Greetings from New London -
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463 - 84 Bank Street
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817 - 70 State Street
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474 - 84 Bank Street
Coming Soon: Import - 60 State Street
If you have not heard - New London is buzzing lately - the Coast Guard Museum is coming, The Capital Theater is being restored, the Mayor of Key West Florida has issued an Official Proclamation that this Friday - May 5th - is New London Cruise Ship Day in Key West - I am not kidding - that is to show their support for our burgeoning cruise ship industry and the return on Friday of Holland America's Maasdam - http://www.cruisemates.com/articles/reviews/hal/maasdam.cfm
Also this Friday - The Garde Arts Center is hosting the 6th annual Food and Wine Festival - find out more at: www.gardearts.org
This is a great way to support The Garde - one of New London's cultural centers. I have it on good authority that the line up for the next film series should not be missed.
AND - because food and wine will be in the air on Friday - we have something special - if you have the time please stop by.
The wines for Friday are listed below and highlighted in RED.
This is what our Cheese Monger Colleen McNerney has for Brie & Bleu This Week:
Another chance to get some great goat cheese made in New England. New England is a beautiful place in the spring time, which is the best time to get goat cheese. The pyramid shaped goat cheese, Valley View Topsfield Highlander is made in Topsfield, Massachusetts. The Highlander is a pyramid shaped semi-ripened or surface-ripened goat milk cheese with a bloomy, white, wrinkled, velvety exterior. Aged at least one month the cheese develops a creamy interior, brie like in texture and mold. More tangy near the rind and progressively richer and creamier toward the center.
Serve at room temperature to allow the full diversity of flavors to come forth. Prices at $15 a packet is $13 a packet this week. Enjoy an additional 10% discount, when purchased with Pascal Jolivet Sancerre from Thames River Wine and Spirits.
BEER TASTING Thursday May 4 - 5-8 p.m. - No Charge
The President of our Beer Division, George Whitehouse, assures me that research is essential to the beer tasting he leads every Thursday. He has been down in Brooklyn crawling around on his hands and knees for a week with his new best friend Brewmaster Garrett Oliver.
This is part of his report:
"Join This Thursday we are going to be revisiting our close friends at Brooklyn Brewery. These beers are perfect for the warm weather just around the corner."
Brooklyn Lager: Their flagship beer, the award-winning Brooklyn Lager is amber-gold in color, and displays a firm malt center supported by a fine bitterness and floral hop aroma. Caramel malts show in the finish.
Pennant Ale: "As Brooklynites, we revere the memory of the 1955 World Champion Dodgers baseball team, so we had to name a beer in their honor. Brooklyn Pennant Pale Ale is a honey-colored pale ale with a brisk malt palate and finely balanced hop character. Pennant is a traditional English-style pale ale."
Brooklyn Brown: Northern English brown ales tend to be strong and dry, while southern English brown ales are milder and sweeter. Brooklyn Brown Ale combines the best of those classic styles and then adds an American accent in the form of a firm hop character and roasty palate.
East India Pale Ale: Brooklyn East India Pale Ale is inspired by the original East India Pale Ales brewed in England in the early 1800’s for the troops in India.East India Pale Ale is a deep golden beer brewed from British malt and a blend of hops featuring the choice East Kent Golding variety. It is traditionally dry-hopped for a bright aroma of hops, lemongrass, pine and citrus fruit, and has a robust bitterness, a warming malt palate and a clean hoppy finish.
These beers are some of our favorites, and we hope you'll join us as we raise our glasses to toast the great Garrett Oliver (Brooklyn's Brewmaster), same Beer time, same Beer place.
WINE TASTING - FRIDAY MAY 5th - 6-9 p.m.
1 - San Solé Pinot Grigio - Veneto Italy - $10
I was sitting under the garden arbors at Locanda Ciprianni on the tiny island of Torcello - one of the islands in the great lagoon of Venice - the first time that I tried this wine. New London artist Tim McDowell had recommended Torcello and the restaurant - the host at Locanda Cipriani recommended the wine. It was served with a small plate of simple greens that had somehow been perfectly coated - each and every leaf - with a delicate olive oil infused with fresh lemon. It was perfect. A case or two of this wine should be on your list for the summer. It has it's own light citrus and tropical fruit notes and makes just the right addition to grilled vegetables, seafood, chicken and light pork dishes - and of course salads. At this price - it is perfect. Take a look at Locanda Ciprianni: http://www.locandacipriani.com/
2 - 2004 Bodegas Renacer Punto Final Malbec Mendoza - Rated 86 points - $9 - http://www.bodegarenacer.com.ar/
This is an unfiltered wine that is made from grapes grown on vines that are at least 50 years old. Very low yield produces a wine that is full of flavors like black fruits and licorice -soft and spicy, with subtle sweet flavors of blackberry and bitter chocolate. A plump, fruit-driven malbec with easy tannins. In other words this is great red table wine with a very attractive price - like many South American wines it is a very good value. serve with grilled meats - yes, even barbecue - the Argentineans know a thing or two about meat.
3 - Domus Aurea Cabernet - Maipo Valley Chile - Rated 91 points WS - $50 - http://www.globalvineyard.com/
Located in the foothills of the Andes Mountain Range, Clos Quebrada de Macul is recognized as one of the finest vineyards in the Maipo Valley. A very distinctive label on a bottle that holds wine that is actually harvested - not row by row or block by block - but vine by vine! The winery also utilizes open-top fermentation and personalized oak aging cycles, selecting lots with the most character to be the first wines put into French barrels. The result is a 100% Cabernet Sauvignon with a brilliant red hue and a rich, berry nose. This vintage has strong, round tannins with an elegant body and vibrant flavors of blackberry and cassis. Food - how about a nice steak or lamb.
4 - Caymus Special Selection 2002 Cabernet - Rated 93 points WS - $135 - http://www.caymus.com/
Holy Cow - Fasten your seat belts - The rich, dark-ruby color of this wine offers a promise of the depth to come. Aromas and flavors of sweet, fully ripe black currants form the “big heart” of this wine, with notes of mocha/chocolate, black cherry, anise and spice interweaving seamlessly, first in the nose and then more explosively in the mouth. The texture is surprisingly velvety and supple for a wine of this extraction and density, attesting to the fine grain of the tannins and the balance of fruit and oak. The finish holds pure and true for long minutes, the impression of ripe fruit lingering to the end. For most people this is a special occasion wine - and it fits the bill - it is hard to find, and this is the right way to try it - No Charge.
This wine will go quickly - please arrive early to try it. We will also be offering a website only discount of 10%. Order and pay online - pick it up or have it delivered right to your door. Available online starting Wednesday at 12:00 noon.
Thank you for your support - we appreciate it. Our customers are what makes it so much fun and you are why we get recognized by winemakers and distributors from all over the world - you continue to set us apart.
Finally - NEXT WEEK - we will be announcing details for the next dinner series - I can hardly wait.
Please join us. Its fun, informal and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Sunday, April 30, 2006
Monday, April 24, 2006
Hugues Beaulieu, Mas Delmera, Cain Cuvee, Jackson Triggs, Hank & Carol Mann, Wine Radio
Greetings from New London -
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463 - 84 Bank Street
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817 - 70 State Street
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474 - 84 Bank Street
Coming Soon: Import - 60 State Street
We have great wines for Friday take a look - just below and highlighted in RED.
First -
I can't tell you how many people say -"We can't make it downtown during the week - how come we can't buy stuff online?"
So, by popular demand we are now offering you the opportunity to purchase online.
The favorites & featured page now has a secure shopping cart - you may shop at will.
http://thamesriver.com/wine/instock.html
In many cases the supply is limited - it is first come, first served.
In fact over the next couple of weeks we will be offering a "Buy Now" section for all three stores.
Special offers, featured holiday items, gift baskets - cheese, coffee - a little something for everyone.
Remember that we can deliver any of these things right to your front door - with Thames River Greenery.
NEXT - Brie & Bleu
If you missed the featured goat cheese from Beltane Farms in Lebanon, CT last week,
Brie & Blue is featuring great goat cheese from Cypress Grove in California at a discounted price this week.
Humboldt Fog originally at $22/lb is $20/lb - The grayish-blue streak running through the white, chalky center of Humboldt Fog is often mistaken for blue mold, but it's actually flavorless vegetable ash, which also lightly covers the soft, exterior rind. Mildly goaty and tangy, often fluffy in the middle with a runny texture and stronger flavor around the rind as it ages. Humboldt Fog is Cypress Grove's signature cheese and must be tried by anyone interested in domestic, artisanal cheese. Pair with a nice Sauvignon Blanc such as Vina Robles purchased at Thames River Wine & Spirits for an additional 10% off the price of the cheese.
Midnight Moon originally at $23/lb is $21/lb - Aged one year, this firm cheese offers loads of flavor, including a hint of salted caramel. Intriguing and addictive, it is essentially a goat's milk gouda. Pairs well with a Syrah such as Clos Mimi Petit Rousse Syrah purchased at Thames River Wine & Spirits for an additional 10% off the price of the cheese.
BEER TASTING - Thursday 5-8 p.m.- No Charge
The President of our Beer Division - George "Jorgé Casa Blanca" Whitehouse - is looking for a few good Hop-Heads to join him this week in the cellar: 'Tis the season to open up the windows, clean out the basement, and ...you guessed it... start drinking India Pale Ales again.
All the Hop-heads in the audience can sample four of the best IPAs from the US, and its ally, Great Britain.
These will include:
Dogfish Head 60 minute IPA: An old favorite.
A session India Pale Ale brewed with Warrior, Amarillo & 'Mystery Hop X.'
A powerful East Coast I.P.A. with a lot of citrusy hop character. THE session beer for beer geeks like us!
Meantime India Pale Ale: - http://www.meantimebrewing.com/
In fact the style originated in London, and between 1780 and 1820 the East London firm of Hodgson had a jealously guarded monopoly of supply to the growing India market. These beers were characterised by pale malts, long maturation, massive hopping levels and high alcoholic strength. The latter were necessary to ensure the beer survived the long months at sea if it was not to be tipped straight into the harbour at Calcutta - a fate not unknown to happen.
Meantime is proud to authentically resurrect this great style, making it the only British brewery to brew a true IPA.
We hope you'll come down to try these great beers, and bring some vinyl! Same Beer time, same Beer place.
Wine Tasting Friday 4/28/06 - 6 - 9 p.m. - NO CHARGE
1 - Hugues Beaulieu - Picpoul Depinet - $9 http://www.kysela.com/
Hugues Beaulieu 2003 Coteaux du Languedoc Picpoul de Pinet
This clear, light-gold wine breathes appetizing aromas of peaches, juicy and fresh, with a back note of lemon-lime. Crisp and tart, white-fruit flavors and lemon-squirt acidity are fresh and cleansing in a very long finish. Not overly complex but bright and appealing, it's a first-rate seafood wine. Excellent with a broad range of seafood; couldn't ask for a better match with a simple Southern-cuisine dinner of shrimp and grits.
2 - Mas Delmera - Tempranillo - $8 - http://www.tarragonawine.com/about_us.html
About one hundred km south of Barcelona Spain is the city of Tarragona. From this area comes one of the best values you will try for a while.
This simple table wine is a great discovery. Fresh, grapey aromas give way to ripe, sweet flavors of plum and vanilla in this juicy red.
It has just enough grip for food and goes well with most dishes. This is the kind of wine that will impress your friends. They will ask how you found it and you can tell them: "Oh I've been drinking wines from Tarragona for years."
