Greetings from all of us in New London,
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474
IMPORT - 860-443-6817
www.ThamesRiver.com
It was a busy week here in New London. We had guest chef's, Broadway actors, private dinners - and Dan Swann has come back to the roost.
A great line up awaits you on Friday night - the list is just below a few items of interest.
• First a big thank you to Portable Productions - www.portableproductionco.com
They staged a one act play to a sold out audience in our cellar last week. It was followed by a wine dinner at Brie & Bleu and It was a beautiful night. It was a "big city" night - right here in New London. It started with a Champagne reception and then the stars of the show, Gail Bell and Marion Markham, brought the crowd to their feet and then joined us all for dinner. Bravo.
• Also thanks to Chef Jina Taylor - our Guest Chef for the Far East dinner. Some of the best seared duck that I have ever had. We are planning another date with her - please watch the calendar of events page for details.
• Welcome to the Bean & Leaf - 860-701-0000 - http://bean-leaf.com/
Coffee Roasters - and new coffee hot spot - they are located at 13 Washington Street - that is just around the corner from the Bank of America on State Street - it used to be Fleet Bank, and before that it was Connecticut National Bank, and I won't tell you what it was before that because I would be revealing how long we have been downtown. These folks offer free Wi-Fi and a great selection of handcrafted beverages. It is a large open space that also features the work of local artists. If you love the smell of fresh roasting coffee - check it out.
• ChessFest II was a big success - take a look here - http://www.nlchessfest.com/
Thanks to City Center for sponsoring the event and for the folks at The Saturday Market for lending a helping hand.
Remember - O! Brazil is hosting Brazilian day at the next Saturday Market - 8/4 - 1-5 p.m. food -music-dance-fun.
• The Garde Arts Center - Summer Film Festival is here!
Starting August 1st. www.gardearts.org
In fact here is a great way to plan your night: Dinner and a glass of wine at Brie & Bleu - Then a nice summer stroll up to the Garde - a great show on the Big Screen ( the way God intended us to watch movies ) - and then after the show - walk across the street to the Bean & Leaf for coffee and something sweet - Does it get any better than that? You don't have to reinvent a great night out - you can rediscover one right here in New London.
• "Dave's Fave" - Monday Tasting
Carmen Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 $8
Dave Says: "Every Friday after the wine tasting, Jim Morrison and I take a good look around the cellar and pick out the most absurd wines that we covet and bring them to dinner. This week we grabbed a bottle of Marc Hebrart Champagne Reserve, and a Cantina del Pino Barbaresco Ovello... OH MAN were they something! That was Friday. This is Monday. I can no longer afford such luxuries, so I'm making friends with this charming little Chilean Cab - very tasty tones of cherries and blackberries, easy on the wallet and we've got a ton of it!"
Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday August 3rd - 6-9p.m. - No Charge
1 - Albarino de Fefinanes 2006 $20
From the far northwest corner of Spain, the Rias Baixas (the low rivers) is located in lush, verdant Galicia. Located just above Portugal, It is an exceptionally beautiful wine region. Albariño wines are amazing with food and they can be found in every restaurant of the region. Give this a try on friday night - is is delicious and a very good value.
2 - Domaine Chandon Pinot Noir Rose 2006 $20
This wine is from the California powerhouse of Domaine Chandon - they produce some of the best known sparkling wines in the business.
Winemaker's Notes: "The 2006 Pinot Noir Rosé marks our first vintage to craft a Pinot Noir wine in this refreshing style. Sourced from our Carneros vineyards that are influenced by fog and maritime breezes from the nearby San Pablo Bay, this fruit-forward and vibrant wine offers an approachable warm weather alternative for Pinot Noir fans. Our Rosé features a Stelvin screwcap closure to preserve its fresh fruit character. This wine is a brilliant match for picnic foods and light summer fare, such as shrimp, salads, and lightly-grilled seafood. A sip or two will cool the heat of barbecue, Asian, Indian and other spicy cuisine." This is a very easy drinking wine - please give it a try on Friday night.
3 - Casanova di Neri Rosso di Montalcino 2005 $25
This vineyard's Brunello was Wine spectators #1 wine last year and more recently their Brunello Cerralto was given 100 points by Wine Spectator.
This is their Rosso made from declassified grapes from the same Montalcino - and the quality is right there in the bottle. Be sure to taste this one on Friday night.
4 - Four Vines Anarchy - California Central Coast 2005 - $34 - www.fourvines.com
Four Vines is a familiar name in our cellar - we have carried the brand for a while. You will enjoy the story of the small team that has built the company into what it is today - visit the website if you have a minute or two.
Here are the Winemaker's notes:
"I give you ANARCHY... I wanted to think outside the box and create an unconventional Rhone Blend. The blend is based on Syrah for that velvet mouthfeel and rich fruit, Old Vine Zin for spice and that brambly backbone, and Mourvedre provides some anise and makes the whole blend resonate. If you like the Rhone this wine will blow you away!"
Thanks for making this summer so much fun - and of course for all of the support, comments, and suggestions - we appreciate it.
Please Join Us - It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend - we hope to see you on Friday night.
AAA
Sunday, July 29, 2007
Sunday, July 22, 2007
Tennessee Williams, Barberani Orvieto, Yves Cuilleron Syrah, Gilles Ferran Cotes du Rhone, Gea 2004
Greetings from all of us in New London,
A beautiful lineup awaits you all on Friday night - the list is just below these items of news and interest.
• Clarification - In our last episode we announced the next date for our Guest Chef Series - it was incorrect - mistakes can happen.
The Correct date is August 15th - NOT August 1st.
This is an evening that will feature the culinary expertise of Chef Emil "Buddy" Suek Jr.
Buddy will be presenting an evening of classic Maryland cuisine. The menu will include authentic preparation of crab cakes, soft shell crabs, and other traditional dishes. Each course will be matched with wine that will bring tears to your eyes - this will be a great night.
Buddy will sit with us, drink with us, and answer all of your questions. There are just a few seats left - if this is the type of food that brings back memories for you - please call early to reserve your seats. 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3.
• A big thank you to Nicole D'Andrea,
from New Haven's premier Arts & Entertainment Weekly - PLAY.
She wrote some very kind words about us in the recent issue and featured a nice photograph of our cellar. The article about New London starts on page 29 - and points out many of the things that New London has to offer.
Link to article: http://www.zwire.com/site/printerFriendly.cfm?brd=2639&dept_id=531126&newsid=18568885
You can drop her a note here: ndandrea@playnewhaven.com
• Our 2nd Theater and Wine Dinner Event for Saturday August 28 still has seating available.
It starts with a Champagne reception in our cellar - This is followed by a one act play by Tennessee Williams "A Perfect Analysis Given By A Parrot." Performed by a New York City acting troop. After the show we pulling out the stops and serving a French wine dinner.
Seating is limited - please call to reserve early. $100 plus tax and service.
Visit the web site for more information or call - 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3 - Web: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
• In response to all of your requests and suggestions here are the latest additions to the wine by the glass offerings at Brie & Bleu
Grgich Hills Chardonnay:
Lucious aromas of baked pears and wild honey - beautiful acidity with balanced oak translates to a wonderful mouthfeel. $10 glass - $50 bottle
Grgich Hills Fume Blanc:
Classic grapefruit, lemongrass and mineral flavors shine through this classic Sauvignon Blanc. $7glass - $33 bottle
Joseph Drouhin Julienas Cru du Beaujolais:
Aromas and subtle flavors of cherries and summer flowers follow through to a fleshy and wll structured wine, this cru deaujolais is a favorite summertime red. $5 glass - $16bottle
• Cult Wine Dinner Series -
The next Cult Wine Dinner will be on Wednesday August 29 - 6 p.m.
The Pinot Noir of Oregon and California will be the focus - the menu will feature Salmon and Wild Mushroom Rissoto.
There’s a magic relationship between volume and price - and that's why some of the wine we are serving on this night is painfully expensive.
It is produced in tiny amounts and doled out to only the best wine shops and restaurants in America. We are proud to be in that category.
The wine will include some of the most elusive names in the business. SeaSmoke, Hirsch, Arcadia, Calera, and Soter - and of course a surprise or two.
Please reserve early because seating is limited. $100 plus tax and service
• Dinner & A Movie - The Perfect Pair.
The Garde Arts Center has posted the list of movies for their wildly popular Summer Film Series. If you have not seen the list visit their website here: www.gardearts.org. Why not start your evening at the Garde with us? Enjoy our pre-theater menu, wine by the glass, and waterfront seating on our deck.
Then take a nice walk up the street to the Garde for the show.
I'll be in the first row of the Loge - see you there.
• "Dave's Fave" -
Monday tasting - Pascal Jolivet Sancerre "Clos du Roy" 2001 $18
Dave says:
I'm still trying to wrap my head around the unbelievable wonder of nature that is occuring o'er in Loire Valley, in the little ancient vineyards owned by Pascal Jolivet. 100% Sauvignon Blanc, what's blows my mind (every time I sip it) is that this wine is made with all naturally-present vineyard yeasts. Which means -- they slowly press the grapes, and the natural yeasts floating in the French air ferment the wine and then die off at just the right moment. No yeast is added by man, and no sulfites are added to stop fermentation. So when Pascal Jolivet murmurs softly:
"I only grow the grapes, ze wine, eet makes itself," he ain't kidding folks! -
Listen To our interview with Pascal Here: http://blip.tv/file/get/ThamesRivercom-PascalJolivet338.mp3
Wine Tasting Please Join Us Friday July 27 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Barberani Orvieto 2004 $16
Orvieto is a small city of great antiquity, so ancient that its early history is uncertain. Its location is remarkable as well: it occupies a slowly crumbling butte of volcanic tufa - can you imagine - its also riddled with hundreds of caves, wells and tunnels of every period from Etruscan to medieval to seventeenth century. This is sometimes considered another one of the forgotten Italian white wines - but it is a very good food wine and it is a nice summer addition to your table. Rediscover it on Friday night.
2 - Yves Cuilleron Syrah Rose 2006 $15
The big reviewers like Steven Tanzer & Wine Spectator always rate these wines in the mid to high 80's. This a is great wine for the price and a nice way to jazz up an informal gathering when your serving a nice selection of appetizers.
The Cuilleron family domaine, located in the town of Chavanay, was founded several generations ago. Yves Cuilleron's grandfather was the first to bottle wine for commercial purposes in 1947. The domaine now produces about 50,000 bottles annually divided between the appellations of St. Joseph Blanc, St. Joseph Rouge, Cote Rotie and Condrieu.
3 - Gilles Ferran Cotes du Rhone 2004 $12
When people talk about great everyday red wines this is exactly what comes to mind. Cotes du Rhone wines are very food friendly - they pair well with roasts, chicken, bean dishes such as cassoulet, and hearty vegetable dishes. The lighter-bodied, less expensive Côtes du Rhônes are perfect with burgers, chili, and pizza. This is a true bistro wine - please give it a try on Friday.
4 - Gea 2004 $25
There are a couple of interesting things about the owner of this vineyard - Carlo Cignozzi -
first - he may be some kind of nut.
I mention this only because he at one time walked through the vineyards playing his "cordeen" - to the grapes and the workers.
Apparently he was getting rave reviews from the vines - so taking it a bit further he has teamed up with the Bose corporation to place speakers throughout the winery and the vineyards - and they are documenting the effects of playing a variety music on the wine from start to finish.
Read about the music here: http://www.alparadisodifrassina.it/musica_1_en.php
Carlo:
"This wine takes its name from the Goddess of the Earth and from my youngest daughter.
It wants to express the truethfulness and the purity of the Sangiovese that grows in the rows of Frassina, located at the foot of the town of Montalcino. It is allowed to age in glass for over a year. Its freshness and joyfulness makes it the ideal wine to accompany any food preparation, especially first courses, cheeses and salami. intense ruby red with light grenade nuances. Neat perfumes of fruit with cherry scents. Balanced and pleasant taste enhancing the olfactory scents in an easy and harmonious way."
You can judge for yourself on Friday night if it works.
Thank you all for the tremendous support and interest - it is a great summer season.
We hope to see you on Friday.
Please Join Us - Its fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
A beautiful lineup awaits you all on Friday night - the list is just below these items of news and interest.
• Clarification - In our last episode we announced the next date for our Guest Chef Series - it was incorrect - mistakes can happen.
The Correct date is August 15th - NOT August 1st.
This is an evening that will feature the culinary expertise of Chef Emil "Buddy" Suek Jr.
Buddy will be presenting an evening of classic Maryland cuisine. The menu will include authentic preparation of crab cakes, soft shell crabs, and other traditional dishes. Each course will be matched with wine that will bring tears to your eyes - this will be a great night.
Buddy will sit with us, drink with us, and answer all of your questions. There are just a few seats left - if this is the type of food that brings back memories for you - please call early to reserve your seats. 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3.
• A big thank you to Nicole D'Andrea,
from New Haven's premier Arts & Entertainment Weekly - PLAY.
She wrote some very kind words about us in the recent issue and featured a nice photograph of our cellar. The article about New London starts on page 29 - and points out many of the things that New London has to offer.
Link to article: http://www.zwire.com/site/printerFriendly.cfm?brd=2639&dept_id=531126&newsid=18568885
You can drop her a note here: ndandrea@playnewhaven.com
• Our 2nd Theater and Wine Dinner Event for Saturday August 28 still has seating available.It starts with a Champagne reception in our cellar - This is followed by a one act play by Tennessee Williams "A Perfect Analysis Given By A Parrot." Performed by a New York City acting troop. After the show we pulling out the stops and serving a French wine dinner.
Seating is limited - please call to reserve early. $100 plus tax and service.
Visit the web site for more information or call - 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3 - Web: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
• In response to all of your requests and suggestions here are the latest additions to the wine by the glass offerings at Brie & Bleu
Grgich Hills Chardonnay:
Lucious aromas of baked pears and wild honey - beautiful acidity with balanced oak translates to a wonderful mouthfeel. $10 glass - $50 bottle
Grgich Hills Fume Blanc:
Classic grapefruit, lemongrass and mineral flavors shine through this classic Sauvignon Blanc. $7glass - $33 bottle
Joseph Drouhin Julienas Cru du Beaujolais:
Aromas and subtle flavors of cherries and summer flowers follow through to a fleshy and wll structured wine, this cru deaujolais is a favorite summertime red. $5 glass - $16bottle
• Cult Wine Dinner Series -
The next Cult Wine Dinner will be on Wednesday August 29 - 6 p.m.
