Secret Valentine Edition

The Old Girl Is Frisky Again - Happy Valentine's Day
Card available at City News
Valentine's Day is still one of the single busiest days of the year when it comes to gift giving. Traditional gifts include flowers, champagne, chocolates, or a cozy dinner with someone special. We have made an effort to select items in every category that will go easy on the pocket - but still deliver big where it counts - the heart strings.

If you haven't heard by now we have to mention that we have the greatest selection of Champagne & sparkling wine in the world.

Boutique Grower Champagne that is made in limited amounts and sparkling wine and Italian Prosecco that start around $12.

We will combine a bottle of bubbly with hand made chocolate from Moonstruck
dress them up in a basket and deliver it to the one you love with enough left over to make you giddy.






Flowers are a specialty for us - and even though roses are the traditional choice consider this - We have many options to choose from that make a big statement without breaking the bank.

We can add wine & chocolates to an order for about the same price as a dozen roses - give a call to The Greenery and we can help with options you may not have thought about.

8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 6 8 1 7

Or poke around the website for Inspiration - Here


Every Valentine's Day we get an amazing collection of treats from You Take The Cake. Valentine's goodies that bring a smile to anyone that sees them. All of these hand made wonders go quickly, and many of you have asked for a "heads up" on when they will be available. They arrive on Monday morning 2.9.09.

Think about an assortment of hand made Petit Fours, Chocolate Covered Strawberries, or Valentine cookies delivered in a basket to someone you love. You may reserve them by phone - or arrange for delivery -
Call 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 6 8 1 7

Made With Love

<<>>

Events & Reminders:

Dinner at Brie & Bleu and
a Movie on the Big Screen

The Garde Arts Center
presents
Winter Film Festival
Starts Wednesday February 11th 7:30 p.m.
FILM FESTIVAL

Oscar Time In New London

Every year the Garde Arts Center brings us Oscar nominated films on the Big Screen. Check out the schedule - save me a seat in the first row of the loge! Starts Wednesday February 11th 7:30 p.m.

<<>>

<<>>
coming soon:

2/25 German Wine Tasting with
Konrad Hahn proprietor of Von Schlenintz

3/2 Austrian Wine Dinner with Markus Huber of
Huber Vineyards

5/15 Sake Dinner with Chad Beverlin of
Vine Connections

The Friday Tasting - Please Join Us
Friday February 13 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge

1 - San Sole Pinot Grigio 2007 $11













Our biggest selling wine of all time. With it's plain yellow label, this is a wine that under promises but over delivers. Wonderfully expressive of classic Pinot Grigio flavors, citrus, tropical fruit and lemongrass. Affordable delicious wine for daily drinking, it's what we are all about.. Order Now


2 - Seghesio Sonoma Zinfandel 2007 $26

This wine was #10 on last years Wine Spectators top 100. We have a little bit left over from the holidays, so lets crack one of these bad boys and see if it's all that.

From The Wine Spectator: "The Seghesio family has been making wine for a century in northern Sonoma County and farms more than 400 acres of Zinfandel in Alexander and Dry Creek valleys. They make a range of vineyard-designated Zinfandels, such as Home Ranch and Cortina, and a bottling from the oldest vines. But for this Sonoma County 2007, winemaker Ted Seghesio tapped his diverse grape sources for a more widely available, well-priced wine. Aged 11 months in 75 percent American oak, it's complex, with a supple texture and a spicy finish.". Order Now


3 - Trapiche Vina Fausto Orellana Malbec 2005 $50

The Fausto Orellana's vineyard is located in La Consulta, San Carlos, in the southern Valle de Uco, an area with a shorter growing season than other traditional areas due to late frost in the spring and early frost in the fall, with an average day/night temperature swing between 15°C and 18°C during the season. This is one of the coolest grape growing areas in Mendoza. These characters favor the development of superior polyphenolic compounds and this optimal ripening and maturation results in wines of balance, depth and concentration.

Here, the vineyards are afforded spectacular views of the Andes. Don Fausto is 67, and his firm tone of voice indicates a patient, methodical approach in the vineyards. He left Bolivia in 1981 looking for a better future in Argentina, and after he came upon the Valle de Uco, he fell in love with the place and bought two estates. Over 25 years later, he rides through his vineyards by bicycle, and he takes enormous pride in his considerable accomplishments. Though he has faced many hardships, including hailstorms, Don Fausto is philosophical: "You have to face it and move forward in life, giving back to the land what it gave us," he says. Don Fausto's story is one of viticulture as a triumph of great effort.