3 - Cain Cuvee - Napa Blend - $27 - http://www.cainfive.com/
Cain Cuvée (cue-vay means “blend”) is a new style of Cabernet blend. This wine is bright - lots of aromas to combine with a mouthwatering fresh and a silky finish—just the thing to complement today’s lighter and spicier dishes. Distinct perfumy aromas, delicate spiciness, and a long finish Very versatile with food, and with the complexity of wines at twice the price.
4 - Jackson Triggs - Ice Wine - $21 (187ml) - http://www.jacksontriggswinery.com/en/index.html
Ice Wines have a lot of devoted fans - this is a good example of what converts regular folks into die hard champions. Soft crimson in colour, our 2004 Grand Reserve Cabernet Franc Icewine displays alluring aromas of raspberry and plums with hints of figs. Full in body, the intense flavours of berries and rhubarb marry with a touch of pepper and spice on the extended silky finish. Serve slightly chilled on its own, with fresh fruit, chocolate mousse, rich paté or a selection of fine cheeses.
Finally -
A huge personal thank you to Hank & Carol Mann.
While the rain came down on Sunday - They hosted an afternoon of food, wine and friends that is one for the books.
Here is a quick list of the wines:
1983 -
E. Guigal Hermitage, Jaboulet Cornas, Jaboulet Hermitage La Chapel, Beaucastel.
Then a vertical tasting of Beaucastel:
1978, 1989, 1989-375ml,
And with desert - 1975 Clemens
That's how we spent a rainy Sunday in Connecticut -
I won't rhapsodize about the wines here - it would take too long. But I will say that Hank & Carol are generous, warm and gracious hosts.
They reach into that cellar and pull out bottles of 83 Beaucastel like it was a chilled "white zin" from the rack on the refrigerator door.
The wines were great - but the friendship and camaraderie - even better.
Thanks for all of the calls & email - we appreciate your support.
Please join us - It's fun, informal and a great way to learn about wine.
AAA.
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463 - 84 Bank Street
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817 - 70 State Street
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474 - 84 Bank Street
Coming Soon: Import - 60 State Street
We have great wines for Friday take a look - just below and highlighted in RED.
First -
I can't tell you how many people say -"We can't make it downtown during the week - how come we can't buy stuff online?"
So, by popular demand we are now offering you the opportunity to purchase online.
The favorites & featured page now has a secure shopping cart - you may shop at will.
http://thamesriver.com/wine/instock.html
In many cases the supply is limited - it is first come, first served.
In fact over the next couple of weeks we will be offering a "Buy Now" section for all three stores.
Special offers, featured holiday items, gift baskets - cheese, coffee - a little something for everyone.
Remember that we can deliver any of these things right to your front door - with Thames River Greenery.
NEXT - Brie & Bleu
If you missed the featured goat cheese from Beltane Farms in Lebanon, CT last week,
Brie & Blue is featuring great goat cheese from Cypress Grove in California at a discounted price this week.
Humboldt Fog originally at $22/lb is $20/lb - The grayish-blue streak running through the white, chalky center of Humboldt Fog is often mistaken for blue mold, but it's actually flavorless vegetable ash, which also lightly covers the soft, exterior rind. Mildly goaty and tangy, often fluffy in the middle with a runny texture and stronger flavor around the rind as it ages. Humboldt Fog is Cypress Grove's signature cheese and must be tried by anyone interested in domestic, artisanal cheese. Pair with a nice Sauvignon Blanc such as Vina Robles purchased at Thames River Wine & Spirits for an additional 10% off the price of the cheese.
Midnight Moon originally at $23/lb is $21/lb - Aged one year, this firm cheese offers loads of flavor, including a hint of salted caramel. Intriguing and addictive, it is essentially a goat's milk gouda. Pairs well with a Syrah such as Clos Mimi Petit Rousse Syrah purchased at Thames River Wine & Spirits for an additional 10% off the price of the cheese.
BEER TASTING - Thursday 5-8 p.m.- No Charge
The President of our Beer Division - George "Jorgé Casa Blanca" Whitehouse - is looking for a few good Hop-Heads to join him this week in the cellar: 'Tis the season to open up the windows, clean out the basement, and ...you guessed it... start drinking India Pale Ales again.
All the Hop-heads in the audience can sample four of the best IPAs from the US, and its ally, Great Britain.
These will include:
Dogfish Head 60 minute IPA: An old favorite.
A session India Pale Ale brewed with Warrior, Amarillo & 'Mystery Hop X.'
A powerful East Coast I.P.A. with a lot of citrusy hop character. THE session beer for beer geeks like us!
Meantime India Pale Ale: - http://www.meantimebrewing.com/
In fact the style originated in London, and between 1780 and 1820 the East London firm of Hodgson had a jealously guarded monopoly of supply to the growing India market. These beers were characterised by pale malts, long maturation, massive hopping levels and high alcoholic strength. The latter were necessary to ensure the beer survived the long months at sea if it was not to be tipped straight into the harbour at Calcutta - a fate not unknown to happen.
Meantime is proud to authentically resurrect this great style, making it the only British brewery to brew a true IPA.
We hope you'll come down to try these great beers, and bring some vinyl! Same Beer time, same Beer place.
Wine Tasting Friday 4/28/06 - 6 - 9 p.m. - NO CHARGE
1 - Hugues Beaulieu - Picpoul Depinet - $9 http://www.kysela.com/
Hugues Beaulieu 2003 Coteaux du Languedoc Picpoul de Pinet
This clear, light-gold wine breathes appetizing aromas of peaches, juicy and fresh, with a back note of lemon-lime. Crisp and tart, white-fruit flavors and lemon-squirt acidity are fresh and cleansing in a very long finish. Not overly complex but bright and appealing, it's a first-rate seafood wine. Excellent with a broad range of seafood; couldn't ask for a better match with a simple Southern-cuisine dinner of shrimp and grits.
2 - Mas Delmera - Tempranillo - $8 - http://www.tarragonawine.com/about_us.html
About one hundred km south of Barcelona Spain is the city of Tarragona. From this area comes one of the best values you will try for a while.
This simple table wine is a great discovery. Fresh, grapey aromas give way to ripe, sweet flavors of plum and vanilla in this juicy red.
It has just enough grip for food and goes well with most dishes. This is the kind of wine that will impress your friends. They will ask how you found it and you can tell them: "Oh I've been drinking wines from Tarragona for years."
3 - Cain Cuvee - Napa Blend - $27 - http://www.cainfive.com/
Cain Cuvée (cue-vay means “blend”) is a new style of Cabernet blend. This wine is bright - lots of aromas to combine with a mouthwatering fresh and a silky finish—just the thing to complement today’s lighter and spicier dishes. Distinct perfumy aromas, delicate spiciness, and a long finish Very versatile with food, and with the complexity of wines at twice the price.
4 - Jackson Triggs - Ice Wine - $21 (187ml) - http://www.jacksontriggswinery.com/en/index.html
Ice Wines have a lot of devoted fans - this is a good example of what converts regular folks into die hard champions. Soft crimson in colour, our 2004 Grand Reserve Cabernet Franc Icewine displays alluring aromas of raspberry and plums with hints of figs. Full in body, the intense flavours of berries and rhubarb marry with a touch of pepper and spice on the extended silky finish. Serve slightly chilled on its own, with fresh fruit, chocolate mousse, rich paté or a selection of fine cheeses.
Finally -
A huge personal thank you to Hank & Carol Mann.
While the rain came down on Sunday - They hosted an afternoon of food, wine and friends that is one for the books.
Here is a quick list of the wines:
1983 -
E. Guigal Hermitage, Jaboulet Cornas, Jaboulet Hermitage La Chapel, Beaucastel.
Then a vertical tasting of Beaucastel:
1978, 1989, 1989-375ml,
And with desert - 1975 Clemens
That's how we spent a rainy Sunday in Connecticut -
I won't rhapsodize about the wines here - it would take too long. But I will say that Hank & Carol are generous, warm and gracious hosts.
They reach into that cellar and pull out bottles of 83 Beaucastel like it was a chilled "white zin" from the rack on the refrigerator door.
The wines were great - but the friendship and camaraderie - even better.
Thanks for all of the calls & email - we appreciate your support.
Please join us - It's fun, informal and a great way to learn about wine.
AAA.
Hugues Beaulieu, Mas Delmera, Cain Cuvee, Jackson Triggs, Hank & Carol Mann, Wine Radio
Greetings from New London -
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463 - 84 Bank Street
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817 - 70 State Street
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474 - 84 Bank Street
Coming Soon: Import - 60 State Street
We have great wines for Friday take a look - just below and highlighted in RED.
First -
I can't tell you how many people say -"We can't make it downtown during the week - how come we can't buy stuff online?"
So, by popular demand we are now offering you the opportunity to purchase online.
The favorites & featured page now has a secure shopping cart - you may shop at will.
http://thamesriver.com/wine/instock.html
In many cases the supply is limited - it is first come, first served.
In fact over the next couple of weeks we will be offering a "Buy Now" section for all three stores.
Special offers, featured holiday items, gift baskets - cheese, coffee - a little something for everyone.
Remember that we can deliver any of these things right to your front door - with Thames River Greenery.
NEXT - Brie & Bleu
If you missed the featured goat cheese from Beltane Farms in Lebanon, CT last week,
Brie & Blue is featuring great goat cheese from Cypress Grove in California at a discounted price this week.
Humboldt Fog originally at $22/lb is $20/lb - The grayish-blue streak running through the white, chalky center of Humboldt Fog is often mistaken for blue mold, but it's actually flavorless vegetable ash, which also lightly covers the soft, exterior rind. Mildly goaty and tangy, often fluffy in the middle with a runny texture and stronger flavor around the rind as it ages. Humboldt Fog is Cypress Grove's signature cheese and must be tried by anyone interested in domestic, artisanal cheese. Pair with a nice Sauvignon Blanc such as Vina Robles purchased at Thames River Wine & Spirits for an additional 10% off the price of the cheese.
Midnight Moon originally at $23/lb is $21/lb - Aged one year, this firm cheese offers loads of flavor, including a hint of salted caramel. Intriguing and addictive, it is essentially a goat's milk gouda. Pairs well with a Syrah such as Clos Mimi Petit Rousse Syrah purchased at Thames River Wine & Spirits for an additional 10% off the price of the cheese.
BEER TASTING - Thursday 5-8 p.m.- No Charge
The President of our Beer Division - George "Jorgé Casa Blanca" Whitehouse - is looking for a few good Hop-Heads to join him this week in the cellar: 'Tis the season to open up the windows, clean out the basement, and ...you guessed it... start drinking India Pale Ales again.
All the Hop-heads in the audience can sample four of the best IPAs from the US, and its ally, Great Britain.
These will include:
Dogfish Head 60 minute IPA: An old favorite.
A session India Pale Ale brewed with Warrior, Amarillo & 'Mystery Hop X.'
A powerful East Coast I.P.A. with a lot of citrusy hop character. THE session beer for beer geeks like us!
Meantime India Pale Ale: - http://www.meantimebrewing.com/
In fact the style originated in London, and between 1780 and 1820 the East London firm of Hodgson had a jealously guarded monopoly of supply to the growing India market. These beers were characterised by pale malts, long maturation, massive hopping levels and high alcoholic strength. The latter were necessary to ensure the beer survived the long months at sea if it was not to be tipped straight into the harbour at Calcutta - a fate not unknown to happen.
