Wine Fever - enjoying wine is a way of life

Tuesday, January 30, 2007

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

Greetings from all of us in New London,

Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474
Import - 860-443-6817
www.thamesriver.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

AAA.

Monday, January 22, 2007

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

Greetings From New London -
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474
IMPORT - 860-443-6817
www.thamesriver.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3 - Chateau Du Trignon Sablet France - $16
You have seen this Chateau name before in our cellar - In fact, it was just last August that we featured this Kermit Lynch selection. But this time the wine is from a slightly different area. Just around the corner, so to speak, in Sablet. Château du Trignon has been in the hands of the Roux family since 1896. For many years it was run by André Roux - he retired in 1987 and the property is now managed by his nephew, Pascal. The château and winery are located in Sablet, one of the most picturesque Côte du Rhône villages that you can imagine. It produces a wide variety of wines but is most renowned for its Gigondas. My first visit to the village was last year and I have missed it ever since. Sablet is small, tidy and quiet, with church bells tolling on the hour.

There are two bakeries, two butchers, a place where you can buy the morning newspaper in different languages, a café and a good restaurant that serves sturdy Provençal fare. Not to be overlooked is the little cave des vignerons where you can buy, at bargain prices full, fruity local reds and fragrant rosés produced by local winegrowers under the highly regarded Sablet, Gigondas and Séguret appellations. The wine we have on Friday is dark ruby/purple in color and is accompanied by layers revealing herbs, blueberries, raspberries, and black cherries. Medium to full-bodied, elegant, pure, and well-balanced. Join us a try a taste of the french countryside.

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

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

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

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

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

AAA.

Tuesday, January 16, 2007

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

Greetings from all of us in New London -

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cheers,
Mrs.Z

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

AAA.

Sunday, January 07, 2007

Report From Cape Town - South Africa

Greetings from Cape Town South Africa -

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

AAA.

Saturday, December 30, 2006

Happy New Year!, Cape Town, Burgerspital Riesling, Delas cotes-du-ventoux, Lyeth Meritage, Meeker Merlot

Greetings from all of us in New London -

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

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

Happy New Year wishes to all of our readers and customers - Thank You for a great 2006.
We start the New Year off with a great lineup for Friday.
But this is a vacation week for some of us - so just a couple items of interest before the wines for Friday.

• Thames River Greenery will be enjoying it's annual winter break and will reopen on Monday January 15th.
The Beanery will be open as usual Monday through Friday offering all of it's specialties.

• Reserve Now - Dinners at Brie & Bleu start January 17th. We have TWO different nights to choose from. If our departure for Cape Town was not just a few hours away - I would list the menus right now - Trust me they are tasty. Full details will be posted soon.

• Oh, did I mention we will be on location inn Cape Town next week. We will be visiting the fine winemakers that make The Chocolate Block. We will have a full report with pictures, video, and more when we get back.

This week at Brie & Bleu:
The cheese for the first week of 2007 is Pleasant Cow Cheese

Happy New Year to all!! I am happy to present a new cheese carried at Brie & Blue for the first week of the new year 2007. The cheese is from Beaver Brook in Lyme, CT called Pleasant Cow Cheese at $18/lb. Pleasant Cow is an aged Jersey cow's milk cheese with a smooth, mild flavor and a creamy texture. The cheese is procuced locally at Beaver Brook Farm, a 175 acre sheep and cow farm located in the Pleasant Valley section of Lyme, CT. At Beaver Brook Farm, they are committed to preserving the environment and producing goods of the highest quality. Pair with a nice Pinot Noir purchased at Thames River Wine and Spirits for an additional 10% off the cheese.

Happy New Year,
Colleen

Wine Tasting Friday January 5th - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
Please Join Us

1 - Burgerspital Riesling 2003 $10 www.buergerspital.com
With a wine-growing area of 110 hectares, Bürgerspital wine-growing estate, at home in a fantastically beautiful courtyard right in the middle of Würzburg, is one of the largest wine-growing estates in Germany and one of the most important.
Riesling wines are characterized by their distinguished raciness, their elegance and their incomparable bouquet reminiscent of apricot and peach. It is not a high alcoholic content that makes it a celebrity, but furthermore its fine, crisp and fruity characteristics that Riesling develop due to its late ripening and harvesting. As it ages, the wine develops its typical kerosene note, much sought-after by Riesling connoisseurs.

2 - Delas cotes-du-ventoux 2005 $9 New vintage the great '05 www.mmdusa.com
The appellation of Côtes-du-Ventoux sits on the East bank of the Rhône river at the foot of the Ventoux mountain range. The appellation extends for 18,000 acres and mirrors the climatic conditions and grape varieties of its neighbor, the Côtes-du-Rhone.The color is a dark ruby red. There is a dominance of red berries with a combination of power and freshness that carries over onto the palate.

3 - Lyeth Meritage 2004 $16 bordeaux blend
Dark ruby red. Lovely ripe fruit aroma full of plums, berries, notes of cedar and a hint of orange zest.
Palate: The inviting prelude leads to fully-developed flavors that linger on the palate in a long, silky finish. Scents of spice and vanilla are well-balanced against the assertive fruit characters. Food Pairing: A perfect match with beef, pork and game.

4 - Meeker Merlot 2003 "handprint" $40
Charles and Molly Meeker bought their first vineyard in Sonoma County's Dry Creek Valley in 1977, and thereafter, in 1984, established their winery -- The Meeker Vineyard -- with Charlie as the winemaker. In its early years, the winery specialized in Zinfandel, Cabernet and Chardonnay. All this while Charlie was working full time in Los Angeles in the motion picture business (first as an attorney, then as a film producer, and later as a studio executive), so his winemaking career was confined to weekend and holiday trips (many, many trips!) to Dry Creek Valley. Finally, in 1990 when Charlie became President of Metro- Goldwyn-Mayer, this two-career life became too much, and the Meekers hired a full time winemaker for the winery.

The winery's first red wine release, a 1984 Zinfandel, was an instant success, winning eight wine competition medals and becoming the third most awarded Zin in the country that year. Thereafter, among other awards, the 1985 Meeker Zin was a Wine Spectator "Best Buy", the 1986 Zin was a "Spectator Selection", and the 1990 Zin was included among the Wine Spectator's "100 Best Wines of the World". During this period Charlie was also honored to present a Meeker Zinfandel at one of the famous Windows on the World wine dinners in New York. And Zinfandel wasn't the winery's only success – for example, the Spectator gave a 91 to one of Charlie's early Chardonnays.

The Meekers have joined us for dinner at Brie & Bleu and it was a real hoot - you can still see the signed large format bottle on the "wall of shame" - Take a peek the next time you visit the store.

Thanks for your support - we have a great year lined up - full of surprises and excitement.

We hope to see you on Friday night.

Please Join Us - It Is Fun, Informal and a Great Way To Start Your Weekend.

AAA.

Monday, December 25, 2006

Happy New Year - Segura Viudas, Gruet Brut Blanc de Noir, Nino Franco Rustico, Pazzo "Call Me Crazy"

Sunday, December 17, 2006

Happy Holidays, WLIU Bonnie Grice, Adriano Douro red, Tamari Malbec, De Martino Organic Cabernet, Torre Muga 2001 Rioja

Greetings from all of us in New London -

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

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

Looking at the calendar I can see that this will be our Holiday Edition of the weekly newsletter - Yikes the year went by fast.
We have a delicious line up of wines for the Friday tasting - we hope you can make it - they are listed below these bits of news and information.