The Pinot Noir of Oregon and California will be the focus - the menu will feature Salmon and Wild Mushroom Rissoto.
There’s a magic relationship between volume and price - and that's why some of the wine we are serving on this night is painfully expensive.
It is produced in tiny amounts and doled out to only the best wine shops and restaurants in America. We are proud to be in that category.
The wine will include some of the most elusive names in the business. SeaSmoke, Hirsch, Arcadia, Calera, and Soter - and of course a surprise or two.
Please reserve early because seating is limited. $100 plus tax and service
• Dinner & A Movie - The Perfect Pair.
The Garde Arts Center has posted the list of movies for their wildly popular Summer Film Series. If you have not seen the list visit their website here: www.gardearts.org. Why not start your evening at the Garde with us? Enjoy our pre-theater menu, wine by the glass, and waterfront seating on our deck.
Then take a nice walk up the street to the Garde for the show.
I'll be in the first row of the Loge - see you there.
• "Dave's Fave" -
Monday tasting - Pascal Jolivet Sancerre "Clos du Roy" 2001 $18
Dave says:
I'm still trying to wrap my head around the unbelievable wonder of nature that is occuring o'er in Loire Valley, in the little ancient vineyards owned by Pascal Jolivet. 100% Sauvignon Blanc, what's blows my mind (every time I sip it) is that this wine is made with all naturally-present vineyard yeasts. Which means -- they slowly press the grapes, and the natural yeasts floating in the French air ferment the wine and then die off at just the right moment. No yeast is added by man, and no sulfites are added to stop fermentation. So when Pascal Jolivet murmurs softly:
"I only grow the grapes, ze wine, eet makes itself," he ain't kidding folks! -
Listen To our interview with Pascal Here: http://blip.tv/file/get/ThamesRivercom-PascalJolivet338.mp3
Wine Tasting Please Join Us Friday July 27 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Barberani Orvieto 2004 $16
Orvieto is a small city of great antiquity, so ancient that its early history is uncertain. Its location is remarkable as well: it occupies a slowly crumbling butte of volcanic tufa - can you imagine - its also riddled with hundreds of caves, wells and tunnels of every period from Etruscan to medieval to seventeenth century. This is sometimes considered another one of the forgotten Italian white wines - but it is a very good food wine and it is a nice summer addition to your table. Rediscover it on Friday night.
2 - Yves Cuilleron Syrah Rose 2006 $15
The big reviewers like Steven Tanzer & Wine Spectator always rate these wines in the mid to high 80's. This a is great wine for the price and a nice way to jazz up an informal gathering when your serving a nice selection of appetizers.
The Cuilleron family domaine, located in the town of Chavanay, was founded several generations ago. Yves Cuilleron's grandfather was the first to bottle wine for commercial purposes in 1947. The domaine now produces about 50,000 bottles annually divided between the appellations of St. Joseph Blanc, St. Joseph Rouge, Cote Rotie and Condrieu.
3 - Gilles Ferran Cotes du Rhone 2004 $12
When people talk about great everyday red wines this is exactly what comes to mind. Cotes du Rhone wines are very food friendly - they pair well with roasts, chicken, bean dishes such as cassoulet, and hearty vegetable dishes. The lighter-bodied, less expensive Côtes du Rhônes are perfect with burgers, chili, and pizza. This is a true bistro wine - please give it a try on Friday.
4 - Gea 2004 $25
There are a couple of interesting things about the owner of this vineyard - Carlo Cignozzi -
first - he may be some kind of nut.
I mention this only because he at one time walked through the vineyards playing his "cordeen" - to the grapes and the workers.
Apparently he was getting rave reviews from the vines - so taking it a bit further he has teamed up with the Bose corporation to place speakers throughout the winery and the vineyards - and they are documenting the effects of playing a variety music on the wine from start to finish.
Read about the music here: http://www.alparadisodifrassina.it/musica_1_en.php
Carlo:
"This wine takes its name from the Goddess of the Earth and from my youngest daughter.
It wants to express the truethfulness and the purity of the Sangiovese that grows in the rows of Frassina, located at the foot of the town of Montalcino. It is allowed to age in glass for over a year. Its freshness and joyfulness makes it the ideal wine to accompany any food preparation, especially first courses, cheeses and salami. intense ruby red with light grenade nuances. Neat perfumes of fruit with cherry scents. Balanced and pleasant taste enhancing the olfactory scents in an easy and harmonious way."
You can judge for yourself on Friday night if it works.
Thank you all for the tremendous support and interest - it is a great summer season.
We hope to see you on Friday.
Please Join Us - Its fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Special Event - Guest Chef Series
Our Guest Chef Series Continues -
We welcome, from Baltimore,
Chef Emil "Buddy" Suek Jr.
Buddy will preside over an evening of classic Maryland Cuisine.
Highlights will include soft shell crabs & classic crab cakes.
We will match each course with wines that will make you weep!
There is limited seating available, please call early to reserve your seats.
860-443-9463
$85 plus tax and servive.
Monday, July 16, 2007
SailFest 07, DRC, Terra do Gargalo, Varaschin Prosecco, Tellus Vinea, Paul Hobbs
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
Our list of wine for Friday night is listed just below these items of interest.
Well the reports are in and by all accounts this years fireworks and the spectacular grand finale was the best ever. The photo of the event featured on the front page of The Day's Region section was taken from our deck - that is how close we are to the action. Photographer Tim Cook set up his tripod and big "digital guns" about a half hour before the show started and captured a memorable show. The weather was perfect, the wine was flowing and we were so close that I could actually feel the "heat" from a few of the big shells. Thanks to The Day for including us, and thanks to all of our friends that joined us - see you next year.
• Due to the overwhelming popular demand for our theater and wine dinner event - we have added a second show on July 28 - 6 p.m. Basically it goes a little something like this: It starts with a Champagne reception in our cellar - featuring "Grower Champagne."
(did you know we have the largest selection in the State of Connecticut?)
This is followed by a one act play by Tennessee Williams "A Perfect Analysis Given By A Parrot." Performed by a New York City acting troop. This is part of a series called "Pub Plays" that is being presented in various venues in New York. After the show we pulling out the stops and serving a French wine dinner.
Seating is limited - please call to reserve early. $100 plus tax and service.
Visit the web site for more information: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
Or call - 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3
• We are about to post the next list of Wine Dinners for the Summer & Fall keep an eye on the Calendar of Events page. One night in particular is worth mentioning in advance - Wednesday August 1 - 6 p.m. - did you write that down? Special Event - Guest Chef Series - From Baltimore - Meet Chef Emil "Buddy" Suek Jr. He will preside over a real Baltimore Steamed Crab Extravaganza - we will match each course with wines that will make you weep. Limited Seating - Please Call Early to Reserve - $85 plus tax and service - 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3
Buddy will eat with us, he will drink with us, and he will answer all of your questions and perhaps reveal the secrets of preparing an extravaganza.
• For Collectors: Available with the purchase of a complete set - DRC - Romanee St Vivant 2002, box and La Tache 2004 box with straw wraps - irresistible, yes? We have these wines in stock - They are meticulously cellered in our 18th century "cave" - it would be difficult to find them anywhere - and we mean Nation Wide - that's why customers turn to us to set up everything from wedding registries and special occasions to building significant collections that will grow in value.
• Dave Anderson's Monday Selection - "Dave's Fave": Santa Martina Toscana Rosso $12 In his own words: "The parties, the music, the action, the explosions of Sailfest have left me kind of dazed and dumb. That's why the Santa Martina bottle, with the big attractive red dot on the label has visually grabbed my attention and asked to be my friend. It's from Tuscany, full of Sangiovese, Merlot, Cab and Syrah, and only $12. How can it get to Connecticut all the way from Italy for that kind of money? It's like a present. Thank you Santa Martina!"
Wine Tasting - Please Join Us Friday July 20 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Terra do Gargalo bianco 2005 $12 from Monterrei (Galicia) Spain
Terra do Gargalo, is a light, racy, mineral-laced, but nicely fruity wine that Iberia Airlines serves its business class passengers. Gargalo is located in Verín, a quaint, sprawling town that is watered by the Tamega River and located less than ten miles north of the Portuguese border. It's a small winery with a chic, modern cubist design that befits owner Roberto Verino, a Spanish fashion designer and Verín native. Gargalo is set amid sloping vineyards planted primarily with the native white grapes treixadura, godello and dona blanca. Great floral, tropical fruit and spice flavors, balanced by a beautiful palate cleansing acidity and moderate alcohol. Great acidity with a finish that lasts forever. This is a food wine and should be part of your summer party routine - your guests will love it and the price is just right too.
2 - Varaschin Prosecco Rose Brut $13
We have a hard time keeping this wine in stock.
It drinks so easy that..... Even cavemen like it. ( I could not resist )
Our friends and customers buy it by the case. - and for good reason - It is delicious and a fantastic food wine. it should be priced much higher - this is a bargain. Do not let the soft pink color fool you - This is a dry prosecco with a large dosage of Mosacato Rosa adding flavor and aromatics. Varaschin's wine-firm was founded in S. Pietro di Barbozza around 1930 by Matteo Varaschin. He is considered one of the "patriarchs" among the wine-growers of the area close to Valdobbiadene, who passed his own "wine culture" on to his sons, Renzo and Luigitogether with the young nephew and oenologist Orfeo, the firm's present leaders.
Please try this on Friday night.
3 - Tellus Vinea Bordeaux 2005 $15
From the Pueyo brothers, owners of Chateau Belregard Figeac in St. Emilion whose cellars sit on the outskirts of Libourne, we have the "Tellus Vinea", a Bordeaux appellation with the first vintage being produced in 2002. The vineyards that produce this wine are literally on the border of the appellation of Lalande de Pomerol. Those few meters of distance provide a real pricing edge. So, this wine of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon from 25 to 30 year old vines planted to gravelly soil bears the modest appellation of Bordeaux and a more than comfortable price tag. Yet, it is a solid wine with delightful freshness. Vinified entirely in cuve, it sports a rich red color and lively fruitiness with a suave and lingering finish - simply a delicious wine.
4 - Paul Hobbs Napa Cabernet 2004 $85
Pioneer. Trailblazer. Trendsetter. These are all words used to describe Paul Hobbs. One of the first California winemakers to focus on single-vineyard wines, Paul Hobbs took the challenge one step further by dedicating himself to crafting unfiltered and unfined wines, fermented with native yeasts. His vision has resulted in exciting, structured wines that are rooted in classic old world techniques and, at the same time, are distinctly Californian in their expression. Not bad for a farm boy from upstate New York.
Winemaker notes: "Dark red. Lush, candied blackberry and boysenberry aromas, with a suggestion of dark chocolate. Creamy in texture and packed with sweet berry and cassis flavors and an exotic fruitcake quality. Takes on a ripe, tarry note on the gently tannic finish, which shows very good grip and length." All of the big reviewers love this guy - and always rate his wine at the very top of the scale - 90's plus. This Friday you can review it yourself.
Thanks for all of your support - we appreciate it. The summer is picking up speed and we are glad to be right in the middle of it. We have lots of surprises planned for you.
Please Join Us. It's Fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474
IMPORT - 860-443-6817
www.ThamesRiver.com
Our list of wine for Friday night is listed just below these items of interest.
Well the reports are in and by all accounts this years fireworks and the spectacular grand finale was the best ever. The photo of the event featured on the front page of The Day's Region section was taken from our deck - that is how close we are to the action. Photographer Tim Cook set up his tripod and big "digital guns" about a half hour before the show started and captured a memorable show. The weather was perfect, the wine was flowing and we were so close that I could actually feel the "heat" from a few of the big shells. Thanks to The Day for including us, and thanks to all of our friends that joined us - see you next year. • Due to the overwhelming popular demand for our theater and wine dinner event - we have added a second show on July 28 - 6 p.m. Basically it goes a little something like this: It starts with a Champagne reception in our cellar - featuring "Grower Champagne."
(did you know we have the largest selection in the State of Connecticut?)
This is followed by a one act play by Tennessee Williams "A Perfect Analysis Given By A Parrot." Performed by a New York City acting troop. This is part of a series called "Pub Plays" that is being presented in various venues in New York. After the show we pulling out the stops and serving a French wine dinner.
Seating is limited - please call to reserve early. $100 plus tax and service.
Visit the web site for more information: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
Or call - 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3
• We are about to post the next list of Wine Dinners for the Summer & Fall keep an eye on the Calendar of Events page. One night in particular is worth mentioning in advance - Wednesday August 1 - 6 p.m. - did you write that down? Special Event - Guest Chef Series - From Baltimore - Meet Chef Emil "Buddy" Suek Jr. He will preside over a real Baltimore Steamed Crab Extravaganza - we will match each course with wines that will make you weep. Limited Seating - Please Call Early to Reserve - $85 plus tax and service - 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3
Buddy will eat with us, he will drink with us, and he will answer all of your questions and perhaps reveal the secrets of preparing an extravaganza.
• For Collectors: Available with the purchase of a complete set - DRC - Romanee St Vivant 2002, box and La Tache 2004 box with straw wraps - irresistible, yes? We have these wines in stock - They are meticulously cellered in our 18th century "cave" - it would be difficult to find them anywhere - and we mean Nation Wide - that's why customers turn to us to set up everything from wedding registries and special occasions to building significant collections that will grow in value.
• Dave Anderson's Monday Selection - "Dave's Fave": Santa Martina Toscana Rosso $12 In his own words: "The parties, the music, the action, the explosions of Sailfest have left me kind of dazed and dumb. That's why the Santa Martina bottle, with the big attractive red dot on the label has visually grabbed my attention and asked to be my friend. It's from Tuscany, full of Sangiovese, Merlot, Cab and Syrah, and only $12. How can it get to Connecticut all the way from Italy for that kind of money? It's like a present. Thank you Santa Martina!"
