Wine Spectator Top 100/Joseph Phelps Insignia/Don Melchor/& MORE

Greetings from all of us in New London,
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Brie & Bleu - New London's premier cheese market - 860-437-2474
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
Calendar of Events: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
Featured Items: http://thamesriver.com/wine/instock.html

The wines for the Friday tasting are highlighted in RED just a bit further down the page.


Wow - what a Thanksgiving. The turnout has been fantastic - and so many interesting requests.
Thank you for making it so much fun.

Well, the first big news we need to get out of the way is that the Wine Spectator TOP 100 list is out.
Oh, its out alright - and guess what local store has many of the wines in stock???
That's right - we do.

And I cannot tell you how many people have said things to us like...
"You will never be able to get that".
"Your kidding yourself....only the big stores can get it."
"That wiine never makes it past The Rockies."

The nay-sayers were wrong again.

Let me give you a few examples of what is on the Top 100 - AND on our shelves right now.
First come, first served.

Number 1 on the TOP 100 List - Joseph Phelps Insignia 2002 WS 96 points - we have it.
Also on the list:
Concha y Toro 2001 Don Melchor - WS 95 points - $45
Beaux Freres 2003 Pinot Noir - 95 points - $70
Columbia Crest 2002 - 93 points - $36
Shafer Relentless 2002 - 94 points - $70
St. Urbans Hof 2004 - 91 points - $12
Damilano 2001 Barolo - 92 points - $34
Turnbull 2002 - Cab.Sauv. -91 points - $40


The reason we can get these 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's the reason that we have world famous winemakers visit our store and join us for intimate dinners. Thank you.

In the coming months we have plans to increase our beer offerings with expanded space AND visits from renowned brewmasters.
We will also be adding regular beer dinners to complement the seasonal offerings from the beer makers.
And we will be adding dinners that feature beers made by local home brewers.
(If you know a home brewer that might be interested give us a call.")

Our spirits selection is growing at a steady pace -
Fueled by your requests and and by our commitment to offer truly hard to find specialty spirits we now offer some of the best examples of vodka, rum, tequila, scotch,Cognac, bourbon, calvados, port and many more.

Remember that we also have a long list of exceptional Champagne and sparkling wines.

Look for more gift basket options in both the wine store and our cheese store - Brie & Bleu.
Picking a gift and having it delivered is as easy as 1,2,3.

Brie & Bleu continues to add artisanal cheeses to it's list of goodies.
More olives, patés, charcuterie, and more are coming and by popular demand - more samples.
In fact - the folks behind the cheese counter will always get you a taste of anything in our cases - just for the asking.

The calendar of events is about to get several additions - Bookmark it and check it often.
The website is a great place to get news and information about many items of interest.
Our first Podcast is just around the corner - stay tuned.
New faces in all three stores - they are here to help you - ask them anything.

BEER TASTING EVERY THURSDAY - 5-8 p.m. NO CHARGE.
THIS WEEK: Great Beers for the Holiday.

WINE TASTING THIS FRIDAY December 2nd 2005 - 6-9 p.m. - NO CHARGE

1 - Louis Latour - Domaine de Valmoissine 2001 - $14 - http://www.louislatour.com/pages/index.php
The Domaine de Valmoissine is located on the site of the ancient monastery and university of Valmoissine at 500 metres above sea-level which guarantees sunshine during the summer months whilst remaining cool and limits the possibility of spring frosts. Close your eyes while you sip this and imagine that you are sitting on the hillside facing the sun - A pale, mahogany colored wine with bold, lively fruit aromas. Medium acidity, supple tannins and round structure that all combine deliciously to create a suave, fine wine.

2 - Rosemount Estate Hill of Gold 2003 Shiraz - $18 - http://www.rosemountestate.com/index.htm
The Hill of Gold vineyard in Mudgee lies in the western slopes of the Great Dividing Range. This shiraz has a deep, rich colour immediately indicating an impressive concentration of flavours. On the nose there are lifted perfume and spice aromas with a deep core of plummy, peppery fruit. The palate reveals velvety, ripe, fine-grained tannins, in harmony with the oak and seductively spicy fruit. The finish is rich and long, with cinnamon, cloves and wild fruit notes promising much for a further five to eight years careful cellaring.

3 - Paul Jaboulet 'Le Paradou' 2003 - $18 - http://www.frederickwildman.com/wildmansite/wmphp/index.php3
Jaboulet wines symbolize robustness and elegance, essential qualities of great wines. Their crown jewel is their Hermitage "La Chapelle" which Clive Coates states "is one of the great red wines of the world." Thomas Matthews of Wine Spectator has singled out Jaboulet as a producer which "offers reliable wines across the entire range of appellations. Deep dark cherry with a strong purple rim when young. Ripe, intense and pure red and black fruits such as blackberry and cherry with notes of spice and chocolate. Open, rich fruit with fresh but not sharp acidity and supple tannins. The finish is generous, long and warm with notes of jam and licorice. Delicious young for its ample fruit, or can be cellared 3-4 years. Ideal for meats in sauce and roasted fowl. roasts, pork, grilled meats, fowl, beef. This is a long time favorite with "foodies" - give this one a taste.

4 - Galici Bianco - 2003 Sicily - $14
The Galici is a classical Bianco with a complex bouquet. Flavors of bright fruits are rounded off by mineral and a wonderful almond smell. With its style the Galici Bianco is an aromatic and fresh companion for many foods. Each wine comes from property-owned vineyards and nature-left cultivation. These wines reflect themselves in the sun, the sea and the landscape of Sicily. Give them a try you will not be disappointed.

Thanks for your support - we appreciate it.

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

TOP 100/Don Melchor /St. Urbans-Hof/Shafer

Greetings from New London,
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
The Wine Spectator Top 100 List is out.
We are happy to say we have several of their top picks - in stock and ready for your holiday buying.

Concha y Toro 2001 Don Melchor - WS 95 points - $45
Beaux Freres 2003 Pinot Noir - 95 points - $70
Columbia Crest 2002 - 93 points - $36
Shafer Relentless 2002 - 94 points - $70
St. Urbans Hof 2004 - 91 points - $12
Damilano 2001 Barolo - 92 points - $34
Turnbull 2002 - Cab.Sauv. -91 points - $40

All are available on a first come, first served basis.

We happen to have what may be the last 12 bottles of Don Melchor in the state of Connecticut -
We are thinking of keeping it to one bottle per person - unless you have a silver tonge and can make your case with our own Jim Morrison - he is guarding it like it's the Holy Grail.

Have a great Thanksgiving - from all of us at TRW&S.

WFSB 3 Scott Haney/Jonathan Edwards/Perrin Family/Duckhorn/Lanson Cuvee

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

Favorites & Featured Items: http://thamesriver.com/wine/instock.html

Calendar of Events: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html

First - A big thank you to WFSB Channel 3 and Scott Haney -
We were featured in the last segment of "Every Town Has A Story"
We received lots of calls and visits because of the story. We would appreciate it if you let Scott know that you saw his piece and that you know our store - drop him a quick email note at: shaney@wfsb.com

Maybe we can get Scott to come in and visit one of our tastings -
or maybe do the weather from New London - you never know.
http://www.wfsb.com/Global/story.asp?S=1408084

Next - Congratulations to our good friends - Pam Marks and Tim McDowell -
both are featured in a new book: "Imagery Art for Wine"
These local artists (based at Connecticut College) have both created wine labels for Benzinger Wines.
And both have distinguished careers in the art world - take a look at why they were selected.
Check out the book at Amazon.Com:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1891267922/102-2144711-4721737?v=glance&n=283155&s=books&v=glance
This is one of those beautiful coffee table books with big gorgeous pages that you can look at for hours.

Thanks to everyone that came out to the Fine Living Expo at the Mystic Marriott to say hello this Sunday.
It was great to meet so many of of you - up close & personal.

Raise your hand if you STILL think we offer only fine wines & beer.
Our selection of spirits continues to grow - for example: we have on the shelves over 40 single malt scotches.
14 hard to find rums, vodka that reviewers rave about, cognac, tequila, calvados and the list goes on and on.
And we will happily special order anything that is available to us in Connecticut - we love locating hard to find items.
No minimums required -

The emphasis on great food wines continues throughout the week -

This Wednesday - 11/23/05 - No Charge
For all of you last minute Thanksgiving shoppers we have a little something to ease you into the mood.
A Day Long Tasting Starting at 1:00 p.m. - Featuring the wines of Jonathan Edwards Winery.
The Cabernet - $31 - The Chardonnay - $23 - The Merlot - $26 - The Syrah - $33
Try them all and learn why so many people are talking about this vineyard in North Stonington.

And remember it is not too late to schedule a delivery -
All of your wine, cheese, and flowers can be sent right to your front door.


THIS THURSDAY - CLOSED - Happy Thanksgiving.

THIS FRIDAY - 11/25/05 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
If you have friends and family visiting from out of town - this is a perfect way to get out of the house
and show them what you do on a nice Friday night.

Lanson Noble Cuvee Champagne - France - $68 - http://www.lanson.fr/en/maison.htm
The 1988 Vintage is an athlete able to charm the senses. Blended with rigorously selected grapes only from the top 100% rated Grands Crus vineyards, the Noble Cuvée is the ultimate expression of the Lanson style. The Noble Cuvée Brut Vintage is an incomparable accompaniment for all meals, particularly white meat and fish dishes. This Champagne will still remain fresh, delicious and magnificent over many years. A beautiful pale yellow color, brightened by fine bubbles. Aromas of citrus and white flowers ending on notes of candied mandarin. Notes of honey dominate this full-bodied and complex wine. The fresh finish lengthens and strengthens the elegance of this champagne. This is the kind of Champagne that movie stars drink when they do not need to impress people with a fancy label. It is an "insiders" choice - World famous chef - Alain Ducasse, the first French six stars chef, recommends in his restaurants the Champagne Lanson Noble Cuvée. Please try it and see what they are talking about.

FLOR DE GREALO SERO 2002 - Spain - $ 18
Wines like this are proof of our dedication to Spain. Yes this tastes like a dead ringer from the Right Bank in a warm year with gushing red fruit and surprising polish. Of course it’s got a difficult name, it hails from an obscure area north of Priorat called Costers del Segres, and has a bright label with block type. Are we gluttons for punishment? Maybe, but it’s wines like this that cause such dilemmas to arise. This is a blend of Grenache, Cabernet, and Syrah with deep color and ample fruit.

Perrin Lagille Gigondas - France - $25 - http://www.perrin-et-fils.com/beaucastel/wines_gigondas/index.html
The color is a deep ruby with a velvety aspect. The nose is reminiscent of red fruit jams, with a mineral and earthy touch.
A generous and powerful wine that is robust and distinguished, with its firm tannins well integrated.
This is the same family that makes the world famous Chateau Beaucastel that costs in the hundred dollar range.
They know how to make wine - be sure to try this one.