Don Fausto's 57 year-old vineyard has alluvial, well-drained soils with a sandy-loam texture, rocky subsoils and a small percentage of silt. The roots extend down to a depth of one meter. The soil's texture has very good permeability. The trellis system is low espalier, and the vines are simple and double Guyot pruned. The vines are planted in relatively high density, i.e. 5,000 plants per hectare, to encourage competition among the vines and vertical root penetration, and yields are kept low to 2,600 kilogram per hectare. Furrow irrigation is utilized and the vines are planted on their own rootstock.Order Now


4 - Chateau Duhart-Milon Pauillac Grand Cru Classe 2005 $105

94 points Robert Parker:

"The finest Duhart-Milon ever made? This structured, tannic, dense ruby/purple-tinged Pauillac offers up hints of cassis, licorice, chocolate, and earth. Medium to full-bodied with good purity, strong tannins, and undeniable elegance, it reveals a character not dissimilar from its renowned sibling, Lafite-Rothschild. A blend of 71% Cabernet Sauvignon and 29% Merlot, it is unquestionably outstanding, but to my taste, slightly less opulent than the estate's ethereal 2003. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2030."

Order Now



Happy Valentine's Day to each and every one of you.

Thank you for supporting all of our venues and making us number one in New London.

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

AAA.

Get Your Free Wine-O-Matic

Don't Forget - Valentine's Day Is Just Around The Corner
(This Card Available At City News)
Greetings from New London,

Thank you all for making our first Dinner Event at City News a big success. Great people, great food and wine, and great conversation - take a peek at the best seat in town.

Food Wine & LifeStyle of Tuscany

Many thanks to Ashley Turney and Chef Anne Haviland for a fabulous evening. Up coming City News Events will be annouced soon.

<<>>

New Events & Reminders:

The Garde Arts Center
presents
Winter Film Festival
Starts Wednesday February 11th 7:30 p.m.
FILM FESTIVAL

Oscar Time In New London

Every year the Garde Arts Center brings us Oscar nominated films on the Big Screen. Check out the schedule - save me a seat in the first row of the loge! Starts Wednesday February 11th 7:30 p.m.

<<>>

SPECIAL EVENT: He's Back.
Wednesday February 11 - 6 p.m.
Dinner with Eitenne Hugel
Only FOUR Seats Remaining.

We have been very fortunate to attract the biggest most famous names in the wine business. Eitenne is one of the most dynamic and personable guests we have ever hosted. His family has been making wine since 1639.

If you are familiar with our dinners you know they are intimate affairs and can not be compared to anything else. You will eat, drink, and hob-nob on a one-to-one basis with a wine making legend.

Seating is very limited - reserve now.
8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3

Having Dinner with Eitenne Hugel is an experience that will last a lifetime. Eitenne loves to serve his wine with Asian foods - here is the line up.

Menu:

Chicken Dim Sum
Shrimp with Ginger Butter
Korean Shortrib Kebab
Rack of Lamb with Hoisin ~ Orange Glaze
over Rice Noodles with Edamame and Scallion
Coconut Flan with Caramel Sauce

Wine List:
Hugel Gentil
Hugel Pinot Blanc Hugel Gewurztraminer
Hugel Grains Noble

$65 plus tax and service.

<<>>
coming soon:

2/25 German Wine Tasting with
Konrad Hahn proprietor of Von Schlenintz

3/2 Austrian Wine Dinner with Markus Huber of
Huber Vineyards

5/15 Sake Dinner with Chad Beverlin of
Vine Connections

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

1 - Domaine Francois et antoine Jobard Meursault 1er Cru Pouzots 2004 $30


Chardonnay from one of the best villages in the Cotes d'Or. We bought this very well from the distributor so we can offer it for sale, not for the regular price of $80, but for only $30. Order Now








2 - Domaine La Manarine Cotes Du Rhone 2006 $15
Domaine La Manarine comprises 9.5 hectares of vineyards situated on what is known as the "Le Plan de Dieu".

For generations, this specific terroir has been recognized as unique. Recent research has identified the particular character of the underlying soil: a deep layer consisting of more than 60% hard limestone "galets" (large smooth pebbles). The climate is typically Mediterranean: relatively hot and dry with an average rainfall of between 600 and 800 mm per year.