Wine Tasting - Please Join Us Friday July 20 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Terra do Gargalo bianco 2005 $12 from Monterrei (Galicia) Spain
Terra do Gargalo, is a light, racy, mineral-laced, but nicely fruity wine that Iberia Airlines serves its business class passengers. Gargalo is located in Verín, a quaint, sprawling town that is watered by the Tamega River and located less than ten miles north of the Portuguese border. It's a small winery with a chic, modern cubist design that befits owner Roberto Verino, a Spanish fashion designer and Verín native. Gargalo is set amid sloping vineyards planted primarily with the native white grapes treixadura, godello and dona blanca. Great floral, tropical fruit and spice flavors, balanced by a beautiful palate cleansing acidity and moderate alcohol. Great acidity with a finish that lasts forever. This is a food wine and should be part of your summer party routine - your guests will love it and the price is just right too.
2 - Varaschin Prosecco Rose Brut $13
We have a hard time keeping this wine in stock.
It drinks so easy that..... Even cavemen like it. ( I could not resist )
Our friends and customers buy it by the case. - and for good reason - It is delicious and a fantastic food wine. it should be priced much higher - this is a bargain. Do not let the soft pink color fool you - This is a dry prosecco with a large dosage of Mosacato Rosa adding flavor and aromatics. Varaschin's wine-firm was founded in S. Pietro di Barbozza around 1930 by Matteo Varaschin. He is considered one of the "patriarchs" among the wine-growers of the area close to Valdobbiadene, who passed his own "wine culture" on to his sons, Renzo and Luigitogether with the young nephew and oenologist Orfeo, the firm's present leaders.
Please try this on Friday night.
3 - Tellus Vinea Bordeaux 2005 $15
From the Pueyo brothers, owners of Chateau Belregard Figeac in St. Emilion whose cellars sit on the outskirts of Libourne, we have the "Tellus Vinea", a Bordeaux appellation with the first vintage being produced in 2002. The vineyards that produce this wine are literally on the border of the appellation of Lalande de Pomerol. Those few meters of distance provide a real pricing edge. So, this wine of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon from 25 to 30 year old vines planted to gravelly soil bears the modest appellation of Bordeaux and a more than comfortable price tag. Yet, it is a solid wine with delightful freshness. Vinified entirely in cuve, it sports a rich red color and lively fruitiness with a suave and lingering finish - simply a delicious wine.
4 - Paul Hobbs Napa Cabernet 2004 $85
Pioneer. Trailblazer. Trendsetter. These are all words used to describe Paul Hobbs. One of the first California winemakers to focus on single-vineyard wines, Paul Hobbs took the challenge one step further by dedicating himself to crafting unfiltered and unfined wines, fermented with native yeasts. His vision has resulted in exciting, structured wines that are rooted in classic old world techniques and, at the same time, are distinctly Californian in their expression. Not bad for a farm boy from upstate New York.
Winemaker notes: "Dark red. Lush, candied blackberry and boysenberry aromas, with a suggestion of dark chocolate. Creamy in texture and packed with sweet berry and cassis flavors and an exotic fruitcake quality. Takes on a ripe, tarry note on the gently tannic finish, which shows very good grip and length." All of the big reviewers love this guy - and always rate his wine at the very top of the scale - 90's plus. This Friday you can review it yourself.
Thanks for all of your support - we appreciate it. The summer is picking up speed and we are glad to be right in the middle of it. We have lots of surprises planned for you.
Please Join Us. It's Fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Monday, July 09, 2007
SailFest, Tennessee Williams, Pares Balta, Macon-Chaintre "Les Clos", Von Schleinitz , Chateau d'Oupia, Alonso del Yerro
Greetings from all of us in New London,
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474
IMPORT - 860-443-6817
www.thamesriver.com
SailFest XXX is here - 30 years - is it possible? -
Our line up of wine for Friday night will help to kick-off the big weekend.
The list is just below a few items of news and interest.
• Lots of email, questions and comments from all of you this week - here are a couple of the items from our Mailbag.
Q- How come you close at 8:00 o'clock during the week - can't you stay open later?
A - DONE. - You asked for it - and for the Summer Month's we will be open until 9:00 p.m. Monday thru Saturday.
Q - What is the wine policy at Brie & Bleu.
A - Our Wine Philosophy goes against everything that traditional restaurant wine programs stand for. We offer wine by the glass and by the bottle at the lowest possible markup.
We make our wine choices by offering wine that is not normally available by the glass in restaurants. We also encourage all of our friends and customers to step next door to the wine shop and make a purchase to bring back to their table.
We will provide everything else that you need - there are No "Corkage Fees."
• Theater & Wine Event - July 23 - in our Wine Cellar - 860-443-9463 - limited seating.
A Tennessee Williams piece called "A Perfect Analysis Given By A Parrot".
The 20 minute one-act play is being performed by two New York City actresses (one of whom is Marion Markham, a Westerly native) with special appearances by local actors Arthur Bucky Walsh and Arthur Pignataro, and will be hosted at various venues throughout the region during the third week of July; the programming will open in New York this fall followed by a tour out West. The series has been dubbed "Pub Plays", as it is a brief piece of programming being used in restaurants and clubs, at happy hours and full multi-course dinners to entertain guests - a model finding great success in New York City.
• Our own Dave Anderson's Monday wine tasting is building steam.
David has a gift for rooting out the best values for his dollar - this is what he has set up for this Monday:
Pares Balta Blanc de Pacs $11
Dave Anderson:
"Ever since Patricio Brongo from Pares Balta stopped by the store (interview on wineradio.com) and tried us on this wine, we've been selling it like beer in the Fenway bleacher seats. It's so omnipresent, my nickname for it is "Pares Hilton." But this tasty white can still be confusing, like, what is it? "Why, it's a blend of Macabeo, Parellada and Xarello of course." What does that mean? That means it's actually still Cava. Cava without the bubbles. Simpler still, it's YUMMY. Come try it on Monday, the tasting starts whenever you show up..."
Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday July 13 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Domaine Michel Cheveau Macon-Chaintre "Les Clos" 2006 $ 20
The Domaine Michel Cheveau was created in the 1950s by André Cheveau and is now operated by his son, Michel, and his grandson, Nicolas. The family home and the cellars are situated in the heart of the village of Pouilly. A total of thirteen hectares of vineyards are owned and cultivated by the Cheveau family with the holdings spread out over a variety of villages and climates. The vineyards are worked without fertilizers and the harvest is done manually. After a gentle passage through a pneumatic press, the fermentation occurs in temperature-controlled conditions. It is done either in stainless steel or in small and mid-size oak barrels, depending on the appellation and structure of the wine. This wine is 100% chardonnay and it shows off broad pear and apple flavors. Nicely expressive right out of the bottle this wine drinks Beautifully. Trully maconnaise style, the wine is spectacular for the money.
2 - Von Schleinitz Spatburgunder Rose 2006 $10 Pinot Noir rose from Germany
The Hähn family has been in the wine business since 1650. In 1892 Peter Hähn moved to Kobern and started a small winery. In 1956 his grandson Karlheinz Hähn expanded the winery by buying the Freiherr von Schleinitz estate and merged the two keeping the von Schleinitz name. Freiherr von Schleinitz estate is recognized as one of the top estates in the region. The high quality of the wines is contiuously confirmed by awards and medals received in regional and national as well as international competitions. This is a great value.
3 - Chateau d'Oupia " Les Barons" Minervois 2002 $14
Robert Parker has consistently praised this estate and rated the wine a “best buy.”
“Château d'Oupia has produced the ideal bistro wine. Dark, ruby-colored, the wine is wonderfully clean and pure, with an exuberant personality, and gobs of rich, peppery, red and black fruit...Bravo to proprietor André Iché!” - RP.
André Iché inherited an impressive 13th century castle and a large estate in the barren Minervois region. Iché, now in his mid sixties and never a member of his village coop, tended his very old vines and made his wines but sold everything in bulk to local négociants. Fifteen years ago, a Burgundian winemaker happened to be in Oupia, tasted Iché’s wines, and was so enthused that he convinced Iché to bottle and market his production.
Try it on Friday - and see what you think.
4 - Alonso del Yerro Ribera del Duero 2004 $30
Robert Parker has rated this wine 94 points. And this is what he had to say:
"The 2004 Alonso del Yerro is 100% Tempranillo that was aged on its lees for 12 months in French oak prior to bottling. It is a seamless, opulent, voluptuous red boasting a flamboyant perfume of espresso roast, sweet black cherries, creme de cassis, licorice, and new oak. A stunning texture, superb ripeness, low acidity, silky tannin, and a long, heady finish indicate it should drink well for 10-12 years. This superb offering suggests this producer from the somewhat over-crowded Ribera del Duero appellation deserves consumers’ attention. No other than the great French winemaking guru, Stephane Derenoncourt, oversees the viticulture and winemaking at this estate."
Thanks very much for all of the comments, suggestions and especially all of your support - we appreciate it.
It will be very busy downtown because of SailFest this week - give yourselves a little extra time to get around - and enjoy.
Please say hello the next time you are in the store.
We hope to see you on Friday night.
It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474
IMPORT - 860-443-6817
www.thamesriver.com
SailFest XXX is here - 30 years - is it possible? -
Our line up of wine for Friday night will help to kick-off the big weekend.
The list is just below a few items of news and interest.
• Lots of email, questions and comments from all of you this week - here are a couple of the items from our Mailbag.
Q- How come you close at 8:00 o'clock during the week - can't you stay open later?
A - DONE. - You asked for it - and for the Summer Month's we will be open until 9:00 p.m. Monday thru Saturday.
Q - What is the wine policy at Brie & Bleu.
A - Our Wine Philosophy goes against everything that traditional restaurant wine programs stand for. We offer wine by the glass and by the bottle at the lowest possible markup.
We make our wine choices by offering wine that is not normally available by the glass in restaurants. We also encourage all of our friends and customers to step next door to the wine shop and make a purchase to bring back to their table.
We will provide everything else that you need - there are No "Corkage Fees."
• Theater & Wine Event - July 23 - in our Wine Cellar - 860-443-9463 - limited seating.
A Tennessee Williams piece called "A Perfect Analysis Given By A Parrot".
The 20 minute one-act play is being performed by two New York City actresses (one of whom is Marion Markham, a Westerly native) with special appearances by local actors Arthur Bucky Walsh and Arthur Pignataro, and will be hosted at various venues throughout the region during the third week of July; the programming will open in New York this fall followed by a tour out West. The series has been dubbed "Pub Plays", as it is a brief piece of programming being used in restaurants and clubs, at happy hours and full multi-course dinners to entertain guests - a model finding great success in New York City.
• Our own Dave Anderson's Monday wine tasting is building steam.
David has a gift for rooting out the best values for his dollar - this is what he has set up for this Monday:
Pares Balta Blanc de Pacs $11
Dave Anderson:
"Ever since Patricio Brongo from Pares Balta stopped by the store (interview on wineradio.com) and tried us on this wine, we've been selling it like beer in the Fenway bleacher seats. It's so omnipresent, my nickname for it is "Pares Hilton." But this tasty white can still be confusing, like, what is it? "Why, it's a blend of Macabeo, Parellada and Xarello of course." What does that mean? That means it's actually still Cava. Cava without the bubbles. Simpler still, it's YUMMY. Come try it on Monday, the tasting starts whenever you show up..."
Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday July 13 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Domaine Michel Cheveau Macon-Chaintre "Les Clos" 2006 $ 20
The Domaine Michel Cheveau was created in the 1950s by André Cheveau and is now operated by his son, Michel, and his grandson, Nicolas. The family home and the cellars are situated in the heart of the village of Pouilly. A total of thirteen hectares of vineyards are owned and cultivated by the Cheveau family with the holdings spread out over a variety of villages and climates. The vineyards are worked without fertilizers and the harvest is done manually. After a gentle passage through a pneumatic press, the fermentation occurs in temperature-controlled conditions. It is done either in stainless steel or in small and mid-size oak barrels, depending on the appellation and structure of the wine. This wine is 100% chardonnay and it shows off broad pear and apple flavors. Nicely expressive right out of the bottle this wine drinks Beautifully. Trully maconnaise style, the wine is spectacular for the money.
2 - Von Schleinitz Spatburgunder Rose 2006 $10 Pinot Noir rose from Germany
The Hähn family has been in the wine business since 1650. In 1892 Peter Hähn moved to Kobern and started a small winery. In 1956 his grandson Karlheinz Hähn expanded the winery by buying the Freiherr von Schleinitz estate and merged the two keeping the von Schleinitz name. Freiherr von Schleinitz estate is recognized as one of the top estates in the region. The high quality of the wines is contiuously confirmed by awards and medals received in regional and national as well as international competitions. This is a great value.
3 - Chateau d'Oupia " Les Barons" Minervois 2002 $14
Robert Parker has consistently praised this estate and rated the wine a “best buy.”
“Château d'Oupia has produced the ideal bistro wine. Dark, ruby-colored, the wine is wonderfully clean and pure, with an exuberant personality, and gobs of rich, peppery, red and black fruit...Bravo to proprietor André Iché!” - RP.
André Iché inherited an impressive 13th century castle and a large estate in the barren Minervois region. Iché, now in his mid sixties and never a member of his village coop, tended his very old vines and made his wines but sold everything in bulk to local négociants. Fifteen years ago, a Burgundian winemaker happened to be in Oupia, tasted Iché’s wines, and was so enthused that he convinced Iché to bottle and market his production.
Try it on Friday - and see what you think.
4 - Alonso del Yerro Ribera del Duero 2004 $30
Robert Parker has rated this wine 94 points. And this is what he had to say:
"The 2004 Alonso del Yerro is 100% Tempranillo that was aged on its lees for 12 months in French oak prior to bottling. It is a seamless, opulent, voluptuous red boasting a flamboyant perfume of espresso roast, sweet black cherries, creme de cassis, licorice, and new oak. A stunning texture, superb ripeness, low acidity, silky tannin, and a long, heady finish indicate it should drink well for 10-12 years. This superb offering suggests this producer from the somewhat over-crowded Ribera del Duero appellation deserves consumers’ attention. No other than the great French winemaking guru, Stephane Derenoncourt, oversees the viticulture and winemaking at this estate."
Thanks very much for all of the comments, suggestions and especially all of your support - we appreciate it.
It will be very busy downtown because of SailFest this week - give yourselves a little extra time to get around - and enjoy.
Please say hello the next time you are in the store.
We hope to see you on Friday night.
