Wine, Cheese And Thou Beside Me
By Day Staff Writer
Editorial
Published on 6/26/2006 in Editorial » Editorial
Plaudits to Charlotte Hennegan and Fred Argilagos of Thames River Wine and Spirits Shop and Brie and Bleu. The two won an award from Connecticut Main Street for the imaginative ways in which they redesigned storefronts and a cellar on Bank Street.
The wine shop cellar resembles an old stone dungeon made handsome with outcrops of granite and wooden whiskey casks and wine bins used imaginatively, along with copper piping constructed as a rail on stairs leading to the basement.
The adjoining stores have helped create a new feeling along lower Bank Street. They join the rejuvenated Hygienic art gallery, with its attendant gardens and sculpture, and, next door, the Bulkeley House, which has an outdoor bar and restaurant deck alongside a grassy knoll with multiple tables.
The businesses and gallery are bringing life to Bank Street.
Monday, June 26, 2006
Main Street Award, Portrait of A City, Beer Me Daddy!, Palacio De Fefinanes, La Chasse Du Pape, Clos Roche Blanche, O'Shaughnessy Howell Mountain
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
• Congratulations to Joe Standart, his team and all of the people that helped to make his show:
Portrait of A City The New London Project - a huge success.
This is a "Big City Show" - and all of the hard work paid off - Bravo.
Friday night brought hundreds of people downtown. By 8:30 people were roaming from gallery to gallery, many had glasses of wine - live music was being performed on the sidewalks, parks and stages that surround us - It looked more like New Orleans than New London.
• Thanks to so many people for the kind words when we received Connecticut's Main Street Award - complete with an Official Statement signed by the Governor for "Best Adaptive Re-use of a Building" 2006. When is the last time the Governor of Connecticut honored a wine store - I mean officially? Somebody contact Wine Spectator or the Times! If this doesn't get us noticed - nothing will.
• Our Wine Dinner Series continues this Wednesday - at 6 p.m. - We look forward to seeing you there.
This week at Brie & Bleu - The featured cheese this week is a beautifully presented cheese - Fougerus usually at $25/lb this week it is $23/lb. This cheese belongs to the Brie group. Commercially it was produced at the beginning of 20th century. It is unpasteurized, soft-white cheese of disc shape with penicillin mould rind. This cheese is very similar in texture and taste to Coulommiers. It is supple and sweet and has a salty taste. Take an additional 10% off the cheese when paired with with Cotes du Rhone wine such as Parallele 45 from France and purchased at the same time from Thames River Wine & Spirits.
Beer Me Daddy! - Beer Tasting - Thursday June 29 - 5-8 p.m. - No Charge
This week Kristin is pouring 4 tasty beers that should bring a smile to your summer taste buds.
And if you happened to join us last week you know that the grill was fired up and the "Saw -Seech" was delicious.
Sausage and beer is a match made in heaven.
The Beer:
1 - Vermont - Otter Creek Wolavers Organic Wit Bier - $8./6pk
Soft, orangy citrus with a coriander kick.
2 - Pennsylvania - Victory-Hop Devil IPA - $8/6pk
This is a hoppy beast and true to its name. Practically the "King" in it's field.
3 - Vermont - Magic Hat Circus Boy - $8/6pk
Sweet and malty with flavors of honey and wheat.
4 - Colorado - Flying Dog - In Heat Wheat - $8/6pk
A fabulous German style Hefewiezen - a great summer beer please try it.
Wine Tasting - Friday June 30 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Palacio De Fefinanes Albarino - $19
This is a delicious white wine from Galicia. Peaches, melons, and a dash of mineral come to mind but you be the judge.
Great with salads, seafood, soft cheeses - please try it.
2 - La Chasse Du Pape - $12
Deep purple in color and an intense aroma of fruit. This is a spicy little number that has chalked up awards all over the place. Including with Robert Parker "87 points - a terrific value". You will enjoy serving this one with roasted meats and Mediterranean foods.
3 - Clos Roche Blanche - $12
Organic farming practices and very low yields help to make this a wine of exceptional character.
Only 200 cases imported - Juicy, spicy finish.
4 - O'Shaughnessy Howell Mountain Cabernet 2002 - $68 - rated 90 points WS
Hey this is a big wine. Wonderful fruit, harmony and finesse, this is simply a fun wine to drink. Ripe, rich and fleshy, it exhibits a tight beam of currant, black cherry and wild berry that's complex and concentrated, finishing with fine-grained tannins and a sense of authenticity.