Duckhorn Merlot - $50 (we will pour while the samples last) - http://www.duckhornvineyards.com/
This famous Napa Valley Merlot is blended to offer the complexity and balance of
a young wine and reflective of the Napa Valley appellation.
This vintage is full-bodied and layered with fruit and well-integrated tannins that lead to a lingering finish. The aroma is dominated by ripe fruit-blackberry, plum, and cherry-and is accented by notes of toasted oak, vanilla, cedar, and tobacco. The flavors are rich with chocolate, blackberry, blueberry, plum, cassis, white pepper, and dried herbs. Yummy!

It has been a very busy couple of weeks. Thanks to everyone that stopped in to say hello and for all of the notes and phone calls. We appreciate your support and we have some very interesting things coming up.
All of our tastings, the weekly dinners, and special events come directly from your suggestions and participation.
Thank you. The best is yet to come.


AAA.

What's My Wine/Thanksginving 101/Beaujolais/Domaine Schlumberger/Joseph Drouhin

11.13.05

Greetings from New London Connecticut,

Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Brie & Bleu - Cheese & Market - 860-437-2474
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
Calendar of Events: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html


Lots of news this week ......let the games begin.


FIRST -
If you want to skip ahead to the wines for Friday night - be our guest - they are Highlighted in RED - just below.


NEXT -
Lots of people have been asking about - "Whats My Wine" -
If you still don't know about it - in a nutshell - here's what we do.
It starts at 6:00 and runs for about an hour - so you can keep your dinner plans.

People arrive and we start off with a glass of wine - there are also delicious appitizers and cheese set out to help take the edge off.
Then we divide the group into two - Red Team and the White Team.
There are six to eight bottles of wine that have been selected and "bagged" - exposed just enough at the neck to pour. Some expensive, some not.

People settle in and the first wine is poured - into beautiful Riedel stemware.
A coin toss determines which team goes first.
Then our moderator asks a question - for example "What is the type of grape?" or "What country is this wine from?"

People sniff, sip, taste - then confer - and they try to answer. - "Is it old world?" or maybe "Do people in this country commonly wear berets?" or
"Does it have a chewy chocolate center?" - As long as they get a yes - they can ask another question of the moderator.
When they get a NO - it goes to the opposite team.
The team with the most points on the board at the end of the night wins!

Honestly - it is a very social evening and lots of fun.
AND you will be amazed at how many times people are wrong - especially the "experts".
Watch the calendar of events for the next What's My Wine! - beginners and experts alike are welcome.

Last Thursday night the Australian Wine Dinner at Brie & Bleu was fantastic - thanks to everyone and for making it a night to remember.
Upcoming dinners can be found on the website - calendar of events.
NOW ACCEPTING RESERVATIONS - Very Special Bordeaux Dinner - Limited Seating - (if you have been waiting to join us - this is the one)
Tuesday November 29 - 6 p.m. $75 + tax & gratuity - Call for information and reservations - 860-443-9463

TUESDAY NOVEMBER 15th - Thanksgiving 101 - $20 - 6 p.m. - Limited Seating.
How many times have you asked yourself - "How can I use those old plates and Fred Flintstone juice glasses that I got at the Salvaton Army to set a holiday table that my in-laws and friends won't talk about?" - It happens all of the time.
So this is what we are doing to help: Tips, tricks, and lots of fun. Flowers, wine, food, decorations - we cover it all.
Meet the experts, ask the questions and have a little fun - and most importantly - make the holidays STRESS FREE.

Wednesday - November 16th - Beer Tasting & Musicale - 5-8 p.m. NO CHARGE
Join us in The Cellar for a taste of the great beers of the world.
Some of these brews can be shared over dinner - just like a bottle of fine bottle of wine.

Thursday - November 17th - The 2005 Beaujolais Nouveau Is Here! - No Charge
Check out the official website - http://beaujolaisnouveautime.com/
Lots of people ask what all of the fuss is about - Well...it's A Party - to celebrate the new vintage.
We have lined up well known experts to host our party at Brie & Bleu.
Great food, special guests, and LOTS OF WINE!
Come celebrate with us and put a little Ooh la la! in your week.


WINES THIS FRIDAY - 6-9 p.m. No Charge - Please Join Us
Great Food Wines For The Holidays.

Domaine Schlumberger Riesling – Abbes – : http://www.domaines-schlumberger.com/en/control.cfm/language/english
Clear straw colour with green tints. An intense nose: lemon, grass with hint of sugar. Off-dry.
Balanced acidity. Full-bodied with pronounced citrous fruit. Very fine quality, there is so much going on here - you must try it.

Domaine Ott Le Domaniers Rose - : http://www.domaines-ott.com/
Very pale rosé wine - a coppery rose color with soft orange and silver hints. The wine has a brilliance and has great concentration.
Notes of strawberries raspberries and apricots. with fruity flavors. Perfect balance gives a classy impression, rare for a rosé - More than superb, its divine.
This is a fantastic wine for the holiday.

Joseph Drouhin Laforet Pinot Noir - $14 : http://www.drouhin.com/accueil/index1.php?lg=en
Clear ruby color, on the light side, a shade or two darker than a rosé. Fresh, light red-fruit and dried-cherry aromas add a whiff of brown spices, cinnamon and cloves. This a natural with beef; also worked well with a meatless match, roast beets (a good vegetarian choice with Pinot Noir) braised with mild but aromatic Indian spices.

JJ Vincent Morgon Beaujolais”Charmes" - http://www.chateau-fuisse.fr/ang_fuisse/index.htm
Sweet, almost candy-like red cherry and kirsch aromas.
Smooth and fruity on the palate, yet well structured, with open ripe red berry and cherry flavors, racy acidity, and very soft tannins.
Great Food Match - Turkey and chicken.

A finally a quick programing note - It's true - our Podcast begins in just a few weeks - stay tuned.
AND - next Sunday we will be at the Fine Living Show at the Mystic Marriott - http://marriott.com/property/propertypage/GONMM
Please swing by if you attend.

Thanks for all of your support - The suggestions, the questions, the email - we appreciate all of it.
We hope to see you soon.

Schug wines/Vina Robles/Thanksgiving 101/Wine & Fashion

Hello from New London,
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
www.thamesriver.com

The wines for this week are highlighted in red a bit further down the page -
just skip ahead if you do not have the time for the general news.

First a big thank you to Vic Vicari for presiding over last Friday night's tasting.
At 83 years old, Vic is one hip cat. Thank you Vic. (women love this guy - it's like being at a Tom Jones concert.....seriously).

The requests for private parties are rolling in -
Remember we are happy to arrange private tastings and private parties for any occasion.
Brie & Bleu is the perfect place for food, wine and friends - call us.
We can arrange special menus, special wines, what ever your heart desires - call us 860-437-2474

This Wednesday November 9 - 6 p.m. $10
it's time again to play - "What's My Wine!".
Our blind tasting is very popular - stop by and have some fun.
Please call early to reserve a spot. - 860-443-9463

THIS THURSDAY November 10 - 6 p.m.
Australian Wine Dinner - The great wines of Australia matched with five courses from Brie & Bleu.

COMING SOON - Bordeaux Dinner, South African Wine Dinner, Thanksgiving 101, Beaujolais Nouveau 11/17/05 at MIDNIGHT, Scotch Tasting -
thats to name just a few - keep your eye on the calendar of events for the latest information - or call us anytime. 860-443-9463

THIS SATURDAY - WINE & FASHION - 6 - 8:30 p.m.
Fashion Show & Fundraiser - donation includes - Food & Wine, Fashion Show, Gift Certificates and more.
The Angel Charitable Trust - A non profit CT based, all-volunteer group which provides money for CT families who have children undergoing cancer treatment. Also receiving a portion of the show's proceeds is Habitat For Humanity, well known for its association with President Jimmy Carter -- as they gear up to help build affordable housing for storm victims

BEERS THIS WEEK
Thursday 11/10/05 - 5-8 p.m. NO CHARGE
Some of you may have noticed that George Whitehouse, the president of our beer division, has been on vacation for a week........I can't believe it either. Anyway - he is back and he assures all of us that the beer tasting on Thursday night is going to be special.

WINES THIS WEEK:
FRIDAY 11/11/05 - 6-9 p.m. NO CHARGE

Mr Jack Williamson will be with us and pouring great wines from two separate estates.

First - Founded in 1980, Schug Carneros Estate Winery is the showcase and life-long dream of one of California's most celebrated winemakers.
http://www.schugwinery.com/index.jsp

1 - Schug Carneros Estate Chardonnay - $21
A wine with the powerful elegance of the finest white Burgundy. It has a ripe, spicy tropical bouquet with flavors that suggest citrus, pear and apple-butter. Well-balanced acidity gives it a crisp, clean finish, making it an excellent wine with food. Try it with cream soups, seafood, fowl, veal and pasta dishes.

2 - Schug Carneros Estate Pinot Noir - $18
A complex wine with a rich bouquet full of cherries, berries and hint of spicy new oak. Flavors of bright cherry, currant and strawberry are followed by a spicy, smooth texture and elegant finish. This wine will pair nicely with lamb, duck, and even grilled fish and will improve with additional cellaring.

Next - Vina Robles is the realization of a long-held dream. It is the collaboration of international talents and recognition of an area of exceptional viticultural promise. It began as the world-wide search by Hans Nef, a Swiss restaurateur and developer, for the perfect place to grow Bordeaux and Rhone varietals. He found it in California.
http://www.vinarobles.com/vina_robles.html

3 - Vina Robles - Signature Blend - $27
It's Back - we could not keep this in stock the last time it was available - please give it a try, it is something special. Deep, saturated inky purple,this big wine is supple, lush and mouth filling; complex and refined, with silky ripe, rounded tannins; primary flavors of blueberry, plum and blackberry complemented by secondary notes of peach and preserved fruits such as dates and mission figs.

4 - Vina Robles Viognier - $15
Clear, pale gold color: aromas of pineapple and tropical fruit, with secondary aromas of ginger, nutmeg and orange blossom. Spices and tropical fruit such as lychee together with citrus; rich and weighty in the mouth with an attractive softness and a lingering finish.


Thanks for all of your support - we appreciate it.
Be sure to check the website for the latest information, news and items of interest.

Please Join Us - it is fun, informal and a great way to start your weekend.




AAA.