It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Monday, July 02, 2007
Cakebread Cellars, Domaine D'esperance, Domaines Ott, Gouguenheim Cabernet, Costozza Veneto Rosso,
Greetings from New London -
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2473
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
IMPORT - 860-443-6817
www.thamesriver.com
It's a short holiday week for everyone so we will kep it short - and to the point.
Friday's wine list is just below a few of items of news & interest:
• Closed 7/4 - We will be closed for the Holiday • Closed 7/4 - Enjoy.
• ChessFest II - Saturday July 28 - New London's Chess Tournament for all ages. If you missed it last year - it was a great turnout and lots of fun. There is still time to register for this year. Cash Prizes, Guest Speakers, and lots more. Great for the kids.
Visit the website or call for all the details at: www.nlchessfest.com
Phone: 860-449-3667 - Bryan Desautell tournament director
• Far East Dinner - Tuesday July 24 - 6 p.m.
Visit the Calendar of Events Page for details: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
• Cakebread - the line starts here.
Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday July 6 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Domaine D'esperance cuvee D'or 2006 $12
The domaine d'Espérance, an 18th century country house surrounded by vineyards and the gently rolling hills of Gascony, is in the heart of Bas-Armagnac, 1-1/2 hours from Bordeaux. The Domaine was purchased by Jean-Louis and Claire de Montesquiou in 1990, having been left to run wild. Formerly one of the Grand Crus of Armagnac (Bas-Armagnac), the domaine produces this popular fruity dry white wine, typical of the region. A blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Gros Manseng ( for those of you tired of Petite Manseng) from Gascony. A light, floral summer wine, a perfect aperitif or well paired with fish and poultry.
2 - Domaines Ott Chateau De Selle Cotes de Provence Rose 2006.
For me the wine in this bottle is a complete experience - it dopes all of the pleasure receptors in your brain with a lush life giddiness - it paints the world with its soft rose colored hue and makes everything all right with each sip - Life Is Good.
Rosé is all about casual drinking and enjoying Summer weather and food. Widely considered the finest of Provencal Roses, this wine sells out every summer. Last year someone photographed Paris Hilton with bottle and that was that, gone. But don't hold that against it - try it for yourself on Friday night.
3 - Gouguenheim Cabernet 2005 $14
From Mendoza Argentina , this vineyard is more than 1000 meters above sea level. A distinctive Argentine wine , combining ripe fruit and good structure. These Cabernet vines grown at very high altitudes benefit from hot days and cool nights that produce balanced and harmonious wines. Winemaker Patricio Gouguenheim is advised by the renowned Susan Balbo. A Decanter World Wine Awards winner, this Cabernet is deep ruby purple in color and offers the palate rich cassis-like flavors. Supremely smooth, infinitely drinkable and fantastic value for money.
4 - Costozza Veneto Rosso 2002 $26
From year to year, Italy and France trade the title of world's leading wine producer. But Italians point out it was the ancient Romans who introduced wine making to France. In fact, Italians were cultivating grapes some 2,500 years ago, before the rise of the Roman Empire. The Veneto produces more premium wines than any other part of Italy. In the heart of the region, an hour's drive west of Venice, fields of grapes surround the tiny towns and villages. This classic Veneto red is a blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon and 25% Cabernet Franc making a lighter more "open" red wine, perfect for warm weather drinking.
Thanks for all of your support - we appreciate it.
And thanks for all of the comments and email - we are listening.
Please Join Us -
It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2473
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
IMPORT - 860-443-6817
www.thamesriver.com
It's a short holiday week for everyone so we will kep it short - and to the point.
Friday's wine list is just below a few of items of news & interest:
• Closed 7/4 - We will be closed for the Holiday • Closed 7/4 - Enjoy.
• ChessFest II - Saturday July 28 - New London's Chess Tournament for all ages. If you missed it last year - it was a great turnout and lots of fun. There is still time to register for this year. Cash Prizes, Guest Speakers, and lots more. Great for the kids.
Visit the website or call for all the details at: www.nlchessfest.com
Phone: 860-449-3667 - Bryan Desautell tournament director
• Far East Dinner - Tuesday July 24 - 6 p.m.
Visit the Calendar of Events Page for details: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
• Cakebread - the line starts here.
Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday July 6 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Domaine D'esperance cuvee D'or 2006 $12
The domaine d'Espérance, an 18th century country house surrounded by vineyards and the gently rolling hills of Gascony, is in the heart of Bas-Armagnac, 1-1/2 hours from Bordeaux. The Domaine was purchased by Jean-Louis and Claire de Montesquiou in 1990, having been left to run wild. Formerly one of the Grand Crus of Armagnac (Bas-Armagnac), the domaine produces this popular fruity dry white wine, typical of the region. A blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Gros Manseng ( for those of you tired of Petite Manseng) from Gascony. A light, floral summer wine, a perfect aperitif or well paired with fish and poultry.
2 - Domaines Ott Chateau De Selle Cotes de Provence Rose 2006.
For me the wine in this bottle is a complete experience - it dopes all of the pleasure receptors in your brain with a lush life giddiness - it paints the world with its soft rose colored hue and makes everything all right with each sip - Life Is Good.
Rosé is all about casual drinking and enjoying Summer weather and food. Widely considered the finest of Provencal Roses, this wine sells out every summer. Last year someone photographed Paris Hilton with bottle and that was that, gone. But don't hold that against it - try it for yourself on Friday night.
3 - Gouguenheim Cabernet 2005 $14
From Mendoza Argentina , this vineyard is more than 1000 meters above sea level. A distinctive Argentine wine , combining ripe fruit and good structure. These Cabernet vines grown at very high altitudes benefit from hot days and cool nights that produce balanced and harmonious wines. Winemaker Patricio Gouguenheim is advised by the renowned Susan Balbo. A Decanter World Wine Awards winner, this Cabernet is deep ruby purple in color and offers the palate rich cassis-like flavors. Supremely smooth, infinitely drinkable and fantastic value for money.
4 - Costozza Veneto Rosso 2002 $26
From year to year, Italy and France trade the title of world's leading wine producer. But Italians point out it was the ancient Romans who introduced wine making to France. In fact, Italians were cultivating grapes some 2,500 years ago, before the rise of the Roman Empire. The Veneto produces more premium wines than any other part of Italy. In the heart of the region, an hour's drive west of Venice, fields of grapes surround the tiny towns and villages. This classic Veneto red is a blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon and 25% Cabernet Franc making a lighter more "open" red wine, perfect for warm weather drinking.
Thanks for all of your support - we appreciate it.
And thanks for all of the comments and email - we are listening.
Please Join Us -
It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Sunday, June 24, 2007
Out of the box comfort, Pascal Jolivet, Vega Sindoa Merlot, Sequoia Grove, Achaval Ferrer Quimera
Here is a great photo of Pascal Jolivet at home in the Loire Valley wearing one of our signature WineRadio T-shirts. He was a guest on our show the last time he was in town.
The house of Pascal Jolivet is one of the youngest and most dynamic in the Loire Valley. Founded in 1987, this specialist in the wines of Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé has very quickly gained a leading position with the Michelin-starred restaurants of France.
Pascal owns an estate of more than 70 acres evenly divided between the two appellations. He believes strongly in letting nature make the wines as much as possible, and seeks to tame the more aggressive qualities of the Sauvignon Blanc variety.
If you would like to hear our interview with Pascal - it is audio only - you will get an inside perspective from a man that is treated like a rock star in his country because of the wine he makes. You MUST try his wine this Friday night. His Sancerre has that perfect "right out of the box comfort" that will make you a fan for life. It is THE perfect match with seafood.
Greetings from all of us in New London,
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474
IMPORT - 860-443-6817
www.thamesriver.com
We have a great lineup of wine for Friday - but first here are a few items of interest.
Mark your calendar, there is a lot to see and do in New London.
• Upcoming events in New London:
Saturday June 30 - 6 until close - Muse Shoes / Gallery - 102 Golden Street New London, CT 06320 - 860.442.MUSE
Opening reception - You need to see this new shoe store and gallery located just a couple of blocks from the wine store.
A unique combination of Jimmy Choo, MOMA, and a dash of the Ringling Bros.
Located directly across from the Golden Street Gallery.
July 6th is the start of a real favorite - the Farmers Market on Tuesdays and Fridays from 10-2 p.m.
In the public parking lot that faces Eugene O'neill Drive. Lots of goodies straight from the farms.
July 13-15 - SailFest - Celebrating 30 years - if you can believe it.
A tradition for many families, this year fire works will be on the 14th.Learn all about it at: http://sailfest.org/
Saturday, Jul 28 - Pancho Sanchez at The Garde.
The Latin jazz conguero & the members of his veteran octet perform at Garde Arts Center, 325 State Street.
Tickets: 860-444-7373, info@gardearts.org
• WINE DINNERS
Our first series of the season is filling quickly - please reserve early - seating is limited.
Menus can be found on the Calendar Of Events page of our website: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
Every Wednesday night starting this week - Call for more information: 860-443-9463
Additional dinner series, theme dinners and menu information will be posted soon.
• Monday June 25 - Afternoon Tasting with our own David Anderson -
Every Monday David has a favorite to share with you. Call him if you have questions, he would love to hear from you. 860-443-9463
Mas de Gourgonnier "Les Baux de Provence" Red Provence Wine - $15
Dave Says: "This one's a sleeper with a bit of a cult following. Easy to spot in the fat and squat bottle, this is similar to a Rhone blend but uses Cabernet Sauvignon in place of the Syrah... So how, in the heat of Southern France, is it so light and velvety on the tongue? Just the genius of traditional Provencal winemaking, with brambly flavors of wild berries and spice. And the grapes are grown biodynamically. You know, according to the principles of Rudolf Steiner - harvesting by the moonlight, burying cow horns and skulls."
Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday June 29th - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Pascal Jolivet Sancerre 2006 $26
The house of Pascal Jolivet is one of the youngest and most dynamic in the Loire Valley. Founded in 1987. Pascal owns an estate of more than 70 acres evenly divided between two appellations. He believes strongly in letting nature make the wines as much as possible.
2 - Vega Sindoa Merlot 2002 $10
From the Nekeas Valley in Northern Spain - near the French border. This is Perhaps the best ten dollar bottle that you will find this year.
Robert Parker loves this wine, Wine Spectator loves this wine, and we think that you will love this wine when you try it.
An amazing value, it boasts a deep ruby/purple color as well as a soft supple-texture, loads of fruit, and a medium-body.
Perfect for summer foods and your table everyday. Keep a case handy for entertaining.
3 - Sequoia Grove Cabernet Savignon 2003 $34
Sequoia Grove Winemaker Molly Hill was in our store recently - her first trip to Connecticut.
This is one of the wines that she brought for us to try. Molly describes it this way: "Deep garnet in color with aromas of ripe cherry and blackberry with a little bit of cranberry. The fruit intertwines lovingly with the oak, hints of which can be found in aromas of clove, black pepper and a touch of cigar box. Round in the mouth with soft, supple tannins and well-integrated acid, the weight of the wine is delicate and full of finesse but with a silky, long finish."
We describe it this way: "Wow, that was really good." Please try it on Friday night and see what you think.
Molly was also a guest on our show - if you missed it take a look on our Calendar of Events Page, look for Molly's picture under the WineRadio section,
and give it a whirl - she was a lot of fun.
4 - Achaval Ferrer Quimera 2004 Argentina $36
Wine Spectator gave this wine a 93 point rating and called it:
"Racy, almost piercing, with graphite, violet, mineral and boysenberry notes rushing along fine tannins and acidity with a long finish."
I was introduced Santiago Achaval, the President of the winery, at the bar in the Four Seasons Hotel in New York. It was a cool evening in the fall and he was drinking something the color of chestnuts from a beautiful snifter. It was a coincidence and unrelated to the wine business but we were able to share some stories about a mutual friend. He is very articulate and animated when he is talking - and he obviously has a great tailor - more than anything though he was very passionate about his wines, and the old vines that they come from - Quimera (pronounced "Key-Mara") in Spanish means the search for something that is foolish and unattainable - a perfect goal - a quest for the Holy Grail, so to speak. This is a blend of Malbec, Cab Franc, Merlot and a couple of others. One thing I do remember him telling me that night, was that the yields are so low - they only use about a pound and a half of fruit from each plant to make this wine. That is why the price point is a bit higher here. There are other wines from Argentina that cost a lot less - but this wine drinks like a hundred dollars. Give it a try on Friday night.
Thanks for all of your comments and support, we really appreciate it.
Please Join Us. It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Monday, June 18, 2007
The Squeeze Factor, Pessac-Leognan, Domaine Lafond Tavel, Cantina Parroco Barbera d' Alba, Calvet-Thunevin "les Dentelles"
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
We have a great weekend planned - take a look at the wines for Friday. They are listed just below these items of interest.
But I have to start - with a thank you or two.
• Thank you to Mr. Devin McGarry for hosting a beautiful luncheon for us in Farmington last Tuesday.
It was held at a well known restaurant, right on the river.
They set a table for us in a private dining room on the second floor with windows facing the water.
The occasion was to taste the "portfolio" from Christian Mouiex. The Mouiex family brings us wine like:
Dominus, Chateau Magdelaine, Chateau Hosanna, and Chateau Marzelle.
I wanted to throw my arms around this guy and give him a big kiss - it was a great afternoon.
You might be asking yourself - what do these people do - go to a private wine & food thing every week???
Well, we do not.
We turn down a lot of offers.
It would be easy to arrange to be wined and dined a couple of times a week if we wanted to - thanks to you, we have their attention.
There could be a parade of well dressed people serving us wine from around the world - all the time.
Wine after wine, they are all well made, nice package, cute little story - and we do admire their quality - but that's it.
Mostly, these wines fail to slip their hands down our pants and give us a squeeze.
For us, It is like tracking the elusive White Rhino.
When we accept an offer we are hoping to discover something special -
These are the wines we want to share with you - the discoveries that have the "Squeeze Factor."
• A big thank you to Mr. Michael Kane - a wine authority of the highest order. His encyclopedic knowledge helped to make the private dinner hosted by Joe Mascaro last Thursday evening a wonderful experience - a Master-class - on the wine of France. Remember, all you have to do is ask - we can arrange private affairs for you too.