The rains usually come in the form of thunderstorms in late August which provide the vines with the water necessary to finish the maturation process (which tends to shut down under stressful drought conditions). Grenache Noir is the main grape variety of the region. It performs particularly well on this type of soil and gives wines with more elegance and aroma than is otherwise common. Gilles has recently acquired one hectare of Syrah vines that will enter into the 2002 harvest which will then enable the Manarine wines to bear the appellation: Cotes du Rhone Villages Travaillan. Order Now


3 - Domaine Monpertuis Cotes Du Rhone 2007 $16

The Domaine de Monpertuis has been in the hands of the Jeune family for several generations. Each successor has added bits and pieces of vineyards to the expanding whole of the estate so that the current owner, Paul Jeune, is now the proprietor of the 10 acres of vines that are scattered amongst 32 separate parcels throughout the confines of Chateauneuf du Pape.

Jeune has the remarkable good fortune of having a majority of his vineyards planted to vines between 60 and 110 years of age.

The multiplicity of parcels spread across Chateauneuf imparts a classic character to the wines of Monpertuis, absorbing the nuances of each soil type of the appellation. Order Now


4 - Paolo Bea Montefalco Rosso 2004 $68

References in the archives of Montefalco, the beautiful hill town in Umbria, document the presence of the Bea family in this locality as early as 1500. This tiny estate is the classic Italian fattoria, producing wine, raising farm animals for trade and home consumption and working the land to produce olives, fruits and vegetables. To this day, the Bea family raises and produces much of what they consume on a daily basis. Paolo Bea, the senior member of the family at 72 years of age, is the guiding force behind the production of this series of intense and idiosyncratic wines. He is assisted by his two sons, Giuseppe, who farms the vineyards, and Giampiero, who assists in the vinification and is responsible for all commercial aspects of the winery.



The entire property encompasses 15 hectares: 5 of which are dedicated to the vineyards, 2 to olives, and the remainder to the fruits, vegetables and grains that are grown. Sagrantino is the predominant grape, covering 60% of the vineyard surface. The remaining 40% is planted to Sangiovese and Montepulciano, with a small parcel planted to several white varieties. The vineyards are cultivated virtually organic.

Order Now

<<>>

Thank you for supporting all of our venues and special events. There are lots of things on the way - stay tuned.

Many of you will be reading this over Super Bowl Weekend - we hope you win the big pool.

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

AAA.

Obama's Favorite Wine?

Card Available At City News

Greetings from New London,
There is a lot going on around here - New events, special guests, updated calendar - plenty to talk about and review.

But first I have to talk about the Friday tasting. Our own Jim Morrison works hard each week to bring you exciting choices that simply cannot be found on every Tom, Dick, or Eddie's package store shelves.

This week he has focused on the wine of Portugal. And in keeping with our promise of providing exceptional value in all our offerings - you will be amazed at the bang for the dollar that these wines provide.

By the way, Jim doesn't just throw a dart at a map to come up with an idea - in this particular case he went behind the lines - deep into Portuguese territory to meet the wine makers and get the real story.

That is why I want to urge you to watch the interview he did for our WineRadio show with Dominic Symington - arguably the biggest, most influential name in the Portuguese wine business. Jim sat in Mr. Symington's private study and talked with the icon about his famous family, and the wine that we are pouring this Friday night. I hope you can join us. Watch The Interview HERE

<<>>

New Events & Reminders:

Before I tell you about new additions to the calendar let me remind you about the big weekend coming up. This Saturday - January 31 - is the 30th opening of the Hygenic Art Show. It starts at 8 p.m.
Activity for children starts at 11 a.m.

The town will be busy and there are many things to do and see all day Saturday - for example:

From 1-4 p.m. at City News Round up the kids in the neighborhood herd them into the SUV and bring them down to meet the authors of The Cat That Lost It's meOW.
Susan Epstein, Antoinette Ledzian, and Illustrator Richard Ledzian will be on hand to meet, greet, sign, and talk about their new book.

A great way for the younger crowd to participate.

<<>>

The support for our Food, Wine & Lifestyle of Tuscany event is fantastic - thank you. The menu and other details are in the snazzy side bar to the right. BUT if you want to attend you must reserve a space now. This is a great way to start your evening at the Hygienic.

The fun starts at 6 p.m.

TWO special guests will host
The Food, Wine, and Lifestyle of Tuscany.
Please Reserve Your Seats Early.
8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3

<<>>

SPECIAL EVENT: He's Back.
Wednesday February 11 - 6 p.m.
Dinner with Eitenne Hugel

We have been very fortunate to attract the biggest most famous names in the wine business. Eitenne is one of the most dynamic and personable guests we have ever hosted. His family has been making wine since 1639.