Halloween/Meeker Wines/ Australian Dinner/Domaine Lafage

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
www.thamesriver.com
Calendar of Events - http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html

Happy Halloween -

Thanks to everyone that attended the California Wine Dinner featuring Meeker Wines - and for making it so much fun.
By the end of the night it was a real.....Hoot-n-anny!
Charlie & Molly Meeker held court at Brie & Bleu - We talked, we laughed, they told stories, we drank wine......
Check the photo gallery on the website to see a few pictures.
Thanks again to the Meekers for being gracious with their time and so relaxed with our guests.
It was like being at a friends house for a cool party.

It's Time To Play - Wednesday November 9 - 6 p.m. $10
it's time again to play - "What's My Wine!".
Our blind tasting is very popular - stop by and have some fun.
Please call early to reserve a spot. - 860-443-9463

Our Australian Wine Dinner is now accepting reservations
AUSTRALIAN WINE DINNER - Thursday November 10th - 6 p.m. - $50 per person.
The Great Wines Of Australia - limited seating - please call early.

WINES THIS WEEK:

Friday 11/04/05 - 6-9 p.m. NO CHARGE

1 - Calvet-Thunevin "Les Dentelles" - $32
The color is very deep, almost completely dark, with purple hues on the rim.
The first whiff is an explosion of ripe and exuberant aromas. Black fruits, especially blackberry and cassis, as well as the tongue-tingling aromas of currant come out first. As the wine sits in the glass, more complex scents emerge such as bitter cocoa and fresh tobacco with spices in the background, a tell tale sign of Grenache. It ends with hints of cinnamon, pepper and clove. The range of aromas is exceptionally rich, yet the bouquet stays balanced and lively. This would be a great match with a big juicy T-bone.

2 - Bodegas Mustiguillo - $18
Bodegas Mustiguillo is located in Spain, about 100 kilometers west of Valencia. The vineyard sits on a high plateau 700 meters above sea level.
In Food & Wine Magazine's annual Wine Issue (Oct. 2004), Mustiguillo was named as one of 20 "Best New Wineries." Richard Nalley wrote of the 2002 Mestizaje, "From Valencia in eastern Spain, this palate-caressing red is a blend of the local specialty -- the sappy, fruit-sweet, big-bodied Bobal grape -- plus 5 others. Mustiguillo's version, with its polished and seductive texture, pushes Bobal to its limit. Give the wine time in the decanter to unfold.

3 - Capcanes Mas Donis Barrica 2003 - $13
The Wine Advocate A custom cuvee for the American importer, the 19,000-case 2003 Mas Donnis Barrica was aged ten months in both American and French oak. Its dense ruby/purple color is followed by sumptuous aromas of blueberries, black currants, cold steel, and minerals. Evocative of a baby Priorat, it possesses an amazing fragrance, considerable nobility as well as complexity, medium to full body, and a long, concentrated, heady finish. Enjoy it over the next 5-7 years. Score: 92. —Robert Parker, June 2005.

4 - Domaine Lafage - $10
Deep in this Catalan region of southwestern France, Domaine Lafage blends juicy, aromatic wines that deliver the rare combination of distinctiveness and affordability. Although only in his thirties, Jean-Marc Lafage already has almost 15 years of worldclass winemaking behind him. One of the most sought-after winemakers of Europe at the moment, Jean-Marc lends his expertise with Southern European varietals to several top estates in both France and Spain (he makes Las Rocas Garnacha with Eric Solomon) and also in South America. However, his best work is perhaps at home at his estate in the hills of the Roussillon with his wife, also an accomplished winemaker.


Thanks for your support we all appreciate it.
Please remember to check our website and calendar of events for more information and other items of interest.
http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html

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



AAA.

Italian Wines / African Art / Grace Magazine / Mario Batali Otto

FIRST -
A big thank you to Carol McCarthy at The Day newspaper.
The article that she wrote about our store in the recent issue of Grace Magazine, the magazine for women,
was fabulous - we all appreciate the kind words.

Food Stroll was a great success - hundreds of people came out to support the event and it was lots of fun.
Thanks to everyone that came out and said hello.

Many of you enjoy the South African wines that were a part of recent our tastings --
You will be happy to learn that there will be a
Celebration of African Art, Music, and information this Friday night at Connecticut College.

The Cummings Art Center at Connecticut College will be at the center of the evening - here is a rundown:

The Cummings Art Center room 308 - at Connecticut College:
4:00 p.m. - Pamela Allara will lecture on Contemporary Printmaking in South Africa
5:00 p.m. - A reception with wine in the galleries show casing the artwork & exhibits
8:00 p.m. - A concert by noted South African musician Vusi Mahlasela
will be held at John C. Evans Hall.

If you have not been up to the college lately - what are you waiting for?
This is a great way to visit their beautiful art galleries, take a look at some remarkable artwork,
try some wine, listen to some music and pick up a little ....."Kul-Cha".
For more information give a call to: 860-439-2740


Remember - Every Thursday night we have a beer tasting and musicale - 5-8 p.m.
This week Porters and Stouts will be featured.

Every Friday night - the wines are flowing from 6-9 p.m.
Please join us - it is fun, informal and a great way to start your weekend



WINES THIS WEEK:
Friday - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge

ITALY
Piedmontese wines like Barolo, Barbaresco, and Barbera, are all outstanding winter red wines with ample aromas, high alcohol, full body and a long, satisfying finish. If there’s ever been a time for savoring Piedmont’s wines, it is now. An unbroken hit parade of impressive vintages from 1995 through 1999 makes buying these wines easier than ever, provided you choose the right producer. Some quality producers, for example Ceretto and Gaja, make outstanding single- vineyard (which the Piedmontese call cru) Barbarescos such as Sorì Tildin, Asili and Bricco Asili. Other top Barbaresco producers include: Bruno Giacosa, Parroco di Neive, Bruno Rocca, and Tenute Cisa Asinari dei Marchesi di Gresy.

1 - Catina Parroco Barbaresco - $28
A Barbaresco that exalts the extraordinary quality of the Nebbiolo grape like few others can at this price.
Indeed, for the Parroco di Barbaresco, offering great value for money - initially just one of many factors taken into consideration -
has become the defining factor in the wines they produce and works particularly well as an accompaniment to starters and lighter meat-based mainstays

2 - Catina Parroco Barbera - $15
Supple wine that appeals immediately thanks to its refined, velvety palate and rich, characterful body.
Although its tipicity is undiminished, this is no Barbera-by-numbers - rather it is a singular attempt to create a truly enjoyable wine.

3 - Zeni Muller Thurgau - $15
A real treat is this rounded, seductive Muller Thurgau. Generously fresh in its clear evocation of fruity aromas.
Always a good choice, it is certainly worth keeping in mind any time fish-based dishes are on the menu

4 - Zeni Pinot Grigio - $17
The color is a glowing, pale salmon, like Blanc De Noirs Champagne. Classy, well-balanced, and silky aromas of white flowers, flint, and peach. A dry style of Pinot Grigio with good fruit, balance, some complexity, and a creamy texture. This wine has the feel and grace found in good white Burgundy. Flavors of young red berries, peach, white pear, and notes of lemon-lime acidity. The finish is dry with balanced fruit notes and a crisp acidity. Refined enough to work well with light food, but flavorful enough to handle richer fish like salmon or swordfish.

Last Saturday night I had the opportunity to visit Mario Batali's restaurant Otto in New York.
The wine list is a remakable collection that deserves high praise. All of his restaurants feature extensive wine lists because of his parnership in the Italian Wine Merchants. Mario Batali began his career as apprentice to London's Marco Pierre White, followed by three years of cooking and learning in Northern Italy. Upon returning to the U.S. in 1993, Batali opened his first acclaimed New York restaurant P'o. He now divides his time between four Italian hotspots; Lupa, a Roman-style trattoria; Esca, which focuses on fresh seafood; and Babbo Ristorante e Enoteca, an upscale dining room, which received three stars in The New York Times, and was awarded "Best New Restaurant of 1998" by the James Beard Foundation. Otto Enoteca Pizzeria, his newest restaurant, opened in January 2003.

Batali hosts Molto Mario and Mario Eats Italy on Food Network and is the author of several bestselling cookbooks. He most recently won the James Beard award for Best New York Chef in 2002.

For more information and other items of interest please visit our website and check the calendar of events - it changes often.

Thanks for your support we couldn't do it without you

This Is What we Do

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

Calendar of events: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
Favorites & items of interest: http://thamesriver.com/wine/instock.html

Let me first congratulate the team that took top honors at last weeks What's My Wine.
There were new faces that took the chalange and some familiar ones too.

The RED team had the higest score -
AND that makes two times in a row that "SD" was on the winning team - coincidence??

Also last Thursday night our Italian dinner was delicious! And sold out- Thank you

Keep an eye on this newsletter and also the calendar of events - We have a different wine dinner each week.
Do you like French food? is it German food that gets your attention? - Perhaps it is the stunning nouvel cuisine that is coming from the west coast that strikes your fancy. We are bringing all of it right to New London - and matching it with the perfect wine.

This is what we do.

We have a culinary team in place that makes people green with envy - how many of you remember Anne's Bistro in Old Lyme?
Anne is on our team - How many of you know "You Take The Cake" for cakes, deserts, and more - Lisa is on our team.

How many of you have had prepared foods & cheese and other goodies from the gourmet markets and special mail order stores from NY and other big cities - We feature the same remarkable cheeses - in fact we buy directly from the same cheese makers and purveyors as the famous stores. We are bringing it all right to New London and matching it with the perfect wine.

This is what we do.

How many of you have been down to Zabars, Balducci's, Murray's or Dean and Deluca and marveled at the breads, cheese, patés, olives, sausage, prepared foods and deserts? We make every effort to bring some of that right here to New London. In our combined stores we offer over 100 types of cheese - Cakes and deserts made to order - Fresh roasted coffees by the pound - we have over 60 imported & craft beers displayed in our cooler and in the cellar. We have 36 single malt scotches (and growing) for your your dancing pleasure - And fine wine from the world over. This is what we do.

Take advantage of our partnership with Thames River Greenery -
For example as a hostess:
Your having a party or holiday gathering at your house - you call "The Greenery" for your house flowers & centerpiece -
With that same call you can arrange for:
Cheese and gourmet platers, prepared foods and deserts, coffee, wine, beer and spirits to be delivered right to your front door at the same time!
All you have to do is place it all on the table - Your friends and in-laws are bowled over - "how does she do it all AND make it look so easy?"
"Maybe we WERE wrong about her after all....."

No stress, no fuss, no muss - no messy mop up.

This is what we do.

Remember - Every Thursday night we have a beer tasting and musicale.
Every Friday night - the wines are flowing from 6-9 p.m.
Please join us - it is fun, informal and a great way to start your weekend.

