Greetings from all of us in New London,
www.thamesriver.com
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
IMPORT - 860-443-6817
City News - coming soon
Shop On Line Page: http://thamesriver.com/wine/instock.html
Calendar Page: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
It was a fantastic Thanksgiving, thanks for all of your support and warm wishes. We have a nice line up for you on Friday night - including some pricey bottles that may find their way to your holiday tables. The list is just below a few items of interest.
• We will be open late - until 9 p.m. - every day except Sunday - right through all of the holidays.
• We are your passport to world's great food and wine regions - and we are right here and open late when you need us.We especially want to remind you that we have some remarkable gifts and gift baskets that can be delivered to friends and family with just one call. And we would like to you take a look at our shop on line page - there are items there that any wine lover will find irresistible. Take a look here: http://thamesriver.com/wine/instock.html
• You really need to pop into IMPORT to take a look. Unique gifts, home furnishings, and wonderful necessities, now decorated for the holidays and we will keep it open late every Thursday until 9 p.m. - for that matter all of London's Merchants will be open for your strolling and shopping pleasure.
Start your evening at Brie & Bleu nibble at the cheese samples, have a glass of wine, maybe order an appetizer or dinner, and then go for a little walk. Get some fresh air and visit the downtown merchants that are open late on Thursdays for holiday shopping.
• Saturday December 1st - Seven ballerinas will be performing this year in Ballet on Display thanks to the overwhelming generosity of ECB who will be providing free previews of The Nutcracker in several of State Street's storefront windows. The special window performances will begin at 5:15 pm and will end at approximately 5:45 PM. Appearance windows will include Thames River Greenery & Beanery, City News , IMPORT, and ALVA Gallery. Performances will include dances by the Snow Queen, Mirliton Princess, and Flower, plus Chinese and Spanish ensembles. Watch as Live Ballerinas Dance in selected windows downtown. Presented by New London Main Street - this is a magical performance and fantastic for kids.
More details here: http://newlondonmainstreet.org/events/lightsandsong2007.php
• Our Special Champagne Tasting Dec 10th is sold out - thank you.
But for those of you in need of Champagne remember that we carry over 20 Grower Producer Champagnes, the largest collections in Connecticut. And other Sparkling wines from Spain , Italy , The Loire Valley, Oregon, Long Island , and New Mexico - that's right, New Mexico. You have to try it.
Learn more here: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
Just click on the picture of Terry Theise and the WineRadio episode about Grower Champagne.
"Dave's Fave" - MONDAY TASTING - No Charge
Chateau de Pizay Morgon 2006 $12
Please visit our own David Anderson and try his latest selection.
Dave Says: "You're never going to get a wine that does everything for you forever for twelve bucks. What you can get for twelve bucks is the perfect wine for a day, or a meal, or a certain group of friends, or even just your end-of-day mood - a charming wine that just makes you happy - I love this."
"Now let's get this out in the open: Morgon is -wince- Beaujolais. But everybody, including The Guy in The Movie, loves Pinot Noir, right? The Gamay grape, from Southern Burgundy, is absolutely in the same sphere. Do I know the ratings or points on this little number? No clue. But I do know I brought this to some of my best friends for Thanksgiving and immediately got "this is great," "tastes like berries and cream," and all was good." - Stop in on Monday and let Dave show you what he is talking about.
Wine Tasting - Please Join Us
Friday November 30 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Adelsheim Pinot Gris 2006 $19
Some of you may have met David Adelsheim when he made a visit to our store. David was also one of the first guest's that we had on our WineRadio show. The entire family really cares about making the best wine possible - after all, their name is on every label.
Pinot Gris, originating in Burgundy like the other members of the Pinot family, has had a long history all over Europe. Oregon winegrowers introduced Pinot gris to New World viticulture and in forty years the variety has become the white wine of Oregon. Adelsheim Vineyard can lay claim to being one of the very oldest producers of this variety outside of Europe. With this wine, their 23rd vintage, the experience shows – they have long been acknowledged as producing a reference standard for the “Oregon style”.
This is how their winemaker describes the 2006 vintage: "Crisp, bright flavors have always been the hallmark of Adelsheim Pinot gris. In this 2006, you’ll find beautifully delineated Bosc pear, white peach, and Winesap apple, with a touch of spice. It pulls off the difficult feat of providing a gentle creaminess that lends a mouth-filling texture and long finish, yet still impressing as a wine that’s crisp and clean. Try it with mildly spicy foods (such as ceviche), not so mildly spicy Thai cuisine, rich fish entrees, and even classic oven-roasted fowl."
2 - Archery Summit Arcus Estate Pinot Noir 2004 $90
With some of the oldest Pinot Noir vines in the Willamette Valley, Arcus Estate vineyard beautifully expresses the terroir of the valley’s Dundee Hills. Saturated with fruit, this wine shows great depth and is luscious with plush, integrated tannins and notes of vanilla bean and fresh berries that persist through the finish. It is a wine that is made in tiny amounts and doled out carefully in scanty portions by stingy distributors. You will find this wine in fancy restaurants with three digit pricing - but you can try with us for free this friday night.
3 - Steele Stymie Merlot 2002 $45
From the label: " Stymie was one of the most famous race horses in American history. Once Stymie gained a lead, he would never relinquish it . So dramatic was his racing that his name became an offical word in our vocabulary . To " stymie " someone is to never let them advance. It was a winning wager on Stymie by my father that gave him the capital to move our entire family from New York to San Francisco in 1950. The Steele-Stymie is reserved for our rarest, small production wines of the highest quality." This superb Merlot is the perfect “special occasion” wine and pairs well with big hearty foods. Exceptional with any preparation of lamb or beef, steaks, cherry-wood grilled venison chops, ragout, and any other full-flavored dish. And you will be missing out if you don’t try this Merlot with chocolate." Please try this wine on Friday night - it is worth your attention.