We hope to see you this Friday.
Thanks for your support - and all of the comments and emails - we appreciate it.
Please join us. It's fun, informal and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463 - 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
• Congratulations to Joe Standart, his team and all of the people that helped to make his show:
Portrait of A City The New London Project - a huge success.
This is a "Big City Show" - and all of the hard work paid off - Bravo.
Friday night brought hundreds of people downtown. By 8:30 people were roaming from gallery to gallery, many had glasses of wine - live music was being performed on the sidewalks, parks and stages that surround us - It looked more like New Orleans than New London.
• Thanks to so many people for the kind words when we received Connecticut's Main Street Award - complete with an Official Statement signed by the Governor for "Best Adaptive Re-use of a Building" 2006. When is the last time the Governor of Connecticut honored a wine store - I mean officially? Somebody contact Wine Spectator or the Times! If this doesn't get us noticed - nothing will.
• Our Wine Dinner Series continues this Wednesday - at 6 p.m. - We look forward to seeing you there.
This week at Brie & Bleu - The featured cheese this week is a beautifully presented cheese - Fougerus usually at $25/lb this week it is $23/lb. This cheese belongs to the Brie group. Commercially it was produced at the beginning of 20th century. It is unpasteurized, soft-white cheese of disc shape with penicillin mould rind. This cheese is very similar in texture and taste to Coulommiers. It is supple and sweet and has a salty taste. Take an additional 10% off the cheese when paired with with Cotes du Rhone wine such as Parallele 45 from France and purchased at the same time from Thames River Wine & Spirits.
Beer Me Daddy! - Beer Tasting - Thursday June 29 - 5-8 p.m. - No Charge
This week Kristin is pouring 4 tasty beers that should bring a smile to your summer taste buds.
And if you happened to join us last week you know that the grill was fired up and the "Saw -Seech" was delicious.
Sausage and beer is a match made in heaven.
The Beer:
1 - Vermont - Otter Creek Wolavers Organic Wit Bier - $8./6pk
Soft, orangy citrus with a coriander kick.
2 - Pennsylvania - Victory-Hop Devil IPA - $8/6pk
This is a hoppy beast and true to its name. Practically the "King" in it's field.
3 - Vermont - Magic Hat Circus Boy - $8/6pk
Sweet and malty with flavors of honey and wheat.
4 - Colorado - Flying Dog - In Heat Wheat - $8/6pk
A fabulous German style Hefewiezen - a great summer beer please try it.
Wine Tasting - Friday June 30 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Palacio De Fefinanes Albarino - $19
This is a delicious white wine from Galicia. Peaches, melons, and a dash of mineral come to mind but you be the judge.
Great with salads, seafood, soft cheeses - please try it.
2 - La Chasse Du Pape - $12
Deep purple in color and an intense aroma of fruit. This is a spicy little number that has chalked up awards all over the place. Including with Robert Parker "87 points - a terrific value". You will enjoy serving this one with roasted meats and Mediterranean foods.
3 - Clos Roche Blanche - $12
Organic farming practices and very low yields help to make this a wine of exceptional character.
Only 200 cases imported - Juicy, spicy finish.
4 - O'Shaughnessy Howell Mountain Cabernet 2002 - $68 - rated 90 points WS
Hey this is a big wine. Wonderful fruit, harmony and finesse, this is simply a fun wine to drink. Ripe, rich and fleshy, it exhibits a tight beam of currant, black cherry and wild berry that's complex and concentrated, finishing with fine-grained tannins and a sense of authenticity.
We hope to see you this Friday.
Thanks for your support - and all of the comments and emails - we appreciate it.
Please join us. It's fun, informal and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Tuesday, June 20, 2006
Governor Jodi Rell Gives Honor To Thames River Wine & Spirits
NL Wine, Cheese Shops Honored With State Main Street Award
By Michelle Mileham, Special To The Day
Published on 6/20/2006 in Business » Business Local
New London — Thames River Wine and Spirits and Brie and Bleu, both located on Bank Street, were honored Monday night by Connecticut Main Street Center, a nonprofit organization that helps communities revitalize their downtowns.