O.K. - now on to this weeks show -

WEDNESDAY - Prepare yourself for the FOOD STROLL - It will be the nicest day we have had in weeks -
Penny Parsekian and the New London Main Street Organization have planned a great event -
find out more on our web site or visit them directly at www.nlmainstreet.org

THURSDAY - Beer Tasting & Musicale - NO CHARGE - 5-8 p.m.
This is the same night as the Old Chatham Sheepherding Company cheese tasting next door at Brie & Bleu

Southern Tier Brewing Company from New York - http://www.southerntierbrewing.com/
Try their - IPA, Porter, Tripel and Phinn & Matt's Extraordinary Ale and then visit the
cheese store and meet the cheesemaker's from Old Chatham New York.

FRIDAY 10/14/05 - Wine Tasting - 6-9 p.m. - NO CHARGE

1 -Borsao 2002 "Tres Picos" $14
Cloves and cinnamon - Juicy raspberry fruit and spice are nicely balanced by firm acidity on the palate - a very-berry, fruit-forward wine. An excellent match with a char-grilled free-range chicken with fresh herbs tucked under the breast skin; plenty of body and structure to hold up well to rare red meat, too.

2 - Penfolds 2001 Bin 2 South Eastern Australia Shiraz-Mourvèdre - $15

Very dark reddish-purple with ruby glints. Peppery black fruit and pleasant floral aromas add a "green" nuance that's hard to pin down: Sappy, leafy, something like anise. Mouth-filling and bright, its flavor shows black fruit and piercing acidity that curls the sides of your tongue. A natural match with beef.

3 - Latour Pouilly-Vinelles - $14
Pouilly-Fuissé offers an excellent introduction to white Burgundy, showing fresh apple-like fruit, good balance, firm acidity and a touch of minerality ... all the components that display Chardonnay at its best and that can help re-calibrate a palate attuned to the rich, sweet, "buttery" style of New World Chardonnay. Today's tasting offers a good, straightforward example from Louis Latour, a major negociant whose wines are widely available worldwide. As Thanksgiving and the holiday season near, it's an excellent option to have on hand when lobster, crab or other rich seafood appears on a festive table.

4 - Torremoron DiBera Del Duero - $10
Wow. Rich, fruity, bit of oak, long finish, sweetness and great pleasure - this is a great bottle of wine for ten dollars.
Please give this a try you will be surprised.


We hope to see you all down town this week - after a long rainy spell like we have had you really need to get out of the house.
Thanks for your support and for making all of these event so much fun - we all appreciate it.


AAA.

F.U.JazzBoy/Orsini Sausage/Beer Dinner/Vineyard Brands

Greetings from all of us in New London,
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463 - 84 Bank Street - New London
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817 - 70 State Street - New London
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474 - 84 Bank Street - New London
www.thamesriver.com
www.brieandbleu.com
Calendar of events: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html

Ladies and Gentlemen - Boys and Girls - Children of all Ages -
There is so much going on under the big top this week that it is hard to sit still.

A quick thank you to everyone that made our wine and chocolate party so much fun.
Clearly this will be a regular event! Who knew that wine and chocolate go togeather like Tracy and Hepburn.

Our Single Malts and La Gloria Cubana night was beautiful.
Many thanks to "Alex from Glasgow" for speaking with passion about the fine spirits of Scotland.
We now have 34 single malts (and growing) to choose from!
The big winner of the night? - The Glenrothies.
Sure it's a totally different style than the mighty Laphroaig or the wood finished Glenmorangie's - BUT on Wednesday night it found a special place in the hearts of all who raised their glass. And thanks also to the members of the U.S.C.G. Concert Band for stopping by......"keep it metal".

On Thursday the regular beer tasting featured Red Hook Brewing Company and classic jazz - It was a smooth night out.
Our own George Whitehouse did a great job with the vinyl and thanks to Mystic Disk for providing the music - it was cool man.

I can not say enough about last Friday night - Vincent Monseran did an outstanding job - there must have been a couple of hundred people tasting his wines over the course of the evening. He never missed a beat.

NOW onto this week.
Grab the calendar off of the refrigerator and get yourself a permanent marker with a broad tip -
You will not want to miss the events we have planned - Especially on Friday.

Our Beer Dinners have been growing in popularity each month.
Take a look at this weeks menu and you can see why.
Seating is limited - remember to call early to reserve.

This Wednesday - October 5, 2005 - Beer Dinner - 6 p.m. $35 - plus tax & gratuity
Menu Includes:
- Sausage Crostinis
- Filet Mignon with sauteed mushrooms
- Brasied Sea Scallops
- Hot Fudge Brownie withHaagen Das ice cream.
Beer Includes:
- Allagash White Ale
- St. Pete’s lemon & ginger Ale
- De Kronick Ale
- Lindeman’s Frambois Lambic

THIS THURSDAY - October 6, 2005 - Back to Belgium - by popular demand.
Beer Tasting and Musicale - 5-8 p.m. - NO CHARGE
The famed beers of De Konig, Westmalle, Orval and Lindeman will be featured.

THIS FRIDAY October 7, 2005 - Starting at 6 p.m.
It's a big night - take a minute to get comfortable......and read on.

Friday night we are hosting a concert and beer tasting at the Hygenic Art Park -across the street from our store.
(IN THE EVENT OF RAIN - SHOW WILL BE HELD IN THE BALLROOM OF THE CROCKER HOUSE - ONE BLOCK AWAY)
A Limited Number Of Tickets are available now at:
Thames River Wine & Spirits - Thames River Greenery - Brie & Bleu - AND IF AVAILABLE at the door.

The ticket price is $20 - this is what's included:
On the big stage will be F.U. JazzBoy - ("funk unlimited" - what were YOU thinking?)
The members of this band are award winning and have performed with many of the biggest acts in the business.
Consummate "session" players and recording artists in their own right - you may have cd's in your collection that feature their work.
This is a "big city band" right here in New London - but wait, there's more.

Included with your ticket -
Brooklyn Brewing Company will be serving several of their award winning beers - try one - try them all.
Brooklyn Brewery’s beers have won many national and international awards.
Brewmaster Garrett Oliver has hosted hundreds of beer tastings and dinners in the U.S. and overseas, and writes regularly for beer and food-related periodicals. He has appeared on dozens of television programs as a spokesman for the craft beer revolution. Garrett’s profile was featured in Gourmet magazine, which referred to him as “a passionate epicure and talented alchemist.”
A recent two-page profile in The New York Times Dining Section referred to his “brilliant” ability to match flavorful beer with great food.
Members of Garrett's team will be on hand to answer questions and serve his beer. But wait, there's more - What goes with great beer? -

Since 1933 - The Name "ORSINI" has been famous in New England for being purveyors of the finest Italian Sausage available.
Known as "The best of the best" - all natural ingredients - no preservatives.
Meet Mr. Carl Orsini himself - he will be manning the grill and serving samples of his award winning "Saw-Seech".
Taking your questions and matching them with the beer - AND digging the tunes. But wait, there's more -

ACROSS THE STREET IN OUR GORGEOUS CELLAR - NO CHARGE
If Music, Beer and "Saw-seech" were not enough to entice you -
Mr. Jim Kowalshin from Vineyard Brands will be pouring some of the finest wines in his portfolio.
Jim K is an encyclopedia of wine knowledge - and a dead ringer for Roy Orbison.
His relaxed and friendly style makes everyone feel right at home.

1 - Perrin Family - France - Côtes du Rhone-Villages Rasteau - $18
Very deep purple color. Elegant and powerful with a large number of fruit aromas red currant, black currant and raspberry -
A generous and well-structured wine - great with red meats.

2 - Porcupine Ridge -Cabernet South Africa - Boekenhoutskloof - $12
This young...winemaker is earning cult status for the wines he makes - Deep, dark and rich in color. A nose of blackcurrants with a delicate vanilla oak background. An open and inviting flavor profile leading through layers of intriguing varietal fruit flavors to a firm backbone of tannin and oak.

3 - Nine Stones Shiraz - Australia - $12
Very dark colored-almost opaque, with a bouquet which is very tight and cabernet dominant with plum and spice.
On the palate, the wine is tightly structured but with breathing shows high quality Bordeaux like fine-grained tannins and flavors.
The finish is long and persistent: Will develop well with bottle age.

4 -Dona Paula Malbec - Argentina - $14
This is Doña Paula’s icon wine. Produced only during exceptional vintages.
This deep and complex Malbec is derived solely from the property’s oldest vines - 30 years old.
The Estate line of wines exude complexity, having matured in both French and American oak barrels.
The wine-maker’s objective here is to create opulent wines which maximize the best characteristics of each individual variety.

Of course Brie & Bleu will be open too - with samples of the world's best cheeses and all of the Orsini products you might want to take home.
Remember that Brie & Bleu is available for private parties and special functions - just give us a call.

If you have been waiting to join us - this is the weekend to do it - get your friends together and come on down.

Our calendar of events is about to change for the coming months - lots of dinners, tastings, book signings and more.
It does change often and is the best place to find out about the latest news and events.

All of the activities we plan are directly connected to your requests, comments, and suggestions - thank you all for the input and for your support.
If you have any questions about the information in this update - please do not hesitate to call us. We love hearing from you.
Phone numbers and contact information are at the top of this email.

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





AAA.

Nickel and Nickel - Dragonfly/Tench/Carpenter/Vogt

NICKEL & NICKEL - LIMITED SUPPLY
The wineries dotted along the flat, tidy expanse of the Napa Valley appellation of Oakville are celebrated for producing world-class Cabernet Sauvignon and other varietal wines. In fact, the region’s vineyards are some of the most coveted in the valley. The Nickel & Nickel winery, founded in 1997 but born from a tradition of exceptional winemaking, is devoted to creating wines that articulate the singular expressions of the vineyards in Oakville and beyond.

We are happy to announce limited availabllity of:

Dragonfly - $90

Tench - $80

Carpenter - $80

Vogt - $80

First come, first served

Marci Alborhgetti/Harley Davidson/Morgan Stanley/DogFish Head/Chateau St.Michelle

Greetings from all of us in New London,
Thames River Wine & Spirits
Thames River Greenery
Brie & Bleu
www.thamesriver.com
www.brieandbleu.com
Calendar of Events: http://www.thamesriver.com/site_2/wine/calendar.html


Before I outline the wines for this weeks tasting let me update a few things of interest.
Don't forget to check the calendar of events - there are several NEW listings to consider.

First - Many of you attended the opening of New York Photographer Joe Standart's show
in our cellar. "The New London Project - Portrait of a City" is an amazing collection of photographs that must be seen. The full show will be on display at the Lyman Allyn Art Museum from October 7 thru December 4, 2005. New London residents will be admitted without charge.
For more information check here: http://www.thenewlondonproject.org/
OR : http://www.lymanallyn.org


NEXT - Lots of thanks to everyone out at Mike' Famous Harley Davidson in Groton
and Morgan Stanley from Mystic. We had a great time on Thursday night - it was an honor to be included.
http://www.mikesfamous.com

And to that crazy girl that kept starting up the bikes in the showroom......Yeah baby, yeah!