4 - Alonso del Yerro Ribera del Duero "Maria" 2005 $60
Robert Parker has rated the 2004 vintage 96 points. And this is what he had to say: "From high elevation vines, the Alonso del Yerro Maria represents a strict selection of the winery’s finest barrels. Aged sur-lie for 18 months with frequent batonnage, it is one of the finest Ribera del Dueros I have tasted over the last year. A deep purple color is followed by scents of espresso, creme de cassis, scorched earth, and pain grille. It reveals the lushness and silky texture of a great Pomerol married to a Spanish personality. Full-bodied and rich, but light on its feet, this beauty can be drunk now and over the next decade. This superb offering suggests this producer from the somewhat over-crowded Ribera del Duero appellation deserves consumers’ attention. No other than the great French winemaking guru, Stephane Derenoncourt, oversees the viticulture and winemaking at this estate." This will go quickly - but if you can arrive before it is gone you will have the opportunity to try a truly exceptional wine, we hope you can join us.
The holidays are stressful and full of obligation. Our goal is to make your shopping as easy as possible at all of our stores. We are happy to take orders, direct your calls, and make arrangements for wrapping and delivery to your friends and family with just one call.
8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 6 8 1 7. That is the main number for Thames River Greenery. We can handle just about any request from that main number - whether it is a single greeting card or a corporate order for 200 wine and cheese baskets - just say the word. You shop, we will wrap and deliver.
Thanks for your great support and all of the calls and email - we all appreciate the comments and suggestions - we are listening.
Please Join us, it's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend. We hope to see you on Friday night.
AAA.
Sunday, November 25, 2007
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Thanksgiving Edition - 2007 - Foreau Vouvray, L'Ecole no. 41, Tenuta San Leone Amarone , Buty Winery - Rediviva of the Stones
Greetings from all of us inNew London,
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
IMPORT - 860-443-6817
City News - Coming Soon
www.ThamesRiver.com
This is the Thanksgiving Edition - and there is so much to prepare for this week - that we will mention just a few items of interest before the list of wine for Friday night.
• First, we have gotten a lot of questions about our schedule for the holiday:
We will be open - Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday from 10 a.m. until 9 p.m. -
And we are on call for you to bring in your menus and recipe ideas so that we might match it with the perfect wine for each dish. We even have ideas for the perfect "welcome to our home" glass of wine. Of course we have great Kosher selections and a complete selection of beer and spirits too.
• There is no doubt that the Nouveau Beaujolais craze is alive and well - even though it has cooled a bit over the past year or so there are still plenty of us that wait for the new release with excitement and stock up accordingly. There is however something else you should know about. You need to know what the Italians have been drinking instead of Beaujolais for about five hundred years. Our own Dave Anderson has the Italian alternative to share with you this Monday starting at noon. It is a fabulous change of pace at a great price. This is a food wine that you can stock up on and pour with abandon.
Special Monday Tasting with Dave Anderson - Dave's Fave:
Cantine del Colle Novello di Primo Cielo 2007 $9
Dave Says:
"Monday, we're going after a seasonal tradition in our own quirky way - oui, oui "Le Nouveau est Arrivee," but we've also been charmed by Beaujolais Nouveau's Italian counterpart, NOVELLO... Yum out. Bright fruit flavors from this year's harvest in southern Italy. So when big uncle Bob blurts out over the Thanksgiving table, "We're sick of this old stuff, bring us some fresh wine!" BOOM - break out the Novello. We love it, stop by Monday afternoon for a taste!"
• On Wednesday afternoon we welcome our good friends from the Jonathan Edward's Winery in North Stonington. This is our yearly tradition. Our FOURTH annual Jonathan Edwards tasting right here in the store signals Thanksgiving in a big way. The folks at Jonathan Edwards do a fabulous job - we are very happy to continue the holiday tradition with them. Please join us - from 1 - 6 p.m. This year they will feature their Petit Sirah.
• MORE QUESTIONS & ANSWERS:
Q- Can I still book a private party or wine tasting or have a special menu made up for my Holiday or Office Party?
A- YES. We will accommodate you if at all possible - early, late - even on Monday when Brie & Bleu is normally closed. The easiest way to check the dates and your options is to call - 860-443-9463 - any day after 10a.m.
Q- Will you be offering gift baskets and gift wrapping again this year?
A- Yes. We will have a variety of gift basket ideas to choose from and the ability to combine different items from all of our stores into a single basket or gift delivery too. Wine, cheese, flowers, plants, decorative items you name it. You shop - we will dress it, wrap it, ship or deliver it - no fuss, no muss, no messy mop-up.
Please Join Us - Wine Tasting
Friday November 23 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Foreau Vouvray sec 2004 $32
Philippe Foreau is the third generation of the Foreau family to produce Vouvray from this fabled domaine which his grandfather purchased in 1923.
Wine Spectator - "400 cases imported Gorgeous nose of papaya, peach and cream. This fools you into thinking it's a lush wine, but it's really bone-dry, with nervy citrus peel, mineral and chamomile flower notes. Long, minerally finish is precise and resonant." This is amazingly dense and rich in the mouth, with a remarkable elegance and a nearly perfect balance of fruit and acidity. Please give it a whirl on Friday night.
2 - L'Ecole no. 41 Merlot 2004 $30
L'Ecole Nº 41 is known for producing superior quality wines that are rich, flavorful and full-bodied. Stephen Tanzer rated this 87 points
“Good full, deep red. Currant, game, tobacco, chocolate and nutty oak on the nose. Juicy, leanish and suave, with good lift to the currant and spice flavors. Not especially complex but shows good life in the mouth. Finishes with a light dusting of tannins.” ST. I had a bottle of this last night at Brie & Bleu. Our own Kristen Webbers selected it for me to go with the Braised Beef over noodles special - it was luscious. See if it works for you, this Friday night.