• If you are not already listening to 88.3 FM - WLIU - you don't know what you are missing - especially on Saturday afternoons for the "Eclectic Café" One of the best music shows on the air - period. WLIU is part of the Long Island University Radio Network. The signal is strong and widely available here in Connecticut and of course - everywhere - online at www.wliu.org

Our own Jim Morrison was a guest on WLIU last Friday morning - "Hostess with the Mostess" - Bonnie Grice talked to Jim about our WineRadio project - www.wineradio.com - the famous people that we have had on our show and about enjoying wine for the holidays. Many thanks Bonnie - you rock.

• On Tuesday night our special holiday Champagne tasting is sold out - thank you - but you can still catch the highlights by visiting our website and learn the TRUTH ABOUT CHAMPAGNE - take a look and a listen here: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html

• The support that everyone has shown for IMPORT has been fantastic - thanks for all of the comments we appreciate them - take a peek here: http://thamesriver.com/trg/featured.html

• If you would like to see Charlotte talk a little about what is going on at Thames River Greenery for the holidays take a look here: http://thamesriver.com/trg/gourmet.html

• It's not too late to order deliveries from our stores. One call can solve a lot of problems. Check out the web sites, give us a call, and let us help for the holiday. There are lots of specialty items, gift baskets, cards, gourmet & cheese gifts, stocking stuffers and more. If you are downtown - please stop by and say hello - Happy Holidays to all. Thanks for making this season very special.

This Week At Brie & Bleu - the cheese of the week is Valdeon

Valdeon at $15/lb is the featured cheese of the week at Brie & Blue. Valdeon is named best blue cheese in Spain's 2003 national competition, Valdeón is a rich, creamy, intensely flavored semi-soft cow/goat milk blue that's saltier than Stilton yet less wild than Cabrales. Made in Spain's remote Valdeón Valley in the northern region of Asturias, Valdeón is wrapped in Sycamore leaves, giving it a distinctive appearance and lending to its complex flavor. Valdeon pairs well with wines made from the gamay grape, such as Beaujolais cru and with Muscat. It is delicious with smoked and cured meats and is excellent melted on top of a hanger steak. Pair with a nice Beaujolais bought at Thames River Wine and Spirits for an additional 10% off the cheese.
Happy Holidays,
Colleen

Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday December 22 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
You have all been asking for great REDS for the holiday - The Wait Is Over.

1 - Adriano Douro red 2003 $10 - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Duero
The House of Adriano Ramos-Pinto, founded in 1880, is famous for its estate-bottled and highly-esteemed ports. Ramos-Pinto also produces still wines under the proprietary name, Adriano. These red and white table wines are 100% estate-grown and bottled from grapes sourced in the awe-inspiring Douro Region of Portugal. Adriano is a tribute to the founder of Adriano Ramos-Pinto, a fervent art collector who is the namesake behind this well-known brand. The color of this wine is an intense brilliant ruby red. Aromas of blackberry and black plum are followed by spice notes. The wine is a smooth with lively tannins and nuances of ripe fruit, plum and cherry. The finish is fresh, savory and long. This wine is a perfect accompaniment to red meat, BBQ, hamburgers, pizza, pasta and vegetables. It is a great choice for the table this holiday and a bargain for the price.

2 - Tamari Malbec 2005 $12 www.tamari.com.ar
In the late 1500s, Spanish missionaries found that the foothills of the Andes had the best conditions for vine-growing and the city of Mendoza was founded in 1561. In 1900 a new wave of immigrants, from Italy, Spain and France, brought their own regional vine-growing and wine-making skills to Mendoza, Argentina's largest wine-growing region.

Aromas are of intense berries, cherry and plum, with cinnamon and slight vanilla notes. Well-structured flavor, with strong and ripe tannins, excellent balance between alcohol and acidity, obtaining a good marriage between ripe berries and tannins provided by French oak. This is a Full-bodied, warm and harmonious wine and another great value from South America - please try it on Friday.

3 - De Martino Organic Cabernet 2004 $15
According to Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "(Inky ruby. Primary, grapey aromas of blackberry and candied plum. Youthful and tightly wound, with pure, sweet cassis and dark cherry flavors nicely supported by solid tannic structure.
According to the Wine Spectator: "Solid red and dark berry fruit with loam and smoke notes on the finish. Drink now. only 2,000 cases made." You don't need a magazine to tell you why this is supposed to be good - just try it. If you like it - it's good. This wine offers a lot of expertise in the bottle for a fraction of what others in the same category charge. Please try it on Friday you may be very surprised.

4 - Torre Muga 2001 Rioja - $75 - (rated 96 points Robert Parker)
Here is what Robert Parker said about this wine:
"The modern-styled, expensive, but terrific 2001 Torre Muga is an unfiltered blend of 75% Tempranillo, 15% Mazuelo, and 10% Graciano. Aged 22 months in large (18,000 liters) American oak vats, followed by 16 months in new French oak, and bottled without filtration, it offers an opaque ruby/purple color in addition to sweet plum, cedar, tobacco, new saddle leather, Allspice, raspberry, and black cherry fruit aromas as well as flavors. It is a wine of admirable intensity, full body, and superb purity, size, potency, and harmony. Give it another 1-3 years of bottle age and consume it over the following 12-15."

The Bodegas Muga was founded in 1932 by Isaac Muga and his wife, Aurora Caño, both of whom came from families with a long tradition of activity within the wine-making industry. Over the years, Muga wines have gained international recognition and acclaim, and from working with just a few thousand kilos of grapes per year. This stuff is a bombshell - it is a house favorite here and even though the price pushes it up and over the mark for an everyday wine - we can dream can't we?
You will want to try this on Friday - and if you consider how much you have been doing lately - to keep everyone happy, taking care of all the loose ends - getting ready for guests, family and who knows what else - you just might want to treat yourself to this one - you deserve it.

Many thanks to all of our friends and customers - it is a busy, stressful holiday season and yet everyone that stops in to say hello has a warm greeting and a smile. That's why this is still the best party in town - it's your clubhouse.

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

AAA.

Sunday, December 10, 2006

Grower Champagne, Txakolina, Dan Kleck Red Horse Ranch, Chateau De Pez, Gaja Ca' Marcanda

Greetings from all of us in New London,

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

First let me say that we have a super line up of wine for the Friday tasting -
The list is just below these items of interest.

• I have to take a minute to thank Stu Devine from New Zealand's Villa Maria Wines and Jim Kowalshyn from Vineyard Brands the folks that import those wines, for their fine work last Friday night. Especially Stu who drove in all the way from Auckland to meet our friends - many thanks gentlemen.

• Most of us have had one of the big brand name Champagnes - But I just have to talk to you a little bit about our crusade to offer you "Grower/Producer Champagnes" - We would not make such a point to introduce these exceptional wines to you if we did not believe that they represent great value and real excitement. The big brands are available just about everywhere. And they taste the same as they did when your parents served them up to celebrate your birth. They are remarkably consistent, and in a world that is full of unpleasant surprises you can be sure that these wines will taste the same again and again, and never disappoint - just like a bag of Doritos.

Now wait a minute - I can hear the flat open hands slapping the desktops right now - "Honey! They are becoming Champagne snobs!" - STOP. We are not saying that you should never drink a big name brand again - But they can be pricey - the grower champagnes that we are talking about cost the same and in many cases less than the brands that you are familiar with. We just want you to try the difference - you decide.

One last thing - click on this link to our calendar page and read about our special Champagne tasting on
December 19th - and listen to the difference for yourself: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html

• We are still taking orders for gift baskets, special desserts, cheese and gourmet gifts - in every conceivable combination - all can be delivered by Thames River Greenery - just for the asking. If you have not taken the time to look at the Greenery website this might be the right time - the link is at the top of this page and you may see something that will solve a gift giving dilemma.