Local Author Marci Alborhgetti was packing them in on Friday night.
They came from far and wide to visit with the author and have copies of her latest book
"When Lightning Strikes Twice" signed.
Twenty-Third Publications was given a City of New London Citation for relocating to our fair city and for bringing in over 40 full time employees into downtown. Representatives Peg Curtain and Ernest Hewitt were on hand to do the honors. See the highlights in our photo gallery.

The Dogfish Head Beer tasting on Thursday night brought crowds of people to taste the beer and to try drinking directly from "The Gizmo" - A fresh hops filter. There was music, there was beer, and there were people having a party. This is the best fraternity in town - remember every Thursday 5-8 p.m. - NO CHARGE - Stop in and meet our "Rush Chairman" - George Whitehouse.


WINE TASTING
THIS FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 23 - 6-9 p.m. - NO CHARGE


Chateau St. Michelle - Washington state's founding winery - Voted Winery of the Year 10 times!
Washington state's oldest and most acclaimed winery offers award-winning wines and a tasting experience second to none. The winery combines Old World winemaking tradition with New World innovation. We are happy to feature their wines this Friday night.

1 - Chateau St. Michelle - Indian Wells - Chardonnay - $20 (90 points wine spectator)
This elegant wine shows aromas of fresh Golden Delicious apple, sweet lemon and a hint of mineral and baking spice. The wine is bright and lively and exhibits flavors of apple, lemon and vanilla cream. The texture of the wine is rich and silky and has a toasty lingering finish. Perfect with salmon, fresh crab, pork and poultry.

2 - Chateau St. Michelle - Indian Wells - Merlot - $20 (90 points Wine Enthusiast)
Aromas of roasted nuts are complemented with licorice and black cherry. Black cherry and blueberry intermingle elegantly with black tea and leather on the palate. Firm, restrained tannins provide an elegantly long finish. Outstanding with lamb, pasta and beef.

3 -EROICA RIESLING - $24 - Wine Spectator placed this in the top 100 FIVE years in a row!
Named after Beethoven's masterpiece, the winemaking partnership between famed Mosel winemaker Ernst Loosen and Chateau Ste. Michelle - Eroica delivers a unique combination of tangerine aromas characteristic of Washington state Riesling, melded with the mineral and slate notes and lively, crisp acidity associated with German Riesling. Made for Asian dishes, Indian curries, crab & scallops.

4 - Chateau St. Michell - 2003 Sauvignon Blanc - $12
Distinct aromas of jasmine and honeydew melon lead to sweet lime flavors.
This 2003 vintage is a fresh, fruit-driven, crisp style of Sauvignon Blanc, as a result of increased stainless steel fermentation. This stuff is why they invented goat cheese and oysters!

Our fall season is shaping up nicely. Based on your suggestions and requests we have been able to try new things, meet new people and raise the bar even higher than anyone could have imagined.

The number of interesting guests, on location events, food guru's, authors, life style experts and circus people that are scheduled to join us is growing on a daily basis. Thank You all for your interest and your support - the best is yet to come.



AAA.

F.U. JazzBoy/Dogfish Head/Marci Alborghetti/Berkshire Blue/"What's My Wine"

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

Calendar of Events - http://www.thamesriver.com/site_2/wine/calendar.html

We had a beautiful group of people last Friday night -
Not just the number of people - but really a good looking crowd.
Lots of new faces and with the arrival of each ferry from Long Island and Fishers Island,
and with each train coming and going from New York and Boston - new visitors all night long.

Next door at Brie & Bleu we introduced Tappas in addition to our regular menu.
Now People are able to "dig right in" when they sit down. - And they are so tasty

Saturday night we hosted our first Sake Dinner - Many thanks to Chad Beverlin and Kaoru Ishiguro
for taking the time be be with us all the way from New York City. They were fabulous guests and never tired of answering questions. - Thank You.

** Special Event ** F.U. JazzBoy - Friday October 7, 2005 - 6 p.m. - $20.
You may have seen these award winning musicians on T.V.
Or you may have heard them on one of the CD's in your collection
We are presenting them on the Stage at the Hygenic Art Park.
Ticket includes beer tasting with Brooklyn Brewing Company
Buy your tickets now - available at all three of our stores.

THIS WEDNESDAY - 9/14/05 -6 p.m. - "What's My Wine"
The return of our popular blind tasting with Howard Asadow.
There is No Charge for this event BUT PLEASE call to reserve your seats -
We have to know how many blindfolds to get:-)

THIS THURSDAY - 9/15/05 - 5-8 p.m. Beer Tasting & Musicale - DOGFISH HEAD BREWING CO.
The return of "Randal The Enamel Animal"
By popular demand we were able to get the folks at DogFish Head to come back and launch the fall season of beer tastings. Mr. Allen Reitz will be serving the Midas Touch, Raison D'Etre, and Chicory Stout.
AND OF COURSE - they are bringing "The Gizmo" - as I like to call it - the hop filter.
They will be serving their Indian Brown Ale as it is DRY-HOPPED right before your eyes through a series of tubes and filters and fresh hopps - This is not for the squeamish - But if your a hop head - you'll be right at home.


THIS FRIDAY - 9/16/05 - 6-9 p.m. - Wine Tasting / Book Signing / Boats Books & Brushes
The 5th Annual festival on New London's Historic Waterfront - Boats, Books & Brushes begins.
Welcome Twenty-Third Publications to New London - And Meet Local Author Marci Alborghetti
Join us in the cellar - when she signs copies of her new book : "When Lightning Strikes Twice".
And try these wonderful wines too.

1 - Bonarda, 'Colonia Las Liebres - $8 (86 points Robert Parker)
Highly expressive aromas of black raspberries, plums, and violets are found in the nose of the 2004 Bonarda Colonia Las Liebres. Well-concentrated, this medium-bodied wine is expressive, revealing loads of plummy, floral flavors. Its finish reveals some firm tannin. Drink it over the next 3 years.

2 - Shiraz, Marquis Philips Australia - $17 - (89 Points Robert Parker)
The Shiraz is ripe, juicy and fleshy. Dark ruby/purple-colored, with blackberry, charcoal, and fig characteristics, this medium to full-bodied, potent, mouthfilling red can be enjoyed over the next 2-4 years

3 - Sauvignon Blanc, 'California', Joel Gott - $12
A style of Sauvignon Blanc that has zesty, herbal and citrus aromas with tropical, grapefruit and mineral flavors.
This is a wonderful food friendly wine, with bright acidity, a full mid-palette, and a long lasting finish.

4 - Selbach Mosel-Saar-Ruwer - $13
“Johannes Selbach, this estate's winemaker and director is on fire.
His wines are top flight and yet his winemaking appears to be improving with each vintage." – Wine Advocate
This one will surprise you - take a minute to try it - it is a great food wine.

THIS SATURDAY - 9/17/05 - Meet The Cheese Maker at Brie & Bleu
In 1997, Michael Miller put an advertisement in an English cheesemakers magazine that read:
"Retired newspaper publisher wants to make raw Jersey milk blue cheese."
Berkshire Blue won the Gold Medal for blue cheeses at the 16th annual World Cheese Awards in London, beating out blue veined cheeses from all over Europe. The cheese also was awarded the first place by the American Cheese Society in 2002, and was the chef’s choice at the James Beard dinner in New York in 2002.02.


Please remember to check the website and the calendar of events for the latest information and updates.
Thank you for all of the email and calls. Most importantly thank you for your support and making it so much fun.

And before we sign off - here is one more nugget of information -
Starting in October we will begin a weekly one hour show called "Wine Fever".
Our guests will include winemakers, authors, and food & lifestyle experts that will share their secrets.
More details will be on the website soon.

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


AAA

Domaine Larochette - Bodegas Godeva - Jean-Paul Brun

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

www.brieandbleu.com
www.thamesriver.com
Calendar of events: http://www.thamesriver.com/site_2/wine/calendar.html


If you were lucky enough be be in town on Friday night you were in the middle of all the action.
The decks were full, the harbor was busy, there was music in the air, and lots of people were strolling - hand in hand - It was a beautiful night.

Our calendar of events for the coming weeks is filling up fast - please take a look to stay up to date.
Authors, musicians, winemakers, cheesemakers they are all on their way.
It's all based on your comments and suggestions - thanks for your support.

It will be a short week so I will get right to it.

THIS THURSDAY - September 8th - 5-8 p.m. - NO CHARGE
Beer Tasting and Musicale - The list of beers was not made available to me at "press time".
However, if last week was any indication, the bar has been raised again.
The variety of Belgium beers that was sampled up last week caused much discussion.
Our cellar was busy with aficionados of all shapes and sizes.
If you have grown tired of "lite" beers please join us - it will change everything.


THIS FRIDAY - September 9th - 6-9 p.m. - NO CHARGE
Great mid priced wines that offer a lot of value.

1 - Domaine Larochette - French - Pouilly-Fuissé - $22.
This gorgeous French white is perfect for sipping and savoring before and during dinner.
The tropical, slightly citrusy notes linger subtly, like piano music from the bar during a romantic dinner for two in the main room. It makes a brilliant accompaniment to a lobster and scallops, or with a grilled piece of sole with a simple lemon aioli Only 600 cases made.

2 - Bodegas Godeva - Spanish - White - Vina Godeval - $14
The new Spanish whites, which are becoming more widely available in the United States, offer some outstanding values especially when compared to our domestic offerings. What’s more, they provide some appealingly distinctive alternatives to our formulaic, Chardonnays. This excellent estate-bottled offering, made from the indigenous Godello grape, is surprisingly intense. Great fruit characteristics are accompanied by hints of apricots, white peaches, medium body, a luscious texture, and a dry, zesty finish. Enjoy this non-oaked white wine with a variety of dishes over the next 1-2 years.

3 -Jean-Paul Brun - French - Cote du Brouilly - $16
Jean Paul Brun succeeded his father as the head of this family estate, situated in the heart of the “Terres Dorées,” in 1978. With a real love for the Beaujolais terroir, this passionate winemaker today makes one of the finest wines of the appellation. Harvested from vines on the Brouilly hillside of blue granite, this Cote de Brouilly is a reflection of the painstaking efforts of Mr. Brun. This is a wine that you can impress your friends with - IF you decide to share. Bright, clear pink-purple color. Pure, restrained berry fruit. Some tropical notes -- papaya and blood orange. Yummy. Recommended without reservation.