3 - Tenuta San Leone Amarone della Valpolicella 2003 $30
This is a deep ruby red with wonderful aromas of cherry, vanilla, and spice. It has a velvety feel with a great body - like a Super Model. This is for pouring into a large glass and serving with a fine roast. Also it would be an excellent companion for conversation - like a Super Model?
4 - Buty Winery - Rediviva of the Stones 2004 $50
This is their most popular and hard to get wine, very, very, very limited production of this vintage. This small Walla Walla winery (it's pronounced "beauty") is on the cutting edge of quality and innovation. Caleb Foster and Nina Buty Foster founded their family business in 2000, but Caleb's winemaking experience dates back a decade. His résumé includes eight years with Rick Small at Woodward Canyon, winemaking positions at Mount Baker Winery and Glen Fiona, and further experience working crush in New Zealand and South Africa. "We could make 10,000 cases tomorrow and sell all of it," says Caleb matter-of-factly. "The demand is there. But we have a new daughter, and we always wanted a very small winery." Then again, he muses, "every market wants more; and the fruit's there to get. So I struggle with that." While he struggles, I suggest you get a bottle or two of Buty, before someone beats you to it. Try something very special this Friday night - it will go quickly.
As always we take great pleasure in sharing the the great wines and spirits of the world with you. We open bottles that for the most part go to collectors, movie stars and diplomats. Why should they have all the fun? You are the stars of our show. Your support, comments and suggestions make us better everyday. Thank you, from all of us. And we hope that you enjoy the holiday with family and friends.
Please Join Us.
It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
IMPORT - 860-443-6817
City News - Coming Soon
www.ThamesRiver.com
This is the Thanksgiving Edition - and there is so much to prepare for this week - that we will mention just a few items of interest before the list of wine for Friday night.
• First, we have gotten a lot of questions about our schedule for the holiday:
We will be open - Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday from 10 a.m. until 9 p.m. -
And we are on call for you to bring in your menus and recipe ideas so that we might match it with the perfect wine for each dish. We even have ideas for the perfect "welcome to our home" glass of wine. Of course we have great Kosher selections and a complete selection of beer and spirits too.
• There is no doubt that the Nouveau Beaujolais craze is alive and well - even though it has cooled a bit over the past year or so there are still plenty of us that wait for the new release with excitement and stock up accordingly. There is however something else you should know about. You need to know what the Italians have been drinking instead of Beaujolais for about five hundred years. Our own Dave Anderson has the Italian alternative to share with you this Monday starting at noon. It is a fabulous change of pace at a great price. This is a food wine that you can stock up on and pour with abandon.
Special Monday Tasting with Dave Anderson - Dave's Fave:
Cantine del Colle Novello di Primo Cielo 2007 $9
Dave Says:
"Monday, we're going after a seasonal tradition in our own quirky way - oui, oui "Le Nouveau est Arrivee," but we've also been charmed by Beaujolais Nouveau's Italian counterpart, NOVELLO... Yum out. Bright fruit flavors from this year's harvest in southern Italy. So when big uncle Bob blurts out over the Thanksgiving table, "We're sick of this old stuff, bring us some fresh wine!" BOOM - break out the Novello. We love it, stop by Monday afternoon for a taste!"
• On Wednesday afternoon we welcome our good friends from the Jonathan Edward's Winery in North Stonington. This is our yearly tradition. Our FOURTH annual Jonathan Edwards tasting right here in the store signals Thanksgiving in a big way. The folks at Jonathan Edwards do a fabulous job - we are very happy to continue the holiday tradition with them. Please join us - from 1 - 6 p.m. This year they will feature their Petit Sirah.
• MORE QUESTIONS & ANSWERS:
Q- Can I still book a private party or wine tasting or have a special menu made up for my Holiday or Office Party?
A- YES. We will accommodate you if at all possible - early, late - even on Monday when Brie & Bleu is normally closed. The easiest way to check the dates and your options is to call - 860-443-9463 - any day after 10a.m.
Q- Will you be offering gift baskets and gift wrapping again this year?
A- Yes. We will have a variety of gift basket ideas to choose from and the ability to combine different items from all of our stores into a single basket or gift delivery too. Wine, cheese, flowers, plants, decorative items you name it. You shop - we will dress it, wrap it, ship or deliver it - no fuss, no muss, no messy mop-up.
Please Join Us - Wine Tasting
Friday November 23 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Foreau Vouvray sec 2004 $32
Philippe Foreau is the third generation of the Foreau family to produce Vouvray from this fabled domaine which his grandfather purchased in 1923.
Wine Spectator - "400 cases imported Gorgeous nose of papaya, peach and cream. This fools you into thinking it's a lush wine, but it's really bone-dry, with nervy citrus peel, mineral and chamomile flower notes. Long, minerally finish is precise and resonant." This is amazingly dense and rich in the mouth, with a remarkable elegance and a nearly perfect balance of fruit and acidity. Please give it a whirl on Friday night.
2 - L'Ecole no. 41 Merlot 2004 $30
L'Ecole Nº 41 is known for producing superior quality wines that are rich, flavorful and full-bodied. Stephen Tanzer rated this 87 points
“Good full, deep red. Currant, game, tobacco, chocolate and nutty oak on the nose. Juicy, leanish and suave, with good lift to the currant and spice flavors. Not especially complex but shows good life in the mouth. Finishes with a light dusting of tannins.” ST. I had a bottle of this last night at Brie & Bleu. Our own Kristen Webbers selected it for me to go with the Braised Beef over noodles special - it was luscious. See if it works for you, this Friday night.
3 - Tenuta San Leone Amarone della Valpolicella 2003 $30
This is a deep ruby red with wonderful aromas of cherry, vanilla, and spice. It has a velvety feel with a great body - like a Super Model. This is for pouring into a large glass and serving with a fine roast. Also it would be an excellent companion for conversation - like a Super Model?