This Week At Brie & Bleu
Featured Cheese:

Colleen's Feature This Week: Cearphilly from England

Caerphilly is the cheese of the week at Brie & Bleu at $10\lb.
The cheese is a tomme-style cow's milk cheese. The heart of the cheese is crumbly and slightly acidic, while the rest of the mass when mature has a silky, smooth texture. The taste is earthy and lemony. Historically known as a Welsh coal miners' lunch, Caerphilly's rustic great flavor has propelled it onto the plates of well-heeled gourmets. Caerphilly is a cheddar-type of cheese, originally produced in Wales, but mostly made now across the border in England. It is a crumbly, firm, white, cow's milk cheese, with a slightly salty flavor. It is not aged for long (one to two months), and is good for melting. Purchase a bottle of Pinot Noir for an additional 10% off the cheese at Thames River Wine and Spirits.
Cheers,
Colleen

Please Join Us - Wine Tasting
Friday December 15th - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge

1 - Txomin Etxaniz Getariako Txakolina $18
(pronounced Shock -oh -leena) - This is the wine that we discovered in the fairy-tale village of San Sebastian - just 18 kilomoeters south of the French border in the basque region of Spain. This sleek green bottle was on virtually every restaurant and cafe table we saw. The wine is crisp, clean, low in alcohol and just about the best everyday wine with food we have ever tasted. San Sebastian is obsessed with food - it is often said that when the great chefs of Europe need to recharge their batteries - they go to San Sebastian. This tiny area of Spain boasts more Michelin rated restaurants than Paris. This is a wine you should consider buying by the case - and when your guests ask how you discovered this wine you can say - "Oh I've been drinking Shock -oh -leena for years."

2 - Red Horse Ranch Paso Robles Cabernet 2005 $14 from wine maker Dan Kleck.
Winemaker Dan Kleck has loads and loads of "street cred" - His wine credentials make him a "go to" man when poeple have a special project or a problem. You may have met him in our cellar - a tall affable fellow that is happy to sign bottles and take photos with his fans. His Silverstone wines are so highly rated and produced in such limited numbers that they are routinely hard to find - we are one of the few places you can count on to have them. The Red Horse Ranch brand is a treat. It is great with food and has Dan's quality & expertise all over them.

3 - Chateau De Pez Saint Estephe Bordeaux 2003 $38
The critics line up to talk about this wine - Robert Parker, Wine Spectator, Wine & Spirits Magazine, and scores of others from around the world. They all tag this with ratings in the 90's. And I could list them here.
What is more important to know is the "back story".
Created in the 15th century, Pez is the oldest domain in Saint Estèphe. The Pontac family, who also created Haut-Brion, gave Pez its vineyards. The domain was sold as a property of the state after the French Revolution and owned by a succession of families before Champagne Louis Roederer purchased it in 1995. In 2005, per the review of 2003 vintage, Château de Pez was one of the only nine reclassified wines as a "Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel." Located west of the town of Saint-Estèphe, Château de Pez consists of 74 continuous acres, with 54 acres planted with prime grape varieties, mainly Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. You need to try this on Friday night - it is a master class on wine making history in each sip and you will most likely be asking - "its only how much?"

4 - Gaja Ca' Marcanda Magari 2004 $65
Along the Tuscan seaboard extending south from Livorno lies the Maremma. For centuries a forgotten marshland, it has established itself over the last quarter century as one of Italy's most prestigious wine regions. It is in this region that Angelo Gaja began a new winemaking venture. Despite much ridicule by his colleagues and immediate family - I can hear his wife now: "Angelo, what are you - crazy?" - His goal was to transfer the experience of his Piedmontese culture to the Maremma - The Maremma provided a perfect opportunity to apply his experience for growing international varieties. In 1996, along the road between Bolgheri and Castagneto Carducci, Gaja began planting 150 acres of vineyards, primarily with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, but also Cabernet Franc and Syrah. Mr. Gaja has had the last laugh and probably a lot less questions from Mrs.G. This is magnificent wine and this Friday night is a great opportunity to try them - see what a bold vision really tastes like.

We have a lot of fun around here - thank you, one and all.
Your interest and support make it all possible. We plan on sharing a great holiday season with you.

We hope to see you this week - Please Join Us. It is fun, informal and a great way to start your weekend.

AAA.

Monday, December 04, 2006

Villa Maria & Stu Devine, IMPORT now open, Villa Maria Private Bin, Cellar Selection, Holiday Menus

Greetings from New London,

We have a special guest in the house this Friday - and slate of award winning wines - they are listed below these items of interest.

Sure, its that time of year when you are being invited to all kinds of parties - you get there, maybe a little late because of a dozen things that got in the way. You are the last ones to arrive - you are greeted at the door with big smiles and a crowd of people that already have that boozy red glow in their cheeks - and you start to think - there must be someway out of this.

If only you two had taken the time to work out "The Signal" you had always talked about - now your just not sure if she has something in her eye - or is he trying to get your attention - but maybe he just burned his tongue on the hot mulled cider.
Too much to think about - too much stress for the holidays - too many questions to answer.

We will do whatever we can to ease you through the season - We are here to help -
Here are the most asked questions this week:

Q- Will you be offering gift baskets and gift wrapping again this year?
A- Yes. We will have a variety of gift basket ideas to choose from and the ability to combine different items from all of our stores into a single basket or gift delivery too. Wine, cheese, flowers, plants, decorative items you name it. Our staff will dress it, wrap it, ship or deliver it - no fuss, no muss, no messy mop-up.

Q- Are you still offering free consultations on holiday menus & wine lists?
A- We always welcome questions about food pairings and menus - anytime - and we never charge - you should consider us your relative in the business - call us anytime. And the same goes for Brie & Bleu - Cheese parings, menus ideas - recipes from our dinners - ( yes we are still working on the cookbook ) - We are at your service, just let us know.

Q- Can I still book a private party or wine tasting or have a special menu made up for my Holiday or Office Party?
A- Our calendar fills up quickly - we will accommodate you if at all possible - early, late - even on Monday when Brie & Bleu is normally closed. The easiest way to check the dates and your options is to call - 860-443-9463 - any day after 10a.m.

Q- If I Shop Online can I still have things delivered by Thames River Greenery?
A- Yes, of course. We are happy to deliver any of the items purchased online or from any of the stores - and that includes our newest offering - IMPORT.
If you have not seen what is happening at IMPORT for the holidays you really should take a look: http://thamesriver.com/trg/featured.html
The pictures do not do it justice - you have to see it to believe it.

THIS WEEK AT BRIE & BLEU:
Colleen has selected a real classic:
The featured cheese is Raclette at Brei & Blue this week for $10/lb.
Traditional Raclette is an uncooked semi-firm, pressed salted paste made from cow's milk. However, varieties exist made with white wine, pepper, herbs, or smoked. The cheese originated in the Swiss canton of Valais, but is today also fabricated in the French regions of Savoie, Franche-Comté and Brittany. The famed dish with Raclette is also a dish indigenous to parts of Switzerland and France. The Raclette cheese round is heated, either in front of a fire or by a special machine, then scraped onto diners' plates; the term raclette derives from the French racler, meaning "to scrape". Traditionally, it is accompanied by small firm potatoes (Bintje, Charlotte or Raclette varieties), gherkins, pickled onions, dried meats (such as prosciutto and viande des Grisons), sliced peppers, tomato, onion, mushrooms, paprika and fresh black pepper. It is normally accompanied by a white wine, such as the traditional Savoie wine, a Riesling or a Pinot Gris, which can be purchased at Thames River Wine and Spirits for an additional 10% off the cheese.
Cheers, Colleen - (Mrs.Z)

PLEASE JOIN US -
Wine Tasting - Friday December 8, 2006 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
SPECIAL GUEST - MR. STU DEVINE - VILLA MARIA Vineyards - New Zealand

We are quite fortunate to have Mr. Stu Devine join us this Friday.
You may have seen our interview with him on WineRadio - http://wineradio.com/
Check out the show - and you will agree - This is a gentleman that you will want to meet.

