page of the website, and of course right here in the weekly email.
Please Join Us - it's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Monday, August 06, 2007
Carmen Reserve, Chateau Montelena, Arcadian Sleepy Hollow, K Vintners Milbrandt Syrah
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
Staying cool this week was a chore - BUT
people found it easy with a glass of wine in our cool dark cellar.
We have a great line up for Friday, including some very hard to find Pinot Noir -
The list is just below a few items of interest.
• Remember that Books, Tugs, & Sails is coming on Saturday August 11 - from 11 - 6 p.m.
Meet the authors, see the boats, lots to do and see for the whole family.
I would like to mention one author in particular. Anna Troiano - about a year ago at one of our wine dinners, she said to me that she was writing a children's book. Well she finished it: Mystical MerFairies is on the shelf and if you get the chance please visit her at the event. And check out her website here: http://storiesbyanna.com/
Books, Tugs, & Sails Website: http://newlondonmainstreet.org/events/fishtales2007.php
• August 15 - A Taste of Chesapeake Maryland Cuisine - Sold Out, thank you.
• Join us on Wednesday the 22nd.
That's when our own Anne Haviland returns with Herb Rubbed Four Mile River Farm Sirloin, and a host of Farmers Market goodies to satisfy.
Of course there will be wine with each course - seating is limited - please call early to reserve - 860-443-9463
Dave's Fave - Monday Wine Tasting
Zeni Pinot Grigio Ramato $12
Dave:
"That's not a typo - our everpresent favorite Italian blush had a price drop and it's the exact same delicious wine it's always been!
Fear not the pink wine folks, this a fun crisp summer bottle, still bone dry, just a little weightier and fruity than it's yellow brethren.
A couple weeks ago a woman came into the shop and exclaimed, "I've only seen this before in Italy! I asked around and people told me there was no such thing..." Ohhh but there is such a thing, available in Italy and right here in New London. Try it Monday afternoon, the tasting starts whenever you show up!"
Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday August 10 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Carmen Reserve Chardonnay 2004 $12 www.carmen.com
Viña Carmen was founded in 1850 by Christian Lanz, who named the winery in honor to his beloved wife Carmen. Carmen has been recognised for its quality and for being a pioneer in the Chilean wine industry. Today, Viña Carmen is one of the most important Chilean wineries in the premium wine segment. A bright yellow green color. Nice aromas of mango, melon, lime and grapefruits with touches of toast and vanilla. Soft and ripe fruits; plenty of tropical fruits flavors and a mineral acidity. A nice concentration and a long finish. Light and creamy cheeses, pastas with vegetable sauces, backed fish as seabass and of course seafood.
2 - Chateau Montelena Chardonnay 2005 $40 www.montelena.com
In 1976 Chateau Montelena put California at the forefront of the wine world. That year a who's-who of the French wine and food establishment gathered for a grand tasting at the Inter-Continental Hotel in Paris. Four white Burgundies were tasted against six California Chardonnays. When the scores were tallied, the French Judges were convinced that the top-ranking white wine was one of their own. In fact, it was Chateau Montelena's 1973 Chardonnay, rated above all other wines.
Winemaker's Notes:
"The 2005 Vintage was excellent for ripening weather, crop yield and juice quality resulting in ideal conditions for flavor and fruit chemistry development. In fact, for the entire season we enjoyed a very mild and overall good weather pattern. In the end it was a fun, smooth running and all-around great harvest where everything just clicked."
3 - Arcadian Sleepy Hollow Pinot Noir 2001 $50
According to the winery there are only TWO restaurants in the state that offer this wine.
It is very hard to find.
Rated 90+ points by Steven Tanzer
Famed winemaker Joe Davis recently said this about his wine and his competitors:
"They're making Anna Nicole Smith, we're making Michelle Pfeiffer".
Or his wry smile as he recounts an old French saying -
"Cabernet throws you down and rips your clothes off, and pinot noir subtly convinces you to take them off yourself."
Arcadian makes some of the most elegant and feminine wines the Central Coast has to offer.
We are pleased to bring you this carefully selected, collectible wine.
Please try it on Friday night.
It will go fast, so keep that in mind as you make your plans for the night - stop by early.
4 - K Vintners Milbrandt Syrah 2004 $36
Wine Spectator rated this wine 89 points. Wine Enthusiast gave it 91 points.
Only 720 cases of this were produced -
thats it, for the entire world - and we have some right here.
But wait, it gets better - they actually stomp these grapes by foot!
The Seattle Times: "Another aromatic and pure expression of tangy berry fruit, enlivened with scents of smoke, meat and black olive.
Balanced and taut, supple and delicious."
We have been fans of this vineyard for a long time - they know what hey are doing and they set the bar very high for what they are producing.
I encourage you to try this on Friday night - it will not disappoint.