• The first series of wine dinner menus have been posted - take a look on the calendar of events page.
The first set is for Wednesday night's. After listening to all of the requests and comments we have kicked it up a notch -
Many of you wanted higher end wines with better food pairings - you got it.
In addition to the Wednesday night dinners, we will be posting other menus for theme dinners that will be on other nights with varying price points.
They will be posted very soon - keep an eye on the calendar page and right here in the email. It will also be posted on out blog - if you have not see our blog in a while, take a look. We are able to add photos as well as additional postings that are not always in the email.
You can find it here: http://newlondonwine.blogspot.com/
• Our video series "WineRadio" is becoming quite popular -
We get somewhere in the neighborhood of a thousand downloads a week from the iTunes site. Amazing really, when you think about it.
you can visit the iTunes site here: http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=251715986
Or you can see some of the interviews on the WineRadio section of our calendar of events page - it is towards the bottom.
Calendar of Events Page: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
• Brie & Bleu continues to expand it's dinner specials and wine by the glass selections.
A customer pointed out that we have the smallest wine list and the largest selection of any restaurant in Connecticut - all at once.
Keep in mind that she was on her second glass of Duckhorn Merlot at the time, but her point is well taken.
We offer a small, frequently changing, list of wine by the glass - most often not available by the glass at other restaurants.
And they are priced as close to the retail level as possible.
But if you prefer, we encourage you to visit our wine cellar to make a selection and then bring it back to your table.
We do not have a "corkage" fee - and we will set you up with everything you need to enjoy.
• ALVA Gallery announces a new exhibition -- Nancy Friese: New Works from Nature.
A Gallery Talk and Artist reception will take place at 5:30 pm on Saturday, June 30, on view through July 28. - www.alvagallery.com
Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday June 22 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Chateau Pontac Monplaisir Graves blanc 2001 $18
White Bordeaux from Pessac-Leognan, a blend of sauvignon blanc and semillon, Same appellation as the legendary Haut Brion, called graves because of gravel deposits from Gironde river. Old fashioned French white wine - the kind that is written about in stories of France with bistros and cafés. This is perfect stuff to get the party going, easy to drink and great with appetizers. Very hard to beat at this price.
2 - Domaine Lafond Tavel 2005 $14
Pascal Lafond's beautifully made wines from Tavel, Lirac and Chateauneuf-du-Pape are among the finest values the region has to offer. This 65-hectare family-run estate, located in the rosé-only appellation of Tavel, produces what is widely considered (by Robert Parker, among others) to be the best Tavel available. A deep, vivid pink color Tavel rosé has an umistakably complex bouquet, and this one dazzles with its floral, fruit, and fresh aromas.
We recently featured this wine, and we have had the opportunity to re-stock - so if you missed it the first time around, please try it. A great choice for your summer table.
3 - Cantina Parroco Barbera d' Alba 2004 $16
This is a great bottle of wine that has a deep, rich color and a lot of finesse for the price - try it with aged cheese, salami, beef that has been carefully braised - Perfect for casual summer dinners out on the patio or deck. It might also fuel a winning game of Bocce Ball.
4 - Calvet-Thunevin "les Dentelles" 2003 Cotes du Roussillon Villages $32
They do not make much of this wine. The entire production for distribution around the world is about 7,000 bottles. It comes from one of the oldest viticultural areas of France, vines in the Roussillon were cultivated by the Romans, and perhaps even before that. the vineyards are extremely steeply terraced, there is no choice but to harvest by hand. You will want to try this wine if only for the history behind it.
Thanks for all of the comments, the emails, and your continued support - we all appreciate it.
Please say hello when you stop in. We hope to see you this Friday.
Join us. It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
Brie & Bleu - 860- 437-2474
IMPORT - 860-443-6817
We have a great weekend planned - take a look at the wines for Friday. They are listed just below these items of interest.
But I have to start - with a thank you or two.
• Thank you to Mr. Devin McGarry for hosting a beautiful luncheon for us in Farmington last Tuesday.
It was held at a well known restaurant, right on the river.
They set a table for us in a private dining room on the second floor with windows facing the water.
The occasion was to taste the "portfolio" from Christian Mouiex. The Mouiex family brings us wine like:
Dominus, Chateau Magdelaine, Chateau Hosanna, and Chateau Marzelle.
I wanted to throw my arms around this guy and give him a big kiss - it was a great afternoon.
You might be asking yourself - what do these people do - go to a private wine & food thing every week???
Well, we do not.
We turn down a lot of offers.
It would be easy to arrange to be wined and dined a couple of times a week if we wanted to - thanks to you, we have their attention.
There could be a parade of well dressed people serving us wine from around the world - all the time.
Wine after wine, they are all well made, nice package, cute little story - and we do admire their quality - but that's it.
Mostly, these wines fail to slip their hands down our pants and give us a squeeze.
For us, It is like tracking the elusive White Rhino.
When we accept an offer we are hoping to discover something special -
These are the wines we want to share with you - the discoveries that have the "Squeeze Factor."
• A big thank you to Mr. Michael Kane - a wine authority of the highest order. His encyclopedic knowledge helped to make the private dinner hosted by Joe Mascaro last Thursday evening a wonderful experience - a Master-class - on the wine of France. Remember, all you have to do is ask - we can arrange private affairs for you too.
• The first series of wine dinner menus have been posted - take a look on the calendar of events page.
The first set is for Wednesday night's. After listening to all of the requests and comments we have kicked it up a notch -
Many of you wanted higher end wines with better food pairings - you got it.
In addition to the Wednesday night dinners, we will be posting other menus for theme dinners that will be on other nights with varying price points.
They will be posted very soon - keep an eye on the calendar page and right here in the email. It will also be posted on out blog - if you have not see our blog in a while, take a look. We are able to add photos as well as additional postings that are not always in the email.
You can find it here: http://newlondonwine.blogspot.com/
• Our video series "WineRadio" is becoming quite popular -
We get somewhere in the neighborhood of a thousand downloads a week from the iTunes site. Amazing really, when you think about it.
you can visit the iTunes site here: http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=251715986
Or you can see some of the interviews on the WineRadio section of our calendar of events page - it is towards the bottom.
Calendar of Events Page: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
• Brie & Bleu continues to expand it's dinner specials and wine by the glass selections.
A customer pointed out that we have the smallest wine list and the largest selection of any restaurant in Connecticut - all at once.
Keep in mind that she was on her second glass of Duckhorn Merlot at the time, but her point is well taken.
We offer a small, frequently changing, list of wine by the glass - most often not available by the glass at other restaurants.
And they are priced as close to the retail level as possible.
But if you prefer, we encourage you to visit our wine cellar to make a selection and then bring it back to your table.
We do not have a "corkage" fee - and we will set you up with everything you need to enjoy.
• ALVA Gallery announces a new exhibition -- Nancy Friese: New Works from Nature.
A Gallery Talk and Artist reception will take place at 5:30 pm on Saturday, June 30, on view through July 28. - www.alvagallery.com
Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday June 22 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Chateau Pontac Monplaisir Graves blanc 2001 $18
White Bordeaux from Pessac-Leognan, a blend of sauvignon blanc and semillon, Same appellation as the legendary Haut Brion, called graves because of gravel deposits from Gironde river. Old fashioned French white wine - the kind that is written about in stories of France with bistros and cafés. This is perfect stuff to get the party going, easy to drink and great with appetizers. Very hard to beat at this price.
2 - Domaine Lafond Tavel 2005 $14
Pascal Lafond's beautifully made wines from Tavel, Lirac and Chateauneuf-du-Pape are among the finest values the region has to offer. This 65-hectare family-run estate, located in the rosé-only appellation of Tavel, produces what is widely considered (by Robert Parker, among others) to be the best Tavel available. A deep, vivid pink color Tavel rosé has an umistakably complex bouquet, and this one dazzles with its floral, fruit, and fresh aromas.
We recently featured this wine, and we have had the opportunity to re-stock - so if you missed it the first time around, please try it. A great choice for your summer table.
3 - Cantina Parroco Barbera d' Alba 2004 $16
This is a great bottle of wine that has a deep, rich color and a lot of finesse for the price - try it with aged cheese, salami, beef that has been carefully braised - Perfect for casual summer dinners out on the patio or deck. It might also fuel a winning game of Bocce Ball.
4 - Calvet-Thunevin "les Dentelles" 2003 Cotes du Roussillon Villages $32
They do not make much of this wine. The entire production for distribution around the world is about 7,000 bottles. It comes from one of the oldest viticultural areas of France, vines in the Roussillon were cultivated by the Romans, and perhaps even before that. the vineyards are extremely steeply terraced, there is no choice but to harvest by hand. You will want to try this wine if only for the history behind it.
Thanks for all of the comments, the emails, and your continued support - we all appreciate it.
Please say hello when you stop in. We hope to see you this Friday.
Join us. It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
Wednesday Night Wine Dinners
Wednesday Night Wine Dinners
Our Secret Weapon - We Listen
You wanted better wines & food pairings - you got it.
Wine with every course & the best value in the business.
6/27/07 - Orange & Ginger Rack of Pork with grilled pineapple & peppers.
7/11/07 - Lollipop Rack of Lamb with blue cheese grits, juliene of spring vegetables & fresh herbs.
7/18/07 - Grilled Shrimp on Watercress salad with curly scallions and sesame dressing.
7/25/07 - Roasted lamb with Moroccan Couscous & mixed heirloom tomato Salad with goat feta.
8/1/07 - Horseradish & Herb Crusted Roast Beef with grilled summer vegetables and raosted potatoes.
$65 plus tax & service - Seating is limited.
Please Reserve Early - 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3
Monday, June 11, 2007
Susana Balbo, Crios, Torrontes, Pancho Sanchez
Greetings from all of us in New London,
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
IMPORT - 860-443-68117
A special line up of wines for Friday night awaits you.
All four wines are from Susana Balbo - Argentina's leading female winemaker.
The line-up is listed just below these items of interest.
• Last week's Duckhorn wines by the glass at Brie & Bleu - was an instant crowd pleaser - thank you for making it work.
• The Garde Theater continues it's Legends of Jazz series with Pancho Sanchez. Please check it out at: https://tickets.gardearts.org/show.asp
The Garde is working with Kitchings Productions to bring this caliber of entertainment to New London - they are proving that there is an alternative to the casino scene when it comes to seeing a great show. Take a look at their schedule: www.gardearts.org
• Our very own "Rock Star" Dave Anderson has taken it upon himself to launch a new Monday feature: "Dave's Fave's."
A monday afternoon tasting that will showcase his personal favorites & always be under $20. He said it will be a way to beat the Monday Blues.
When he came to us with the idea - we grabbed him by the lapels, shook him thoroughly, and said: "Anderson, you magnificent bastard! This is just what we need on a Monday afternoon."
This week - Dave picks Langhe Rosso Cino 2005 - $12 - Direct from a sold-out engagement in Piedmont, this light bodied Italian red is a perfect everyday food wine. Really, give it a try - it would mean a lot to Dave.
• A reminder from our friends at the Golden Street Gallery that their new Summer Hours are: Thursday - Saturday 6-9 p.m.
Also - you can see Greg Bowerman's "mural's in progress" at Lucca's the new bar & grill on Bank Street - be sure to say hello to Lucky, the proprietor of the newly opened restaurant. He has put a lot of work into the space.
• Hygienic Art Galleries Presents - Exhibition Opening Saturday June 30th, 7-10 - June 30-July 28 - www.hygienic.org
"Possessions" - New Works by Michael McNabney, Michael Galaburri, Sarah Harford
Wine Tasting Please Join Us Friday June 15 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
You have seen the name Crios here before. The trouble has been that we sell every drop of it before the tasting starts and we are forced to offer substitutions. The wines we have at the tasting generally arrive 2-3 days before the "show". In the case of the Crios wines from Argentina, we had barely gotten them out of the box before people started to snap them up. They are that good, and they are a real bargain at their current prices.
We had the opportunity to talk with Susana Balbo last week at a reception held at the Argentinean Consulate in New York. The entrance is pictured in the photo on the left. I highly recommend attending embassy and consulate functions - no expense is spared to make the guests feel at home. But we did have some technical difficulty on location - mainly they did not want us taking photos or recording video - so we had to be careful - the last thing we needed was to create another scene at an Foreign Consulate.
Susana Balbo is Argentinas leading female winemaker. Her Crios wines have just been named Argentina's Brand of The Year by Wine & Spirits Magazine. We are featuring her wines this Friday and I hope that you get the chance to try them.
Crios means "offspring" (as in children). Susana selected a word to express the notion that these are wines that haven’t quite "grown up" to the same level of quality and maturity as her more expensive Susana Balbo label wines, but they receive the same loving care and attention throughout the winemaking process. The label features a series of three connected and overlapping hands, an image inspired by a Mayan artifact. The three hands represent Susana and her two children.
Crios de Susana Balbo:
1 - Torrontes $15
Enticing aromas that are strikingly similar to Viognier, with hints of peach pit, flowers, and orange citrus fruit. On the palate, it has a beautiful structure and acidity along with enticing fruit flavors that keep you coming back for another sip and plenty of body for a wine that showns such delicate aromas and flavors. Fruity, floral and yet still quite dry, this wine has to be tasted to be believed. Best enjoyed in its youth either by itself, or as a wonderful partner with smoked meats, mild to medium-strong cheeses, and seafood. Keep one in the fridge at all times!
2 - Rose of Malbec $12
Voted one of the 25 best wines for summer by Food & Wine.
Susan seems to have "cracked the code" with this rosé of Malbec.
It is a lush, velvety wine that absolutely puts the debate of rosé wines being too fruity or sweet to rest. A beautiful, deep, vibrant rosé color. Has a surprising amount of glycerin and body for a rosé wine, and beautiful aromas of ripe wild strawberries. On the palate, the flavors of strawberries and cherries come rushing in, accompanied by some spice notes and a clean, dry finish. This is the wine to serve with warm-weather meals when there is a mix of traditional white & red wine foods. Keep one in the fridge at all times and you’ll always have a delicious wine to enjoy with light snacks and cheeses. Best consumed in its youth.