4 - Buty Winery - Rediviva of the Stones 2004 $50
This is their most popular and hard to get wine, very, very, very limited production of this vintage. This small Walla Walla winery (it's pronounced "beauty") is on the cutting edge of quality and innovation. Caleb Foster and Nina Buty Foster founded their family business in 2000, but Caleb's winemaking experience dates back a decade. His résumé includes eight years with Rick Small at Woodward Canyon, winemaking positions at Mount Baker Winery and Glen Fiona, and further experience working crush in New Zealand and South Africa. "We could make 10,000 cases tomorrow and sell all of it," says Caleb matter-of-factly. "The demand is there. But we have a new daughter, and we always wanted a very small winery." Then again, he muses, "every market wants more; and the fruit's there to get. So I struggle with that." While he struggles, I suggest you get a bottle or two of Buty, before someone beats you to it. Try something very special this Friday night - it will go quickly.
As always we take great pleasure in sharing the the great wines and spirits of the world with you. We open bottles that for the most part go to collectors, movie stars and diplomats. Why should they have all the fun? You are the stars of our show. Your support, comments and suggestions make us better everyday. Thank you, from all of us. And we hope that you enjoy the holiday with family and friends.
Please Join Us.
It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Terry Theise on Grower Champagne and his all new advice on winning at LOVE.
Click To Play
The Man, the Myth, the Legend! If it is true that the road of excess leads to the palace of wisdom, Terry Theise has been there and back. A brief perusal of his writing makes it quickly apparent that the man has no reservations about conveying his thoughts and feelings on wine, life, sex, philosophy and general cosmology. In Terry's world, it's all inter-related. So, without further ado, we encourage you to jump headlong into the wonderful world of Terry Theise German, Austrian and Champagne Estate Selections. Prepare yourself for a psychotropic experience.
Sunday, November 11, 2007
Madeleine Peyroux, Single Gourmet, Champagne and Pizza, ,Johanneshof Reinisch,Hugel Gewurztraminer,Vina Albali, Dom Martinho, Il Tarocco
Greetings from all of us in New London -
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-6817
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
IMPORT - 860-443-6817
Great wine on Friday - Just perfect for the upcoming holiday's - the list is below these few items of news & interest.
• First many thanks to the Hartford Courant, and Melissa Pionzio for the profile they did on us in last Thursday's edition. If you missed it, take a look at the great photo that went with the story. It is posted on our calendar page - here: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
Contact Melissa Pionzio here: mpionzio@courant.com
• Monday November 12 - Our Wine & Cheese Italian Style, A food demonstration & wine and cheese paring is full - Thank you. The next edition will be in January. For information call 8 6 0 - 4 3 7 - 2 4 7 4 - this makes a great "stocking stuffer" for foodies.
• Saturday November 17 - 12:00 Noon - 2:00 p.m. - Live Radio Broadcast & Prize Drawing.
Single Gourmet of Eastern Connecticut and Rhode Island is hosting a wine & beer tasting. In addition, radio personality Bruce Newbury will be hosting a live broadcast of his popular show "Dining Out With Bruce Newbury." This is open all all men and women that are interested in learning more about Single Gourmet, the regions best social, dining, and events club. Single Gourmet is not a dating service. It is simply a way for singles to get out and enjoy area restaurants. If you are unable to attend the event on Saturday November 17, please stop by Brie & Bleu to leave an entry to win a free membership in Single Gourmet. Listen to the show on WXLM 102.3 FM
• Madeleine Peyroux - Garde Arts Center Saturday November 17 - 8 p.m.
If you have not made your plans for Saturday night, consider the amazing show that is coming to The Garde. Start your evening with us and then make your way up to the Garde Theater for a performer that is selling out across the country.
The New York Times says: "A Mona Lisa Voice" - French-American jazz singer, songwriter and guitarist is a growing phenomenon in contemporary music and is winning the hearts of music lovers all over the world with her dazzling “Billie Holliday” sound.
For all of the details and ticket information go here: http://tickets.gardearts.org/show.asp
• Burgundy Lovers - take a look at our updated Shop On Line Page - we have some sweet choices. http://thamesriver.com/wine/instock.html
• Monday December 10 - 6 p.m. - Champagne & Pizza Tasting.
This is not a typo - It is a special night. And we plan on proving a very important point: "That the only thing we have to fear...is - oops - no, that's not it. We plan on proving that the only thing you need to drink a bottle of Champagne...Is a bottle of Champagne.
It was an identical, staff only, tasting a year ago that inspired this special evening.
We will will taste through the remarkable Champagne of Marc Hebrart, Pierre Gimmonnet, Pierre Peters, Aubry Fils , Vilmart and A. Margaine, including Tete de Cuvee and Special Club Champagnes. Without a doubt - these are some of the finest boutique Champagnes in the world. You will not find them anywhere else in Connecticut. When the night is done - you will know the truth about Champagne. $50 -
please use your credit card to make a reservation - 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3.
Dave's Fave - Monday Tasting - No Charge
The Perfect Turkey Wine? - You Be The Judge
Johanneshof Reinisch "St. Laurent vom Steinfeld" 2004 $14
Dave Says: "This Monday afternoon, let us sample together this little mystery from Austria. I've been on an Austrian kick recently, spurred on by the recent visit of Terry Theise, and the fun we've all had with his big ol' bottles of Berger Zweigelt... As for this St. Laurent, this much I know: it is red wine. Luckily, they totally clear it up for us on the bottle label (verbatim): "From uncertain origin and nowadays observed as an Austrian speciality these wines of the St. Laurent grape impress with a bouquet reminding on hackberries and marzipan." Can't you taste the hackberries now? I can't wait!" And bring in your holiday menus we will help you pair the perfect wine with each and every food - Dave will not be stumped.
Wine Tasting - Please Join Us
Friday November 16 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Hugel Gewurztraminer 2005 $23 www.hugel.com
It's no secret that we are big fans of the House of Hugel. The wine is exceptional. And many of you know that Etienne Hugel has shared the dinner table with us and our customers. Many of you have also seen the interviews that we have done with Etienne on our WineRadio show.