Meantime is proud to authentically resurrect this great style, making it the only British brewery to brew a true IPA.
We hope you'll come down to try these great beers, and bring some vinyl! Same Beer time, same Beer place.
Wine Tasting Friday 4/28/06 - 6 - 9 p.m. - NO CHARGE
1 - Hugues Beaulieu - Picpoul Depinet - $9 http://www.kysela.com/
Hugues Beaulieu 2003 Coteaux du Languedoc Picpoul de Pinet
This clear, light-gold wine breathes appetizing aromas of peaches, juicy and fresh, with a back note of lemon-lime. Crisp and tart, white-fruit flavors and lemon-squirt acidity are fresh and cleansing in a very long finish. Not overly complex but bright and appealing, it's a first-rate seafood wine. Excellent with a broad range of seafood; couldn't ask for a better match with a simple Southern-cuisine dinner of shrimp and grits.
2 - Mas Delmera - Tempranillo - $8 - http://www.tarragonawine.com/about_us.html
About one hundred km south of Barcelona Spain is the city of Tarragona. From this area comes one of the best values you will try for a while.
This simple table wine is a great discovery. Fresh, grapey aromas give way to ripe, sweet flavors of plum and vanilla in this juicy red.
It has just enough grip for food and goes well with most dishes. This is the kind of wine that will impress your friends. They will ask how you found it and you can tell them: "Oh I've been drinking wines from Tarragona for years."
3 - Cain Cuvee - Napa Blend - $27 - http://www.cainfive.com/
Cain Cuvée (cue-vay means “blend”) is a new style of Cabernet blend. This wine is bright - lots of aromas to combine with a mouthwatering fresh and a silky finish—just the thing to complement today’s lighter and spicier dishes. Distinct perfumy aromas, delicate spiciness, and a long finish Very versatile with food, and with the complexity of wines at twice the price.
4 - Jackson Triggs - Ice Wine - $21 (187ml) - http://www.jacksontriggswinery.com/en/index.html
Ice Wines have a lot of devoted fans - this is a good example of what converts regular folks into die hard champions. Soft crimson in colour, our 2004 Grand Reserve Cabernet Franc Icewine displays alluring aromas of raspberry and plums with hints of figs. Full in body, the intense flavours of berries and rhubarb marry with a touch of pepper and spice on the extended silky finish. Serve slightly chilled on its own, with fresh fruit, chocolate mousse, rich paté or a selection of fine cheeses.
Finally -
A huge personal thank you to Hank & Carol Mann.
While the rain came down on Sunday - They hosted an afternoon of food, wine and friends that is one for the books.
Here is a quick list of the wines:
1983 -
E. Guigal Hermitage, Jaboulet Cornas, Jaboulet Hermitage La Chapel, Beaucastel.
Then a vertical tasting of Beaucastel:
1978, 1989, 1989-375ml,
And with desert - 1975 Clemens
That's how we spent a rainy Sunday in Connecticut -
I won't rhapsodize about the wines here - it would take too long. But I will say that Hank & Carol are generous, warm and gracious hosts.
They reach into that cellar and pull out bottles of 83 Beaucastel like it was a chilled "white zin" from the rack on the refrigerator door.
The wines were great - but the friendship and camaraderie - even better.
Thanks for all of the calls & email - we appreciate your support.
Please join us - It's fun, informal and a great way to learn about wine.
AAA.
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463 - 84 Bank Street
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817 - 70 State Street
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474 - 84 Bank Street
Coming Soon: Import - 60 State Street
We have great wines for Friday take a look - just below and highlighted in RED.
First -
I can't tell you how many people say -"We can't make it downtown during the week - how come we can't buy stuff online?"
So, by popular demand we are now offering you the opportunity to purchase online.
The favorites & featured page now has a secure shopping cart - you may shop at will.
http://thamesriver.com/wine/instock.html
In many cases the supply is limited - it is first come, first served.
In fact over the next couple of weeks we will be offering a "Buy Now" section for all three stores.
Special offers, featured holiday items, gift baskets - cheese, coffee - a little something for everyone.
Remember that we can deliver any of these things right to your front door - with Thames River Greenery.
NEXT - Brie & Bleu
If you missed the featured goat cheese from Beltane Farms in Lebanon, CT last week,
Brie & Blue is featuring great goat cheese from Cypress Grove in California at a discounted price this week.
Humboldt Fog originally at $22/lb is $20/lb - The grayish-blue streak running through the white, chalky center of Humboldt Fog is often mistaken for blue mold, but it's actually flavorless vegetable ash, which also lightly covers the soft, exterior rind. Mildly goaty and tangy, often fluffy in the middle with a runny texture and stronger flavor around the rind as it ages. Humboldt Fog is Cypress Grove's signature cheese and must be tried by anyone interested in domestic, artisanal cheese. Pair with a nice Sauvignon Blanc such as Vina Robles purchased at Thames River Wine & Spirits for an additional 10% off the price of the cheese.
Midnight Moon originally at $23/lb is $21/lb - Aged one year, this firm cheese offers loads of flavor, including a hint of salted caramel. Intriguing and addictive, it is essentially a goat's milk gouda. Pairs well with a Syrah such as Clos Mimi Petit Rousse Syrah purchased at Thames River Wine & Spirits for an additional 10% off the price of the cheese.
BEER TASTING - Thursday 5-8 p.m.- No Charge
The President of our Beer Division - George "Jorgé Casa Blanca" Whitehouse - is looking for a few good Hop-Heads to join him this week in the cellar: 'Tis the season to open up the windows, clean out the basement, and ...you guessed it... start drinking India Pale Ales again.
All the Hop-heads in the audience can sample four of the best IPAs from the US, and its ally, Great Britain.
These will include:
Dogfish Head 60 minute IPA: An old favorite.
A session India Pale Ale brewed with Warrior, Amarillo & 'Mystery Hop X.'
A powerful East Coast I.P.A. with a lot of citrusy hop character. THE session beer for beer geeks like us!
Meantime India Pale Ale: - http://www.meantimebrewing.com/
In fact the style originated in London, and between 1780 and 1820 the East London firm of Hodgson had a jealously guarded monopoly of supply to the growing India market. These beers were characterised by pale malts, long maturation, massive hopping levels and high alcoholic strength. The latter were necessary to ensure the beer survived the long months at sea if it was not to be tipped straight into the harbour at Calcutta - a fate not unknown to happen.
Meantime is proud to authentically resurrect this great style, making it the only British brewery to brew a true IPA.
We hope you'll come down to try these great beers, and bring some vinyl! Same Beer time, same Beer place.
Wine Tasting Friday 4/28/06 - 6 - 9 p.m. - NO CHARGE
1 - Hugues Beaulieu - Picpoul Depinet - $9 http://www.kysela.com/
Hugues Beaulieu 2003 Coteaux du Languedoc Picpoul de Pinet
This clear, light-gold wine breathes appetizing aromas of peaches, juicy and fresh, with a back note of lemon-lime. Crisp and tart, white-fruit flavors and lemon-squirt acidity are fresh and cleansing in a very long finish. Not overly complex but bright and appealing, it's a first-rate seafood wine. Excellent with a broad range of seafood; couldn't ask for a better match with a simple Southern-cuisine dinner of shrimp and grits.
2 - Mas Delmera - Tempranillo - $8 - http://www.tarragonawine.com/about_us.html
About one hundred km south of Barcelona Spain is the city of Tarragona. From this area comes one of the best values you will try for a while.
This simple table wine is a great discovery. Fresh, grapey aromas give way to ripe, sweet flavors of plum and vanilla in this juicy red.
It has just enough grip for food and goes well with most dishes. This is the kind of wine that will impress your friends. They will ask how you found it and you can tell them: "Oh I've been drinking wines from Tarragona for years."
3 - Cain Cuvee - Napa Blend - $27 - http://www.cainfive.com/
Cain Cuvée (cue-vay means “blend”) is a new style of Cabernet blend. This wine is bright - lots of aromas to combine with a mouthwatering fresh and a silky finish—just the thing to complement today’s lighter and spicier dishes. Distinct perfumy aromas, delicate spiciness, and a long finish Very versatile with food, and with the complexity of wines at twice the price.
4 - Jackson Triggs - Ice Wine - $21 (187ml) - http://www.jacksontriggswinery.com/en/index.html
Ice Wines have a lot of devoted fans - this is a good example of what converts regular folks into die hard champions. Soft crimson in colour, our 2004 Grand Reserve Cabernet Franc Icewine displays alluring aromas of raspberry and plums with hints of figs. Full in body, the intense flavours of berries and rhubarb marry with a touch of pepper and spice on the extended silky finish. Serve slightly chilled on its own, with fresh fruit, chocolate mousse, rich paté or a selection of fine cheeses.
Finally -
A huge personal thank you to Hank & Carol Mann.
While the rain came down on Sunday - They hosted an afternoon of food, wine and friends that is one for the books.
Here is a quick list of the wines:
1983 -
E. Guigal Hermitage, Jaboulet Cornas, Jaboulet Hermitage La Chapel, Beaucastel.
Then a vertical tasting of Beaucastel:
1978, 1989, 1989-375ml,
And with desert - 1975 Clemens
That's how we spent a rainy Sunday in Connecticut -
I won't rhapsodize about the wines here - it would take too long. But I will say that Hank & Carol are generous, warm and gracious hosts.
They reach into that cellar and pull out bottles of 83 Beaucastel like it was a chilled "white zin" from the rack on the refrigerator door.
The wines were great - but the friendship and camaraderie - even better.
Thanks for all of the calls & email - we appreciate your support.
Please join us - It's fun, informal and a great way to learn about wine.
AAA.
Hugues Beaulieu, Mas Delmera, Cain Cuvee, Jackson Triggs, Hank & Carol Mann, Wine Radio
Greetings from New London -
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463 - 84 Bank Street
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817 - 70 State Street
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474 - 84 Bank Street
Coming Soon: Import - 60 State Street
Calendar of Events: http://www.thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
Featured Items: http://www.thamesriver.com/wine/instock.html
We have great wines for Friday take a look - just below and highlighted in RED.
First -
I can't tell you how many people say -"We can't make it downtown during the week - how come we can't buy stuff online?"
So, by popular demand we are now offering you the opportunity to purchase online.
The favorites & featured page now has a secure shopping cart - you may shop at will.
http://thamesriver.com/wine/instock.html
In many cases the supply is limited - it is first come, first served.
In fact over the next couple of weeks we will be offering a "Buy Now" section for all three stores.
Special offers, featured holiday items, gift baskets - cheese, coffee - a little something for everyone.
Remember that we can deliver any of these things right to your front door - with Thames River Greenery.
NEXT - Brie & Bleu
If you missed the featured goat cheese from Beltane Farms in Lebanon, CT last week,
Brie & Blue is featuring great goat cheese from Cypress Grove in California at a discounted price this week.
Humboldt Fog originally at $22/lb is $20/lb - The grayish-blue streak running through the white, chalky center of Humboldt Fog is often mistaken for blue mold, but it's actually flavorless vegetable ash, which also lightly covers the soft, exterior rind. Mildly goaty and tangy, often fluffy in the middle with a runny texture and stronger flavor around the rind as it ages. Humboldt Fog is Cypress Grove's signature cheese and must be tried by anyone interested in domestic, artisanal cheese. Pair with a nice Sauvignon Blanc such as Vina Robles purchased at Thames River Wine & Spirits for an additional 10% off the price of the cheese.