Stu will be featuring wines with an emphasis on fruit quality and minimal handling resulting in intensely flavored, elegant food friendly wines that offer a big bang for the buck.

1 - Cellar Selection Sauvignon Blanc 2006 $18
The fruit was harvested in the cool of the night to ensure it arrived at the winery in pristine condition. Ripe lime and gooseberry characters dominate the nose with hints of passion fruit. The wine is concentrated with vibrant fruit and mid palate richness, finishing rich and racy with excellent length and crispness. This is perfect for getting the holiday started - appetizers, salads, cheese - light entrees.

2 - Private Bin Chardonnay 2006 $15
The aroma is citrus dominant. Hints of melon and white peach are present along with subtle oak and lees influences. On the palate the wine is creamy in texture, the lemon fruit accompanied by oatmeal and nutty characters. Great with veal, cream based pasta dishes, chicken and fish, soft cheeses.

3 - Cellar Selection Pinot Noir 2003 $30
The nose offers attractive cherries and plums along with subtle oak and spice influences. On the palate the wine is appealing with its generous ripe fruit. Savory characters add complexity and demand the accompaniment of good food. Soft, fine-grained tannins make the wine ideal for immediate consumption. Seared tuna, veal shanks, and Asian fusion dishes are all a good choice.

4 - Cellar Selection Merlot/Cabernet 2002 $20
Deep crimson in color this wine displays a bouquet of plums and cassis characters - Full rich and soft with great finish and structure. This has been one of the staff favorites - everyone agrees that it offer a huge value. Try it Friday - and see what you think. And be sure to talk with Stu - you might get an invitation to the party after the tasting......What? You didn't know there was a party after the weekly tasting?

Thanks for your support we appreciate it - and remember - we would not have guests like Stu Devine if it wasn't for your interest and participation - our guests love our customers - we get a lot of comments about our store - but we also get a lot of comments about the quality of our customers - You continue to set the bar very high - thank you.

We hope to see you this Friday.
Please Join Us. It is fun, informal and a great way to start your weekend.

AAA

Monday, November 27, 2006

Penelope Cruz, Latour Pouilly-Vinzelles, Borsao Tres Picos, Chionetti "Briccolero", Nickel & Nickel Vogt

Greetings from New London,

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

It was a great holiday week here - we hope that everyone enjoyed time with friends and family -
Thanks for the great turnout last week - Penfolds Grange was the star of the show and it lived up to all of the press.

We are keeping it short this week - Our list of wine for Friday is just below these items of interest.

RESTAURANT TIP: IBIZA - New Haven - 203-865-1933 - http://www.ibizanewhaven.com/
On Saturday night we had the opportunity to dine at the Spanish restaurant Ibiza in New Haven. Our party of four was received like Spanish Nobility. Our wait staff lead by Carlos and a girl that was a DEAD RINGER for Penelope Cruz - made the evening special. We decided to let Carlos and "Penelope" do the ordering for us - Appetizers, entrees, deserts - they never made a bad choice - We selected our own wines - Muga Reserva with appetizers and 2003 Clio with entrees - they were both exceptional - When it was time for dessert Carlos took over. He was like a great Matador - guiding us around his cape before placing the final glasses of sherry and dessert wines in front of us. I can recommend Ibiza without hesitation. If it has been a while since you and The Old Man have been out of the house to someplace new - consider Ibiza - 39 High Street, New Haven - it is worth the drive........ tell Penelope we said "Hola."

This Week At Brie & Bleu - Mrs. "Z" has selected TALLEGIO as the featured item.
Here is what she has to say:

Hope the Thanksgiving holiday went well for all. If people missed the great stilton and fruit cheeses of the past week here is another type of cheese to wet your appetite. This weeks featured cheese at Brie & Blue is an Italian cheese - Tallegio at $10/lb. This semisoft, uncooked cheese from the region around Bergamo gains flavour and an accompanying odor as the cheese ages. The crust is pinkish-gray and the paste is white, supple and fruity. Tallegio is an excellent dessert cheese that goes well with a robust wine. For an additional 10% off the cheese pair with a nice Bardolino purchased at Thames River Wine and Spirits.
Cheers,
Mrs.Z

Please Join Us
WINE TASTING - FRIDAY DECEMBER 1st - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge

1 - Louis Latour Pouilly-Vinzelles 2004 - $14 white burgundy www.louislatour.com
This clean lemon colored wine has a distinct nose bursting with aromas of honey and hazelnuts. It is fresh and fruity yet also reveals more complex flavors of sweet honey and flowers. This is easy to drink and great with appetizers - try it Friday and see if it works for your holiday plans. At this price a case makes sense for the holiday season - perfect for all the people dropping by.

2 -Borsao Tres Picos 2005 - $14
Some of you were lucky enough to buy this wine by the case when we had a special tasting - we knew it would be a winner. NOW this wine is on the Top 100 List from Wine Spectator.
Deep and luscious, Tres Picos Borsao is cherry red in color with a hint of purple tones. In the nose, there is a boundless bouquet of mature red fruits with traces of flowers that are typical of the best Garnachas. In the mouth, it is rich and well-structured simultaneously conveying flavors of blackberries, strawberries and tones of leather, vanilla and plums. Perfectly combined with a sweet and pleasant tannin, Tres Picos Borsao leaves us with a long, silky and balanced finish

3 - Chionetti "Briccolero" Dolcetto di Dogliani 2003 $24
The Chionetti family has been producing some of the greatest Dolcetto made in Italy since 1918 when Quinto’s grandfather founded the estate. The wines produced here are of the single-vineyard variety, meaning that all the grapes used in production are taken from three small, individual vineyards that have been deemed to hold specific soil and climactic conditions perfect for the production of three of the most respected Dolcettos made in Italy today. These single-vineyard wines are estate bottled and produced in a traditional Dolcetto style that is pure and time-tested. Barely 1300 cases of each of these wines are produced in the most bountiful of vintages. The Briccolero is one of the most deeply flavored Dolcettos produced. It is nearly opaque in color and has wonderful, vibrant fruit aromatics coupled with hints of oak and earth. The wine shows beautiful lush purple fruit upfront with touches of mint. The length of flavor is outstanding as well - soft, easy tannins that flow and finish - with luscious fruit and hints of earth.

4 - Nickel & Nickel Vogt Vineyard Cabernet 2003 $85 www.nickelandnickel.com
Nickel & Nickel is devoted exclusively to producing 100% varietal, single-vineyard wines. This is Nickel & Nickel high altitute vineyard from atop Howell Mountain, it is widely considered their best cabernet but also the least expensive. Of all of their single vineyard cabernets this one shows the best structure, typical of a high altitute howell mountain cabernet. Dark fruit impressions mixed with a perfume of floral and berry can be found in the aroma. Wild berry and cassis are prevalent in the mouth with some vanilla and cedar coming from the oak. Although thick and chewy, there is a warm, coating texture to this wine that gives it a lot of depth and power. This is a BIG wine,as they say. And Friday night will be a nice opportunity to try it. This wine is not for everyone - but it might be Just Right for you. Join us on Friday and find out.