The Hugel family started making wine 1639 in Alsace France. Only in Alsace does the aromatic expressiveness of this variety attain such summits. Spicy and suave, it can be enjoyed on its own, but makes a marvellous accompaniment to all rich, spicy dishes, smoked fish, Oriental cuisine. This a great food wine. Please try it.
2 - Vina Albali Reserva 1999 $9
This is from the heart of the La Mancha region of Spain. (that's right - Man of La Mancha) This area is Spain's largest wine producing area. Much of La Mancha's wine is industrially produced and used for blending. There is, however, a smaller wine growing area within La Mancha around the city of Valdepeñas that is known for several good quality wines that are among the best values in Spain. Felix Solis is the maker of this respected Viña Albali Reserva, made from the flavorful Cencibel grape (known as Tempranillo in the Rioja region). You will be surprised at how favorably this wine compares to Rioja's - but it is half the price. You might want a case of this for the upcoming holiday's - please try it at this week's tasting.
3 - Quinta do Carmo Dom Martinho 2004 $14 - from Alentejo Portugal
Dom Martinho is one of the three red wines grown and produced at the spectacular Quinta do Carmo estate. Located in the Alentejo, the home of
great still winemaking in Portugal, the estate itself is vast and beautiful. 300 of its more than 2000 acres are planted to vineyards in two distinct
soils: a black slate for the one, and a brilliant deep limestone for the other. Dom Martinho is one of the single great parcels of the vineyard and gives its name to the estate’s youngest, fruit driven red. Since 1992, the Domains Barons de Rothschild (Lafite)
have been contributing a great deal to the quality of this estate while continuing the tradition of wine-making. The soil consists of two main geologi-
cal types: clay-limestone and clay-slate. The methods of cultivation keep to the old techniques, using the double cordon rigorous system. Beautiful garnet color makes this nearly black - The nose very rich in black fruit (blackberries, blackcurrants) aromas, spice. Full-bodied, rich and supple on the palate with good concentration. Tremendous value for the dollar - a great wine for the holiday table - do not miss trying this one on Friday night.
4 - Il Tarocco Chianti Classico 2001 $26
The blending grape for this wine is BLACK canaiolo - and that helps to give it an intense ruby color. Elegant aroma of beautiful mature red fruit with floral notes and balanced taste, full, intense and persistent. This wine is great with tasty pasta, white and red meats, stewed meat, matured cheeses and rich plates of flavor and substance. While the price is a few dollars more - it delivers in spades. You will be able to serve this wine to your guests and family with the expectation of hearing oooh's and ahhh's. It is a lot of wine for the price.
Thanks so much for all of the calls, emails, and your support. We appreciate it.
We have some great events planned for the coming months - watch for details right here in the email, or on our website.
We are at your service - Please Join Us -
It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-6817
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
IMPORT - 860-443-6817
Great wine on Friday - Just perfect for the upcoming holiday's - the list is below these few items of news & interest.
• First many thanks to the Hartford Courant, and Melissa Pionzio for the profile they did on us in last Thursday's edition. If you missed it, take a look at the great photo that went with the story. It is posted on our calendar page - here: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
Contact Melissa Pionzio here: mpionzio@courant.com
• Monday November 12 - Our Wine & Cheese Italian Style, A food demonstration & wine and cheese paring is full - Thank you. The next edition will be in January. For information call 8 6 0 - 4 3 7 - 2 4 7 4 - this makes a great "stocking stuffer" for foodies.
• Saturday November 17 - 12:00 Noon - 2:00 p.m. - Live Radio Broadcast & Prize Drawing.
Single Gourmet of Eastern Connecticut and Rhode Island is hosting a wine & beer tasting. In addition, radio personality Bruce Newbury will be hosting a live broadcast of his popular show "Dining Out With Bruce Newbury." This is open all all men and women that are interested in learning more about Single Gourmet, the regions best social, dining, and events club. Single Gourmet is not a dating service. It is simply a way for singles to get out and enjoy area restaurants. If you are unable to attend the event on Saturday November 17, please stop by Brie & Bleu to leave an entry to win a free membership in Single Gourmet. Listen to the show on WXLM 102.3 FM
• Madeleine Peyroux - Garde Arts Center Saturday November 17 - 8 p.m.
If you have not made your plans for Saturday night, consider the amazing show that is coming to The Garde. Start your evening with us and then make your way up to the Garde Theater for a performer that is selling out across the country.
The New York Times says: "A Mona Lisa Voice" - French-American jazz singer, songwriter and guitarist is a growing phenomenon in contemporary music and is winning the hearts of music lovers all over the world with her dazzling “Billie Holliday” sound.
For all of the details and ticket information go here: http://tickets.gardearts.org/show.asp
• Burgundy Lovers - take a look at our updated Shop On Line Page - we have some sweet choices. http://thamesriver.com/wine/instock.html
• Monday December 10 - 6 p.m. - Champagne & Pizza Tasting.
This is not a typo - It is a special night. And we plan on proving a very important point: "That the only thing we have to fear...is - oops - no, that's not it. We plan on proving that the only thing you need to drink a bottle of Champagne...Is a bottle of Champagne.
It was an identical, staff only, tasting a year ago that inspired this special evening.
We will will taste through the remarkable Champagne of Marc Hebrart, Pierre Gimmonnet, Pierre Peters, Aubry Fils , Vilmart and A. Margaine, including Tete de Cuvee and Special Club Champagnes. Without a doubt - these are some of the finest boutique Champagnes in the world. You will not find them anywhere else in Connecticut. When the night is done - you will know the truth about Champagne. $50 -
please use your credit card to make a reservation - 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3.