Midnight Moon originally at $23/lb is $21/lb - Aged one year, this firm cheese offers loads of flavor, including a hint of salted caramel. Intriguing and addictive, it is essentially a goat's milk gouda. Pairs well with a Syrah such as Clos Mimi Petit Rousse Syrah purchased at Thames River Wine & Spirits for an additional 10% off the price of the cheese.
BEER TASTING - Thursday 5-8 p.m.- No Charge
The President of our Beer Division - George "Jorgé Casa Blanca" Whitehouse - is looking for a few good Hop-Heads to join him this week in the cellar: 'Tis the season to open up the windows, clean out the basement, and ...you guessed it... start drinking India Pale Ales again.
All the Hop-heads in the audience can sample four of the best IPAs from the US, and its ally, Great Britain.
These will include:
Dogfish Head 60 minute IPA: An old favorite.
A session India Pale Ale brewed with Warrior, Amarillo & 'Mystery Hop X.'
A powerful East Coast I.P.A. with a lot of citrusy hop character. THE session beer for beer geeks like us!
Meantime India Pale Ale: - http://www.meantimebrewing.com/
In fact the style originated in London, and between 1780 and 1820 the East London firm of Hodgson had a jealously guarded monopoly of supply to the growing India market. These beers were characterised by pale malts, long maturation, massive hopping levels and high alcoholic strength. The latter were necessary to ensure the beer survived the long months at sea if it was not to be tipped straight into the harbour at Calcutta - a fate not unknown to happen.
Meantime is proud to authentically resurrect this great style, making it the only British brewery to brew a true IPA.
We hope you'll come down to try these great beers, and bring some vinyl! Same Beer time, same Beer place.
Wine Tasting Friday 4/28/06 - 6 - 9 p.m. - NO CHARGE
1 - Hugues Beaulieu - Picpoul Depinet - $9 http://www.kysela.com/
Hugues Beaulieu 2003 Coteaux du Languedoc Picpoul de Pinet
This clear, light-gold wine breathes appetizing aromas of peaches, juicy and fresh, with a back note of lemon-lime. Crisp and tart, white-fruit flavors and lemon-squirt acidity are fresh and cleansing in a very long finish. Not overly complex but bright and appealing, it's a first-rate seafood wine. Excellent with a broad range of seafood; couldn't ask for a better match with a simple Southern-cuisine dinner of shrimp and grits.
2 - Mas Delmera - Tempranillo - $8 - http://www.tarragonawine.com/about_us.html
About one hundred km south of Barcelona Spain is the city of Tarragona. From this area comes one of the best values you will try for a while.
This simple table wine is a great discovery. Fresh, grapey aromas give way to ripe, sweet flavors of plum and vanilla in this juicy red.
It has just enough grip for food and goes well with most dishes. This is the kind of wine that will impress your friends. They will ask how you found it and you can tell them: "Oh I've been drinking wines from Tarragona for years."
3 - Cain Cuvee - Napa Blend - $27 - http://www.cainfive.com/
Cain Cuvée (cue-vay means “blend”) is a new style of Cabernet blend. This wine is bright - lots of aromas to combine with a mouthwatering fresh and a silky finish—just the thing to complement today’s lighter and spicier dishes. Distinct perfumy aromas, delicate spiciness, and a long finish Very versatile with food, and with the complexity of wines at twice the price.
4 - Jackson Triggs - Ice Wine - $21 (187ml) - http://www.jacksontriggswinery.com/en/index.html
Ice Wines have a lot of devoted fans - this is a good example of what converts regular folks into die hard champions. Soft crimson in colour, our 2004 Grand Reserve Cabernet Franc Icewine displays alluring aromas of raspberry and plums with hints of figs. Full in body, the intense flavours of berries and rhubarb marry with a touch of pepper and spice on the extended silky finish. Serve slightly chilled on its own, with fresh fruit, chocolate mousse, rich paté or a selection of fine cheeses.
Finally -
A huge personal thank you to Hank & Carol Mann.
While the rain came down on Sunday - They hosted an afternoon of food, wine and friends that is one for the books.
Here is a quick list of the wines:
1983 -
E. Guigal Hermitage, Jaboulet Cornas, Jaboulet Hermitage La Chapel, Beaucastel.
Then a vertical tasting of Beaucastel:
1978, 1989, 1989-375ml,
And with desert - 1975 Clemens
That's how we spent a rainy Sunday in Connecticut -
I won't rhapsodize about the wines here - it would take too long. But I will say that Hank & Carol are generous, warm and gracious hosts.
They reach into that cellar and pull out bottles of 83 Beaucastel like it was a chilled "white zin" from the rack on the refrigerator door.
The wines were great - but the friendship and camaraderie - even better.
Thanks for all of the calls & email - we appreciate your support.
Please join us - It's fun, informal and a great way to learn about wine.
AAA.
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463 - 84 Bank Street
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817 - 70 State Street
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474 - 84 Bank Street
Coming Soon: Import - 60 State Street
Calendar of Events: http://www.thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
Featured Items: http://www.thamesriver.com/wine/instock.html
We have great wines for Friday take a look - just below and highlighted in RED.
First -
I can't tell you how many people say -"We can't make it downtown during the week - how come we can't buy stuff online?"
So, by popular demand we are now offering you the opportunity to purchase online.
The favorites & featured page now has a secure shopping cart - you may shop at will.
http://thamesriver.com/wine/instock.html
In many cases the supply is limited - it is first come, first served.
In fact over the next couple of weeks we will be offering a "Buy Now" section for all three stores.
Special offers, featured holiday items, gift baskets - cheese, coffee - a little something for everyone.
Remember that we can deliver any of these things right to your front door - with Thames River Greenery.
NEXT - Brie & Bleu
If you missed the featured goat cheese from Beltane Farms in Lebanon, CT last week,
Brie & Blue is featuring great goat cheese from Cypress Grove in California at a discounted price this week.
Humboldt Fog originally at $22/lb is $20/lb - The grayish-blue streak running through the white, chalky center of Humboldt Fog is often mistaken for blue mold, but it's actually flavorless vegetable ash, which also lightly covers the soft, exterior rind. Mildly goaty and tangy, often fluffy in the middle with a runny texture and stronger flavor around the rind as it ages. Humboldt Fog is Cypress Grove's signature cheese and must be tried by anyone interested in domestic, artisanal cheese. Pair with a nice Sauvignon Blanc such as Vina Robles purchased at Thames River Wine & Spirits for an additional 10% off the price of the cheese.
Midnight Moon originally at $23/lb is $21/lb - Aged one year, this firm cheese offers loads of flavor, including a hint of salted caramel. Intriguing and addictive, it is essentially a goat's milk gouda. Pairs well with a Syrah such as Clos Mimi Petit Rousse Syrah purchased at Thames River Wine & Spirits for an additional 10% off the price of the cheese.
BEER TASTING - Thursday 5-8 p.m.- No Charge
The President of our Beer Division - George "Jorgé Casa Blanca" Whitehouse - is looking for a few good Hop-Heads to join him this week in the cellar: 'Tis the season to open up the windows, clean out the basement, and ...you guessed it... start drinking India Pale Ales again.
All the Hop-heads in the audience can sample four of the best IPAs from the US, and its ally, Great Britain.
These will include:
Dogfish Head 60 minute IPA: An old favorite.
A session India Pale Ale brewed with Warrior, Amarillo & 'Mystery Hop X.'
A powerful East Coast I.P.A. with a lot of citrusy hop character. THE session beer for beer geeks like us!
Meantime India Pale Ale: - http://www.meantimebrewing.com/
In fact the style originated in London, and between 1780 and 1820 the East London firm of Hodgson had a jealously guarded monopoly of supply to the growing India market. These beers were characterised by pale malts, long maturation, massive hopping levels and high alcoholic strength. The latter were necessary to ensure the beer survived the long months at sea if it was not to be tipped straight into the harbour at Calcutta - a fate not unknown to happen.
Meantime is proud to authentically resurrect this great style, making it the only British brewery to brew a true IPA.
We hope you'll come down to try these great beers, and bring some vinyl! Same Beer time, same Beer place.
Wine Tasting Friday 4/28/06 - 6 - 9 p.m. - NO CHARGE
1 - Hugues Beaulieu - Picpoul Depinet - $9 http://www.kysela.com/
Hugues Beaulieu 2003 Coteaux du Languedoc Picpoul de Pinet
This clear, light-gold wine breathes appetizing aromas of peaches, juicy and fresh, with a back note of lemon-lime. Crisp and tart, white-fruit flavors and lemon-squirt acidity are fresh and cleansing in a very long finish. Not overly complex but bright and appealing, it's a first-rate seafood wine. Excellent with a broad range of seafood; couldn't ask for a better match with a simple Southern-cuisine dinner of shrimp and grits.
2 - Mas Delmera - Tempranillo - $8 - http://www.tarragonawine.com/about_us.html
About one hundred km south of Barcelona Spain is the city of Tarragona. From this area comes one of the best values you will try for a while.
This simple table wine is a great discovery. Fresh, grapey aromas give way to ripe, sweet flavors of plum and vanilla in this juicy red.
It has just enough grip for food and goes well with most dishes. This is the kind of wine that will impress your friends. They will ask how you found it and you can tell them: "Oh I've been drinking wines from Tarragona for years."
3 - Cain Cuvee - Napa Blend - $27 - http://www.cainfive.com/
Cain Cuvée (cue-vay means “blend”) is a new style of Cabernet blend. This wine is bright - lots of aromas to combine with a mouthwatering fresh and a silky finish—just the thing to complement today’s lighter and spicier dishes. Distinct perfumy aromas, delicate spiciness, and a long finish Very versatile with food, and with the complexity of wines at twice the price.
4 - Jackson Triggs - Ice Wine - $21 (187ml) - http://www.jacksontriggswinery.com/en/index.html
Ice Wines have a lot of devoted fans - this is a good example of what converts regular folks into die hard champions. Soft crimson in colour, our 2004 Grand Reserve Cabernet Franc Icewine displays alluring aromas of raspberry and plums with hints of figs. Full in body, the intense flavours of berries and rhubarb marry with a touch of pepper and spice on the extended silky finish. Serve slightly chilled on its own, with fresh fruit, chocolate mousse, rich paté or a selection of fine cheeses.
Finally -
A huge personal thank you to Hank & Carol Mann.
While the rain came down on Sunday - They hosted an afternoon of food, wine and friends that is one for the books.
Here is a quick list of the wines:
1983 -
E. Guigal Hermitage, Jaboulet Cornas, Jaboulet Hermitage La Chapel, Beaucastel.
Then a vertical tasting of Beaucastel:
1978, 1989, 1989-375ml,
And with desert - 1975 Clemens
That's how we spent a rainy Sunday in Connecticut -
I won't rhapsodize about the wines here - it would take too long. But I will say that Hank & Carol are generous, warm and gracious hosts.
They reach into that cellar and pull out bottles of 83 Beaucastel like it was a chilled "white zin" from the rack on the refrigerator door.
The wines were great - but the friendship and camaraderie - even better.
Thanks for all of the calls & email - we appreciate your support.
Please join us - It's fun, informal and a great way to learn about wine.
AAA.
Hugues Beaulieu, Mas Delmera, Cain Cuvee, Jackson Triggs, Hank & Carol Mann, Wine Radio
Greetings from New London -
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463 - 84 Bank Street
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817 - 70 State Street
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474 - 84 Bank Street
Coming Soon: Import - 60 State Street
Calendar of Events: http://www.thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
Featured Items: http://www.thamesriver.com/wine/instock.html
We have great wines for Friday take a look - just below and highlighted in RED.