Thanks for your support - we appreciate it.
And thanks for all of the holiday wishes that we are receiving - you are too kind.
We look forward to seeing you this week - please say hello when you come to the store.

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

AAA

Sunday, November 19, 2006

Burgundy Tasting, Terry Theise WineRadio, Import, Penfolds Grange, De Forville Chardonnay, Louis Latour, Babcock Fathom

Greetings from 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
IMPORT - 860-443-6817 - 60 State Street
www.thamesriver.com
Calendar of Events: http://www.thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
Brie & Bleu: http://www.brieandbleu.com/

You will not believe what is on the list for you on Friday night - Hold on to your hats - then take a look. The list is below our news and items of interest.

• A big thank you goes to Mr. Howard Asadow of World Wide wines - Howard presided over our Special Tasting of Burgundy at the Thames Club on Saturday night. There was more Burgundy in one place and at one time than many people try in a lifetime. 1st Cru's, Premier Crus, Grand Cru's - The upbeat, friendly atmosphere in the Presidents Room was a perfect setting for a little Corton-Charlemange. The food parings from Brie & Bleu included foie gras, poached chicken, smoked fish and cheese assortments that were fabulous. Thank you to everyone that attended and for making it so much fun.

• Steve "D" - The man, the myth the legend - After tasting the first ten or fifteen Burgundies on Saturday - Steve stood up and exclaimed "Lets give it up for Doc Gibbs and the Emerill Live Band!" - we love you too, man.

• WineRadio - If you have not yet seen our interview with Terry Theise - shot on location at the Union League Restaurant in New Haven - you must. Terry Theise is Food & Wine Magazine man of the year and is generally acknowledged as being the man that has introduced more great wine to more Americans than anyone else. Visit our Calendar of events page and scroll down to the WineRadio section: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html

• There has been a lot of talk about our store IMPORT - it is ready for the holidays and loaded with a wonderful collection from around the world. For a tiny sneak peek take a look here: http://www.thamesriver.com/trg/featured.html
Better yet stop in and browse for awhile - say hello to Chris Lamb - she will show you around.

• Remember - our third annual all day tasting with Jonathan Edwards Vineyards is all set for Wednesday the day before Thanksgiving. It starts at 12 noon and continues until 6p.m. Stop into the store meet the folks from Connecticut's own -
Jonathan Edwards Vineyards and try some of their award winning wines.

THIS WEEK AT BRIE & BLEU -

Colleen has made your Holiday cheese buying easy this week - Here is the featured CHEESE:

If you missed the Wensleydale with cranberries on special last week at Brie & Bleu we have Stilton with Mango & Ginger for $16\lb. This cheese is another good holiday selection so, please come in to get your stock for the holidays. Stilton with mango & cheese isa young, immature cousin to the world famous British blue cheese, is extra creamy and deliciously tangy but somehow unfinished all by itself - much like plain yogurt. Hence the need to introduce fruit . Available with apricots, lemon, ginger, and five other wicked flavors. Each of these flavorful additions tames the brash White Stilton. After your first bite you will immediately recognize that the combination is a natural fit. The expert cheesemakers have added exactly the right amount of fruit such that the cheese is not overly sweet. Aged for a minimal time period, our family of flavored White Stiltons are fresh tasting products. Owing to their delicious flavors, beautiful presentations and wickedly scrumptious names, they are among the best selling blended cheeses in the U.K.

Happy Turkey Day,
Mrs. "Z"

PLEASE JOIN US
Wine Tasting - Friday November 24th - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
The Holidays are all about sharing - we are very happy to share this selection with you on Friday night.
First come, first served.

1 - De Forville Chardonnay 2005 - $15 - from Barbaresco Piemonte
The historic De Forville winery (it has been run by the same family since 1860), is a consistent maker of fabulous Barbarescos of a traditional nature. they have created a remarkably priced white wine that is tremendous with food. An excellent choice for Thanksgiving and a great wine to pour for the parade of guests that will be stopping by during the season.

2 - Louis Latour Domaine de Valmoissine - $14 pinot noir 2004
The family-run company of Maison Louis Latour is one of the most highly-respected négociant in Burgundy. Renowned throughout the world for the quality of its red and white wines, the company has built a reputation for tradition and innovation. The Domaine de Valmoissine is located on the site of the ancient monastery and university of Valmoissine at 500 meters above sea-level. The grapes are entirely hand-picked before being fermented in stainless steel open-vats for a short period of 3-4 days. The wine is then matured in old oak casks from Maison Louis Latour’s cooperage in Beaune in which the wines flavors and aromas develop naturally with the mellow wood flavors of the oak. Latour is a famous name that will impress your guests - but the style of the wine resembles Burgundy’s classical ‘Vin Vermeil’ that the first Louis Latour was producing at the end of the 18th century. Elegance and finesse packed with fruit, and a vivid bright red color. The resurrection of this style of wine already has a dedicated following - and it is hard to beat for the price.

3 - Babcock Fathom 2002 - $24
We used to sell this for $34 a bottle - then the wine maker decided to stop making this wine and we bought it very well. Same as it ever was - just $10 less a bottle. One of California's brightest stars in the field of winemaking is Bryan Babcock. Not only was Bryan selected by the Los Angeles Times as one of the "Ten Best Winemakers of the Year", he was also named as "Most Courageous Winemaker of the Year" for his daring style. Since 1984 Bryan has been producing wines of exceptional quality from his family owned winery located on the far western edge of the Santa Ynez Valley in northern Santa Barbara County. This wine has an Inky dark ruby color, almost black. Good blackberry and vanilla aromas, fruit and oak, aromatic and intense. Big and full flavor, sweet oak and lush fruit; so rich that the fruit almost conceals significant tannins and lemony acidity. Far from subtle, but easy to drink; this is a big blockbuster of a wine.

4 - Penfolds Grange - $250 - Thats right - it is not a typo - First come, first served.
Robert Parker rates this 98 points. Wine Spectator says "Collectable" - the list of accolades goes on and on.
We will be tasting bottle #18339 from the 2001 vintage. Inky/blue/purple to the rim, with a stunning perfume of blueberries, blackberries, chocolate, graphite, and earth, it boasts good acidity, huge tannins, magnificent concentration, and a multilayered, textured mouthfeel. It is a big, but impeccably well-balanced Shiraz.
We have on the shelf - bottles #18534, #18187 and #18550 from the 2001 vintage - AND - bottles #28034, #28155,#28251 from the 2000 vintage. If you are looking for a special gift - for loved ones or clients - a "matched" gift- boxed set of this wine will be talked about for years. It is significant and very difficult to locate - please stop in and try this legendary wine from Australia. First come, first served.

As always we take great pleasure in sharing the the great wines and spirits of the world with you. We open bottles that for the most part go to collectors, movie stars and diplomats. Why should they have all the fun?
You are the stars of our show. Your support, comments and suggestions make us better everyday.
Thank you, from all of us.

Happy Thanksgiving - we hope to see you on Friday night.

AAA.

Sunday, November 12, 2006

Connecticut College, Heidsieck Monopole, Cristom Willamette Valley Pinot Noir, San Vincente Rioja, Beaulieu Vineyards Tapestry

Greetings from 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

• It was a lot of fun this past week - and the Shafer Merlot at Friday Night's tasting was a big hit. Thanks for joining us.

• We are working on the December wine dinners and our new "Eating For The Seasons" evenings too.