3 - Cabernet Sauvignon $15
Rated 90 points by Wine & Spirits Magazine, this wine is great with grilled meats. Intense ruby color with enticing aromas of ripe plums and red currants. The richly textured flavors are joined by accents of dark chocolate and spice. The ripe, vibrant tannins give the wine beautiful structure and an amazingly long finish. Drink it now or over the next few years to enjoy the fruit flavors at their best. It will pair well with traditional Cabernet-friendly foods like grilled or roasted meats.
4 - Syrah-Bonarda $15
Dark reddish/purple color. Intense aroma of black raspberries. This medium-bodied, very lively wine has loads of ripe red plum and black raspberry flavors with a slightly spicy character and a long, juicy finish. This 2005 vintage has a depth of flavor and intensity on the palate that is almost unheard of for wines at this price. It's a winner both before and during a meal. Certainly enjoyable in its youth, but it will age beautifully. A fun wine to try with a wide range of red wine-friendly foods, and one that will delight even the most pretentious connoisseur.
Thanks to everyone that took time to send email and call to make comments - we are listening.
And we want you to know that we appreciate all of your support - the best is yet to come.
Please Join Us.
It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
IMPORT - 860-443-68117
A special line up of wines for Friday night awaits you.All four wines are from Susana Balbo - Argentina's leading female winemaker.
The line-up is listed just below these items of interest.
• Last week's Duckhorn wines by the glass at Brie & Bleu - was an instant crowd pleaser - thank you for making it work.
• The Garde Theater continues it's Legends of Jazz series with Pancho Sanchez. Please check it out at: https://tickets.gardearts.org/show.asp
The Garde is working with Kitchings Productions to bring this caliber of entertainment to New London - they are proving that there is an alternative to the casino scene when it comes to seeing a great show. Take a look at their schedule: www.gardearts.org
• Our very own "Rock Star" Dave Anderson has taken it upon himself to launch a new Monday feature: "Dave's Fave's."
A monday afternoon tasting that will showcase his personal favorites & always be under $20. He said it will be a way to beat the Monday Blues.
When he came to us with the idea - we grabbed him by the lapels, shook him thoroughly, and said: "Anderson, you magnificent bastard! This is just what we need on a Monday afternoon."
This week - Dave picks Langhe Rosso Cino 2005 - $12 - Direct from a sold-out engagement in Piedmont, this light bodied Italian red is a perfect everyday food wine. Really, give it a try - it would mean a lot to Dave.
• A reminder from our friends at the Golden Street Gallery that their new Summer Hours are: Thursday - Saturday 6-9 p.m.
Also - you can see Greg Bowerman's "mural's in progress" at Lucca's the new bar & grill on Bank Street - be sure to say hello to Lucky, the proprietor of the newly opened restaurant. He has put a lot of work into the space.
• Hygienic Art Galleries Presents - Exhibition Opening Saturday June 30th, 7-10 - June 30-July 28 - www.hygienic.org
"Possessions" - New Works by Michael McNabney, Michael Galaburri, Sarah Harford
Wine Tasting Please Join Us Friday June 15 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
You have seen the name Crios here before. The trouble has been that we sell every drop of it before the tasting starts and we are forced to offer substitutions. The wines we have at the tasting generally arrive 2-3 days before the "show". In the case of the Crios wines from Argentina, we had barely gotten them out of the box before people started to snap them up. They are that good, and they are a real bargain at their current prices.
We had the opportunity to talk with Susana Balbo last week at a reception held at the Argentinean Consulate in New York. The entrance is pictured in the photo on the left. I highly recommend attending embassy and consulate functions - no expense is spared to make the guests feel at home. But we did have some technical difficulty on location - mainly they did not want us taking photos or recording video - so we had to be careful - the last thing we needed was to create another scene at an Foreign Consulate.Susana Balbo is Argentinas leading female winemaker. Her Crios wines have just been named Argentina's Brand of The Year by Wine & Spirits Magazine. We are featuring her wines this Friday and I hope that you get the chance to try them.
Crios means "offspring" (as in children). Susana selected a word to express the notion that these are wines that haven’t quite "grown up" to the same level of quality and maturity as her more expensive Susana Balbo label wines, but they receive the same loving care and attention throughout the winemaking process. The label features a series of three connected and overlapping hands, an image inspired by a Mayan artifact. The three hands represent Susana and her two children.
Crios de Susana Balbo:
1 - Torrontes $15
Enticing aromas that are strikingly similar to Viognier, with hints of peach pit, flowers, and orange citrus fruit. On the palate, it has a beautiful structure and acidity along with enticing fruit flavors that keep you coming back for another sip and plenty of body for a wine that showns such delicate aromas and flavors. Fruity, floral and yet still quite dry, this wine has to be tasted to be believed. Best enjoyed in its youth either by itself, or as a wonderful partner with smoked meats, mild to medium-strong cheeses, and seafood. Keep one in the fridge at all times!
2 - Rose of Malbec $12
Voted one of the 25 best wines for summer by Food & Wine.
Susan seems to have "cracked the code" with this rosé of Malbec.
It is a lush, velvety wine that absolutely puts the debate of rosé wines being too fruity or sweet to rest. A beautiful, deep, vibrant rosé color. Has a surprising amount of glycerin and body for a rosé wine, and beautiful aromas of ripe wild strawberries. On the palate, the flavors of strawberries and cherries come rushing in, accompanied by some spice notes and a clean, dry finish. This is the wine to serve with warm-weather meals when there is a mix of traditional white & red wine foods. Keep one in the fridge at all times and you’ll always have a delicious wine to enjoy with light snacks and cheeses. Best consumed in its youth.
3 - Cabernet Sauvignon $15
Rated 90 points by Wine & Spirits Magazine, this wine is great with grilled meats. Intense ruby color with enticing aromas of ripe plums and red currants. The richly textured flavors are joined by accents of dark chocolate and spice. The ripe, vibrant tannins give the wine beautiful structure and an amazingly long finish. Drink it now or over the next few years to enjoy the fruit flavors at their best. It will pair well with traditional Cabernet-friendly foods like grilled or roasted meats.
4 - Syrah-Bonarda $15
Dark reddish/purple color. Intense aroma of black raspberries. This medium-bodied, very lively wine has loads of ripe red plum and black raspberry flavors with a slightly spicy character and a long, juicy finish. This 2005 vintage has a depth of flavor and intensity on the palate that is almost unheard of for wines at this price. It's a winner both before and during a meal. Certainly enjoyable in its youth, but it will age beautifully. A fun wine to try with a wide range of red wine-friendly foods, and one that will delight even the most pretentious connoisseur.
Thanks to everyone that took time to send email and call to make comments - we are listening.
And we want you to know that we appreciate all of your support - the best is yet to come.
Please Join Us.
It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Monday, June 04, 2007
Wine By The Glass, Duckhorn, Montes Purple Angel
Greetings from New London,
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
www.thamesriver.com
We are running a little bit late this week. So just a few items of interest before the list of wines for Friday night.
Last Friday night was a gas - the streets were busy, people were out and all of the new shops and restaurants had a nice easy beat that was easy to dance to. So come on, get out of the house and come down to the historic waterfront - there is a lot to see.
NEW:
• Muse - Shoe Store on the corner of Green & Golden is open.
If you happened to be there last Friday for the opening you saw about a hundred people dancing and singing. The make-shift bar was packed and the music was grooo-vey. People walking by didn't know if it was a nightclub or a gallery. "It's a shoe store?" people kept saying - "this is really hip."
A lot of work went into renovating the space - stop by and take a look.
• I can't tell you how many people have asked us to offer wine by the glass at Brie & Bleu. It has been one of the most common questions over the past couple of years. Well, we've been listening - we now offer some remarkable wines by the glass.
And we will not be using the typical restaurant mark-up either - we will keep everything as approachable as possible.
For example - this coming Friday night we will feature by the glass:
Duckhorn Merlot - $12 - Duckhorn Savignon Blanc - $8
Buying a fifty or sixty dollar bottle of wine is a beautiful thing.
But sometimes a nice glass of the same wine is all you really want. - Where else can you find a wine by the glass formula like this one? In addition we will try to match them up with the dinner special's that are being served that night too. Give these wines a try - you might be surprised.
Wine Tasting - Please Join Us
Friday June 8 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
This week we are pouring the wines of Montes Vineyards - From Chile.
Wine Makers Notes:
From the beginning of times, viña Montes centered its efforts in producing wines of excellence. The high standards attained by the wines, have taken the Montes name to the most elevated standing of acknowledgement and recognition globally.
It has been attained with sacrifice and hardship as well as with great care; we have wanted to transfer our viewpoint to every corner of the world. Our intent is for every good restaurant, hotel or wine store in any part of the world to carry Montes wines. Over 75 countries already supply our wines and the list is yet to be exhausted. We wish to continue introducing new markets internationally, no matter how small hoping to add new wine lovers to our extensive list of regular Montes wine consumers worldwide.
1 - Montes Sauvignon Blanc $12
A clear, crispy and fruity wine with light yellow-green color, bright and transparent. The aroma shows its power and super Sauvignon Blanc character, also showing the full potential of its cold zone origin, with morning fogs, low temperatures and long hanging period. Denomination of Origin: Leyda Valley.
2 - Montes Merlot $12
Elegant, refined and a marked fruitiness almost irresistible to Merlot lovers and to those who sample it for the first time. Strong, spicy black pepper, full of harmony and soft to the palate. We decided to blend 15% Cabernet Sauvignon with this Merlot, to better marry with the oak, and give structure and finesse that will also permit long term ageing. Denomination of Origin: Colchagua Valley.
3 - Montes Cabernet $12
Intense ruby-red color. The nose is packed with layers of caramel, cinnamon, candy and hints of mint, with a prevalence of fruit over oak. A spicy, full-flavored wine, with good body, fruit and firm tannins. An engaging and strong finish. Well recommended for ageing. Denomination of Origin: Colchagua Valley.
4 - Montes Purple Angel $54 www.monteswines.com
Montes pioneered the Chilean wine scene by creating super-premium wines, including the Montes Alpha range, and icons such as Montes Alpha M and Montes Folly. Montes also led the way to quality by planting on steep mountain slopes. But Montes, Chile's wine pioneer, also knows when to wait –Aurelio Montes preferred to take his time and develop the Carmenère variety until he was satisfied that it could be a top contender, the very best Montes could possibly produce. It was worth the wait...this new beauty (a blend of 92% Carmenère and 8% Petit Verdot, with 18 months in new French and American oak barrels) is touched by the wings of an angel... a PURPLE ANGEL.
Thank you for all of the emails and for your support - we appreciate it.
Please Join Us - It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
www.thamesriver.com
We are running a little bit late this week. So just a few items of interest before the list of wines for Friday night.
Last Friday night was a gas - the streets were busy, people were out and all of the new shops and restaurants had a nice easy beat that was easy to dance to. So come on, get out of the house and come down to the historic waterfront - there is a lot to see.
NEW:
• Muse - Shoe Store on the corner of Green & Golden is open.
If you happened to be there last Friday for the opening you saw about a hundred people dancing and singing. The make-shift bar was packed and the music was grooo-vey. People walking by didn't know if it was a nightclub or a gallery. "It's a shoe store?" people kept saying - "this is really hip."
A lot of work went into renovating the space - stop by and take a look.
• I can't tell you how many people have asked us to offer wine by the glass at Brie & Bleu. It has been one of the most common questions over the past couple of years. Well, we've been listening - we now offer some remarkable wines by the glass.
And we will not be using the typical restaurant mark-up either - we will keep everything as approachable as possible.
For example - this coming Friday night we will feature by the glass:
Duckhorn Merlot - $12 - Duckhorn Savignon Blanc - $8
Buying a fifty or sixty dollar bottle of wine is a beautiful thing.
But sometimes a nice glass of the same wine is all you really want. - Where else can you find a wine by the glass formula like this one? In addition we will try to match them up with the dinner special's that are being served that night too. Give these wines a try - you might be surprised.
Wine Tasting - Please Join UsFriday June 8 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
This week we are pouring the wines of Montes Vineyards - From Chile.
Wine Makers Notes:
From the beginning of times, viña Montes centered its efforts in producing wines of excellence. The high standards attained by the wines, have taken the Montes name to the most elevated standing of acknowledgement and recognition globally.
It has been attained with sacrifice and hardship as well as with great care; we have wanted to transfer our viewpoint to every corner of the world. Our intent is for every good restaurant, hotel or wine store in any part of the world to carry Montes wines. Over 75 countries already supply our wines and the list is yet to be exhausted. We wish to continue introducing new markets internationally, no matter how small hoping to add new wine lovers to our extensive list of regular Montes wine consumers worldwide.
1 - Montes Sauvignon Blanc $12
A clear, crispy and fruity wine with light yellow-green color, bright and transparent. The aroma shows its power and super Sauvignon Blanc character, also showing the full potential of its cold zone origin, with morning fogs, low temperatures and long hanging period. Denomination of Origin: Leyda Valley.
2 - Montes Merlot $12
Elegant, refined and a marked fruitiness almost irresistible to Merlot lovers and to those who sample it for the first time. Strong, spicy black pepper, full of harmony and soft to the palate. We decided to blend 15% Cabernet Sauvignon with this Merlot, to better marry with the oak, and give structure and finesse that will also permit long term ageing. Denomination of Origin: Colchagua Valley.
3 - Montes Cabernet $12
Intense ruby-red color. The nose is packed with layers of caramel, cinnamon, candy and hints of mint, with a prevalence of fruit over oak. A spicy, full-flavored wine, with good body, fruit and firm tannins. An engaging and strong finish. Well recommended for ageing. Denomination of Origin: Colchagua Valley.
4 - Montes Purple Angel $54 www.monteswines.com
Montes pioneered the Chilean wine scene by creating super-premium wines, including the Montes Alpha range, and icons such as Montes Alpha M and Montes Folly. Montes also led the way to quality by planting on steep mountain slopes. But Montes, Chile's wine pioneer, also knows when to wait –Aurelio Montes preferred to take his time and develop the Carmenère variety until he was satisfied that it could be a top contender, the very best Montes could possibly produce. It was worth the wait...this new beauty (a blend of 92% Carmenère and 8% Petit Verdot, with 18 months in new French and American oak barrels) is touched by the wings of an angel... a PURPLE ANGEL.
Thank you for all of the emails and for your support - we appreciate it.