First -
I can't tell you how many people say -"We can't make it downtown during the week - how come we can't buy stuff online?"
So, by popular demand we are now offering you the opportunity to purchase online.
The favorites & featured page now has a secure shopping cart - you may shop at will.
http://thamesriver.com/wine/instock.html
In many cases the supply is limited - it is first come, first served.
In fact over the next couple of weeks we will be offering a "Buy Now" section for all three stores.
Special offers, featured holiday items, gift baskets - cheese, coffee - a little something for everyone.
Remember that we can deliver any of these things right to your front door - with Thames River Greenery.
NEXT - Brie & Bleu
If you missed the featured goat cheese from Beltane Farms in Lebanon, CT last week,
Brie & Blue is featuring great goat cheese from Cypress Grove in California at a discounted price this week.
Humboldt Fog originally at $22/lb is $20/lb - The grayish-blue streak running through the white, chalky center of Humboldt Fog is often mistaken for blue mold, but it's actually flavorless vegetable ash, which also lightly covers the soft, exterior rind. Mildly goaty and tangy, often fluffy in the middle with a runny texture and stronger flavor around the rind as it ages. Humboldt Fog is Cypress Grove's signature cheese and must be tried by anyone interested in domestic, artisanal cheese. Pair with a nice Sauvignon Blanc such as Vina Robles purchased at Thames River Wine & Spirits for an additional 10% off the price of the cheese.
Midnight Moon originally at $23/lb is $21/lb - Aged one year, this firm cheese offers loads of flavor, including a hint of salted caramel. Intriguing and addictive, it is essentially a goat's milk gouda. Pairs well with a Syrah such as Clos Mimi Petit Rousse Syrah purchased at Thames River Wine & Spirits for an additional 10% off the price of the cheese.
BEER TASTING - Thursday 5-8 p.m.- No Charge
The President of our Beer Division - George "Jorgé Casa Blanca" Whitehouse - is looking for a few good Hop-Heads to join him this week in the cellar: 'Tis the season to open up the windows, clean out the basement, and ...you guessed it... start drinking India Pale Ales again.
All the Hop-heads in the audience can sample four of the best IPAs from the US, and its ally, Great Britain.
These will include:
Dogfish Head 60 minute IPA: An old favorite.
A session India Pale Ale brewed with Warrior, Amarillo & 'Mystery Hop X.'
A powerful East Coast I.P.A. with a lot of citrusy hop character. THE session beer for beer geeks like us!
Meantime India Pale Ale: - http://www.meantimebrewing.com/
In fact the style originated in London, and between 1780 and 1820 the East London firm of Hodgson had a jealously guarded monopoly of supply to the growing India market. These beers were characterised by pale malts, long maturation, massive hopping levels and high alcoholic strength. The latter were necessary to ensure the beer survived the long months at sea if it was not to be tipped straight into the harbour at Calcutta - a fate not unknown to happen.
Meantime is proud to authentically resurrect this great style, making it the only British brewery to brew a true IPA.
We hope you'll come down to try these great beers, and bring some vinyl! Same Beer time, same Beer place.
Wine Tasting Friday 4/28/06 - 6 - 9 p.m. - NO CHARGE
1 - Hugues Beaulieu - Picpoul Depinet - $9 http://www.kysela.com/
Hugues Beaulieu 2003 Coteaux du Languedoc Picpoul de Pinet
This clear, light-gold wine breathes appetizing aromas of peaches, juicy and fresh, with a back note of lemon-lime. Crisp and tart, white-fruit flavors and lemon-squirt acidity are fresh and cleansing in a very long finish. Not overly complex but bright and appealing, it's a first-rate seafood wine. Excellent with a broad range of seafood; couldn't ask for a better match with a simple Southern-cuisine dinner of shrimp and grits.
2 - Mas Delmera - Tempranillo - $8 - http://www.tarragonawine.com/about_us.html
About one hundred km south of Barcelona Spain is the city of Tarragona. From this area comes one of the best values you will try for a while.
This simple table wine is a great discovery. Fresh, grapey aromas give way to ripe, sweet flavors of plum and vanilla in this juicy red.
It has just enough grip for food and goes well with most dishes. This is the kind of wine that will impress your friends. They will ask how you found it and you can tell them: "Oh I've been drinking wines from Tarragona for years."
3 - Cain Cuvee - Napa Blend - $27 - http://www.cainfive.com/
Cain Cuvée (cue-vay means “blend”) is a new style of Cabernet blend. This wine is bright - lots of aromas to combine with a mouthwatering fresh and a silky finish—just the thing to complement today’s lighter and spicier dishes. Distinct perfumy aromas, delicate spiciness, and a long finish Very versatile with food, and with the complexity of wines at twice the price.
4 - Jackson Triggs - Ice Wine - $21 (187ml) - http://www.jacksontriggswinery.com/en/index.html
Ice Wines have a lot of devoted fans - this is a good example of what converts regular folks into die hard champions. Soft crimson in colour, our 2004 Grand Reserve Cabernet Franc Icewine displays alluring aromas of raspberry and plums with hints of figs. Full in body, the intense flavours of berries and rhubarb marry with a touch of pepper and spice on the extended silky finish. Serve slightly chilled on its own, with fresh fruit, chocolate mousse, rich paté or a selection of fine cheeses.
Finally -
A huge personal thank you to Hank & Carol Mann.
While the rain came down on Sunday - They hosted an afternoon of food, wine and friends that is one for the books.
Here is a quick list of the wines:
1983 -
E. Guigal Hermitage, Jaboulet Cornas, Jaboulet Hermitage La Chapel, Beaucastel.
Then a vertical tasting of Beaucastel:
1978, 1989, 1989-375ml,
And with desert - 1975 Clemens
That's how we spent a rainy Sunday in Connecticut -
I won't rhapsodize about the wines here - it would take too long. But I will say that Hank & Carol are generous, warm and gracious hosts.
They reach into that cellar and pull out bottles of 83 Beaucastel like it was a chilled "white zin" from the rack on the refrigerator door.
The wines were great - but the friendship and camaraderie - even better.
Thanks for all of the calls & email - we appreciate your support.
Please join us - It's fun, informal and a great way to learn about wine.
AAA.
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463 - 84 Bank Street
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817 - 70 State Street
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474 - 84 Bank Street
Coming Soon: Import - 60 State Street
Calendar of Events: http://www.thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
Featured Items: http://www.thamesriver.com/wine/instock.html
We have great wines for Friday take a look - just below and highlighted in RED.
First -
I can't tell you how many people say -"We can't make it downtown during the week - how come we can't buy stuff online?"
So, by popular demand we are now offering you the opportunity to purchase online.
The favorites & featured page now has a secure shopping cart - you may shop at will.
http://thamesriver.com/wine/instock.html
In many cases the supply is limited - it is first come, first served.
In fact over the next couple of weeks we will be offering a "Buy Now" section for all three stores.
Special offers, featured holiday items, gift baskets - cheese, coffee - a little something for everyone.
Remember that we can deliver any of these things right to your front door - with Thames River Greenery.
NEXT - Brie & Bleu
If you missed the featured goat cheese from Beltane Farms in Lebanon, CT last week,
Brie & Blue is featuring great goat cheese from Cypress Grove in California at a discounted price this week.
Humboldt Fog originally at $22/lb is $20/lb - The grayish-blue streak running through the white, chalky center of Humboldt Fog is often mistaken for blue mold, but it's actually flavorless vegetable ash, which also lightly covers the soft, exterior rind. Mildly goaty and tangy, often fluffy in the middle with a runny texture and stronger flavor around the rind as it ages. Humboldt Fog is Cypress Grove's signature cheese and must be tried by anyone interested in domestic, artisanal cheese. Pair with a nice Sauvignon Blanc such as Vina Robles purchased at Thames River Wine & Spirits for an additional 10% off the price of the cheese.
Midnight Moon originally at $23/lb is $21/lb - Aged one year, this firm cheese offers loads of flavor, including a hint of salted caramel. Intriguing and addictive, it is essentially a goat's milk gouda. Pairs well with a Syrah such as Clos Mimi Petit Rousse Syrah purchased at Thames River Wine & Spirits for an additional 10% off the price of the cheese.
BEER TASTING - Thursday 5-8 p.m.- No Charge
The President of our Beer Division - George "Jorgé Casa Blanca" Whitehouse - is looking for a few good Hop-Heads to join him this week in the cellar: 'Tis the season to open up the windows, clean out the basement, and ...you guessed it... start drinking India Pale Ales again.
All the Hop-heads in the audience can sample four of the best IPAs from the US, and its ally, Great Britain.
These will include:
Dogfish Head 60 minute IPA: An old favorite.
A session India Pale Ale brewed with Warrior, Amarillo & 'Mystery Hop X.'
A powerful East Coast I.P.A. with a lot of citrusy hop character. THE session beer for beer geeks like us!
Meantime India Pale Ale: - http://www.meantimebrewing.com/
In fact the style originated in London, and between 1780 and 1820 the East London firm of Hodgson had a jealously guarded monopoly of supply to the growing India market. These beers were characterised by pale malts, long maturation, massive hopping levels and high alcoholic strength. The latter were necessary to ensure the beer survived the long months at sea if it was not to be tipped straight into the harbour at Calcutta - a fate not unknown to happen.
Meantime is proud to authentically resurrect this great style, making it the only British brewery to brew a true IPA.
We hope you'll come down to try these great beers, and bring some vinyl! Same Beer time, same Beer place.
Wine Tasting Friday 4/28/06 - 6 - 9 p.m. - NO CHARGE
1 - Hugues Beaulieu - Picpoul Depinet - $9 http://www.kysela.com/
Hugues Beaulieu 2003 Coteaux du Languedoc Picpoul de Pinet
This clear, light-gold wine breathes appetizing aromas of peaches, juicy and fresh, with a back note of lemon-lime. Crisp and tart, white-fruit flavors and lemon-squirt acidity are fresh and cleansing in a very long finish. Not overly complex but bright and appealing, it's a first-rate seafood wine. Excellent with a broad range of seafood; couldn't ask for a better match with a simple Southern-cuisine dinner of shrimp and grits.
2 - Mas Delmera - Tempranillo - $8 - http://www.tarragonawine.com/about_us.html
About one hundred km south of Barcelona Spain is the city of Tarragona. From this area comes one of the best values you will try for a while.
This simple table wine is a great discovery. Fresh, grapey aromas give way to ripe, sweet flavors of plum and vanilla in this juicy red.
It has just enough grip for food and goes well with most dishes. This is the kind of wine that will impress your friends. They will ask how you found it and you can tell them: "Oh I've been drinking wines from Tarragona for years."
3 - Cain Cuvee - Napa Blend - $27 - http://www.cainfive.com/
Cain Cuvée (cue-vay means “blend”) is a new style of Cabernet blend. This wine is bright - lots of aromas to combine with a mouthwatering fresh and a silky finish—just the thing to complement today’s lighter and spicier dishes. Distinct perfumy aromas, delicate spiciness, and a long finish Very versatile with food, and with the complexity of wines at twice the price.
4 - Jackson Triggs - Ice Wine - $21 (187ml) - http://www.jacksontriggswinery.com/en/index.html
Ice Wines have a lot of devoted fans - this is a good example of what converts regular folks into die hard champions. Soft crimson in colour, our 2004 Grand Reserve Cabernet Franc Icewine displays alluring aromas of raspberry and plums with hints of figs. Full in body, the intense flavours of berries and rhubarb marry with a touch of pepper and spice on the extended silky finish. Serve slightly chilled on its own, with fresh fruit, chocolate mousse, rich paté or a selection of fine cheeses.