• Our thanks to Connecticut College and Mandy Barett for inviting us to participate in their first student food event. We got to meet 400+ students - up close and personal - and shared a variety of artisanal cheeses and breads - these students know their cheese! Thanks for all the positive feedback.

• Thanks to Colleen from Branford who livened things up a bit on Friday night - two or three sips of white bordeaux and she was leading the crowd in a nice frisky version of - "If your Happy and You Know It - Clap Your Hands..." you just never know what is going to happen here.

• Our Special Burgundy Tasting at the Thames Club - it is SOLD OUT.
Thanks so much for the overwhelming response - we will schedule more events soon.
If you would like to add your name to our special tasting list - please send your name and a contact phone number to: trgmail@snet.net - in the subject line type: Special Tasting - and we will keep you updated.

• Art at the Alva Gallery - http://alvagallery.com/
November 18 – January 19, 2007: Who's On First: An American Legacies Invitational
If you have not made a visit to this wonderful space on State Street - what are you waiting for?

• Mark the date - Wednesday November 22 - 12-6 p.m. - http://www.jedwardswinery.com/story/
Please Join Us - Our third annual Jonathan Edwards tasting right here in the store signals Thanksgiving in a big way.
The folks at Jonathan Edwards do a fabulous job - we are very happy to continue the holiday tradition with them.

This week at Brie & Bleu
Colleen has selected a fantastic holiday cheese - please be sure to try it.
The featured cheese is Wensleydale with cranberries.

The featured cheese is Wensleydale with cranberries at $16/lb this week at Brei & Blue. This is a great cheese to have before, during and after the feast at Thanksgiving. So, pick up some before the big day!!! A little history about the cheese - the only true Wensleydale cheese in the world comes from the milk drawn from cows that graze the sweet limestone pastures on farms in Upper Wensleydale, England. First made there during the Norman invasion, when French monks from the Roquefort region were brought over to practice their cheese-making skills. The Wensleydale pastures give the cheese the unique, refreshing flavor for which it is renowned. The cheese is a fresh, young cheese taken at only three weeks old. It has a clean, mild, slightly sweet flavor with a honeyed aftertaste. The superb texture of fresh Wensleydale is perfectly complemented by the addition of all natural cranberries of the finest quality. Wensleydale with Cranberries is an innovative blend of flavors and a superb visual experience. Suitable for vegetarians. Pair with a nice Sauvignon Blanc from Silverstone or Flowers Pinot Noir - available from Thames River Wine & Spirits.
Cheers, Mrs. Z

Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday November 17th - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge

1 - Heidsieck Monopole Rose Top Champange nv $48
This particular Brand was recognized as a premium champagne by kings, emperors and aristocrats, and received royal warrants from the King of Prussia, Emperor of Germany (1818), the British Crown (1911), the Swedish Crown, King Gustav (1933), and Tsar Nicholas II - his orders for HEIDIECK & MONOPOLE reached 400,000 bottles for his personal cellar. He must have been the kind of person that would enter a room and call out - "Champagne for Everyone!"
Go ahead - try it - Shout it out. You may be surprised how easily you take to it. Put it on the list with "Stop The Presses".

This is a delightful aperitif, this appealing rosé champagne is a mild salmon color - well-balanced and deliciously fruity on the palate. Clear and bright, its medium bubbles give it a light feel. Its deliciously pungent aromas of red berries, raspberries and wild strawberries fill your glass and produce flavors of red cherry, tangerine, orange peel and ginger, leading to a nice fruity finish. Try it on Friday night and see for yourself why King Gustav always kept a cold bottle in the fridge.

2 - Cristom Willamette Valley Pinot Noir Reserve 2003 - $45
Utilizing Old World winemaking techniques - whole clusters, native yeast fermentation, and gentle handling - Cristom handcrafts wines that are smooth, elegant and subtle. These characteristics have earned Cristom distinction among wine enthusiasts, including being named 'Best New World Red' by Decanter magazine. Their 65-acre estate in the Eola Hills of Oregon's Willamette Valley offers a long growing season, mild climate, warm winds and ancient volcanic soils that make it ideally suited to grow Pinot Noir. Lots of dark fruit, spices and black cherries with a deep prolonged finish - very refined in a velvety package. This is a great wine for the holiday - it is a few dollars more than other wine in the category, but it delivers in a big way and will make a big impression at the table. Open and serve this with confidence to your family and guests.

3 - San Vincente Rioja 2001 - $50 (rated 93 points Robert Parker)
This is what Robert Parker says about the wine: “One of the sexiest, Pomerol-like efforts I taste each year from Spain. It is fashioned from 100% Tempranillo, spends 20 months in new American and French wood, and is bottled unfiltered. The deep ruby/purple color is accompanied by aromas of spice box, ripe black currant and cherry fruit intermixed with hints of espresso and white chocolate. Plump and seductive on the palate, with no hard edges, it tastes like a Pomerol on steroids. Drink it over the next 5-7 years.” - The village of San Vincente de la Sonsierra is nestled in the heart of the famous Rioja region, where the Ebro river and the Sierra Cantabria mountains go hand in hand and contribute to balance found in the fruit and the land. A single vineyard wine this 100% Tempranillo is a brilliant red/black cherry color - it is a big wine - the black fruit aromas are powerful, complex and with beautiful intensity. It is very refined with gorgeous tannins and a killer finish. First come, first served.

4 - Beaulieu Vineyards Tapestry 2003 $50
This is a famous wine - It is served at special events like the Emmy Awards. It is always on the list of wines that collectors use to fill their cellars and it is rated 90+ by publications like Wine Enthusiast. More importantly - when regular folks like you and I try it - it actually brings a smile to the lips. Classic black-ruby color. Ripe fruit, coffee and black cherry aromas fill your nose. Medium full-body with chewy tannins, and an elegant touch of sweetness on the finish. You can enjoy this with everything from grilled lamb to dry-rubbed baked salmon and of course turkey.

We are pleased to open these wines for you this Friday - they are all excellent highly rated examples of their type. But the only rating that counts is the one that you give them - Spending $50 for a bottle of wine should not be an act of faith - try them with us - you be the judge - and remember - "If your happy and you know it......."

AAA

Sunday, November 05, 2006

Doug Shafer WineRadio, Andre Lurton Chateau de Rochemorin, Kynsi Pinot Noir, Caparsa Chianti, Bulgaria And Beyond Golden Street Galley, WineRadio

Greetings from 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

We have a real show stopper for Friday night - Have you ever heard of Shafer Vineyards?

• There is still time to order your desserts for the holiday - from Brie & Bleu. Fresh baked pies, cakes, and Petits fours - made with love by our very own "Lisa A." and available for pick up or delivery right to your door along with wine, flowers, and cheese. 860-437-2474 or 860-701-0074- Don't wait until the last minute. Order early and then rest easy.

• We now have beautiful electronic Gift Cards that can be used at all of our stores. Great for the holidays, birthday, stocking stuffers - you name it. Available in any denomination they can be purchased at any of our locations.