If you are familiar with our dinners you know they are intimate affairs and can not be compared to anything else. You will eat, drink, and hob-nob on a one-to-one basis with a wine making legend.

Seating is very limited - reserve now.
8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3

Having Dinner with Eitenne Hugel is an experience that will last a lifetime. Eitenne loves to serve his wine with Asian foods - here is the line up.

Menu:

Chicken Dim Sum
Shrimp with Ginger Butter
Korean Shortrib Kebab
Rack of Lamb with Hoisin ~ Orange Glaze
over Rice Noodles with Edamame and Scallion
Coconut Flan with Caramel Sauce

Wine List:
Hugel Gentil
Hugel Pinot Blanc Hugel Gewurztraminer
Hugel Grains Noble

$65 plus tax and service.

<<>>
coming soon:

2/25 German Wine Tasting with Konrad Hahn proprietor of Von Schlenintz

3/2 Austrian Wine Dinner with Markus Huber of Huber Vineyards

5/15 Sake Dinner with Chad Beverlin of Vine Connections

Dave's Fave
The Monday Tasting 1.26.09

Vina Arboleda Carmenere 2007 $18

This elegant Chilean red has won over enthusiasts with Old-World nuance and deftly managed oak. The Carmenere grape is an ancient transplant from the Medoc region of Bordeaux. Vinekeeps in Chile preserved the varietal inadvertently, believing it to be Merlot! You can imagine the confusion. Of course, after the French phylloxerra outbreak of 1867, nary a vine remained in France, which led historians to - STOP!
So how does it taste?! Me, I love it. I had it with steak last weekend and it was bangin!

This reminds me of a story, Miles Davis told to his bassist Marcus Miller: "Have you ever read a review which actually sounded like the music? No way. Music is its own language. You have to hear it."

Same reason we like to pour for you in person. Close your eyes, disregard the label, the scores - Is the wine to your taste? Please drop in and find out! Order Now

A Special Salute To Portugal
The Friday Tasting - Please Join Us
Friday January 30 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge

1 - J Ramos "Loios" Vinho Alentejano 2007 $9


Loios is a wine produced in the Alentejo region, located in the south of Portugal . Its name originates from the title given in the 15th century to the members of the ancient Priest Congregation of St. John Evangelist, known simply as Loios.

Loios monks have always had a deep connection to the history of Alentejo, especially to its wines. Thus, this wine has been named after them and is made from traditional grape varieties of the region.

A blend of Rabo de Ovelha and Roupeiro, the wine is fermented in stainless steel tanks. This is a young, fresh wine which highlights the delicate, yet instantly approachable nature of these grapes. Pale yellow in color, lime and mineral aromas show through on the nose.

The palate demonstrates great acidity with notes of apples and other citrus fruits. A perfect aperitif wine, easily pairing with all dishes, especially antipasti and other lighter fare.Order Now


2 - Vale do Bomfim 2005 $14

One of my personal favorites, having had the opportunity to stay at the quinta or farm where this wine is produced.

This wine hails from the geologically delimited region of the upper Douro. That simply means that the region is determined not by political boundaries but by the geology that produces the soil that creates the wine. The soil is a mineral rich silt like clay with pieces of schist that have been deposited by the Douro river for millenia.

This is essentially unfortified Port, using the same port varietals such as Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriza, Touriga Nacional, and Tinta Barroca. The Symington family, of Warres and Grahams port, has been producing this wine for generations for their own consumption at the Port lodge, but have only recently begun exporting it to the American market.

Interestingly, when I first tasted the wine, I was overwhelmed by the strong floral notes of Cabernet Franc. I occurred to me that perhaps Touriga Franc was Portuguese for Cab Franc. Although Dominic Symington insists that the two grapes are different varietals, I am reminded of the saying; if it walks like Cab Franc and smells like Cab Franc - but I'll let you be the judge.

Either way it is exciting for us to find inexpensive wines of such high quality that come from a family with such a heritage of wine making, produced the same way they were 400 years ago when the Symingtons began winemaking in the Douro. Order Now


3 - Quinta da Garrida Dao Reserva 2004 $32

Quality wine production in this DOC had been stifled under the dictatorship of Salazar. Under his policy, growers were only allowed to sell their grapes to the regional cooperatives, whose practices typically blended good quality with bad. Few producers grew enough grapes to make their own wine and the regional reputation suffered.