Finally -
A huge personal thank you to Hank & Carol Mann.
While the rain came down on Sunday - They hosted an afternoon of food, wine and friends that is one for the books.
Here is a quick list of the wines:
1983 -
E. Guigal Hermitage, Jaboulet Cornas, Jaboulet Hermitage La Chapel, Beaucastel.
Then a vertical tasting of Beaucastel:
1978, 1989, 1989-375ml,
And with desert - 1975 Clemens
That's how we spent a rainy Sunday in Connecticut -
I won't rhapsodize about the wines here - it would take too long. But I will say that Hank & Carol are generous, warm and gracious hosts.
They reach into that cellar and pull out bottles of 83 Beaucastel like it was a chilled "white zin" from the rack on the refrigerator door.
The wines were great - but the friendship and camaraderie - even better.
Thanks for all of the calls & email - we appreciate your support.
Please join us - It's fun, informal and a great way to learn about wine.
AAA.
Sunday, April 16, 2006
Penfolds Grange, Jaboulet Crozes-Hermitage, Four Vines Syrah, Fairview Jakkals Shiraz,
Greetings from New London -
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463 - 84 Bank Street
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817 - 70 State Street
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474 - 84 Bank Street
There's a lot going on in town this week - Don't forget the New London Lions Club Spring Ahead Wine Tasting Benefit.
Proceeds to benefit Connecticut Lions Eye Research Foundation - $20 admission - held at Ocean Beach.
We have a fabulous wine tasting planned for Friday too. If you are out and about - please stop by.
The highlight will be the legendary Penfolds Grange - $250 per bottle.
Don't miss this opportunity to sample what has been called the greatest red wine in the world!
More details about our free weekly tasting - just below the other news and information & highlighted in RED.
Featured at Brie & Bleu this week -
Beltane Farms Fresh Chevre $6.00lb - A light, delicate fresh cheese with a velvety texture.
This is great on salads or on crackers, or as an ingredient in baked and cold appetizers or as an alternative to cream cheese on breakfast bagels. Enjoy plain or rolled in scallions. Their fresh Chevre was awarded first place in 2000 by the American Cheese Society in national competition.
This cheese is discounted at $6.00 this week. Save an additional 10% with the proof of purchase of Clos Roches Blanche Touraine Rose at Thames River Wine & Spirits. It is a perfect match! - Learn more at: http://www.beltanefarm.com/
Beer Tasting This Thursday - 5-8 p.m. - No Charge
Join the president of our beer division George "Jorge" Whitehouse in our cellar -
Jorge: This Thursday we're taking another foray into the always enticing world of Belgian beer.
We'll be tasting a white, a blond, and two lambics; the classic Kriek (Cherry), and the luscious Peche (Peach).
Hoegaarden, "The Original Belgian White Ale": Hoegaarden is a phenomenon in the world of beer. A delightfully refreshing beer that has captivated so many discerning beer drinkers, Hoegaarden's distinctive character makes it a unique experience every time you drink it. http://www.gemeentehoegaarden.be/documents/home.xml
Leffe Blond: This beer just became available in a six-pack, Jorge is VERY excited. Leffe is the brand leader among Belgian abbey beers - a beer for the connoisseur, which should be served cold at 5° C. Leffe Blond is a top fermented ale which combines typical yeast characteristics with a fruity flavour. It has a beautiful yellow-gold colour, a full body and a subtle, aromatic flavor. http://www.biere2005.be/home/biere/index.htm
Lindeman's Kriek and Peche Lambic:
The romantic, mysterious, wild-fermented wheat beers of Belgium’s Flanders are among the world’s rarest beers. The unique natural combination of the Senne River valley; small hills with numerous cherry trees; small farms growing hops, barley and wheat; and wooden kegs with fermentation liquids, has given the region an air-disseminated microflora that has seeded farm breweries for more than 500 years. http://www.lindemans.be/
In other words, they're FANTASTIC. Say "Hola" to Jorge, same Beer time, same Beer place.
WINE TASTING - Friday 4/21/06 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Jaboulet Crozes-Hermitage 'Domaine de Thalabert' 2004 - $38
Magnificently rich deep color, dark as ink, with purple reflections. Rich with aromas of very ripe fruit (blackcurrant, blackberry), pepper and spice and a slightly herbal, licorice touch. Nice liveliness on the palate, round and well structured. Superb overall sensation of fullness and body. Powerful and generous, it still has plenty of unrevealed character in reserve. Great with: Soft cheeses, roasts, red meat, Hard cheeses, grilled meats. If your favorite animal is steak - give this a try.
2 - Four Vines Syrah - $16 - http://www.fourvines.com/
A big backbone of concentrated fruit, tannins and structure. The result is a beautifully balanced wine with elegance and grace. On the nose it emanates rich berry fruit, Provincial herbs and spice. The palate delivers layers of berry fruit, pepper and spice which trail into silky vanilla oak finish that lingers, lingers and lingers.
3 - Fairview Jakkals Shiraz - $30 - Wine Spectator 91 Points - http://www.fairview.co.za/
This is a great Shiraz - It's packed with deep, dark fruit and a range of notes that include coffee, smoke, pepper and spice. The tannins are ripe and long, the balance is good, the finish is long and dense. Overall, it's well-structured-not a fistful of fruit driven into your palate, but a big Shiraz that achieves an astonishing level of finesse. Pair it up with well-flavored, dense food, like well-seasoned meats.
4 - Penfolds Grange - $250 - http://www.penfolds.co.uk/
Wine Spectator magazine named the 1990 vintage Grange 'The Best Red Wine in the World'.
This accolade has sent the price of both the '90 and subsequent vintage releases soaring at auction.
Penfolds Grange is a wine of extraordinary dimension and power. Richly textured, intensely concentrated and packed with fruit sweetness, these wines, regardless of vintage, develop into immensely complex, beguiling wines that seduce the senses.
Thanks for all of your support - we appreciate it.
The summer season is taking shape - check the calendar of events to keep up on the latest information.
We hope to see you on Friday - Say hello when your in the store.
Please join us. It's fun, informal and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463 - 84 Bank Street
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817 - 70 State Street
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474 - 84 Bank Street
There's a lot going on in town this week - Don't forget the New London Lions Club Spring Ahead Wine Tasting Benefit.
Proceeds to benefit Connecticut Lions Eye Research Foundation - $20 admission - held at Ocean Beach.
We have a fabulous wine tasting planned for Friday too. If you are out and about - please stop by.
The highlight will be the legendary Penfolds Grange - $250 per bottle.
Don't miss this opportunity to sample what has been called the greatest red wine in the world!
More details about our free weekly tasting - just below the other news and information & highlighted in RED.
Featured at Brie & Bleu this week -
Beltane Farms Fresh Chevre $6.00lb - A light, delicate fresh cheese with a velvety texture.
This is great on salads or on crackers, or as an ingredient in baked and cold appetizers or as an alternative to cream cheese on breakfast bagels. Enjoy plain or rolled in scallions. Their fresh Chevre was awarded first place in 2000 by the American Cheese Society in national competition.
This cheese is discounted at $6.00 this week. Save an additional 10% with the proof of purchase of Clos Roches Blanche Touraine Rose at Thames River Wine & Spirits. It is a perfect match! - Learn more at: http://www.beltanefarm.com/
Beer Tasting This Thursday - 5-8 p.m. - No Charge
Join the president of our beer division George "Jorge" Whitehouse in our cellar -
Jorge: This Thursday we're taking another foray into the always enticing world of Belgian beer.
We'll be tasting a white, a blond, and two lambics; the classic Kriek (Cherry), and the luscious Peche (Peach).
Hoegaarden, "The Original Belgian White Ale": Hoegaarden is a phenomenon in the world of beer. A delightfully refreshing beer that has captivated so many discerning beer drinkers, Hoegaarden's distinctive character makes it a unique experience every time you drink it. http://www.gemeentehoegaarden.be/documents/home.xml
Leffe Blond: This beer just became available in a six-pack, Jorge is VERY excited. Leffe is the brand leader among Belgian abbey beers - a beer for the connoisseur, which should be served cold at 5° C. Leffe Blond is a top fermented ale which combines typical yeast characteristics with a fruity flavour. It has a beautiful yellow-gold colour, a full body and a subtle, aromatic flavor. http://www.biere2005.be/home/biere/index.htm
Lindeman's Kriek and Peche Lambic:
The romantic, mysterious, wild-fermented wheat beers of Belgium’s Flanders are among the world’s rarest beers. The unique natural combination of the Senne River valley; small hills with numerous cherry trees; small farms growing hops, barley and wheat; and wooden kegs with fermentation liquids, has given the region an air-disseminated microflora that has seeded farm breweries for more than 500 years. http://www.lindemans.be/
In other words, they're FANTASTIC. Say "Hola" to Jorge, same Beer time, same Beer place.
WINE TASTING - Friday 4/21/06 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Jaboulet Crozes-Hermitage 'Domaine de Thalabert' 2004 - $38
Magnificently rich deep color, dark as ink, with purple reflections. Rich with aromas of very ripe fruit (blackcurrant, blackberry), pepper and spice and a slightly herbal, licorice touch. Nice liveliness on the palate, round and well structured. Superb overall sensation of fullness and body. Powerful and generous, it still has plenty of unrevealed character in reserve. Great with: Soft cheeses, roasts, red meat, Hard cheeses, grilled meats. If your favorite animal is steak - give this a try.
2 - Four Vines Syrah - $16 - http://www.fourvines.com/
A big backbone of concentrated fruit, tannins and structure. The result is a beautifully balanced wine with elegance and grace. On the nose it emanates rich berry fruit, Provincial herbs and spice. The palate delivers layers of berry fruit, pepper and spice which trail into silky vanilla oak finish that lingers, lingers and lingers.
3 - Fairview Jakkals Shiraz - $30 - Wine Spectator 91 Points - http://www.fairview.co.za/
This is a great Shiraz - It's packed with deep, dark fruit and a range of notes that include coffee, smoke, pepper and spice. The tannins are ripe and long, the balance is good, the finish is long and dense. Overall, it's well-structured-not a fistful of fruit driven into your palate, but a big Shiraz that achieves an astonishing level of finesse. Pair it up with well-flavored, dense food, like well-seasoned meats.
4 - Penfolds Grange - $250 - http://www.penfolds.co.uk/
Wine Spectator magazine named the 1990 vintage Grange 'The Best Red Wine in the World'.
This accolade has sent the price of both the '90 and subsequent vintage releases soaring at auction.
Penfolds Grange is a wine of extraordinary dimension and power. Richly textured, intensely concentrated and packed with fruit sweetness, these wines, regardless of vintage, develop into immensely complex, beguiling wines that seduce the senses.
Thanks for all of your support - we appreciate it.
The summer season is taking shape - check the calendar of events to keep up on the latest information.
We hope to see you on Friday - Say hello when your in the store.
Please join us. It's fun, informal and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA
Sunday, April 09, 2006
Hugel Wine, WineRadio, Valdeon, Wolaver's Organic, Stelzner, Anchor Steam, Penalolen Cabernet,
Greetings from New London -
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463 - 84 Bank Street
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817 - 70 State Street
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474 - 84 Bank Street
We have great wines for Friday - take a look at the list they are highlighted in RED just below the other news and information.