• "BULGARIA AND BEYOND." - Please Save The Date: ART OPENING - Saturday November 18th - 6-9 p.m.
New London artists' Kat Murphy and Greg Bowerman, 2006 recipients of the Griffis Foundation and Orpheus Foundation’ Artist in Residence at the TWINS Art Center in Polkovnik Serafimovo, Bulgaria, will be the feature exhibition opening during the Fifth Anniversary Celebration at the Golden Street Gallery. It is hard to believe that the Golden Street Gallery is celebrating five years. During that time it has continually offered Big City exhibits for the local art scene. We are pleased to be part of the opening and will offer wines that compliment this wonderful night.
For more information about the show and the artists go here:
Golden Street Gallery
94 Golden Street
New London, CT. 06320
e-mail: goldenstgallery@yahoo.com
web: www.goldenstreetgallery.com
tel: 860-444-0659
Gallery hours: Thursday and Friday 3-7pm, Saturday 11am-7pm

This Week At Brie & Bleu -
The holiday calendar is starting to fill up - remember that our space is available for your private party. Menus and wine lists can be designed for any occasion. Please call and ask about dates and availability. 860-437-2474. We have another new face at the cheese store. Please say hello and give a warm welcome to Jim Lalumiere. Jim will be working with Colleen, Lisa, Anne, Daphne, and the rest of the staff to bring us the very best in cheese and all of the related goodies at Brie & Bleu. Jim has an extensive background in food and beer and will be developing delicious pairings of all kinds.

Wine Tasting - Please Join Us
Friday November 10th - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge

1 - Chateau de Rochemorin Graves 2002 $18 www.andrelurton.com
"I am a dedicated winemaker who has been searching for the best soils and micro-climates in Bordeaux for over fifty years in order to produce outstanding wines. I personally oversee work in my vineyards as well as all stages of wine production, combining traditional expertise with the latest technology. My name on the label is a guarantee of irreproachable quality, recognised around the world." - André Lurton

André Lurton comes from a winemaking dynasty - his nephew Pierre Lurton, for example, is the first man to simultaneously operate two top-growth properties, Cheval-Blanc (one of two Premier Grand Cru Classé "A" châteaus in St.-Emilion) and Château d'Yquem (the sole Premier Cru Supérieur in Sauternes). This family has grape juice running through their veins. This is a must have for the holiday table - it delivers broad, rich, smoky flavors from its blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon. Careful aging in oak barrels adds complexity without dominating. The bright finish holds it all together. - This is great winemaking at a very attractive price - please try it on friday night.

2 - Kynsi Pinot Noir 2004 $34 www.kynsi.com
Kynsi is a small family winery located in the temperate Edna Valley Appellation of San Luis Obispo on the Central Coast of California. Don and Gwen Othman, the winemaker/proprietors, focus on producing vineyard designated wines, sourcing their grapes from select coastal vineyards. Only 540 cases were made of this delicious Pinot Noir. Great with food it has raspberry and black cherry flavors mixed with rose petals, toasted clove, and vanilla. With well balanced acidity, satin textured tannins and long delectable finish - another perfect choice for the holiday. First come, first served - it will go quickly.

3 - Caparsa Chianti Classico Reserva 1999 $36
These wines are produced with the grapes of the estate - situated in Radda in Chianti in the province of Siena. This is the heart of the "zone of production" for Chianti Classico. The wine and the grapes are rigidly selected with low yields and only natural yeasts are used. The estate only uses natural products for cultivation and fertilization is carried out with organic products. A traditional wine, produced with Sangiovese and Canaiolo grapes, from the vineyards of Caparsa in Radda in Chianti. Bright garnet color with transparent clarity. Classic cherry nose with hints of leather and spice. Soft and textured in the mouth with a sweet fruit finish. If you enjoy Italian wines you will not want to miss this one.

4 - Shafer Vineyards 2004 Merlot - $50
Now that Doug Shafer is a close personal friend of ours...He was a guest on our WineRadio show just a couple of weeks ago - we seem to have more access to this hard to find show stopper. Robert Parker himself says that this is a "sexy, seductive effort." Shafer Vineyards is widely regarded as one of Nappa's best Merlot producers. Food and Wine Magazine has given Shafer their Top-In-The-Nation Award.
This wine has plenty of ripe, rich, concentrated currant fruit flavors, cedary oak, anise and earthy notes that give this a solid foundation.

If you would like to see our interview with Doug Shafer we have placed it on our calendar of events page. You will need "QuickTime" on your computer to watch it. If you do not have the QuickTime - it is free and you can get it here: www.quicktime.com - the whole process should take about 30 seconds. Then go to calendar of events: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html - scroll down a little and you will see Doug's big handsome "mug" on your screen. If you see a blue "Q" - it is working - just give it a minute to download and then you can watch the entire interview. There is nothing like listening to the people that make the wine talk directly to you - it changes everything.

Thanks for your support - we appreciate all of your calls, comments and suggestions.

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

AAA

Monday, October 30, 2006

Doug Shafer, Terry Theise, WineRadio, Four Vines Naked, Terra Rouge, Terra Noble, Juan Gil CLIO

Greetings from 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
Now Open: Import - 60 State Street

It has been a very interesting week for us - filled with wine celebrity encounters - special tastings - new friends, old friends, the concert for Bangladesh and one of the funniest stories about Leon Russell that I have ever heard - actually, it may be the only funny story about Leon Russell that I've ever heard - But lets not get bogged down in the details - here we go -

• A few nights ago we had dinner in Old Lyme - with some old friends and some new friends - BUT our new BEST friends - Dennis & Tami from Massachusetts brought a couple of bottles of Marqués de Cáceres 1985 RIOJA that stopped the show. Dennis said - "I've still got a couple of cases of this in the cellar." - Tammy lived in Spain for a while and got to know the bodegas by visiting them - This was not a stuffy affair with a bunch of wine GEEKS. On the contrary, it was an informal gathering with great food and great conversation - You remember that - it was before they invented TiVo - I tell you all of this because many people still wonder how long they can store wines and I assure you these Spanish wines were magnificent and the highlight of the evening. If you still have any doubts about the great wines of Spain - good, it leaves more for the rest of us that know the secret. Thanks to our hostess - Patricia for a wonderful evening and the Leon Russell story - which on second thought I really shouldn't repeat without her permission....

• WineRadio news: We were invited to interview Doug Shafer - the President of Shafer Vineyards - for our WineRadio show.
The Westport Playhouse was the backdrop and Señor Shafer was full of stories. You can see a preview on the calendar of events page.

• Also this past week - wine personalty Terry Theise spoke with us. Terry has been called the most influential wine personalty of the last 20 years. We caught up with Terry in New Haven at the Union League restaurant. All of the shows can be listened to and watched on our new and improved WineRadio website which debuts in just a few days. Heres the most important thing about our interviews and these people - normally they travel and speak to wine industry people - To The Trade Only - what we offer is opportunity for these folks to speak directly to you - the consumer. It does not happen that often - and I can say that all of the people we speak to seem to appreciate that fact - Our shows are like a master class with the experts. Take a minute and visit WineRadio.com - or at least look at the previews on our calendar of events page.

• The Hygenic Creep Show - Tues Oct 31st in the Hygenic Art Park - 8pm $20
"bands , booze , food, and costume contest" for more information: http://www.hygienic.org/sched23.asp

• Connecticut Lyric Opera will be performing a preview of Figaro at the Atrium on 165 State Street -
We provide the wines and a light menu will be served at 3pm Sunday November 5th.

• Just Arrived - First come, first served - All rated "Tre Bicchieri" ( three glasses) from the Gambero Rosso
Altemasi Riserva Graal 1996 $34
Vitanza Brunello di Montalcino 2000 $54
Coppo Pomorsso Barbera D'asti 2003 $70

This week at Brie & Bleu -

The featured cheese at Brie & Bleu is a brie and blue cheese - Cambozola Blue. This cheese is $15/lb and is a triple-cream, soft, surface-ripened, blue-veined cheese, produced in Germany, soft and white, with splotches of blue mould, and an outer rind of appetizing white mould. It has a creamy, mellow, piquant flavour. Its spreadable consistency makes it very popular as a cocktail cheese, on crackers or rounds of firm pumpernickel. Pair with a Sauvignon Blanc such as Cloudy Bay bought at Thames River Wine and Spirits for an additional 10% off the cheese.

Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday November 3 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge

1 - Four Vines Naked Chardonnay $12 www.fourvines.com
The people at this winery tell us to "Drink Naked Often!"
We will not tell you any different - This California Chardonnay is famous for NO OAK - so if you refuse to try another California chardonnay because it is like getting hit in the head with a branch from an oak tree - you must try this one on Friday.

2 - Terra Rouge Tete-a-tete $15 www.terrerougewines.com
Located on the Western slope of the great Sierra Nevada Range in California - This winery emphasizes deep color, balanced flavors, full middle palate, and a long finish, with power and finesse. The wines gain a nice complexity with age. Wines that can be placed on the table with the best wines of the world with assurance . Enjoy them with good food and friends - try it this Friday.

3 - Terra Noble Gran Reserva Merlot $16
Vinedos Terranoble was founded in 1993 by six Chileans who, driven by their passion for viticulture, dreamed of producing top quality wines by combining the excellent climatic and geographical considerations of the Maule Valley with the best traditions in winemaking and the most modern equipment. This merlot is fresh and intense, with fruity aromas of plum, cherry and raspberry. In the mouth - considerable fruit, with smooth tannins, excellent balance and a nice long finish.

4 - El nido Clio $45 (rated 96 Robert Parker) http://www.juangil.es/ing/index.htm
I have had the good fortune to visit this vineyard in Jumilla Spain - about 90 mins. outside of Valencia. Valencia will be the host of the Americas Cup Race in 2007. It is an area where Clint Eastwood made a couple of those very early westerns - In fact, one of the best memories I have of that trip was standing at the huge barn like doors of the bodega when a tractor pulling a wooden cart arrived with the first of the grapes that would eventually become the 2005 vintage. We ate the grapes right off of the cart with the vineyard owner. They were sweet and still warm from the sun and thinking back now more than a year later I still can't get over how lucky we were to have done it. The Clio is magnificent wine - it is rated off the charts by the experts and it is a great value at the current price. It is very limited in production and we are one of the only places in Connecticut that it can be found. We have 10 "six-packs" in the store. Please try it on Friday night.

Thanks so much for all of your support - it is your interest and input that makes people like Doug Shafer and Terry Theise sit and share with us. The best is yet to come - Winemakers, food experts, authors - we are putting together an amazing list of guests in the coming weeks. Stayed tuned.

Please join us. It is fun, informal and a great way to start your weekend - we hope to see you soon - please say hello when you are in the store.

AAA.

Monday, October 23, 2006

Johnny Depp?, Carl Orsini, Beaucastel, Formaggio Kitchen, Valdivieso, Haan "Hanenhof", Arboleda Carmenere, Remelluri Rioja

Greetings from 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
Now Open: Import - 60 State Street

We are running a little late this week - I'll keep it short - so lets get to it.

• First - Thank you to Carl Orsini for meeting, greeting and serving up the sausage for the fall food stroll last Wednesday night. We met lots of new people and had a lot of fun. Thanks also, to Pat Conair and Kristin Webers for making our Octoberfest dinner a delicious success.

• A gentleman from San Diego stopped into the store on Saturday - he was just passing through and said he had never seen so much Chateau Beaucastel in one place! And it is true - we have a lot of the famed wine - we love them and they love us. These wines make a fantastic gift for the wine lover in your life - and we will cellar them for you until holiday pick up -(no charge of course).

Chateau Beaucastel Chateauneuf-du-Pape:
We have half and full sized bottles bottles of 2003 -
And then there is the 2004 -Remember that all of these wines are rated at least 96 points.
We even have the White Roussanne “Vieilles Vignes” - 2003
Karen McNeil author of The Wine Bible says this about the Roussanne "VV":
"If ever there was a wine that you'd like to smell for eternity, this is it. The wine is so good it defies description". The Perrin family who own the Chateau drink this with another southern Rhone masterpiece:Perfectly scrambled eggs cooked with the local black truffles.

Listen to Marc Perrin talk about these wines here: http://thamesriver.com/wine/instock.html

• There is still time to order your fresh baked pumpkin pies and other goodies from Brie & Bleu for the holiday. I am not kidding when I say this is the greatest Pumpkin Pie I have ever had - our very own "Miss Lisa" creates all of these goodies with love and an expert hand. Please order as early as possible - and if you have not seen or tried her Petit Fours - you don't know what you are missing. 860-437-2474

• Pirates come to New London and the Haunted Waterfront - this week. One of the ships used in the filming of Pirates of The Caribbean will be at the docks and open for tours - fun for the entire family. You may not see Johnny Depp - but it will be a night to remember. More information here: http://www.downtownnewlondon.com/pirates.htm

• Formaggio Kitchen returns to Brie & Bleu on Tuesday 10.24.06 - We will see all of you cheeseheads "on location."

This Week At Brie & Bleu -

Our Cheese Monger Colleen has this to offer:

"The cheese of the week at Brie & Bleu is Grana Padana at $10/lb. A little history: Grana Padana is a highly esteemed table or grating cheese famous all over the world. A product of the Po valley. A fine grained, light to straw-coloured, hard cheese that has a fragrant nose with an intense, though delicate flavour. The perfect enhancement to mediterranean dishes. It is used for all courses, from appetizers to desserts -- as an aperitif, on first courses, as a single dish, with "carpaccio" or accompanied by fruit and vegetables. It may be eaten in slivers, or grated and accompanied by white wines or a nice red such as Barolo. For an additional 10% off the cheese purcahse Bovio Barolo at Thames Wine and Spirits."
Cheers,
Colleen (aka Mrs. Z)

Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday October 27 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge

1 - Valdivieso Chardonnay reserve 2003 $14 www.valdiviesovineyard.com
There's a nice note of overripe, buttery, slightly vegetal (I just learned that word and had to use it) fruit here, integrated already with creamy, toasty oak. The fruit suggests apple and melon, but into the mouth a much more tropical richness emerges, with pineapple and apricot that is lush and ripe. This is broad and generously-styled, with a background of spice and toasty warmth, and a freshening core of acidity.
Very good.

2 - Haan "Hanenhof" 2004 (merlot cab cab franc) $21 www.haanwines.com.au
Hanenhof is the second label for Haan. The wines are made from 100% estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc. Aromas of crushed blackberry and cassis cascade form the glass, accented by licorice, black cherry and cloves; a vibrant Bordeaux-like expression of fruit and spice thrill the senses, while Barossa Valley richness coats the palate. A very thrilling blend from one of Australia’s pre-eminent producers. Don’t miss out on this exceptional wine!

3 - Arboleda Carmenere $16
Arboleda Carmenère beautifully displays the variety’s characteristic spicy red and black pepper notes with rich blackberry aromas complemented by elegant notes of cedar and tobacco. The taste opens with a sweet sensation and tannins. Fruit, spice, and chocolate flavors unfold with a touch of mint, and a lovely long finish. This Carmenère is the perfect companion to spicy and highly-seasoned dishes.

4 - Remelluri Rioja 2001 $32
Family owned - estate fruit - hand sorted and turned into a very special collection of "reserve" wines.
The 2001 Remelluri Rioja is a suave wine, with earthy, ripe, crushed cherry aromas, which follow through beautifully in the mouth. The wine’s character is polished and soft, yet with a firm fruit structure. Pair this with grilled steak, pork or veal with savory herbs. This is a sophisticated, well-executed Rioja.

Thanks for all of the comments and your support - we appreciate it.
Please say hello the next time you visit the store.

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

AAA