At the organization's 10th annual meeting at the Crocker House, the two local businesses, both owned by Charlotte Hennegan and Fred Argilagos, received the award for Adaptive Re-use of a Building. Wine and Spirits and Brie and Bleu took over the building they occupy in 2004. It houses a two-story granite basement that has been turned into an upscale wine cellar. It was described by Penny Parsekian, executive director of New London Main Street, as having “a Tuscan atmosphere.”
“They (Hennegan and Argilagos) gave that location and that building a rebirth,” said John Simone, president and chief executive officer of Connecticut Main Street. “Wine and Spirits and Brie and Bleu helped downtown New London become great again.”
Before the meeting, Hennegan said she couldn't take all the credit for the revitalization of the building.
“It is thanks to the people who owned the building hundreds of years before us who didn't ruin such a great building,” Hennegan said. “I am very thankful for getting this award, which is a first for us.”
New London also received two awards Monday night, for Volunteer Recruitment Effort and Public Relations and Organizational Communications.
New London's Main Street Center is one of 35 such groups in Connecticut participating in the Main Street project. Connecticut Main Street is part of the National Main Street project, which encourages the preservation of historic districts across America and restoring prosperity to downtowns and neighborhood businesses.
By Michelle Mileham, Special To The Day
Published on 6/20/2006 in Business » Business Local
New London — Thames River Wine and Spirits and Brie and Bleu, both located on Bank Street, were honored Monday night by Connecticut Main Street Center, a nonprofit organization that helps communities revitalize their downtowns.
At the organization's 10th annual meeting at the Crocker House, the two local businesses, both owned by Charlotte Hennegan and Fred Argilagos, received the award for Adaptive Re-use of a Building. Wine and Spirits and Brie and Bleu took over the building they occupy in 2004. It houses a two-story granite basement that has been turned into an upscale wine cellar. It was described by Penny Parsekian, executive director of New London Main Street, as having “a Tuscan atmosphere.”
“They (Hennegan and Argilagos) gave that location and that building a rebirth,” said John Simone, president and chief executive officer of Connecticut Main Street. “Wine and Spirits and Brie and Bleu helped downtown New London become great again.”
Before the meeting, Hennegan said she couldn't take all the credit for the revitalization of the building.
“It is thanks to the people who owned the building hundreds of years before us who didn't ruin such a great building,” Hennegan said. “I am very thankful for getting this award, which is a first for us.”
New London also received two awards Monday night, for Volunteer Recruitment Effort and Public Relations and Organizational Communications.
New London's Main Street Center is one of 35 such groups in Connecticut participating in the Main Street project. Connecticut Main Street is part of the National Main Street project, which encourages the preservation of historic districts across America and restoring prosperity to downtowns and neighborhood businesses.
Monday, June 19, 2006
Grilling, New London Project, Copain Les Printemps, Castillo De Monseran, Clos De Los Siete, El Pundito
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
First -
• Lots of you took advantage of our No Delivery Charge for Father's Day on orders placed at Thames River Greenery - thank you.
We will offer it again - remember one call to The Greenery and wine, cheese, gourmet baskets, flowers, or any combination can be sent to friends, family and business associates - as easy as one - two - three. - 860-443-6817.
• We had so much fun at last weeks wine dinner that we have to say another thank you to all of the folks that joined us.
This season really has momentum to it. The wines were fabulous and Anne Haviland, Lisa Argilagos, Andrea Gonzales did an amazing job with the food. Thank you one and all for making it so much fun.
Much of the food was prepared on our new show-stopping stainless steel grill that sits proudly on the deck at Brie & Bleu.
The grilled shrimp appetizers and then the steaks were absolutely delicious. The grill makes a difference.
If you have ever wondered what 75,000 btu's can do to a slice of zucchini that has been seasoned and lightly brushed with virgin olive oil - please stop by - we will show you.
• Our friends at the French Circle have offered our customers the opportunity to join them on their next Food, Wine, and Cultural Journey.
This year there is a special visit to Chateauneuf du Pape. - This is your chance to be received like a diplomat and meet Frederick Jabolet - and tour one of the greatest vineyards in France. A private tasting with Frederick himself will be a highlight.
If you would like more information visit the website: http://www.aimexpobsl.com/frenchcircle/index.html - Or call -443-6129 or 608-8195.
• Do not miss The New London Project.
PORTRAIT OF A CITY: THE NEW LONDON PROJECT, A Public Art Exhibition and Event Collaboration between Joe Standart and the Arts Community of New London, Connecticut, invites the public to engage in an exhibition experience that celebrates and encourages the strength and uniqueness of New London and indeed all communities.