Please Join Us - It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Monday, May 28, 2007
Root 1, Crios Rosé, Bodegas Bernabe Navarro Beryna, Beckman Cabernet
Greetings from all of us in New London -
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474
IMPORT - 860-443-6817
www.ThamesRiver.com
We hope you are enjoying a beautiful holiday weekend.
We have delicious and temptable wines lined up for Friday night - the list is just below these few items of interest. For all of the people that STILL think that there is nothing new in New London - get out a pencil - there are a few things to put on your list - it is going to be a busy weekend in New London - we hope to see you here:
• Sunday night was the opening of the new Outdoor Pavillion at the Bulkely House. Eight To The Bar played on the big stage and the dance floor was hoppping. The bar was packed and the people were pretty. A big round of applause should go to Lou Mase for the tremendous effort he put into this project. The Summer nights will be filled with music and the arts - be sure to visit the Bulkeley House to take a look - it's right across the street from us.
• Thanks to everyone who attended our Spirits and Smoke night.
Especially Alan Hall who has never missed one of these events in the three years that we've been doing them - Thanks for the support.
And, as predicted by our own Jim Morrison, the Michters Single Barrel Rye swept the table, even against Scotches that cost $20 dollars more a bottle.
• Friday June 1st 6pm at 102 green street on the corners of Golden and Green -
just one block from our store.
Last year Frank Lo looked us dead in the eye and said
"If I bring Manolo Blahnik, will they come?"
Friday night we'll find out as he opens MUSE, a shoe store and gallery space.
"It's a a fusion of an up-scale shoe store and ArtGallery created by Denny Rivera and Frank Marchani, opening with new works by owner Denny Rivera. Opening Night Celebration - the curtain goes up at 6pm, and Frank will be serving wine from Thames River Wine and Spirits and beer from Cottrell
AND - Across the street - At the Golden Street gallery -
The New exhibit "WHAT DO YOU SEE" new works by New
London Artists Kat Murphy and Greg Bowerman will open at 6 p.m. too.
• We have added TWO seats for this month's Cult Wine Dinner - The wines of Viader Vineyards.
Robert Parker consistently rates these limited production wines in the 80's & 90's. Prices reach $200+ per bottle.
Robert Parker says:
"Viader is one of the most magnificently situated California vineyards I have ever visited,
Located on a steeply terraced slope on Howell Mountain, the vineyard consists of 18 acres. With a Bordeaux-like mouthfeel the emphasis is on finesse as opposed to power. The beautifully packaged product (a heavy glass bottle with broad shoulders and a designer label) is filled with a wine that is as distinctive as the packaging. All the Viader wines offer compelling evidence that they should last and evolve, hopefully improve, for at least 12-15+ years."
This is a great night for any wine lover - please call early to reserve the last two seats. 860-443-9463
Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday June 1st - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Root 1 Sauvignon Blanc 2006 $12
The Root 1 name reflects the fact that Chile is one of the only places in the world where ungrafted rootstock has not been affected by phylloxera. Winemaker Felipe Tosso crafted Root 1: Sauvignon Blanc from grapes grown on vines with ungrafted root systems in the Casablanca Valley. As one of the premier Sauvignon Blanc winegrowing regions in Chile, the pre-coastal valley, located just 11 miles from the Pacific Ocean, has sandy clay loam soil and a climate that produces a late harvest. It is hard to imagine that this wine is only $12 a bottle. Please try it.
2 - Crios Rose of Malbec 2006 $12
This wine is made by Susana Balbo, considered to be one of the best wine makers in Argentina.
A beautiful, deep, vibrant rosé color. This has a surprising amount of body for a rosé wine, and beautiful aromas of ripe wild strawberries accompanied by some spice and a clean, dry finish. This is the wine to serve with warm-weather meals when there is a mix of traditional white & red wine foods.
Keep one in the fridge at all times and you’ll always have a delicious wine to enjoy with light snacks and cheeses.
We have been invited to a private reception for Susana early next month at the Argentinean Consulate in New York - we will have her as a guest on our show that afternoon. So if you have a question or two that you would like us to ask - bring them on Friday night. We will put her in the hot seat, with your questions.
Embassies and Consulates can be tricky territory.
The last thing I remember about a previous trip to the Argentinean Consulate was drinking champagne from a crystal flute - across the room, a beautiful woman looked up and smiled at me. I was already composing my letter to the Penthouse Forum when she started to walk towards me.
She stopped, and then leaned in, to whisper in my ear:
"Be careful," she said, "that first step can be a doo-zeee." Then she bit my earlobe - and that was it.
When I woke up, I was face down in the pampas grass of an estancia about three hours outside of Buenos Aries.
It all worked out in the end - and I see no reason to hold a grudge.
But I won't be letting my guard down this time around.
3 - Bodegas Bernabe Navarro Beryna 2004 $22
2004 is proving itself to be a stellar vintage all over Spain and Alicante is no exception -
This one drinks like Pure Silk. It goes beyond well balanced, with wonderful notes of sweet blueberry, black raspberry, black cherry and creme de cassis. Rich and lush, and smooth the whole way through, this is a great wine for everyone, not just Spanish wine lovers. And it is a great value - be sure to try this on Friday night.
4 - Beckman Cabernet 2004 $24
This is the best California cabernet that we carry for under $25, all of the fruit concentration that you expect from California, with better structure than normally seen at this price point. We've been selling this wine for three years, and we've been waiting for this guy to become "the next big thing" only to realize that maybe it's better if he doesn't get too much press.
When was the last time you could buy a top quality California Cabernet with a production of only 1500 cases for $24?
Try this on Friday - you will be glad you did.
The season is upon us - thanks so much for all of your support, comments, and suggestions - We appreciate it.
We have a big line up for the summer - the best is yet to come.
Please Join Us.
It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474
IMPORT - 860-443-6817
www.ThamesRiver.com
We hope you are enjoying a beautiful holiday weekend.
We have delicious and temptable wines lined up for Friday night - the list is just below these few items of interest. For all of the people that STILL think that there is nothing new in New London - get out a pencil - there are a few things to put on your list - it is going to be a busy weekend in New London - we hope to see you here:
• Sunday night was the opening of the new Outdoor Pavillion at the Bulkely House. Eight To The Bar played on the big stage and the dance floor was hoppping. The bar was packed and the people were pretty. A big round of applause should go to Lou Mase for the tremendous effort he put into this project. The Summer nights will be filled with music and the arts - be sure to visit the Bulkeley House to take a look - it's right across the street from us.
• Thanks to everyone who attended our Spirits and Smoke night.
Especially Alan Hall who has never missed one of these events in the three years that we've been doing them - Thanks for the support.
And, as predicted by our own Jim Morrison, the Michters Single Barrel Rye swept the table, even against Scotches that cost $20 dollars more a bottle.
• Friday June 1st 6pm at 102 green street on the corners of Golden and Green -
just one block from our store.
Last year Frank Lo looked us dead in the eye and said
"If I bring Manolo Blahnik, will they come?"
Friday night we'll find out as he opens MUSE, a shoe store and gallery space.
"It's a a fusion of an up-scale shoe store and ArtGallery created by Denny Rivera and Frank Marchani, opening with new works by owner Denny Rivera. Opening Night Celebration - the curtain goes up at 6pm, and Frank will be serving wine from Thames River Wine and Spirits and beer from Cottrell
AND - Across the street - At the Golden Street gallery -
The New exhibit "WHAT DO YOU SEE" new works by New
London Artists Kat Murphy and Greg Bowerman will open at 6 p.m. too.
• We have added TWO seats for this month's Cult Wine Dinner - The wines of Viader Vineyards.
Robert Parker consistently rates these limited production wines in the 80's & 90's. Prices reach $200+ per bottle.
Robert Parker says:
"Viader is one of the most magnificently situated California vineyards I have ever visited,
Located on a steeply terraced slope on Howell Mountain, the vineyard consists of 18 acres. With a Bordeaux-like mouthfeel the emphasis is on finesse as opposed to power. The beautifully packaged product (a heavy glass bottle with broad shoulders and a designer label) is filled with a wine that is as distinctive as the packaging. All the Viader wines offer compelling evidence that they should last and evolve, hopefully improve, for at least 12-15+ years."
This is a great night for any wine lover - please call early to reserve the last two seats. 860-443-9463
Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday June 1st - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Root 1 Sauvignon Blanc 2006 $12
The Root 1 name reflects the fact that Chile is one of the only places in the world where ungrafted rootstock has not been affected by phylloxera. Winemaker Felipe Tosso crafted Root 1: Sauvignon Blanc from grapes grown on vines with ungrafted root systems in the Casablanca Valley. As one of the premier Sauvignon Blanc winegrowing regions in Chile, the pre-coastal valley, located just 11 miles from the Pacific Ocean, has sandy clay loam soil and a climate that produces a late harvest. It is hard to imagine that this wine is only $12 a bottle. Please try it.
2 - Crios Rose of Malbec 2006 $12
This wine is made by Susana Balbo, considered to be one of the best wine makers in Argentina.
A beautiful, deep, vibrant rosé color. This has a surprising amount of body for a rosé wine, and beautiful aromas of ripe wild strawberries accompanied by some spice and a clean, dry finish. This is the wine to serve with warm-weather meals when there is a mix of traditional white & red wine foods.
Keep one in the fridge at all times and you’ll always have a delicious wine to enjoy with light snacks and cheeses.
We have been invited to a private reception for Susana early next month at the Argentinean Consulate in New York - we will have her as a guest on our show that afternoon. So if you have a question or two that you would like us to ask - bring them on Friday night. We will put her in the hot seat, with your questions.
Embassies and Consulates can be tricky territory.
The last thing I remember about a previous trip to the Argentinean Consulate was drinking champagne from a crystal flute - across the room, a beautiful woman looked up and smiled at me. I was already composing my letter to the Penthouse Forum when she started to walk towards me.
She stopped, and then leaned in, to whisper in my ear:
"Be careful," she said, "that first step can be a doo-zeee." Then she bit my earlobe - and that was it.
When I woke up, I was face down in the pampas grass of an estancia about three hours outside of Buenos Aries.
It all worked out in the end - and I see no reason to hold a grudge.
But I won't be letting my guard down this time around.
3 - Bodegas Bernabe Navarro Beryna 2004 $22
2004 is proving itself to be a stellar vintage all over Spain and Alicante is no exception -
This one drinks like Pure Silk. It goes beyond well balanced, with wonderful notes of sweet blueberry, black raspberry, black cherry and creme de cassis. Rich and lush, and smooth the whole way through, this is a great wine for everyone, not just Spanish wine lovers. And it is a great value - be sure to try this on Friday night.
4 - Beckman Cabernet 2004 $24
This is the best California cabernet that we carry for under $25, all of the fruit concentration that you expect from California, with better structure than normally seen at this price point. We've been selling this wine for three years, and we've been waiting for this guy to become "the next big thing" only to realize that maybe it's better if he doesn't get too much press.
When was the last time you could buy a top quality California Cabernet with a production of only 1500 cases for $24?
Try this on Friday - you will be glad you did.
The season is upon us - thanks so much for all of your support, comments, and suggestions - We appreciate it.
We have a big line up for the summer - the best is yet to come.
Please Join Us.
It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA
Monday, May 21, 2007
Cloudy Bay, Claar Cellars, Alto Moncayo, Don Melchor
Greetings from all of us in New London,
Thames River Wine & Spirits – 860-443-9463
Thames River Greenery – 860-443-6817
Brie & Bleu – 860-437-2474
IMPORT – 860-443-6817 www.thamesriver.com
We have a great lineup of wine for you on Friday – they are listed just below these items of interest. An especially busy week here in New London – Let me break it down:
• Just take a look at the grueling schedule that we had to keep this past week.
Monday: Drive to Greenwich Meet our friends Mario Batali & Lidia Bastianich at Lidias house for a wine party. Eat Lidia’s & Mario’s food and try all of their new wines.
How could we refuse an invitation like this – when Lidia calls – we go.
Take a peek at our video of Mario & Lidia - scroll down to the last blog entry and click play.
Tuesday: Drive to Norwalk Attend the pre-release tasting party for the 2005 French Burgundy that will be available early September – This is a luncheon for big wigs and industry insiders – I don’t know how we got on the list. It might have been the crisp hundred that Jim was able to press into the correct palm – once inside we sat shoulder to shoulder with the experts. Glass after glass, bottle after bottle, we tried about 45 wines – no exaggeration. The whole thing started at 11am sharp. By 12:30 everyone is holding hands and singing Frère Jacques.
Then the food was served – Roast duck club sandwiches, lobster quiche, grilled salmon – the pace was killing us – but getting to try wine that would retail for hundreds of dollars a bottle – which of course they hold back until the end – made it all worth while. Sure you are rolling your eyes and slapping your hands on the table - saying – come ON your talking to us! Ladies and gentlemen of the jury – I implore you, we must have more respect for the people that eat and drink professionally. :-)
Wednesday: Shake off French wine hangover & prepare for Food Stroll in New London. Thanks to everyone who braved the weather and came out for Food Stroll, we had over four hundred people join us for the wine tasting in the cellar.
Thursday: Continue to shake off French wine hangover & host Rosé Wine Dinner at Brie & Bleu. A beautiful selection of Rosé wines served with dinner. And hopefully we proved once again that rosé is the perfect wine for summer.
Friday: Wine tasting 6-9 p.m. – in The Cellar.
We had to spend the rest of the weekend in a steam room – swatting each other with eucalyptus branches and sipping green tea – Jim looks much better now.
• There are only a few seats left for the Spirits & Smoke tasting on our deck. 6 p.m. Thursday 5/24 $40 – Super premium spirits, a light menu, and a nice cigar round out this popular series.
• There are only two seats left for the Viader Cult Wine Dinner 6 p.m. Thursday 5/31. By now the secret is getting out – These dinners are feasts that are unparalleled in all of Connecticut. Falstaff would be proud. $100, plus tax and service.
Wine Tasting Please Join Us Friday May 25 – 6-9 p.m. – No Charge
1 - Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2006 $28 - www.cloudybay.co.nz This is by far the most famous Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand. Highly allocated, we have only two cases and will be pouring this wine for the first time. First come, first served. Exceptional richness, with ripe flavors and a powerful, crisp finish.