4 - CHATEAU DE CAPITOUL - French - ROUGE 2003 "Les Lavandines" - $16
On December 22nd, 1423, a judgement was passed by the 5 Consuls of Narbonne, they declared that the Bastide de Rieumar should be the property of the the Saint-Just Cathedral. That they alone had the banderage, forestry, grazing, watering rights and attached vineyards - Talk about your history - FAST FORWARD - The construction of the present chateau dates back to the end of the 19th century. Charles Mock took over management of the domain in 1983 on a site with a centuries-old wine growing culture. He is the 4th generation of winegrowers after his great-grandfather,Jean-Marie Aupecle. He is a passionate winemaker and this one deserves your attention. Try it, you'll like it. Great dark color. Complex aromas with a mixture of spices and red fruits. Very good mouth-filling, flexible with accents of small red fruits. This complexity is attained by careful mixing of their Mediterranean grape varieties. This wine goes well with grilled meat, white meals or roasts, as well as with light cheeses.

Also - I was reminded by a new friends in Rowaton over the weekend that there are remarkable everyday wines in our cellar in the $7-$10 dollar range. If you have not been in the cellar for a while - take a minute to look at the racks along the back walls - you will be very pleasantly surprised.

Thanks for all of your calls and emails - we love hearing from you.
Your input keeps us pointed in the right direction.

We hope to see you this week -
Please join us - It's fun informal and a great way to start your weekend.




AAA

Into The Dark / Pink Floyd/Chimay/Les Sorcieres

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
www.thamesriver.com
www.brieandbleu.com

As many of you know we have been on vacation for the past week - and that is the reason that this week's note is late and a bit shorter than usual.

It is good to be back - we missed you.

WEDNESDAY 8/31/05 - Our Mexican Dinner featuring beers from around the world starts at 6 p.m. - there are a couple of seats available. 860-443-9463

THURSDAY 9/1/05 - Beer Tasting & Musicale - from 5-8 p.m. NO CHARGE
"Into The Dark" - with the music of Pink Floyd

Chimay is an authentic Trappist beer that is it is brewed within a Trappist monastery, under the control and responsibility of the monastic community.
Only 6 beers in Belgium can carry the appellation "Trappist": Chimay, Orval, Rochefort, Westmalle, Westvleteren and Achel.
Tonight join us and sample two of the most popular from the abbey.
1 - Chimay Red
2 - Chimay Blue

3 - Allagash Double Ale
A dark-amber, medium bodied Belgian Style Ale, Allagash Double is the perfect complement to the White. The combination of 7 different malts, a special sugar, and our Belgian yeast strain results in a beer with a complex, malty taste and remarkably clean finish.

4 - Corsendonk Monks Ale -
Pours a deep dark brown colour with a thick tan head that stays thick. From bottle to glass this is an attractive beer. This is a very good Abbey. Looks solid brown with mohogany highlights accompanied by active carbonation. Forms an off white head of loosely knit bubbles. Fruity and spicy to the nose. Nice malty sweetness is spread over barley, caramel, and chocolate malts. Sweet and tart to the taste. Sweet fruitness of plumbs, raspberries, dark grapes, figs, and dates. Aside from the sweetness, the tartness rounds out the beers flavors. Playful carbonation and sweet alcohols keeps the beer from tasting or feel cloying. Finishes mildly sweet and dry.

FRIDAY 9/3/05 - Wine Tasting - 6-9 p.m. - NO CHARGE

1 - Les Sorcières 2001 Côtes du Roussillon - $21
Your palate will be most titillated by this wittily packaged - with its silhouette of a witch and star on the cork - wine from France - intense, lingering and mysterious. Please give this one a try.

2 - Nicodemi Montepulciano - $15.
Founded by Bruno Nicodemi, the property has now passed into the hands of the second generation and is currently being revamped by Elena and Allessandro Nicodemi. The full potential of this area, not yet fully explored, will surely find the forefront of revelation in the hands of this ambitious brother and sister team in the Teramo Montepulciano d'Abruzzo appellation! 100% Montepulciano aged in Slavonian casks yielding a rich and plush red wine! Made from a combination of old vine Montepulciano, responsible for the depth and concentration, and 5-10 year old vines, giving this wine the finer tannic material that makes it so extraordinarly silky and pleasant in the mouth-feel. Talk about yummy - this is the one.

3 - 2004 Provenza, Lugana, Garda - $12
There's nothing like a gulp of a good Lugana to slake the thirst on a warm day. Its zippy acidity and refreshingly crisp fruit make it both a super partner for white-fleshed fish dishes and for sipping as an apéritif . Perfect for broiled trout and other tasty fish dishes, enjoy this juicy, refreshing Lugana over the next year. Trust me - this is worth your attention.

4 - Frank Sinatra - Merlot ( Kahn Vineyards) - $17
So many people have asked about the Sinatra wine over the summer that we adding it to the Friday night tasting. This wine begins with pomegranate and cherry
flavors that leads into rich aromas of cola and spice and an undertone of vanilla oak.
Only 2,024 Cases Produced - Come Fly With Us on Friday night.


We will be back to our regular schedule this week.
There are many changes coming to the calendar of events - keep watching.

Thanks for your support, and please join us - it's fun, informal and a great way to start the weekend.

Beer Tasting / Hopler Gruner Veittliner / Ahlgren Syrah/ Vacation Notice

Greetings from all of us in New London -
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Thames River Greenery - 860-437-2474
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474
Calendar of Events - http://www.thamesriver.com/site_2/wine/calendar.html
www.brieandbleu.com
www.thamesriver.com

*** VACATION NOTICE***
Thames River Greenery &
Thames River Beanery will be closed for the week of August 22 - 27.
It's time to enjoy a mid summer vacation - oh yeah.

ALSO -Brie & Bleu will enjoy an abbreviated schedule during the week.
ALL events and functions that are scheduled will take place as planned - see you there.
BRIE & BLEU - 860-437-2474 - if you have questions.

The wine store will be open as usual.
Any questions - please call - 860-443-9463

This week:

Wednesday 9/24/05 - The Spanish Dinner - SOLD OUT - thank you.
**** there is space on the wait list at this time*****
( The Italian Wine dinner is filling quickly - please call early for seating )

Thursday - 9/25/05 - BEER TASTING & MUSICALE - 5-8 p.m. NO CHARGE
Featuring the White Ales of the World & the great "White Albums" of the world.

This Friday - 9/26/05 - 6-9 p.m. - NO CHARGE

1 - Hopler Gruner Veittliner - $17
The 2002 Grüner Veltliner color is light straw.
On the nose, citrus, apple and peach are present up front and in the background minerality and some spice.
Great zesty acidity, a medium body and an almost oily mouthfeel. This is a fantastic food wine and deserves your attention.

2 - Hopler Pinot Blanc - $19
White wines are Austria’s forte, including Grüner Veltliner, Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc, Those fortunate enough to have experience with these wines know that in many ways they have more in common with Alsace than Germany while still retaining their own distinct personalities. Some say that although they have the freshness of the Rhine in them, there is more of the fieriness and high flavor of the Danube. Try this with your favorite late summer recipes -

3 - Ahlgren Syrah - Paso Robles - $25 - http://www.ahlgrenvineyard.com/
Many of you got to meet Dexter and Valarie Ahlgren when they were here at the store. You know that they make small batches of award winning wine. They send their regards AND they have sent us TWO wonderful wines. First the syrah -Deep, warm, rich smoky, & chocolate bouquet. Ripe and fruity flavors. Well balanced. Mouth filling, complex. Unfined & unfiltered - ONLY 600 cases produced.

4 - Ahlgren Zinfandel - Livermore - $27
Next they would like you to try thier Zin.
Big, soft, classic Zin with a great fruit bouquet showing hints of chocolate. Rich, intense, balanced, mouth filing and complex with a long finish. A big, gracious Zin. Almost a meal in itself. Unfined and unfiltered.
ONLY 249 cases produced.

FAVORITE DISCOVERY OF THE WEEK -
Just in - There is a sparkling French Rosé in the store that is the most amazing wine.
Delicate - off dry - gorgeous color - perfect with food - I am telling you this is the bottle you want to start off the party. ASK JIM to show you the "Sparkling French Rosé" - he will know what you mean. There might be six or seven bottle left in stock right now.

Thanks so much for all of your support - all of you continue to make it a party every night.
Please check the calendar of events for updates and items of interest - it changes often.

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


AAA

Great Rums & Arturo Fuente /Anchor Steam/Fontanafredda

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

Last Wednesday the French dinner turned into a party because one of the guests happened to be celebrating a birthday -
What a great night - Anne Haviland and her merry band of staffers in the kitchen have been really raising the bar and the food included mustard crusted rack of lamb- and all of the wines were amazing - One of the guests even brought in a couple of surprise bottles from his own cellar to share with everyone. Very old - impossible to find - and oh so good. I don't think that would happen in too many places. Thanks to everyone - it was fabulous.

Thursday in our cellar the beer tasting featured the beers of Belgium - and on our deck
we had one of our best Cellar Club guests ever. Mr. Charles Mara joined us. He was generous with his time - answered all questions that were asked - and he sat at each table for awhile - getting to know our customers & friends. He is truly a wine industry insider and had many great stories to tell about wine & food celebrities. It was like being a fly on the wall.
He even recounted the episode of winding up in the guiness book of records - He explained how the bidding for the single most expensive bottle of wine ever purchased was going along in 500 dollar increments until it "really got serious" around twenty thousand dollars - thats when the bidding switched to one thousand dollar increments.

The bidding came down to two people - Charles and the other guy - the auctioneer called out - "I have twenty-five thousand, twenty-six thousand, twenty-seven thousand - do I hear twenty-eight"???
Charles raised his numbered paddle one more time - I have twenty eight thousand, at that point the other bidder smiled and gave a short bow to Charles. The bidding was over - the history books had a new name - and get this......he swears he was sober at the time.

On Friday night the celebration of the opening of the Hygenic Art Park was in full swing.
Hanafinn's - the new Irish Pub across from the Garde theater was open and
The night was full of music and people and wine - Lots of new faces in our cellar and on the deck at Brie & Bleu.
New London is jumping - come on down and see what your missing.

THIS WEEK -

WEDNESDAY -AUGUST 17 - 6-9 p.m. - on the deck at Brie & Bleu - 860-443-9463
The Great Rums of the world and the famed cigars of Arturo Fuente
Please call - space is limited

THURSDAY - AUGUST 18 - BEER TASTING & Musicale - 5-8 p.m. - NO CHARGE -- Anchor Steam
Anchor Brewing has played a significant role in San Francisco's rich history. Anchor's seven unique beers—including Anchor Steam®—are all produced in one of the most traditional and handsome breweries in the world. Each brew is virtually handmade from an all-malt mash in their handcrafted copper brewhouse, a veritable museum of the simple, traditional breweries of old.
This is great beer - please stop by and hoist a few.