Upon Portugal joining the European Union, these cooperative obligations were overturned and the region - like many areas in Portugal - is undergoing a quality renaissance. This small, hilly region is entirely enclosed by mountain ranges - the Serra de Lapa frame the region to the north; the Serra da Estrela to the east; the Caramulo and Buçaco ranges to the west; and the Lousã mountains to the south.

These formidable mountain ranges prevent much of the maritime influence and easterly continental winds from affecting this cool, mild climate. Though the allowed acreage for this DOC is about 386,000 ha, but only about 20,000 ha are planted with vines. Most of these are planted in rolling hills along the mountain foothills of these formidable mountains at altitudes of between 400 and 500 meters above sea level. Here, aspect is everything and vines that catch the most sunlight achieve better ripeness levels.

Except for small patches of red clay found near the village of Vila Nova de Tazem, the region is primarily made up of granite (which has also found its way into the local traditional architecture). The granite absorbs and reflects heat, helping to ripen the grapes. High quality reds are based on Touriga Nacional, Alfrocheiro and Tinta Roriz; the key white grape is Encruzado which when produced carefully - makes wines that are zesty, yet full-bodied enough to barrel ferment. The supply of both red and white wines is limited in supply, making this region one of rather high demand. Order Now


4 - Warres Otima Ten Year Tawny Port $24

Warre's has been leading the Port trade since it was established as the first British Port House in 1670. A pioneer of a great tradition with over 300 years of history, Warre's legacy is built on the superb quality of Warre's Vintage Ports and on an unwavering commitment to quality and successful innovation. These characteristics are reflected in wines Warre's Otima, an award-winning 10 Year-Old Tawny Port in chic, ultra-modern packaging.

Warre's has established itself as one of the most forward thinking Port producers, balancing its long tradition with total dedication to premium quality and successful innovation. Warre's launch of Otima 10 & 20 Year Old Tawny caused a revolution in Port that introduced a completely new concept to consumers, helping to rejuvenate Port's image in the main markets. Otima is now widely acknowledged as the most successful new development in the Port trade for over 25 years. The merit of Otima was to show Port's versatility as an all year round, anytime drink, appealing to both women and men, dispelling many of the myths attached to Port.

The clean, modern design was matched by an excellent wine that has been winning Gold and Silver medals at the world's leading blind tasting competitions year after year.

Order Now

Thank you for all of the comments and suggestions this week - we need that input, and appreciate the time you take to participate.

You wanted more dinners - you got it.
More special guests - you got it.
Value, Value, Value - you got it.

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


AAA.

Biggest News Of The Year - So Far

A Cold Week In New London

Greetings from New London,
Big News on the event front to tell you about.
Last week we announced our wine dinner with the River Tavern. It sold out like it was a Springsteen concert - thank you.

This week we are pushing the bar a little higher. In coordination with the Hygenic Art Show's 30th opening, we have a great line up to help you plan ahead. We unveil the evolution of what a food & wine event should be.

The original 1900's interior of City News will be set for a wine dinner & presentation of Italian lifestyle & travel.

TWO special guests will host
The Food, Wine, and Lifestyle of Tuscany.
Reserve your seats early.
8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3

Ashley Turney - Founder Owner Live It Italy

Anne Haviland - Chef Owner Anne's Kitchen




Saturday January 31 - 6 p.m. at City News.
We start with a flutes of Prosecco and introduction to the original 1900's architecture of City News.

Ashley Turney will introduce us to the secrets of Tuscany accompanied by an authentic menu prepared by Anne Haviland. Wine served with each course.

· Pasta Fagioli with Pancetta
· Orange and Red Onion salad with EVOil and Pignola
· Hunters Style Rosemary Chicken
· Biscotti and Bacci

$50 plus tax & service
Put 2008 behind you and join us for a special night. Meet Ashley Turney and Anne Haviland and share a glass of wine while they take us to Italy with each delicious course.

Plenty of time to walk around the corner to the
Hygienic Art Show 8 p.m. opening.
Seating is limited, please reserve early.
8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3

Dave's Fave
The Monday Tasting 1.19.09

Berger Blauer Zweigelt 2007 $14

As The Leader of The Free World in bringing one-liter Austrian pop-top wines to the people, we can not keep this tubby number on the shelves. So why is some on the shelves? Perhaps it has been misunderestimated.