Live bands and refreshments at the citywide opening on Friday, June 23rd, 2006 at the following venues:
5:00 - 7:00pm ~ The Lyman Allyn Art Museum www.lymanallyn.org
6:00pm ~ Unveling of a 20ft. mural print on the facade of Union Station
6:00 - 8:00pm ~ Alva Gallery www.alvagallery.com
6:00 - 9:00pm ~ Golden Street Gallerywww.goldenstreetgallery.com
7:00 - 10:00pm ~ Hygienic Art Gallery and Art Park www.hygienic.org
At 5:00pm, that same evening, the Mystic Whaler will dock in the downtown harbor, bringing the Governor, and the Director of the Connecticut Commission on Culture & Tourism ashore along with other notables from the area.
For more information visit www.TheNewLondonProject.org
NEXT -
This week at Brie & Bleu - Our own Colleen McNerney has gotten her hands on a much requested favorite-
The featured cheese this week - It has returned ...Mirabo with walnuts a cow's milk cheese ususally $14/lb is $12/lb this week at Brie & Blue. Mirabo Walnut, a sophisticated soft ripened cheese, has been mastered by Kaserei Champignon of Bavaria, Germany. Its exclusive blossom shape, with find while mold, gives mirabo its unmistakable appearance. The pate of this cheese is a soft and creamy delight, and the finest crushed walnuts, speckled throughout, produce a wonderfully mild and nutty flavor. For an additional 10% off the cheese, purchase with fruity, full-scented white wine such as Vin Robles or a red such as Haymen Hill Pinot Noir.
BEER TASTING - Thursday June 22 - 5-8 p.m.
Regular fans will agree there has been a snag or two getting the weekly beer tasting back on track.
The Good News Is - Our own Kristin Weber has stepped up to the plate -
She has put together a fine list for Thursday AND will be taking over as the President of our Beer Division.
Kristin is also making plans to upgrade the beer tasting in signifacant ways - please ask her all about it on Thursday - There are BIG changes coming - including the introduction of food pairings.
1 - Lindemans Framboise $6/12oz. - http://www.merchantduvin.com/
Long before hops were common in most beers, various fruits and vegetables were used to season beers. The acidity of Lambic beers blends perfectly with raspberries. Lindemans lambics were introduced to the United States in 1979, making them the first lambics marketed in U. S. history. Incredible aroma, delicate raspberry with a lot of fruity acidity.
2 - Hoegaarden White Beer $9/6pk. - http://www.inbev.com/brands/2__0__0__legal.cfm
Hoegaarden Brewery (pronounced whogarden) was founded by Pierre Celis in Hoegaarden in Flanders (yes, the medieval village). The witbier (white beer) reached a revival period in the sixties when he created a beer with the traditional ingredients of water, yeast, wheat, hops, coriander and dried Curacao orange peel.
3 - Franziskaner Bavarian Wheat Beer $8/6pk. - http://www.franziskaner.com/
This is a Wheat Beer, brewed exclusively from alpine water, malt, yeast and hops according to the Bavarian Purity Law of 1516. This unfiltered Wheat Beer has a cloudy appearance. A crisp, distinctive, extremely refreshing taste with a hint of clove.
4 - McEwan's Scotch Ale $10/6pk. - http://www.scottish-newcastle.com/
Scotch ale, is much higher in gravity. It is often called "strong Scotch ale," or by its common nick-name of "Wee Heavy." It is very rich, strong, and sweet. A perfect desert beer.
WINE TASTING - Friday June 23 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Copain Les Printemps Rose - California- $15
We continue to feature one rose each week because too many people still have questions about it. The most common thing people say is: "I don't like sweet wine." All rose is not sweet. They are fantastic with food and should be a regular addition to your summer table - try it.
From Wells Guthrie’s top single-vineyard sources in Mendocino County, this is made from a saignée of 80% Pinot, 20% Syrah.
The wine is drained off the skins of the pinot and syrah at different times during cold soak once appropriate color has been achieved. It is then fermented in neutral barrels using “native yeasts.” It is bottled unfined and unfiltered.
2 - Castillo De Monseran - $7 - http://www.sanvalero.com
This is a wine that should always be on your shelf. It is very drinkable and the quality is amazing for the price. All of your friends will think you paid much more for it. Rich, ripe and spicy. Serve it with tomato and goat cheese salads or grilled meats. At this price you will want it by the case.