It was a busy week -
The 2003 Bordeaux tasting in our cellar was just the thing for people to start their evening on Friday - lots of new faces - thank you.
Over four hundred people joined us up on the campus of Connecticut College - It was a special tasting for the senior class & guests.
Special thanks to Mr. Eoin (pronounced Owen) Connors - for his help. He poured, and poured and then poured some more.
Two private parties at Brie & Bleu rounded things out - don't forget it is available for your party too.
While we are on the subject of Brie & Bleu -
We keep getting the SAME question from so many people about about the illy coffee I wanted to mention it here. -
The question:
"We love the illy coffee - will you be selling all of the grinds and the whole beens too?"
The answer: YES - we will.
In fact we now have in the store now and ready to go - the red, blue, black and green (decafe) grinds - AND whole bean AND the pods.
If you have not tried this coffee yet - you don't know what your missing.
The familiar red logo & silver can is seen all over europe and is a favorite of 4-star chefs and coffee connoisseurs around the world.
Try an Espresso or Café Americano - the next time you are in the store. - http://www.illyusa.com/about/index.htm
And - here is the featured cheese for this week.
Selected with care by our own Cheese Monger Colleen McNerney
Valdeon - $17/lb - Named best blue cheese in Spain's 2003 national competition, Valdeón is a rich, creamy, intensely flavored semi-soft cow/goat milk blue that's saltier than Stilton yet less wild than Cabrales - I don't know about you, but I like my cheese as wild as I can get it.
Made in Spain's remote Valdeón Valley in the northern region of Asturias, Valdeón is wrapped in Sycamore leaves, giving it a distinctive appearance and lending to its complex flavor. Valdeon pairs well with wines made from the gamay grape, such as Beaujolais and with Muscat. It is delicious with smoked and cured meats and is excellent melted on top of a steak.
THURSDAY NIGHT BEER TASTING - 4/13/06 - 5-8 p.m. - No Charge
Are You R e a d y T o R u m b l e!
The President of our Beer Division - George Whitehouse has a great night planned for Thursday.
This week's beer tasting is going to be a knives-drawn brawl between an East Coast (Holla!), and a West Coast micro brew. Representing the East Coast will be Wolaver's Organic, straight out of the hills of Vermont. Jumping off the West Coast is Anchor Brewing Company.
Wolaver's Organic Pale Ale: - http://www.wolavers.com/
A classic pale ale. Perfectly balanced; creamy and full bodied, with a rich malty flavor and a distinctive, crisp hoppy finish. Delicious with all foods, a great beer for all tastes.
Wolaver's Organic India Pale Ale: Made with a generous amount of hops to produce the classic IPA. Crisp and clean, with a delicious hop spiciness and subtle malt balance. A strong beer, great with spicy foods and for those who enjoy a good, full-flavored, well hopped beer.
Anchor Brewing Co. Steam Beer: - http://www.anchorbrewing.com/
San Francisco's famous Anchor Steam®, the classic of American brewing tradition since 1896, is virtually handmade, with an exceptional respect for the ancient art of brewing. The deep amber color, thick creamy head, and rich flavor all testify to their traditional brewing methods.
Anchor Steam is unique, for our brewing process has evolved over many decades and is like no other in the world.
Anchor Brewing Co. Liberty Ale: First introduced in 1975, Liberty Ale® is brewed strictly according to traditional brewing methods, and, like all Anchor Brewing Company products, uses only natural ingredients — water, malted barley, fresh whole hops and yeast.
Big talk from the West Coast team. Come judge for yourself. Same Beer time, Same Beer place.
FRIDAY NIGHT WINE TASTING - 4/14/06 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Hugel Gewurztraminer - Alsace France - $23 - http://www.hugel.com/
Etienne Hugel was a guest on our WineRadio show and he was fabulous.
His family has been making wine for 12 generations! Their family is mentioned several times in the book Wine And War:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0767904486/qid=1144637695/sr=1-1/ref=sr_1_1/002-7284777-8520029?s=books&v=glance&n=283155
This is almost too good for an "entry-level" wine… Its authentic Gewurztraminer varietal character should not be missed.
A magnificent gift of nature, thanks to the freshness of the 2004 vintage, and the winemaking skill of Marc Hugel.
This is one of those wines you look forward to drinking as an aperitif or at any time of the day, simply for the sensory pleasure it gives.
Frank, spontaneous, expressive, wonderfully perfumed with a multitude of floral aromas, rose & freesia, its bouquet is fragrant, fruity and attractively light. Refreshingly clean and dry on the palate, deceptively easy to enjoy, it has a soft, gentle finish with a nicely integrated structure and opulence. Enjoy it now with dishes than can be spicy and expressive like Chinese, Indonesian, Cajun, Thai etc.
This wine should be on your table - please give it a try.
3 - Stelzner Claret - NEW VINTAGE - 2003- $16 - http://www.steltzner.com/
This wine is a young bright violet in the glass -- we're talking really purple -- with a nose that includes aromas of licorice, cherry cola, and some light floral notes likely from the Cabernet Franc in the blend. In the mouth it is lively and bright with very light tannins and good acidity underscoring primary flavors of cherries, and what can only be described as Dr. Pepper notes. The finish is solid and satisfying. I'd say this is a great example of the Claret style and a likely crowd pleaser not to mention a great value.
4 - Penalolen Cabernet - Chile - $18 - http://www.globalvineyard.com/penalolen.html
Low yields and hand-harvesting indicate the care given to the superior fruit from this single vineyard located on a gravelly slope in the Maipo Valley. These standards continue in the winery with meticulous grape selection and aging in French oak barrels for 14-18 months, and bottled without filtration. This is a complex and velvety wine with abundant fruit of wild berries and cassis, and a refined whisper of eucalyptus. This is lovely and smooth and a terrific example of why the wines of Chile are getting so much attention. They are still a great bargain.
Thank you for all of the support - we appreciate it.
We have an exciting list of things coming up - please check the Calendar Of Events page for details.
Winemakers, authors, chefs - the Alfresco Dinner Series - please stay tuned, 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 - 84 Bank Street
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817 - 70 State Street
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474 - 84 Bank Street
We have great wines for Friday - take a look at the list they are highlighted in RED just below the other news and information.
It was a busy week -
The 2003 Bordeaux tasting in our cellar was just the thing for people to start their evening on Friday - lots of new faces - thank you.
Over four hundred people joined us up on the campus of Connecticut College - It was a special tasting for the senior class & guests.
Special thanks to Mr. Eoin (pronounced Owen) Connors - for his help. He poured, and poured and then poured some more.
Two private parties at Brie & Bleu rounded things out - don't forget it is available for your party too.
While we are on the subject of Brie & Bleu -
We keep getting the SAME question from so many people about about the illy coffee I wanted to mention it here. -
The question:
"We love the illy coffee - will you be selling all of the grinds and the whole beens too?"
The answer: YES - we will.
In fact we now have in the store now and ready to go - the red, blue, black and green (decafe) grinds - AND whole bean AND the pods.
If you have not tried this coffee yet - you don't know what your missing.
The familiar red logo & silver can is seen all over europe and is a favorite of 4-star chefs and coffee connoisseurs around the world.
Try an Espresso or Café Americano - the next time you are in the store. - http://www.illyusa.com/about/index.htm
And - here is the featured cheese for this week.
Selected with care by our own Cheese Monger Colleen McNerney
Valdeon - $17/lb - Named best blue cheese in Spain's 2003 national competition, Valdeón is a rich, creamy, intensely flavored semi-soft cow/goat milk blue that's saltier than Stilton yet less wild than Cabrales - I don't know about you, but I like my cheese as wild as I can get it.
Made in Spain's remote Valdeón Valley in the northern region of Asturias, Valdeón is wrapped in Sycamore leaves, giving it a distinctive appearance and lending to its complex flavor. Valdeon pairs well with wines made from the gamay grape, such as Beaujolais and with Muscat. It is delicious with smoked and cured meats and is excellent melted on top of a steak.
THURSDAY NIGHT BEER TASTING - 4/13/06 - 5-8 p.m. - No Charge
Are You R e a d y T o R u m b l e!
The President of our Beer Division - George Whitehouse has a great night planned for Thursday.
This week's beer tasting is going to be a knives-drawn brawl between an East Coast (Holla!), and a West Coast micro brew. Representing the East Coast will be Wolaver's Organic, straight out of the hills of Vermont. Jumping off the West Coast is Anchor Brewing Company.
Wolaver's Organic Pale Ale: - http://www.wolavers.com/
A classic pale ale. Perfectly balanced; creamy and full bodied, with a rich malty flavor and a distinctive, crisp hoppy finish. Delicious with all foods, a great beer for all tastes.
Wolaver's Organic India Pale Ale: Made with a generous amount of hops to produce the classic IPA. Crisp and clean, with a delicious hop spiciness and subtle malt balance. A strong beer, great with spicy foods and for those who enjoy a good, full-flavored, well hopped beer.
Anchor Brewing Co. Steam Beer: - http://www.anchorbrewing.com/
San Francisco's famous Anchor Steam®, the classic of American brewing tradition since 1896, is virtually handmade, with an exceptional respect for the ancient art of brewing. The deep amber color, thick creamy head, and rich flavor all testify to their traditional brewing methods.
Anchor Steam is unique, for our brewing process has evolved over many decades and is like no other in the world.
Anchor Brewing Co. Liberty Ale: First introduced in 1975, Liberty Ale® is brewed strictly according to traditional brewing methods, and, like all Anchor Brewing Company products, uses only natural ingredients — water, malted barley, fresh whole hops and yeast.
Big talk from the West Coast team. Come judge for yourself. Same Beer time, Same Beer place.
FRIDAY NIGHT WINE TASTING - 4/14/06 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Hugel Gewurztraminer - Alsace France - $23 - http://www.hugel.com/
Etienne Hugel was a guest on our WineRadio show and he was fabulous.
His family has been making wine for 12 generations! Their family is mentioned several times in the book Wine And War:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0767904486/qid=1144637695/sr=1-1/ref=sr_1_1/002-7284777-8520029?s=books&v=glance&n=283155
This is almost too good for an "entry-level" wine… Its authentic Gewurztraminer varietal character should not be missed.
A magnificent gift of nature, thanks to the freshness of the 2004 vintage, and the winemaking skill of Marc Hugel.
This is one of those wines you look forward to drinking as an aperitif or at any time of the day, simply for the sensory pleasure it gives.
Frank, spontaneous, expressive, wonderfully perfumed with a multitude of floral aromas, rose & freesia, its bouquet is fragrant, fruity and attractively light. Refreshingly clean and dry on the palate, deceptively easy to enjoy, it has a soft, gentle finish with a nicely integrated structure and opulence. Enjoy it now with dishes than can be spicy and expressive like Chinese, Indonesian, Cajun, Thai etc.
This wine should be on your table - please give it a try.
3 - Stelzner Claret - NEW VINTAGE - 2003- $16 - http://www.steltzner.com/
This wine is a young bright violet in the glass -- we're talking really purple -- with a nose that includes aromas of licorice, cherry cola, and some light floral notes likely from the Cabernet Franc in the blend. In the mouth it is lively and bright with very light tannins and good acidity underscoring primary flavors of cherries, and what can only be described as Dr. Pepper notes. The finish is solid and satisfying. I'd say this is a great example of the Claret style and a likely crowd pleaser not to mention a great value.