Thanks for all of your support - we appreciate it.
We hope to see you on Friday night -
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
Staying cool this week was a chore - BUT
people found it easy with a glass of wine in our cool dark cellar.
We have a great line up for Friday, including some very hard to find Pinot Noir -
The list is just below a few items of interest.
• Remember that Books, Tugs, & Sails is coming on Saturday August 11 - from 11 - 6 p.m.
Meet the authors, see the boats, lots to do and see for the whole family.
I would like to mention one author in particular. Anna Troiano - about a year ago at one of our wine dinners, she said to me that she was writing a children's book. Well she finished it: Mystical MerFairies is on the shelf and if you get the chance please visit her at the event. And check out her website here: http://storiesbyanna.com/
Books, Tugs, & Sails Website: http://newlondonmainstreet.org/events/fishtales2007.php
• August 15 - A Taste of Chesapeake Maryland Cuisine - Sold Out, thank you.
• Join us on Wednesday the 22nd.
That's when our own Anne Haviland returns with Herb Rubbed Four Mile River Farm Sirloin, and a host of Farmers Market goodies to satisfy.
Of course there will be wine with each course - seating is limited - please call early to reserve - 860-443-9463
Dave's Fave - Monday Wine Tasting
Zeni Pinot Grigio Ramato $12
Dave:
"That's not a typo - our everpresent favorite Italian blush had a price drop and it's the exact same delicious wine it's always been!
Fear not the pink wine folks, this a fun crisp summer bottle, still bone dry, just a little weightier and fruity than it's yellow brethren.
A couple weeks ago a woman came into the shop and exclaimed, "I've only seen this before in Italy! I asked around and people told me there was no such thing..." Ohhh but there is such a thing, available in Italy and right here in New London. Try it Monday afternoon, the tasting starts whenever you show up!"
Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday August 10 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Carmen Reserve Chardonnay 2004 $12 www.carmen.com
Viña Carmen was founded in 1850 by Christian Lanz, who named the winery in honor to his beloved wife Carmen. Carmen has been recognised for its quality and for being a pioneer in the Chilean wine industry. Today, Viña Carmen is one of the most important Chilean wineries in the premium wine segment. A bright yellow green color. Nice aromas of mango, melon, lime and grapefruits with touches of toast and vanilla. Soft and ripe fruits; plenty of tropical fruits flavors and a mineral acidity. A nice concentration and a long finish. Light and creamy cheeses, pastas with vegetable sauces, backed fish as seabass and of course seafood.
2 - Chateau Montelena Chardonnay 2005 $40 www.montelena.com
In 1976 Chateau Montelena put California at the forefront of the wine world. That year a who's-who of the French wine and food establishment gathered for a grand tasting at the Inter-Continental Hotel in Paris. Four white Burgundies were tasted against six California Chardonnays. When the scores were tallied, the French Judges were convinced that the top-ranking white wine was one of their own. In fact, it was Chateau Montelena's 1973 Chardonnay, rated above all other wines.
Winemaker's Notes:
"The 2005 Vintage was excellent for ripening weather, crop yield and juice quality resulting in ideal conditions for flavor and fruit chemistry development. In fact, for the entire season we enjoyed a very mild and overall good weather pattern. In the end it was a fun, smooth running and all-around great harvest where everything just clicked."
3 - Arcadian Sleepy Hollow Pinot Noir 2001 $50
According to the winery there are only TWO restaurants in the state that offer this wine.
It is very hard to find.
Rated 90+ points by Steven Tanzer
Famed winemaker Joe Davis recently said this about his wine and his competitors:
"They're making Anna Nicole Smith, we're making Michelle Pfeiffer".
Or his wry smile as he recounts an old French saying -
"Cabernet throws you down and rips your clothes off, and pinot noir subtly convinces you to take them off yourself."
Arcadian makes some of the most elegant and feminine wines the Central Coast has to offer.
We are pleased to bring you this carefully selected, collectible wine.
Please try it on Friday night.
It will go fast, so keep that in mind as you make your plans for the night - stop by early.
4 - K Vintners Milbrandt Syrah 2004 $36
Wine Spectator rated this wine 89 points. Wine Enthusiast gave it 91 points.
Only 720 cases of this were produced -
thats it, for the entire world - and we have some right here.
But wait, it gets better - they actually stomp these grapes by foot!
The Seattle Times: "Another aromatic and pure expression of tangy berry fruit, enlivened with scents of smoke, meat and black olive.
Balanced and taut, supple and delicious."
We have been fans of this vineyard for a long time - they know what hey are doing and they set the bar very high for what they are producing.
I encourage you to try this on Friday night - it will not disappoint.
Thanks for all of your support - we appreciate it.
We hope to see you on Friday night -
Please Join Us. It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
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