2 - Claar Cellars Merlot 2003 $15 - www.claarcellars.com Now widely recognized as one of the premier growing regions in the world, the Columbia Valley has been producing great wines for far less than their Napa equivalents. Delicious. It’s time to give merlot another visit.
3 - Alto Moncayo Veraton 2004 $24 We were able recently to put the Veraton 2003 up against the Veraton 2004 and if it's possible, the 2004 was even better than the much beloved 2003. When the wine came in , we bought deep. We have a few dozen cases, but that is it for the year. The wine is supple and luscious, very approachable, yet complex enough to keep even the most jaded collector spinning. Please try this on Friday – you will be glad you did.
4 - Concha y Toro Don Melchor 2004 $55
The best wine produced in Chile period. Always in the Wine spectator top 100.Produced in the Bordeaux tradition, the wine drinks like a 2nd growth. Tremendous structure and aging potential. We will decant this wine for 5 hours and have one bottle ready to sample at 6pm.
Only 11 bottles available for sale – period.
Thanks for making all of this so much fun.
We are invited to these events and are able to hobnob with all kinds of exciting people because of your support. Time and time again we hear from our suppliers and guests that the quality and genuine interest of our customers is rarely seen – give yourself a nice round of applause.
Please Join Us. It’s fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend. Please say hello the next time you are in the store.
AAA.
Thames River Greenery – 860-443-6817
Brie & Bleu – 860-437-2474
IMPORT – 860-443-6817 www.thamesriver.com
We have a great lineup of wine for you on Friday – they are listed just below these items of interest. An especially busy week here in New London – Let me break it down:
• Just take a look at the grueling schedule that we had to keep this past week.
Monday: Drive to Greenwich Meet our friends Mario Batali & Lidia Bastianich at Lidias house for a wine party. Eat Lidia’s & Mario’s food and try all of their new wines.
How could we refuse an invitation like this – when Lidia calls – we go.
Take a peek at our video of Mario & Lidia - scroll down to the last blog entry and click play.
Tuesday: Drive to Norwalk Attend the pre-release tasting party for the 2005 French Burgundy that will be available early September – This is a luncheon for big wigs and industry insiders – I don’t know how we got on the list. It might have been the crisp hundred that Jim was able to press into the correct palm – once inside we sat shoulder to shoulder with the experts. Glass after glass, bottle after bottle, we tried about 45 wines – no exaggeration. The whole thing started at 11am sharp. By 12:30 everyone is holding hands and singing Frère Jacques. Then the food was served – Roast duck club sandwiches, lobster quiche, grilled salmon – the pace was killing us – but getting to try wine that would retail for hundreds of dollars a bottle – which of course they hold back until the end – made it all worth while. Sure you are rolling your eyes and slapping your hands on the table - saying – come ON your talking to us! Ladies and gentlemen of the jury – I implore you, we must have more respect for the people that eat and drink professionally. :-)
Wednesday: Shake off French wine hangover & prepare for Food Stroll in New London. Thanks to everyone who braved the weather and came out for Food Stroll, we had over four hundred people join us for the wine tasting in the cellar.
Thursday: Continue to shake off French wine hangover & host Rosé Wine Dinner at Brie & Bleu. A beautiful selection of Rosé wines served with dinner. And hopefully we proved once again that rosé is the perfect wine for summer.
Friday: Wine tasting 6-9 p.m. – in The Cellar.
We had to spend the rest of the weekend in a steam room – swatting each other with eucalyptus branches and sipping green tea – Jim looks much better now.
• There are only a few seats left for the Spirits & Smoke tasting on our deck. 6 p.m. Thursday 5/24 $40 – Super premium spirits, a light menu, and a nice cigar round out this popular series.
• There are only two seats left for the Viader Cult Wine Dinner 6 p.m. Thursday 5/31. By now the secret is getting out – These dinners are feasts that are unparalleled in all of Connecticut. Falstaff would be proud. $100, plus tax and service.
Wine Tasting Please Join Us Friday May 25 – 6-9 p.m. – No Charge
1 - Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2006 $28 - www.cloudybay.co.nz This is by far the most famous Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand. Highly allocated, we have only two cases and will be pouring this wine for the first time. First come, first served. Exceptional richness, with ripe flavors and a powerful, crisp finish.
2 - Claar Cellars Merlot 2003 $15 - www.claarcellars.com Now widely recognized as one of the premier growing regions in the world, the Columbia Valley has been producing great wines for far less than their Napa equivalents. Delicious. It’s time to give merlot another visit.
3 - Alto Moncayo Veraton 2004 $24 We were able recently to put the Veraton 2003 up against the Veraton 2004 and if it's possible, the 2004 was even better than the much beloved 2003. When the wine came in , we bought deep. We have a few dozen cases, but that is it for the year. The wine is supple and luscious, very approachable, yet complex enough to keep even the most jaded collector spinning. Please try this on Friday – you will be glad you did.
4 - Concha y Toro Don Melchor 2004 $55
The best wine produced in Chile period. Always in the Wine spectator top 100.Produced in the Bordeaux tradition, the wine drinks like a 2nd growth. Tremendous structure and aging potential. We will decant this wine for 5 hours and have one bottle ready to sample at 6pm.
Only 11 bottles available for sale – period.
Thanks for making all of this so much fun.
We are invited to these events and are able to hobnob with all kinds of exciting people because of your support. Time and time again we hear from our suppliers and guests that the quality and genuine interest of our customers is rarely seen – give yourself a nice round of applause.
Please Join Us. It’s fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend. Please say hello the next time you are in the store.
AAA.
Saturday, May 19, 2007
Fun With Mario and Lidia
Bastianich Family Wine Party
A quick visit behind the scenes with two of the worlds great chefs.
For the second year in a row we were invited to spend an afternoon with Mario Batali and Lidia Bastianich. Lots of food, lots of wine, great people, it reminded me of our nights at Brie & Bleu. Take a couple of minutes to peek behind the scenes - WineRadio Takes You There.
Monday, May 14, 2007
Viader Wine Dinner, Domaine Fournier, Domaine LaFond Tavel, Waterstone, Flora Springs Trilogy
Greetings From All Of Us In New London,
Thames River Wine & Spirits – 860-443-9463
www.thamesriver.com
We have a tasty selection of wines for you to try this Friday evening – we really hope that you can join us. The list is just below a few items of interest.
• Many thanks to Joe Mascaro for hosting the Italian wine dinner last Thursday night -
And thank you to Mr. Rob Mackin, for providing the wines and the fly-on-the-wall insight into the great estates of Italy.
It was something like 18 wines, but nobody was able to get a final count.
It went a little something like this:
Brunello – Barbaresco – Barolo - cha-cha-cha.
Remember – all you have to do is ask, and we can put a private affair together for you too. – cha-cha-cha.
• Rosé is the underdog of the wine world. Wine lovers who enjoy sitting down with a full-bodied glass of red have a hard time taking something pink seriously. But rosé is moving up fast, powered by rising quality and an inherent food-friendliness. With the warm days of summer just around the corner, there's no time like the present to enjoy rosé's fresh, fruity pleasures. And that is why we are presenting an evening devoting to this luscious treat - We have a few seats left for the Rosé dinner Thursday 5/17.
It will feature boutique rose Champange and wine from Domaine Ott. Lets put the perception that rosé is just a lot of sweet crap to rest, once and for all.
Reserve early – 860-443-9463.
• Please join us for Spirits & Smoke on the deck Thursday 5/24
Along with some of the fantastic single batch bourbons that we carry we have quietly been building our Rye Whiskey selections. Rye is being rediscovered and recreated as a super premium spirit and we will offer it along with a nice cigar. It is a match made in heaven – seating is limited please call to reserve your seats. 860-443-9463
• There are just a few seats left for our next Cult Wine Dinner.
Thursday May 31 – 6 p.m. - $100 plus tax and service.
The wines of Viader will be served – including Magnums of “V”.
This is a great night to share with someone special – and a must for all wine lovers that want a chance to try some of the most sought after wines that are nearly impossible to find.
Reserve early.
• A special note about Saturday night - Brie & Bleu will be closed for a private party.
It’s Brenna's Graduation Feté.
Remember – you can have your party here too – just call and ask about the details.
Wine Tasting – Please Join Us
Friday May 18 – 6-9 p.m. – No charge
1 - Fournier Sauvignon Blanc 2005 $9
Hiers to several generations of wine-growers, Paul (the father), Claude and Jacques (the sons) are running the vineyards handed down by their ancestors, with an unfailing respect for tradition, and a guarantee of quality. This pale golden colored wine is a perfect everyday wine for your summer tables. A case or two at this price is a very good deal. Please try it this Friday.
2 - Domaine Lafond Tavel rose 2005 $14
Tavel along with Bandol comprise the two great rose Villages, this is classic French rosé,
and truly remarkable. Domaine Lafond's Tavel is a forceful, rich, personality-filled rosé, offering strawberry and cherry fruit with a whiff of the famed "herbes de Provence. Winemaker:
"The culminant aromas are complex, red and white fruits mixing with floral tinges.
With time, these fruity aromas tend to turn mellow adding touches of spice and plums.”
Taste for yourself what the French have known for decades – Rosé wine is a great match with food, and should be part of your summer tradition.
3 - Waterstone Cabernet 2004 - $30
Waterstone Napa Cabernet is made from grapes sourced from one of the most acclaimed estates in Napa - if not the world. Under agreement with our distributor we cannot reveal which estate. Suffice to say, when not selling grapes to Waterstone they are producing a wine that is unattainable. (Bob- please take note).
This is a chance to sample one of the great Napa terroirs at a fraction of the price.
4 - Flora Springs Trilogy 2003 $60
This wine is ranked #7 in Napa Valley’s 50 Best Cabernet’s for quality to price ratio by Wine Spectator. It has a deep delicious color and a smooth elegance.
You may have seen our interview with Sean Garvey, 3rd generation family member when he stopped by the store. – if not take a minute to visit our calendar of events page: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
Scroll down to the WineRadio section and listen to him talk about this wine.
Of course you can see it on iTunes too.
Thanks for all of the feedback and your support– we are listening. And we will keep you posted with additional changes and updates for the coming summer season –
it’s going to be a lot of fun – cha-cha-cha.
Please Join Us – It’s fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA
Thames River Wine & Spirits – 860-443-9463
www.thamesriver.com
We have a tasty selection of wines for you to try this Friday evening – we really hope that you can join us. The list is just below a few items of interest.
• Many thanks to Joe Mascaro for hosting the Italian wine dinner last Thursday night -
And thank you to Mr. Rob Mackin, for providing the wines and the fly-on-the-wall insight into the great estates of Italy.
It was something like 18 wines, but nobody was able to get a final count.
It went a little something like this:
Brunello – Barbaresco – Barolo - cha-cha-cha.
Remember – all you have to do is ask, and we can put a private affair together for you too. – cha-cha-cha.
• Rosé is the underdog of the wine world. Wine lovers who enjoy sitting down with a full-bodied glass of red have a hard time taking something pink seriously. But rosé is moving up fast, powered by rising quality and an inherent food-friendliness. With the warm days of summer just around the corner, there's no time like the present to enjoy rosé's fresh, fruity pleasures. And that is why we are presenting an evening devoting to this luscious treat - We have a few seats left for the Rosé dinner Thursday 5/17.
It will feature boutique rose Champange and wine from Domaine Ott. Lets put the perception that rosé is just a lot of sweet crap to rest, once and for all.
Reserve early – 860-443-9463.
• Please join us for Spirits & Smoke on the deck Thursday 5/24
Along with some of the fantastic single batch bourbons that we carry we have quietly been building our Rye Whiskey selections. Rye is being rediscovered and recreated as a super premium spirit and we will offer it along with a nice cigar. It is a match made in heaven – seating is limited please call to reserve your seats. 860-443-9463
• There are just a few seats left for our next Cult Wine Dinner.
Thursday May 31 – 6 p.m. - $100 plus tax and service.
The wines of Viader will be served – including Magnums of “V”.
This is a great night to share with someone special – and a must for all wine lovers that want a chance to try some of the most sought after wines that are nearly impossible to find.
Reserve early.
• A special note about Saturday night - Brie & Bleu will be closed for a private party.
It’s Brenna's Graduation Feté.
Remember – you can have your party here too – just call and ask about the details.
Wine Tasting – Please Join Us
Friday May 18 – 6-9 p.m. – No charge
1 - Fournier Sauvignon Blanc 2005 $9
Hiers to several generations of wine-growers, Paul (the father), Claude and Jacques (the sons) are running the vineyards handed down by their ancestors, with an unfailing respect for tradition, and a guarantee of quality. This pale golden colored wine is a perfect everyday wine for your summer tables. A case or two at this price is a very good deal. Please try it this Friday.
2 - Domaine Lafond Tavel rose 2005 $14
Tavel along with Bandol comprise the two great rose Villages, this is classic French rosé,
and truly remarkable. Domaine Lafond's Tavel is a forceful, rich, personality-filled rosé, offering strawberry and cherry fruit with a whiff of the famed "herbes de Provence. Winemaker:
"The culminant aromas are complex, red and white fruits mixing with floral tinges.
With time, these fruity aromas tend to turn mellow adding touches of spice and plums.”
Taste for yourself what the French have known for decades – Rosé wine is a great match with food, and should be part of your summer tradition.
3 - Waterstone Cabernet 2004 - $30
Waterstone Napa Cabernet is made from grapes sourced from one of the most acclaimed estates in Napa - if not the world. Under agreement with our distributor we cannot reveal which estate. Suffice to say, when not selling grapes to Waterstone they are producing a wine that is unattainable. (Bob- please take note).
This is a chance to sample one of the great Napa terroirs at a fraction of the price.
4 - Flora Springs Trilogy 2003 $60
This wine is ranked #7 in Napa Valley’s 50 Best Cabernet’s for quality to price ratio by Wine Spectator. It has a deep delicious color and a smooth elegance.
You may have seen our interview with Sean Garvey, 3rd generation family member when he stopped by the store. – if not take a minute to visit our calendar of events page: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
Scroll down to the WineRadio section and listen to him talk about this wine.
Of course you can see it on iTunes too.
Thanks for all of the feedback and your support– we are listening. And we will keep you posted with additional changes and updates for the coming summer season –
it’s going to be a lot of fun – cha-cha-cha.
Please Join Us – It’s fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA
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