Zweigelt, or "Blauer Zweigelt" is an ancient varietal from the foothills of the Alps. One look at the bottle suggests a long tradition of wintertime apres-ski comfort meals. A smoky pheasant stew with gnocchi perhaps?

Reflecting on this, I asked importer Terry Theise, "What kind of authentic Austrian cuisine might one match with this superb wine?" He laughed, "I dunno, It's just FUN, I'd have it with spaghetti and meatballs!!" Order Now

The Friday Tasting - Please Join Us
Friday January 23 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge

1 - Pala "Crabilis" Vermentino 2007 $16


Crabilis - which means "ancient goat shelter" in Sardinian dialect, is the name of avine-covered limestone-sandy hill not far from the Pala winery.

Crabilis lends its name to Pala's Vermentino, as this is the most widely planted grape in this 25- hectare vineyard area. After harvest and gentle pressing, the wine is fermented in stainless steel tanks where it rests for a few months before bottling.

Straw-colored with greenish reflections and a persistent floral and herbaceous aromas with notes of thyme. Medium to full-bodied on the palate with good balance and a long finish. Serve with seafood dishes and lightly seasoned soups.Order Now



2 - Grosjean Premetta 2007 $28


Perhaps the lightest, and finest red wine you will ever drink.

Made from the local grape Premetta in the Vallee D'Aoste in Italy's Northwest corner.

The two world wars have not been kind to the Vallee D'Aoste and in the last hundred years the vineyards have shrunk from 3000 hectares to just over 500 hectare.

The entire region produces less than 200,000 cases, less than most single brands of wine.


A perfect red wine to poultry or fondue, very fine tannins, floral notes on the nose and cherry on the tongue. A very old fashioned, in a very good way. Order Now





3 - Cline Cashmere 2007 $16

Cline Cashmere blend consists of 39% Grenache, 38% Syrah and 23% Mourvèdre. The lion's share of Grenache for this luscious blend is harvested from Massoni Vineyard in Oakley, California.

The vineyard uses cluster-thinning and leaf-pulling to increase fruit concentration. Lusciously bodied, with earthy undertones and a lingering aroma, the wine is best enjoyed with hearty dishes on a cold night. Order Now





4 - Domaine le Sang des Cailloux Vacqueyras 2005 $36

Sang des Cailoux, or Blood of thepebbles, is located on a plateau of scrubland, facing the Dentelles de Montmirail Vacqueyras. The vineyard is bathed in sunlight and shaken by the mistral, the fierce wine that rips through the Rhone.
A blend of Granache, Syrah, Mouverde, and Cinsault. A wine of great structure, with spice and roses. Will age very well for the next several years and improve much as a good Chateauneuf-du-Pape improves.


Best served with game meat and Lamb, rosemary and other Garrigue-esque spices.

Order Now


We are pleased to introduce City News as another venue for special dinners & events. We think you are going to love the space. We also have a great line up for the coming months - all based on suggestions and comments from you - our friends and supporters. Look for all of the news right here in the email and on our websites. Thank you all for making this so much fun.

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


AAA.

You Asked For It - You Got It!

Card Available At City News

Greetings from New London,
As we mentioned last week, you are all asking for "Value - Value - Value." We are making it a top priority and will provide it in everything we offer to you.

With that in mind we are announcing our first Guest Chef Wine Dinner for 2009. STOP reading - pick up the phone and reserve your seats now. 860-443-9463.
You will kick yourself in the pants if you miss this one.

Thursday January 29 - 6 p.m. - Piedmonte Wine Dinner with James Wayman of River Tavern.


We got together with our friends at the River Tavern in Chester and over several glasses of dusty red wine have organized a salute to the food and wine of Italy. Presiding over the mighty Viking Range will be Mr. James Wayman - He has been an executive chef at the River Tavern in Chester for four years, before that, the Johnson & Wales Culinary Arts graduate was chef at Water Street Cafe in Stonington for six years.

THE MENU:
First: Ciccioli (Italian Pork Rillet) crostini with dried fruit mostarda & the mostarda is the northern Italian precursor to mustard that is similar to chutney.
Served with Contratto Arnelle Gavi di Gavi 2007

Second: Handmade Tagliatelle with wild black trumpet mushrooms (gathered by Chef Wayman),pancetta & sage cream.
Served with Fratelli Alessandria Barbera d' alba 2005

Third: Roasted leg of lamb with Juniper & honey, creamy polenta, caramelized onions & fennel.
Served with Fratelli alessandria Barolo 2004

For dessert: Whipped ricotta with orange, dates & espresso.
Served with Sergio Grimaldi Brachetto 2007

Now - here is where the value kicks in - the cost of the wine alone - if you could find it - would push this night into Platinum Card territory. Our first wine dinner of 2009 is priced at just $85, plus tax & service.