4 - Penalolen Cabernet - Chile - $18 - http://www.globalvineyard.com/penalolen.html
Low yields and hand-harvesting indicate the care given to the superior fruit from this single vineyard located on a gravelly slope in the Maipo Valley. These standards continue in the winery with meticulous grape selection and aging in French oak barrels for 14-18 months, and bottled without filtration. This is a complex and velvety wine with abundant fruit of wild berries and cassis, and a refined whisper of eucalyptus. This is lovely and smooth and a terrific example of why the wines of Chile are getting so much attention. They are still a great bargain.
Thank you for all of the support - we appreciate it.
We have an exciting list of things coming up - please check the Calendar Of Events page for details.
Winemakers, authors, chefs - the Alfresco Dinner Series - please stay tuned, the best is yet to come.
Please Join Us - It's fun, informal and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Monday, April 03, 2006
Chateau d'Yquem, WineRadio, Frederick Wildman Grand Tour, 2003 Bordeaux
Greetings from New London -
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463 - 84 Bank Street
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817 - 70 State Street
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474 - 84 Bank Street
We have a great line up for the Friday tasting - the list is highlighted in RED just below the news.
I am going to tell you about our Chateau d'Yquem tasting in just a minute - but I must tell you about our trip to Boston.
Last Monday we had the great pleasure of being invited to Boston by one of the largest and most prestigious wine importers in the business. Frederick Wildman & Sons. http://www.frederickwildman.com They import some of the finest & most sought after wines being produced.
Each year they host a "Grand Tour" for some of their winemakers and they organize a national multi-city tour that allows the winemakers to visit major markets and introduce new vintages and any other special projects that they might be working on.
Well, we set up our WineRadio studio in a private dining room at the Millennium Bostonian Hotel - and one by one we sat and had a conversation
with some of the great winemakers of the world. Keep in mind that part of their official schedule for the day was to meet with us. They were all very gracious and genuine - their candid and sometimes humorous remarks can he heard in their entirety on our show. The WineRadio site is just about to launch. It will be available at every major host from Yahoo and AOL to the iTunes music store - It has taken a bit longer to get all of our ducks in a row than we thought - but we think it will be worth the wait.
NOW onto the Chateau d'Yquem tasting last Saturday night.
Our group gathered in the President's Room of the Thames Club http://www.thamesclub.org/photos.html
It was a fitting backdrop for the evening. Brie & Bleu prepared a delicious combination of cheeses, fruits, foie gras, and delectable extras.
The full list of the wines is here - but I will try to answer the big question. What does a $900 - 100 point rated - bottle of wine taste like?
Close your eyes for a moment and take a deep cleansing breath - now think back to your first kiss - the first meaningful kiss that filled you with butterflies and tickled your soul. It was that good. In fact - it may be underpriced.
When the cork was finally pulled the room filled with music - and I could have sworn I saw a couple of laughing angels sitting up on the mantle of the great fireplace. Thank you to all that attended - it was a special night.
This is the full list of wines that we tasted - in order:
Lanson Noble Cuveé - $75
Corton-Charlemagne - $87
E. Guigal "La Doriane" - $65
Corton-Grancey - not available for sale
La Pousse D'or - $70
Chateau De Cazenove - $12
Chateau Damase - $12
Chateau Aney Haut Medoc - $21
Les Tourelles - not available for sale
Dis Zoko Tokaji Aszu "6" - $80
Chateau d'Yquem 2001 - $900
This week at Brie & Bleu:
Featured Cheese: Shropshire $18/lb - This cow's milk blue cheese from the United Kingdom is technically a cross between Stilton and Cheshire. The orange color comes from the addition of annatto, a natural food coloring. Shropshire, while generally creamier and less nutty than Stilton, is sometimes stronger. It is excellent on the cheese-board and is also very versatile in the kitchen; it makes fabulous soups and sauces. It is best accompanied by good English brown ale and/or a chardonnay
Thursday Night Beer Tasting - 5-8 p.m. - No Charge
George Whitehouse is the guardian of the brew - please join him in the cellar.
Friday April 7, 2006 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
A Salute to the 2003 Bordeaux's
The 2003 vintage has been getting a lot of attention -
Exceptional weather conditions have helped to produced some very exciting wines.
They are very rich and ripe and have superb structure. Please give these wines a try this Friday night.
Remember - the summer of 2003 in France was the hottest on record and it had a dramatic effect on the grapes.
1- Château Damase - Bordeaux Supérieur - $12
Deeply colored and scented with the fragrant smells of berries that have been infused with the subtle aroma of clean earth Château Damase embodies all the elegance and charm for which true Merlot and honest red Bordeaux Supérieur are justly famous. Smooth, elegant, and juicy, the Château Damase is charm personified. This uncomplicated wine slips down ever so easily, it begs for another sip, and then another, and then….well you get the picture. Consequently, you would be wise to have a second bottle on hand. Serve Château Damase at a cool room temperature and a little breathing time truly accentuates the charm as well as the flavor of this juicy claret. Enjoy!
2 - Chateau Cazenove - Bordeaux Superieur - $12
Awarded a Silver Medal from the "World Event" of Bruxelles, 2003. A beautiful deep ruby red wine, with fragrances of ripe black currents and raspberries. As of the first taste it asserts its fleshiness. In the second part of the tasting, the ripe and plump tannin really melts in the mouth. The aging in oak barrels during 12 months revealed the complexity of that vintage. The finish is long and round.
3 - Chateau Annereaux - $21
From Jean-Francois Narby's small estate next door to Pomerol. 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Franc aged in barrels - half of which are new each year - for between 12 and 18 months. The resulting wine is rich and rounded with generous berry fruit and oak flavors.
4 - Chateau Arney - $21
This will change the way that you think about Bordeaux in this price range. So rich, and so satisfying for the price that it is hard to imagine how it happened. And then you remember - Ahhhhh - it was the remarkable heat - the summer of "03". The daytime temperature at some of the Chateau's reached a staggering 120 degrees! Give this a try - you will be glad that you did - it is real bang for the dollar.
It has been a great week - lots of excitement and also a week of privilege.
Thank you for your support and for spreading the word.
We have been invited to participate in special events - like our trip to Boston - because you have made an impression on the professionals that visit our store. We constantly hear comments about the quality and interest of our customers. We appreciate it. And 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 - 84 Bank Street
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817 - 70 State Street
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474 - 84 Bank Street
We have a great line up for the Friday tasting - the list is highlighted in RED just below the news.
I am going to tell you about our Chateau d'Yquem tasting in just a minute - but I must tell you about our trip to Boston.
Last Monday we had the great pleasure of being invited to Boston by one of the largest and most prestigious wine importers in the business. Frederick Wildman & Sons. http://www.frederickwildman.com They import some of the finest & most sought after wines being produced.
Each year they host a "Grand Tour" for some of their winemakers and they organize a national multi-city tour that allows the winemakers to visit major markets and introduce new vintages and any other special projects that they might be working on.
Well, we set up our WineRadio studio in a private dining room at the Millennium Bostonian Hotel - and one by one we sat and had a conversation
with some of the great winemakers of the world. Keep in mind that part of their official schedule for the day was to meet with us. They were all very gracious and genuine - their candid and sometimes humorous remarks can he heard in their entirety on our show. The WineRadio site is just about to launch. It will be available at every major host from Yahoo and AOL to the iTunes music store - It has taken a bit longer to get all of our ducks in a row than we thought - but we think it will be worth the wait.
NOW onto the Chateau d'Yquem tasting last Saturday night.
Our group gathered in the President's Room of the Thames Club http://www.thamesclub.org/photos.html
It was a fitting backdrop for the evening. Brie & Bleu prepared a delicious combination of cheeses, fruits, foie gras, and delectable extras.
The full list of the wines is here - but I will try to answer the big question. What does a $900 - 100 point rated - bottle of wine taste like?
Close your eyes for a moment and take a deep cleansing breath - now think back to your first kiss - the first meaningful kiss that filled you with butterflies and tickled your soul. It was that good. In fact - it may be underpriced.
When the cork was finally pulled the room filled with music - and I could have sworn I saw a couple of laughing angels sitting up on the mantle of the great fireplace. Thank you to all that attended - it was a special night.
This is the full list of wines that we tasted - in order:
Lanson Noble Cuveé - $75
Corton-Charlemagne - $87
E. Guigal "La Doriane" - $65
Corton-Grancey - not available for sale
La Pousse D'or - $70
Chateau De Cazenove - $12
Chateau Damase - $12
Chateau Aney Haut Medoc - $21
Les Tourelles - not available for sale
Dis Zoko Tokaji Aszu "6" - $80
Chateau d'Yquem 2001 - $900
This week at Brie & Bleu:
Featured Cheese: Shropshire $18/lb - This cow's milk blue cheese from the United Kingdom is technically a cross between Stilton and Cheshire. The orange color comes from the addition of annatto, a natural food coloring. Shropshire, while generally creamier and less nutty than Stilton, is sometimes stronger. It is excellent on the cheese-board and is also very versatile in the kitchen; it makes fabulous soups and sauces. It is best accompanied by good English brown ale and/or a chardonnay
Thursday Night Beer Tasting - 5-8 p.m. - No Charge
George Whitehouse is the guardian of the brew - please join him in the cellar.
Friday April 7, 2006 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
A Salute to the 2003 Bordeaux's
The 2003 vintage has been getting a lot of attention -
Exceptional weather conditions have helped to produced some very exciting wines.
They are very rich and ripe and have superb structure. Please give these wines a try this Friday night.
Remember - the summer of 2003 in France was the hottest on record and it had a dramatic effect on the grapes.
1- Château Damase - Bordeaux Supérieur - $12
Deeply colored and scented with the fragrant smells of berries that have been infused with the subtle aroma of clean earth Château Damase embodies all the elegance and charm for which true Merlot and honest red Bordeaux Supérieur are justly famous. Smooth, elegant, and juicy, the Château Damase is charm personified. This uncomplicated wine slips down ever so easily, it begs for another sip, and then another, and then….well you get the picture. Consequently, you would be wise to have a second bottle on hand. Serve Château Damase at a cool room temperature and a little breathing time truly accentuates the charm as well as the flavor of this juicy claret. Enjoy!
2 - Chateau Cazenove - Bordeaux Superieur - $12
Awarded a Silver Medal from the "World Event" of Bruxelles, 2003. A beautiful deep ruby red wine, with fragrances of ripe black currents and raspberries. As of the first taste it asserts its fleshiness. In the second part of the tasting, the ripe and plump tannin really melts in the mouth. The aging in oak barrels during 12 months revealed the complexity of that vintage. The finish is long and round.
3 - Chateau Annereaux - $21
From Jean-Francois Narby's small estate next door to Pomerol. 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Franc aged in barrels - half of which are new each year - for between 12 and 18 months. The resulting wine is rich and rounded with generous berry fruit and oak flavors.
4 - Chateau Arney - $21
This will change the way that you think about Bordeaux in this price range. So rich, and so satisfying for the price that it is hard to imagine how it happened. And then you remember - Ahhhhh - it was the remarkable heat - the summer of "03". The daytime temperature at some of the Chateau's reached a staggering 120 degrees! Give this a try - you will be glad that you did - it is real bang for the dollar.
It has been a great week - lots of excitement and also a week of privilege.
Thank you for your support and for spreading the word.
We have been invited to participate in special events - like our trip to Boston - because you have made an impression on the professionals that visit our store. We constantly hear comments about the quality and interest of our customers. We appreciate it. And the best is yet to come.
Please join us. It's fun, informal and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
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