Dave's Fave - Monday Tasting - No Charge
The Perfect Turkey Wine? - You Be The Judge
Johanneshof Reinisch "St. Laurent vom Steinfeld" 2004 $14
Dave Says: "This Monday afternoon, let us sample together this little mystery from Austria. I've been on an Austrian kick recently, spurred on by the recent visit of Terry Theise, and the fun we've all had with his big ol' bottles of Berger Zweigelt... As for this St. Laurent, this much I know: it is red wine. Luckily, they totally clear it up for us on the bottle label (verbatim): "From uncertain origin and nowadays observed as an Austrian speciality these wines of the St. Laurent grape impress with a bouquet reminding on hackberries and marzipan." Can't you taste the hackberries now? I can't wait!" And bring in your holiday menus we will help you pair the perfect wine with each and every food - Dave will not be stumped.
Wine Tasting - Please Join Us
Friday November 16 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Hugel Gewurztraminer 2005 $23 www.hugel.com
It's no secret that we are big fans of the House of Hugel. The wine is exceptional. And many of you know that Etienne Hugel has shared the dinner table with us and our customers. Many of you have also seen the interviews that we have done with Etienne on our WineRadio show.
The Hugel family started making wine 1639 in Alsace France. Only in Alsace does the aromatic expressiveness of this variety attain such summits. Spicy and suave, it can be enjoyed on its own, but makes a marvellous accompaniment to all rich, spicy dishes, smoked fish, Oriental cuisine. This a great food wine. Please try it.
2 - Vina Albali Reserva 1999 $9
This is from the heart of the La Mancha region of Spain. (that's right - Man of La Mancha) This area is Spain's largest wine producing area. Much of La Mancha's wine is industrially produced and used for blending. There is, however, a smaller wine growing area within La Mancha around the city of Valdepeñas that is known for several good quality wines that are among the best values in Spain. Felix Solis is the maker of this respected Viña Albali Reserva, made from the flavorful Cencibel grape (known as Tempranillo in the Rioja region). You will be surprised at how favorably this wine compares to Rioja's - but it is half the price. You might want a case of this for the upcoming holiday's - please try it at this week's tasting.
3 - Quinta do Carmo Dom Martinho 2004 $14 - from Alentejo Portugal
Dom Martinho is one of the three red wines grown and produced at the spectacular Quinta do Carmo estate. Located in the Alentejo, the home of
great still winemaking in Portugal, the estate itself is vast and beautiful. 300 of its more than 2000 acres are planted to vineyards in two distinct
soils: a black slate for the one, and a brilliant deep limestone for the other. Dom Martinho is one of the single great parcels of the vineyard and gives its name to the estate’s youngest, fruit driven red. Since 1992, the Domains Barons de Rothschild (Lafite)
have been contributing a great deal to the quality of this estate while continuing the tradition of wine-making. The soil consists of two main geologi-
cal types: clay-limestone and clay-slate. The methods of cultivation keep to the old techniques, using the double cordon rigorous system. Beautiful garnet color makes this nearly black - The nose very rich in black fruit (blackberries, blackcurrants) aromas, spice. Full-bodied, rich and supple on the palate with good concentration. Tremendous value for the dollar - a great wine for the holiday table - do not miss trying this one on Friday night.
4 - Il Tarocco Chianti Classico 2001 $26
The blending grape for this wine is BLACK canaiolo - and that helps to give it an intense ruby color. Elegant aroma of beautiful mature red fruit with floral notes and balanced taste, full, intense and persistent. This wine is great with tasty pasta, white and red meats, stewed meat, matured cheeses and rich plates of flavor and substance. While the price is a few dollars more - it delivers in spades. You will be able to serve this wine to your guests and family with the expectation of hearing oooh's and ahhh's. It is a lot of wine for the price.
Thanks so much for all of the calls, emails, and your support. We appreciate it.
We have some great events planned for the coming months - watch for details right here in the email, or on our website.
We are at your service - Please Join Us -
It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Monday, November 05, 2007
INCLUSIONS, The Perfect Pairing, Txakolina , Las Rocas, Domaine du Gour de Chaule , McCrea Boushey Vineyard
Greetings From All Of Us In New London,
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
IMPORT - 860-443-6817
www.thamesriver.com
With the coming holidays in mind we have selected a great line-up of wines that are great with food, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. The list is just below these items of interest.
• Thanks to everyone that came out to support the premier of INCLUSIONS at The Garde last Friday night. Even with all of the traffic issues that plagued the area - there was a fantastic turnout. It was a true New London Happening. The Red Carpet was buzzing. New London TV Icon "Murray - The Eye - Renshaw had his cameras set up and did a beautiful job interviewing the guests as they arrived. And there was even an impromptu marriage proposal on the Red Carpet! I'm sure that all of the action will be on the next episode of The Renshaw report. Local Channel 26.
Gordon Videll and his crew made the City of New London shine in his movie, and if we do say so ourselves, our cellar never looked so good than it did on the big screen. Bravo Gordon - We will see you on location.
• Belissima! -
One of the most frequent requests that we get is for "somekind of food & wine class."
And so, we have pooled the enormous talents of Michelle DeCeaser and Andrea Issacs to present the food and wines of the world. A Passport to travel and learn about the regions and their local food & wine - We Start With Italy.
Monday November 12 - 6 p.m. - The first session starts with Andrea Issacs demonstrating the secrets of making Fresh Mozzarella. You will then have the chance to explore the secrets of eating fresh mozzarella - At the same time we will serve it with Prosecco, Italy's sparkling wine. Michelle DeCeaser will explain Prosecco and why it is nearly perfect for serving with any food. It is the perfect way to start things off.
For the rest of the hour - here is the line up:
- We pair Robiola cheese with Gavé wine from the Piedmont region.
- Next, it's Parmesano Reggiano paired with Emilia Romagne -
with a demonstration and serving of Pasta Cacio al Pepe.
- Then, Piave Vecchio paired with Valpolicella from Italy's Veneto region.