Put the disappointments of 2008 behind you and join us for a special night. Meet James Wayman and share a glass of wine while he describes each delicious course. Seating is limited, please reserve early.
8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3

The Monday Tasting 1.12.09

Chateau St. Nicholas Bordeaux 2005 $18

Snow terror grips New London!
As the village ground-zero public announcement system crackles with dire instructions, I realize this day shall see us crippled by yet more blizzard - wiping the sleep from my eyes, I am gripped with fear: have we store of yams to last the winter? What of the onions? Will the provision of salted cod hold out?!?

My worries are soon quelled: Four Mile River Farms beef in the deep freeze, onion, carrot, celery, shallot, potato - if I can hunt a clove of garlic and a trifle of mushroom, we shall concoct a potent stew! And wine! Provenance has seen me a bottle of 2005 Chateau St. Nicholas Bordeaux - perfect! A drop for the kettle and the rest for our merriment! Order Now

The Friday Tasting - Please Join Us
Friday January 16 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge

1 - Lingenfelder Gewurztraminer 2006 $15

The Hare Label Gewürtztraminer from Lingenfelder is a lively, aromatic wine made from Gewürtztraminer, a traditional aromatic grape variety from the Pfalz region in Germany. The floral, aromatic qualities of this Gewürtztraminer are sure to provide a unique wine tasting experience, whether you enjoy it as an aperitif, with a meal, or just on its own. Perfect with Asian, Thai and Indian cuisine.

Order Now




2 - Errazuriz Merlot 2006 $12



Merlot with just a touch of Carmenere from the Curio valley in Chile. Bright cherry red in color, the nose boasts and interesting combination of black and red fruits with spice.

Cherries and blackberries blend with notes of black pepper, cloves, and a light touch of smoke. Medium bodied on the palate, with gripping tannins and good structure.

Toast and fruit combine with refreshing acidity for a delightful, soft-textured wine with a pleasing finish. Order Now











3 - Puzelat KO "In Cot We Trust" 2005 $21

From Thierry Puzelat, one of the two brothers at Clos du tue Boeuf, comes this odd little number. This wine is bio-dynamically farmed Malbec from of all places, the Loire valley.

As with many Loire wines it's all about character and terroir.

A solid core of fruit and tannins rests on wafting scents of wet stone,
Loire Garrigue and Monkey. For the Francophile and the adventurous.. Order Now





4 -Chateau La Rame Premieres Cotes de Bordeaux
2005 $26

Situated 40 kilometers southeast of the city of Bordeaux, Chateau La Rame is among the oldest and most renowned properties in the Sainte Croix du Mont appellation.

The estate was purchased by Claude Armand, the father of the current owner, Yves Armand. The 20 hectares of Chateau La Rame are set on a clay-limestone soil blessed with an exceptional substratum marked by a bed of fossilized oysters dating from the Tertiary era - really old.

The hillside vineyards overlook the Garonne River and face full south as they slope down towards the river.

The wine was slightly austere but intense with deep fruit and powerhouse tannins last we tasted it six months ago. Since then it's been sitting in our cellar "Mellowing Out", I wonder how it tastes now?

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We especially appreciate all of the comments and suggestions that you take the time to send in - it is very important to us. We do not take your support for granted - thank you for making us into the most talked about & copied wine store in Connecticut.

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


AAA.

Best Value East Of The Pecos

This Week Brie & Bleu Salutes The South West

Greetings from New London,
"Value - Value - Value." This is the mantra that we are hearing from you. And in true fashion - we are listening.

We have lots to tell you about - New Winter Hours, new specials at Brie & Bleu, AND some of the greatest values in food & wine that anyone has seen east of The Pecos. And of course a great selection for the Friday Tasting - let's get to it.

Brie & Bleu - NEW WINTER HOURS

Our WInter Hours for Brie & Bleu begin this week.
Closed Sunday & Monday. (as usual)
Reserved For Private Events Tuesday & Wednesday.
Open As Usual Thursday, Friday, & Saturday.
The changes make no difference to most of our friends and customers - but we want you to have all of the information to help you plan.