FRIDAY AUGUST 19 - 6-9 p.m. - NO CHARGE - WHITE WINES OF ITALY
Among the four wines featured : Fontanafredda Arneis
A name which stands out among the great Piedmontese wine-makers, Fontanafredda represents long-standing tradition an approach which has taken it to the top of its field. Its labels include the best wines produced in the Langhe area, the home of the most noble Piedmontese vines. The Fontanafredda estate is over 125 years old. King Vittorio Emanuele II donated it to his commoner wife Rosa Vercellana and son Emanuele Guerrieri, Count of Mirafiori, who began making wine there in 1878.
Join us and drink like Italian Royalty - see you there.

*** VACATION NOTICE***
Thames River Greenery & The Beanery will be closed for the week of August 22 - 27.
It's time to enjoy a mid summer vacation - oh yeah.
******
Thank you all for your support and for making it so much fun.
Please check the website for items of interest and the latest news.
And if you are in the neighborhood - please stop by. It's fun, informal and a great way to start the weekend.

AAA.

Charles Mara / Belgium Beers / Ballet of Angels / Bacchanalia

Greetings from all of us in New London,
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463 - 84 Bank Street
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817 - 70 State Street
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474 - 84 Bank Street
www.thamesriver.com
www.brieandbleu.com
Calendar of events: http://www.thamesriver.com/site_2/wine/calendar.html

The Film Festival at the Garde Arts Center is in FULL SWING.

There is nothing like seeing a movie on the big screen and this is an excellent way to support the Garde Arts Center.
Check out the full schedule here: http://www.gardearts.org/

Keep in Mind they are showing SIDEWAYS on Saturday August 20 at 7:30 and
to support that idea we will be sampling wine from the movie and matching it with food next door at Brie & Bleu.
We start at 6 and keep it going until 9 p.m.

The Pan Asian dinner we had at Brie & Bleu- was a great evening - lots of great food and amazing wine - decadence - oh yeah.
Our favorite course?: lobster dumplings with lemon grass and a chilled dry riesling by S.A. Prüm - decadence - oh yeah.
Anne Haviland makes it look easy - how does she make everything so delicious? She makes it with love - oh yeah.
We have added her recipes to the website: www.brieandbleu.com

Jonathan Edward's Winery packed them in last Friday night. - http://www.jedwardswinery.com/
They poured and poured....and then poured some more.
Their first all Connecticut Estate wine was a big hit - keep your eyes open for the reviews.

Also, Mr. Paul Trubey from Beltane Farm in Lebanon CT unveiled their newest cheese at Brie & Bleu on Friday.
The samples of "Beltane's Grace" were sublime. Paul was loaded with information and happy to share everything.
Brie & Bleu will be one of the few places to purchase the cheese when it's available - in a few weeks - It is fabulous.

THIS WEDNESDAY - French Wine Dinner - SOLD OUT - THANK YOU - remember to call early.
Our weekly themed dinners are very popular - some say the best kept secret in New London.
They are small, casual, and a very good time.


THIS THURSDAY AUGUST 11 6 p.m. - TWO EVENTS

First:
Have you ever said to yourself "what kind of nut pays thousand's of dollars for a bottle of wine"???
Well join us on Thursday August 11 at 6 p.m. and you can see for yourself.

Meet Charles Mara - He is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records TWO SEPARATE TIMES.
1 - "most paid for a single bottle of wine". ($28,000)
2 - "most paid for a case of American wine". ($24,000)

He may be some kind of nut - but he also makes some of the greatest wines we have ever tasted.
Try his highly rated & allocated wines
Featuring: Kosta Brown, Conn Vineyard Russian River 2002 - $52,
Mara Dolinsek Ranch Zinfandel 2002 - $40,
Mara Cabernet Reserve 2001 - $40, and a few surprises too.
The Wines of Mara & Kosta Brown. http://www.marawines.com/

IMPORTANT:
Charles Mara is a Cellar Club Event - which is normally Members Only.
BUT there is very limited additional seating available to the public.
Reservations Are Required - 860-443-9463
Speak to Jim Morrison - he will take your information.

Second:
Thursday Night Beer Tasting and Musicale -Belgium Beers
Our own George Whitehouse continues the weekly beer tastings.
This week the great beers of Belgium - featuring:
Chimay Cinq Cents - Orval Trappist - Lindemans Gueuze - Duchesse de Bourgogne.
Apparently many people have thought that the "musicale" part of the evening is just a joke.
Honestly - George is serious about the music part of the evening.
Bring in old VYNYL records - we will play them.
It sounds crazy - but some how it works - really.

THIS FRIDAY - Lots of action downtown - read on

FRIDAY AUGUST 12 2005 - 6-9 p.m. NO CHARGE

In our Cellar - Connecticut's Sharpe Hill Vineyards. - http://www.sharpehill.com/

Featuring:

Sharpe Hill Ballet of Angels $11. -
A crisp and semi-dry white wine with a lovely floral bouquet. It has flavors of citrus and pear with a long finish.
We suggest serving this wine well chilled as an aperitif or with spicy foods

Sharpe Hill Cabernet Franc $17. -
A Bordeaux style wine that is made entirely from Cabernet Franc grapes.
This wine has a classic Cabernet bouquet and a delicate soft finish.
We suggest serving this wine with all red meat dishes as well as chocolate desserts.

Sharpe Hill Red Seraph $12
A dry table wine that is a robust blend based on the St. Croix grape.
This lovely colored red wine is both soft and smooth, and is the perfect accomaniment to beef, lamb, and pasta dishes.

AND ACROSS THE STREET
AT THE HYGENIC ART PARK: http://www.hygienic.org/programs.asp

The dust from all of the construction is just about settled.
It is time to see what all the hard work has created.
It is time to see Paul McMasters and all of his tireless colleagues take a deep breath and have a cocktail.
They have put an extraordinary amount of time into this project. It has not gone unnoticed.

BACCHANALIA:
The friends of the Hygienic Art Park cordially invite you to BACCHANALIA
A Fundraiser and celebration supporting the Hygienic Art Park
Please join us on August 12th,2005
At the Hygienic Art Park - 87 Bank Street - New London, CT - 7:00 pm
$75.00 per person
R.S.V.P. by July 22nd, 2005 - Reservations are limited
Parking in the Eugene O'Neill parking lot
For questions or requests please call Kathryn Salvio Scarano,Chairperson at (860) 447-2066
Featuring: Live Music, Flowing Wine, International Cuisine provided by many of the finest restaurants in New London,
Silent Auction, Drawings, and Live music and dramatic entertainment.

Thanks for all of the comments and emails - we love hearing from you.
We try to implement your suggestions when ever possible.
Your participation is the reason that we have become a hub of information & activity.
We have wonderful plans for the upcoming months keep an eye on the calendar - and right here - on the weekly update.
Thanks for making this so much fun - we appreciate your support.


AAA.

Decadence Is Alive, Happily, In New London

Featured in Columns & Editorial

Decadence Is Alive, Happily, In New London

By STEVEN SLOSBERG
Day Staff Columnist
Published on 8/2/2005

Living large on a deck overlooking the harbor in New London on a Wednesday evening in late July, the air fragrant with the smoke of superior cigars and the bouquet of single malts, and skewers of succulent Cuban-style pork, and thinking if I praise Charlotte Hennegan one more time, being stamped as owned-and-operated will be indelible.

So let me toast, instead, Fred Argilagos, Hennegan's long-time partner, both business and domestic, who has engineered the return of monthly cigar and spirits nights with, well, Hennegan's signature flourish and fine taste.

What transpires on occasional Wednesday evenings on the back deck of Thames River Wine & Spirits on Bank Street, a few blocks away from Hennegan's venerable Thames River Greenery on State Street, is a throwback to the headier days of the 1980s and early '90s. This was money-to-burn era of the fabulously decadent cigar dinners, during which well-ventilated establishments would serve up, for maybe $80 to $125, a full-course evening of gourmet food, cigars, wines and whiskies. The protocol was generally a different cigar and wine with each course, and there were typically four to five courses.

Argilagos, in concert with his wine shop manager, Jim Morrison, has been hosting Friday wine tastings, free to the public, in the granite catacomb wine cellar since the shop opened more than a year ago. Lately, with chef Anne Haviland, once of Anne's Bistro in Old Lyme, he's presented weekly limited-seating, themed-cuisine, wine dinners for $50. In June, Argilagos, a professed aficionado of the famed Connecticut broadleaf wrapper, welcomed a gathering to the first cigar and spirits night. For $25, people were treated to four different single malts, with abundant snifter refills, a Davidoff cigar and plates of cheese and fruits and elegant sandwiches.

For those who like their single malts aged and pronounceable, the first array included Cragganmore 12-year-old; Oban 14-year-old; the regal Lagavulin 16-year-old and Dalmore Cigar Malt.

The second such evening, the one in July, featured the best domestic cigar in the land, one equal to most any upscale hand-rolled from the Dominican and Honduras and smoother than many Cubans. They are called Moore & Bode, made by an Irish woman, Sharon Moore, and her Cuban-Dutch husband, Robert Bode, in Miami's Little Havana. The whisky was on the same par: Glenmorangie 12-year-old, and, at around $150 a bottle, 1964 Scott's Selection North of Scotland, a bracing, full-bodied spanking.

Again, the hosts were not shy about refills, and served up a couple of Spanish wines at the finish. Beside plates of cheese, bread and fruits, there were skewers of seasoned pork. The price this night was $35, and all those on the back deck, perhaps 20 people, each received three Moore & Bode cigars.

Among those savoring the evening was Kyrena Robinson, who ran Kyrena's Restaurante in Norwich several years ago and lately works in her family's tack shop, the Paddock, on Rose Hill in Ledyard. She prefers petit cigars, but took her leisurely time on this Wednesday evening to enjoy one of the Moore & Bode coronas. Her husband, Gary Robinson, smoked beside her.

The next cigar night, later in August, will feature Arturo Fuente cigars and world-class rums, including the enviable 15-year-old Barbancourt from Haiti.

Charlotte Hennegan and Fred Argilagos are doing it downtown, again, and I'm saying it again. They are the brand for New London to live and prosper by.

This is the opinion of Steven Slosberg.


© The Day Publishing Co., 2005
For home delivery, please call 1-800-542-3354 Ext. 4700

Brooklyn Brewing / Jonathan Edwards Estate Wines / Rao's Size Private Dinners

Greetings from all of us in New London,

What a great week it has been - We are getting a late start this week so I will keep it short and sweet.
Thanks to all of the cellar club members that attended Thursday's gathering -
I've never seen so many empty bottles of wine or so many smiling faces. Thanks for making it so much fun.