- Finally, Dolce Gorgonzola paired with Lombardi wine and a demonstration and serving of Bruschetta with Carmelized Pears and Gorgonzola Dolce.
All sessions are just $25 and include everything. Food, wine, instruction, recipe guides, and your passport to travel the world of food & wine with Andrea and Michelle. All sessions will be on Monday evenings and start at 6:00 p.m. Please call to reserve early. 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3
• Hygienic Art Galleries
ART=GIFT Hygienic "Mini Series" Holiday Boutique
Opening Saturday November 17, 7-10 pm
Exhibition Runs from Opening November 17th-Sunday December 23
"Get your shopping on at Hygienic's "Mini Series" Boutique where ART=GIFT.
An invitational event featuring small works by selected artists"
Hygienic Art Galleries
79-83 Bank Street
New London, CT
HOURS Thurs 11-3, Friday 11-6, Saturday 11-6, Sunday 12-3
Dave's Fave - Monday Tasting - No Charge
Berkshire Brewing Co.'s "Steel Rail Extra Pale Ale" and "Lost Sailor India Pale Ale" - $3.50/22oz Bomber
Dave Says: "Surprise - I'm pushing beer this week - these are our first offerings from Berkshire Brewing out of South Deerfield, Massachusetts. They brew Truly Great Beer - everything is fresh, unfiltered, unpasteurized, no chemical additives or preservatives. My beer-guzzling friends have all been startled by how tasty these are. Brewer Chris Lalli drives the beer down here himself in the mornings cold (you've got to keep them cold). They represent everything wonderful about local handmade product and we are proud to have their suds in the cooler!"
Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday November 9 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Txomin Etxaniz Getariako Txakolina 2006 $20
When we first discovered this wine, on the tables of just about every cafe and restaurant in the storybook village of San Sabastian in Spain, it was a revelation. San Sabastian is a mecca for the great chefs of Europe. It is often said that when Michelin Star Chefs need to re-charge their batteries and find new inspiration - they go to San Sabastian. It is all about the food there - and what do they drink? It is this wine in the slender green bottle.
Pronounced - "Shock - oh - Lina." In the café's it is poured with great flourish, holding the bottle about a foot from the glass to release the flavors and the hint of effervescence that fill your senses. Crisp and clean with the color of young straw - and exceptional with food.
The price has squeaked up a couple of dollars since we introduced it a couple of years ago - but if you have just one wine on your holiday table - this might be the one you need. Much awaited and much beloved, we have a very limited four cases for the year. From the heart of Basque freedom country - you need to try this on Friday night.
2 - Las Rocas Vinas Viejas Garnacha 2005 $16
Ancient vines are just part of the secret that makes this wine a delicious treat. From Calatayud Spain - located about 150 miles northeast of Madrid.
This wine is very dark and a slightly hazy reddish-purple color. The aromas are classic Grenache, a heaping bowl of fresh raspberries. It's juicy and tart, with plenty of acidity and even a dose of scratchy tannin to save it from "fruit bomb" status. Excellent with pork or poultry. This wine is friendly with a great velvety finish. Also very limited, only two cases for the year - it will go quickly. Please try it on Friday night.
3 - Domaine du Gour de Chaule Gigondas 2003 $32
The Domaine du Gour de Chaulé, situated in the heart of the village of Gigondas, was founded in 1900 by Eugene Bonfils, the grandfather of the current proprietor, Aline Bonfils. All the wine produced at the estate was sold in bulk to negociants until 1972 when the mother of Madame Bonfils began to bottle a small percentage for sale to private clients. The tradition of estate bottling has continued to grow under the direction of Aline Bonfils so that now approximately 50% of the annual production is selected for sale in bottle (approximately 25,000 to 30,000 bottles). This wine is a deep ruby red color, great aromas of spice and chocolate. This is a great bottle for the coming holiday - it is perfect for food, friends, and family.
4 - McCrea Boushey Vineyard Syrah 2003 $58
Washington state - similar to California's South Central Coast - is known for Syrah. The Columbia Valley in particular is a hotbed, with many top producers sourcing their grapes from this American Viticultural Area and several Columbia Valley subappellations including the Wahluke Slope. Washington Syrah generally tends to be more understated than California Syrah, which is beloved by many for its big, juicy dark fruit. There's some complexity in the aromas of mushrooms, boysenberry, earth and spice. It's robust and has lovely fruit that leaves a lingering sweetness and spicy richness, that helps hide its 14.8 percent alcohol. Ruby with blue overtones it has an almost liqueur-like feel in the mouth. This is a big boy, with lush dark berry fruit, chocolate and silky tannins. This is on the pricey side of the street - but it delivers. Try it for yourself and decide if it is a bottle to share or keep as a secret.
We have lots of new things planned for the coming month's - all based on your requests. Thanks for all of the calls and emails, and for your continued support. We all appreciate it.
Please Join Us. It's fun informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
IMPORT - 860-443-6817
www.thamesriver.com
With the coming holidays in mind we have selected a great line-up of wines that are great with food, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. The list is just below these items of interest.
• Thanks to everyone that came out to support the premier of INCLUSIONS at The Garde last Friday night. Even with all of the traffic issues that plagued the area - there was a fantastic turnout. It was a true New London Happening. The Red Carpet was buzzing. New London TV Icon "Murray - The Eye - Renshaw had his cameras set up and did a beautiful job interviewing the guests as they arrived. And there was even an impromptu marriage proposal on the Red Carpet! I'm sure that all of the action will be on the next episode of The Renshaw report. Local Channel 26.
Gordon Videll and his crew made the City of New London shine in his movie, and if we do say so ourselves, our cellar never looked so good than it did on the big screen. Bravo Gordon - We will see you on location.
• Belissima! -
One of the most frequent requests that we get is for "somekind of food & wine class."
And so, we have pooled the enormous talents of Michelle DeCeaser and Andrea Issacs to present the food and wines of the world. A Passport to travel and learn about the regions and their local food & wine - We Start With Italy.