In addition to the new specials listed to the right in the snazzy side bar - Brie & Bleu is adding these TWO remarkable wine values to the menu:
just $5 glass/$12 bottle!

Don Ramon 2006 Tinto Tempranillo and Granache from Campo de Borja Spain, medium bodied with dark fruit and fine oak tannins, a staff favorite $5/$12

Astica Torrontes 2007 From a spicey and aromatic grape from Argentina, perfect pair for sausage, and cured meats $5/$12

If you can find better food & wine value anywhere else in NL - we would love to hear from you. Where else can you find dinner for two with a bottle of wine and still have folding money left over from your hard earned paycheck?

The Monday Tasting 1.5.09

Chateau Le Cleret Cuvee Cornelia 2005 $15

Another Bordeaux this week, this time from "Cotes de Bergerac," situated on the right bank of the Dordogne River between Bergerac and St. Emillion. Chateau Le Cleret is a small operation owned by Richard and Cornelia Matson - this particular blend of Merlot and Cab Franc is just to Cornelia's liking, hence the name.
We love this bottle, and so did you, the wine-drinking public, until it was suddenly rendered invisible by its chic new Reagan-Deco label (think Duran Duran's 1982 Rio album).

But what's in the bottle is better than ever - good old delicious 2005 Bordeaux!
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The Friday Tasting - Please Join Us
Friday January 9 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge

1 - Lomazzi & Sarli Malvasia Bianca 2007 $14

The winery is described as "Located in a context of extreme beauty, within the Brindisi plain, heart of the Apulia, the Lomazzi & Sarli company is extended on fields of alluvial origin, devoted for ages to the viticulture."

And who doesn't love beautiful alluvial plains?

The wine is a fruit driven south Italian white, that has the acidity and body to stand up to cured meats and Daryl's Bruschetta or Lone Ranger Chili.

Think that Pinot Grigio is the only Italian white wine? Well think again, buddy.

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2 - Minnow Creek "The Black Minnow" 2006 $18


Ok so here's one for you, Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec. I cracked a bottle of this one night at home and immediately began an e-mail to the winemaker Tony Walker entitled "Terroir in the production Sangiovese, from the Etruscans to the Antinori".

I sent that off and was half-way through my second e-mail, "Malbec, from Bordeaux to Mendoza, Journey of tears, Journey of Triumph" when it dawned on me that hey, this stuff is alright.

I don't usually associate the words well balanced, well integrated and food friendly with Australian wine but here it is. And if it took Sangiovese and Malbec to pull it off, I say bravo.

Here are Tony's notes on the Black Minnow.

"Vibrant red with a strong crimson rim. Primary fruit aromas of Black cherry and Rhubarb, typical of Sangiovese together with dark berries and spiciness provided by the Cabernet and the Malbec. Very enticing! Generous red berry fruits on entry, filling out on to the mid palate to blackberry jubes and white pepper all balanced by firm supporting acidity. The finish is spicy with a light supple tannin structure." Order Now


3 - Ken Wright Cellars
Abbot Claim Pinot Noir 2007 $50

We had some Ken Write left over from the holidays and I figured let's open some up, I've never had it and I'm dying of curiosity.

The Abbots Claim is a Vineyard of ancient marine soils that are the oldest in the Willamette Valley. The vineyard has a southeast inclination, giving the grapes maximum exposure to the sun.

Rumored to be one of the finest Pinot Noirs from the Willamette valley, but as we like to say at Thames River Wine & Spirits, there is only one way to find out,
PULL THE CORK!. Order Now


4 - Faust Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 $55

The second wine of Quintessa, and considered by many to be the better of the two.

Made of fruit sourced from the vineyards in Napa's Rutherford District, the wine delivers all that you've come to expect from the very best of Napa.

Rich dark fruit, overtones of chocolate and the famous dusty Rutherford tannins. So the winemaker traded his soul to make great wine, who are we to judge?

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As always I want to say thanks for your support.

We were told over and over again that we would never get the support of the people - that we would never find a place next to the "establishment" - the big box stores and the local chains that ruled the roost for so many years. But you proved them wrong. You stood there with us and held your glasses up high. We showed them that our prices were the same or less, and we proved that given the choice - people will choose quality and variety over mass market brands.

Our resolution for the New Year is to implement as many of your requests, and provide the best experience that we can in all of our stores.

This is your party - thanks for making it so much fun.

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


AAA.