Also - We finished our week long salute to the wines & foods of Spain and it reached a near fever pitch when we hosted
our boutique wines of Spain last Wednesday night. Some amazing wines that will most likely never be available again in this area.
You can visit our BLOG to review the details of the Special Evening at: http://newlondonwine.blogspot.com/


Our weekly dinners continue on Wednesday August 3 2005 - 6 p.m.
Our Pan Asian Dinner is - S O L D O U T -
BUT We do take names for a waiting LIST.

Take a look at our calendar: http://www.thamesriver.com/site_2/wine/calendar.html
All of our upcoming wine diners and food events are listed there and remember it changes often with additions and information of interest.
We keep the gatherings small - it's a lot more fun that way - but unfortunately it's the early caller that gets the seat.

Our Thursday night Beer Tastings & Musicale continue - or as I like to call them "Thursday Night Beer-a-Palooza's"
Last week no one took the prize for the Herb Alpert album challenge - So this week I am making it easier.
Almost everyone has a copy of Henry Mancini's original Pink Panther sound track. Remember we want VYNYL.
For those of you out there that have never seen a rotary phone - this may prove too big of a hurdle.

This Thursday we are hosting Brooklyn Brewing Company: http://www.brooklynbrewery.com/

In 1984, Associated Press correspondent Steve Hindy returned from a six-year stint in the Middle East and settled in Brooklyn's Park Slope neighborhood. Hindy had caught the homebrewing bug from diplomats stuck in Islamic countries like Saudi Arabia and Kuwait where alcoholic beverages were forbidden. With his downstairs neighbor, Tom Potter, a former lending office at Chemical Bank, Hindy quit his job and founded The Brooklyn Brewery. Their initial goal was to bring good beer back to New York City. Due to their limited resources, they had no choice but to have their first beer, Brooklyn Lager, contract brewed in Utica, New York. They commissioned a fourth-generation German-American brewmaster, William M. Moeller, to develop a recipe for Brooklyn Lager. Moeller's grandfather had brewed beer in Brooklyn and willed his notebooks and brewing records to his sons. For the label design and company identity, they hired the world renowned designer, Milton Glaser, best known for the "I Love NY" logo.It was not all glory for Hindy and Potter in the first years of the company. An initial test batch was hand-labeled in the basement of their Brooklyn brownstone. They have come a long, long way since those days. We are very happy to be hosting the Brooklyn Brewing Company this Thursday.

Thursday August 4 2005 - 5-8 p.m. NO CHARGE

1 - Brooklyn Lager
Their flagship beer, the award-winning Brooklyn Lager is amber-gold in color, and displays a firm malt center supported by a fine bitterness and floral hop aroma. The aromatic qualities of the beer are enhanced by “dry-hopping”, the centuries-old practice of steeping the beer with fresh hops as it undergoes a long, cold maturation. The result is a wonderfully flavorful beer, smooth, refreshing and very versatile with food.

2 - Brooklyn East India Pale Ale
Their East India Pale Ale is a deep golden beer brewed from British malt and a blend of hops featuring the choice East Kent Golding variety.
It is traditionally dry-hopped for a bright aroma of hops and citrus fruit, and has a robust snappy bitterness, a warming malt palate and a clean hoppy finish. It is excellent with spicy dishes, steaks and chops.

3 - Brooklyner Weisse Beer
Their Brooklyner Weisse is brewed in the classic German style from European wheat and barley malts. Our special Bavarian yeast produces the flavors and aromas that wheat beers are prized for – bananas, cloves, and melon, with a smoky note in the background. Refreshing, light, and brisk, wheat beers have been popular in Bavaria for centuries. Remarkably versatile with your favorite dishes. Its light touch is perfect with all sorts of salads. It’s great with egg dishes at brunch, Mexican dishes and spicy Asian cuisine. It’s also terrific with seafood, especially snapper, salmon, shrimp, and crab cakes.

4 - And a SURPRISE from the brewers.

Now onto the the wine tasting -

THIS FRIDAY August 5 2005 - 6-9 p.m. - NO CHARGE

A great night featuring a CONNECTICUT gem.
Jonathan Edwards Vineyards: http://www.jedwardswinery.com/
North Stonington will unveil their first all Connecticut wine.
Be among the very first to try their ESTATE WINES - before the general public.

1 - Chardonnay - FIRST RELEASE - of their Estate Connecticut Chordonnay!
After four years of hard work and anticipation Jonathan Edwards Winery will finally be releasing their first estate Connecticut wine!
This will mark the beginning of their premium Connecticut wine program with a focus on classic European white varietals.
Call the winery for more information at 860.535.0202 or visit http://www.jedwardswinery.com/

2 - Cabernet 2002 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
The 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon is sure to please those fans that helped make the 2001 a quick sell-out.
Dark chocolate, fresh tobacco leaf and peat continue to dominate this smooth finishing wine. -

3 - Zinfandel 2002 Napa Valley Zinfandel -
One of our best sellers! Our 2002 Zinfandel was grown on 50 year old head-pruned vines in St. Helena.
Jammy fruit, black pepper, and even violets permeate the nose on our version of the monster Zin!

4 - Merlot 2002 Napa Valley Merlot
Our first 100% Merlot release hails from a gorgeous vineyard in Oakville directly behind Opus One.
This wine has deep color, a bright clear bouquet of cherry, raspberry and is followed by a lush finish of plum and spice.
Near perfect growing conditions in 2002 delivered a quintessential Napa Valley Merlot. Enjoy this with red pasta dishes, almost any meats and alongside your favorite cheese.

ALSO : AT Brie & Bleu - http://brieandbleu.com/
Mr. John Trubey of Beltane Farm in Lebanon, CT will unveil their new "Beltane Grace".
The first release of their newest cheese - try it BEFORE it is available in stores.

CORRECTIONS:
The Upcoming French Wine Dinner is in fact on Wednesday August 10 - 6 p.m.
The photo on the calendar incorrectly states the date as 8/3/05.

Thanks for all of your support - we appreciate it.
Please join us - it's fun, informal and a great way to start your weekend.


AAA.

THE WAIT IS OVER! / Buzzards Bay / Special Evening

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

Before I get to the wines for this week I just have to mention a few things :

The New Menu at Brie and Bleu. There are so many tasty new additions to the summer menu that it is hard to choose.
Take a look and see for yourself at: http://brieandbleu.com/menus.html

This WEDNESDAY JULY 27th - 6 p.m. - ONLY TEN SEATS AVAILABLE - $60
This is A Very Special Evening -
Very probably the only chance we will all get o try these wines.
The Boutique Wines of Spain.
The production is so low and the availability almost non existent.
Take a look at our favorites page to get the details on this wine:
http://www.thamesriver.com/site_2/wine/instock.html
The wines include:
El Bosque - $140.
Amancio - $135.
El Puntido - $54.
And of course a surprise or two
We will be serving a light menu to compliment the wines - But the focus this night will be inside the bottles.
Do Not Wait To Call for Seats - 860-443-9463

Thursday July 28th - 5 -8 p.m. NO CHARGE
Beer Tastings & Musicale - Buzzards Bay Brewing Company will be on hand for the beer. http://www.buzzardsbrew.com/
And for the "Musicale" part of the evening -
The first person that brings in the Herb Alpert & The Tijuana Brass Taste of Honey Album - in playable condition -
Will get a special prize.

The Calendar of Events is full of information and has just been updated - take a look at:
http://www.thamesriver.com/site_2/wine/calendar.html


******** BREAKING NEWS *********

The long wait is over! -
Ladies & Gentlemen for the dozens of you that have been requesting and calling to check on the arrival of TXAKOLI - (Shock - oh - lee)
The amazing white wine from the Basque region of spain - It Is Back. This is the wine seen on almost every table last summer at Brie & Bleu.
We have it in stock - case discount will still apply - and it is on a first come, first served basis.
Txakoli Txomin Etxaniz: This is a house favorite and one of the best summer/food wines we have ever had.
"Perfumed, estery aromas of peach, grapefruit, apple, tarragon and ginger.
Offers lovely spicy fruit with atypical ripeness and density, thanks to the superripe year, yet manages to avoid heaviness
(in cool years, this can be distinctly lemony). Finishes very long, spicy and delicious. 89 points.



Now onto this week -

Friday July 29 - 6-9 p.m. - NO CHARGE

1 - Heredad De Aduna - Reserva 1998 $ 27 - http://www.heredadaduna.com
Heredad de Aduna, with a long family tradition, still make their wines in the traditional manner,
thanks to the knowledge and good work of their elders, especially their father and maestro, Jose Martinez Aduna -
Bodegas Heredad de Aduna specialize in a large variety of young red wines, Vintages, Reservas and Grandes Reservas that reach a widely-spread market that knows how to appreciate the quality of the end product, proof of which are the number of prizes they have received since they started out as harvesters. This wine wins gold medal awards all over Europe in blind tastings - you must try this.

2 - Heretat Mas Tinell Cava - BRUT RESERVA - $24
A pure delicacy. Fresh and clean on the palate. Straightforward and scented. Royal Brut, the Cava to be served at any time.
Elaborated with the local varieties of the Penedès Region –Macabeu, Xarel•lo and Parellada- it masterly combines the virtues of Cava and craftsmanship tradition. Pale yellow colour, brilliant appearance. Abundant small bubbles, closely spaced forming the three or four typical columns.
Good intensity of nose, fruity recall ( apple and pear ) and sensation of freshness. Ample palate of adequate acidity.
Extremely well-balanced: it invites to drink. Excellent and persistent final impression.
This is the sparkling wine that the King of Spain - chose to serve at HIS wedding - Trust me, price was not the issue.
This is great wine - please try it. It's good to be the king.

3 -TERRA DO GARGALO 2003/04 (Monterrei) $18.
From a relatively new, state of the art winery in south central Galicia, built and planted from scratch by Spanish fashion guru Roberto Verino, this Catalan wine gets regular wow Parker reviews and it is easy to see why: dark cherry in hue, it is lively, vigorous and aromatic with vivid red cherry fruit flavours and attractive, spicy, slightly resinous overtones. Partner with full-flavored food.

4 -Godello, Dona Blanco 2003 - $18
This is a good example of why Godello is beginning to emerge as a very strong contender in the Spanish white wine sweepstakes.
The color is light straw. Apple, pear and mineral scents open the evaluation. On the palate, there’s crisp acidity, a medium body and a velvety mouthfeel. Lemon and apple flavors together with some background minerality predominate in the long finish.
As far as food pairings, fish and shellfish would be fine…now, as to the question, who’s number one among Spanish whites?


Thank you for your support - it is allowing us to redefine what this type of store can be.
You should have heard the "nay sayers" when we first started - ".....what do you mean, no scratch offs or 1/2 pints"?

You have proved them wrong - and it is onward and upward from here.

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