Monday November 12 - 6 p.m. - The first session starts with Andrea Issacs demonstrating the secrets of making Fresh Mozzarella. You will then have the chance to explore the secrets of eating fresh mozzarella - At the same time we will serve it with Prosecco, Italy's sparkling wine. Michelle DeCeaser will explain Prosecco and why it is nearly perfect for serving with any food. It is the perfect way to start things off.
For the rest of the hour - here is the line up:
- We pair Robiola cheese with Gavé wine from the Piedmont region.
- Next, it's Parmesano Reggiano paired with Emilia Romagne -
with a demonstration and serving of Pasta Cacio al Pepe.
- Then, Piave Vecchio paired with Valpolicella from Italy's Veneto region.
- Finally, Dolce Gorgonzola paired with Lombardi wine and a demonstration and serving of Bruschetta with Carmelized Pears and Gorgonzola Dolce.
All sessions are just $25 and include everything. Food, wine, instruction, recipe guides, and your passport to travel the world of food & wine with Andrea and Michelle. All sessions will be on Monday evenings and start at 6:00 p.m. Please call to reserve early. 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3
• Hygienic Art Galleries
ART=GIFT Hygienic "Mini Series" Holiday Boutique
Opening Saturday November 17, 7-10 pm
Exhibition Runs from Opening November 17th-Sunday December 23
"Get your shopping on at Hygienic's "Mini Series" Boutique where ART=GIFT.
An invitational event featuring small works by selected artists"
Hygienic Art Galleries
79-83 Bank Street
New London, CT
HOURS Thurs 11-3, Friday 11-6, Saturday 11-6, Sunday 12-3
Dave's Fave - Monday Tasting - No Charge
Berkshire Brewing Co.'s "Steel Rail Extra Pale Ale" and "Lost Sailor India Pale Ale" - $3.50/22oz Bomber
Dave Says: "Surprise - I'm pushing beer this week - these are our first offerings from Berkshire Brewing out of South Deerfield, Massachusetts. They brew Truly Great Beer - everything is fresh, unfiltered, unpasteurized, no chemical additives or preservatives. My beer-guzzling friends have all been startled by how tasty these are. Brewer Chris Lalli drives the beer down here himself in the mornings cold (you've got to keep them cold). They represent everything wonderful about local handmade product and we are proud to have their suds in the cooler!"
Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday November 9 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Txomin Etxaniz Getariako Txakolina 2006 $20
When we first discovered this wine, on the tables of just about every cafe and restaurant in the storybook village of San Sabastian in Spain, it was a revelation. San Sabastian is a mecca for the great chefs of Europe. It is often said that when Michelin Star Chefs need to re-charge their batteries and find new inspiration - they go to San Sabastian. It is all about the food there - and what do they drink? It is this wine in the slender green bottle.
Pronounced - "Shock - oh - Lina." In the café's it is poured with great flourish, holding the bottle about a foot from the glass to release the flavors and the hint of effervescence that fill your senses. Crisp and clean with the color of young straw - and exceptional with food.
The price has squeaked up a couple of dollars since we introduced it a couple of years ago - but if you have just one wine on your holiday table - this might be the one you need. Much awaited and much beloved, we have a very limited four cases for the year. From the heart of Basque freedom country - you need to try this on Friday night.
2 - Las Rocas Vinas Viejas Garnacha 2005 $16
Ancient vines are just part of the secret that makes this wine a delicious treat. From Calatayud Spain - located about 150 miles northeast of Madrid.
This wine is very dark and a slightly hazy reddish-purple color. The aromas are classic Grenache, a heaping bowl of fresh raspberries. It's juicy and tart, with plenty of acidity and even a dose of scratchy tannin to save it from "fruit bomb" status. Excellent with pork or poultry. This wine is friendly with a great velvety finish. Also very limited, only two cases for the year - it will go quickly. Please try it on Friday night.
3 - Domaine du Gour de Chaule Gigondas 2003 $32
The Domaine du Gour de Chaulé, situated in the heart of the village of Gigondas, was founded in 1900 by Eugene Bonfils, the grandfather of the current proprietor, Aline Bonfils. All the wine produced at the estate was sold in bulk to negociants until 1972 when the mother of Madame Bonfils began to bottle a small percentage for sale to private clients. The tradition of estate bottling has continued to grow under the direction of Aline Bonfils so that now approximately 50% of the annual production is selected for sale in bottle (approximately 25,000 to 30,000 bottles). This wine is a deep ruby red color, great aromas of spice and chocolate. This is a great bottle for the coming holiday - it is perfect for food, friends, and family.
4 - McCrea Boushey Vineyard Syrah 2003 $58
Washington state - similar to California's South Central Coast - is known for Syrah. The Columbia Valley in particular is a hotbed, with many top producers sourcing their grapes from this American Viticultural Area and several Columbia Valley subappellations including the Wahluke Slope. Washington Syrah generally tends to be more understated than California Syrah, which is beloved by many for its big, juicy dark fruit. There's some complexity in the aromas of mushrooms, boysenberry, earth and spice. It's robust and has lovely fruit that leaves a lingering sweetness and spicy richness, that helps hide its 14.8 percent alcohol. Ruby with blue overtones it has an almost liqueur-like feel in the mouth. This is a big boy, with lush dark berry fruit, chocolate and silky tannins. This is on the pricey side of the street - but it delivers. Try it for yourself and decide if it is a bottle to share or keep as a secret.
We have lots of new things planned for the coming month's - all based on your requests. Thanks for all of the calls and emails, and for your continued support. We all appreciate it.
Please Join Us. It's fun informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA
Sunday, October 28, 2007
Inclusions Premier, Shafer Merlot, Allegrini Palazzo Della Torre, Domaine du Grand Breviande,Domaine Les Hautes Noelles
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
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
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.
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