3 - Clos De Los Siete - $16 - Argentina - http://www.monteviejo.com/
These wine growers are lucky enough to not have to use pesticides, due to the very arid climate which prevents the development of grapevine diseases. But the great particularity of the Clos de los Siete is the process of winemaking using gravity. From pressing to bottling, and including the pouring of wine from vats to aging barrels, the entire process depends on gravity, using the weight of the raisin for downward movement in order to avoid using pumps. Deep color and smooth with lots of sweet vanillary oak. Blueberry and cassis. Supple with layers of chewy black fruits. There is a touch of green pepper underneath it all. Rich and hedonistic - superb for money.
4 - El Pundito - Rioja - $54 - Rated 95 points by WS.
This is the blockbuster for the week. Only 100 cases imported and we are lucky enough to have a good supply.
So thick it's almost syrupy, this red never loses its balance. Dense and thick, with blackberry, currant, mineral, dark chocolate and espresso flavors that build on each other through the long finish--yet it remains graceful and brings you back for another sip - and another, and another....
As you stroll around town on Friday for the art, music and food - stop in and give this a try.
Thanks for your support - we appreciate it.
Be sure to say hello when you stop in - we love to get your feed back.
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
Coming Soon: Import - 60 State Street
First -
• Lots of you took advantage of our No Delivery Charge for Father's Day on orders placed at Thames River Greenery - thank you.
We will offer it again - remember one call to The Greenery and wine, cheese, gourmet baskets, flowers, or any combination can be sent to friends, family and business associates - as easy as one - two - three. - 860-443-6817.
• We had so much fun at last weeks wine dinner that we have to say another thank you to all of the folks that joined us.
This season really has momentum to it. The wines were fabulous and Anne Haviland, Lisa Argilagos, Andrea Gonzales did an amazing job with the food. Thank you one and all for making it so much fun.
Much of the food was prepared on our new show-stopping stainless steel grill that sits proudly on the deck at Brie & Bleu.
The grilled shrimp appetizers and then the steaks were absolutely delicious. The grill makes a difference.
If you have ever wondered what 75,000 btu's can do to a slice of zucchini that has been seasoned and lightly brushed with virgin olive oil - please stop by - we will show you.
• Our friends at the French Circle have offered our customers the opportunity to join them on their next Food, Wine, and Cultural Journey.
This year there is a special visit to Chateauneuf du Pape. - This is your chance to be received like a diplomat and meet Frederick Jabolet - and tour one of the greatest vineyards in France. A private tasting with Frederick himself will be a highlight.
If you would like more information visit the website: http://www.aimexpobsl.com/frenchcircle/index.html - Or call -443-6129 or 608-8195.
• Do not miss The New London Project.
PORTRAIT OF A CITY: THE NEW LONDON PROJECT, A Public Art Exhibition and Event Collaboration between Joe Standart and the Arts Community of New London, Connecticut, invites the public to engage in an exhibition experience that celebrates and encourages the strength and uniqueness of New London and indeed all communities.
Live bands and refreshments at the citywide opening on Friday, June 23rd, 2006 at the following venues:
5:00 - 7:00pm ~ The Lyman Allyn Art Museum www.lymanallyn.org
6:00pm ~ Unveling of a 20ft. mural print on the facade of Union Station
6:00 - 8:00pm ~ Alva Gallery www.alvagallery.com
6:00 - 9:00pm ~ Golden Street Gallerywww.goldenstreetgallery.com
7:00 - 10:00pm ~ Hygienic Art Gallery and Art Park www.hygienic.org
At 5:00pm, that same evening, the Mystic Whaler will dock in the downtown harbor, bringing the Governor, and the Director of the Connecticut Commission on Culture & Tourism ashore along with other notables from the area.
For more information visit www.TheNewLondonProject.org
NEXT -
This week at Brie & Bleu - Our own Colleen McNerney has gotten her hands on a much requested favorite-
The featured cheese this week - It has returned ...Mirabo with walnuts a cow's milk cheese ususally $14/lb is $12/lb this week at Brie & Blue. Mirabo Walnut, a sophisticated soft ripened cheese, has been mastered by Kaserei Champignon of Bavaria, Germany. Its exclusive blossom shape, with find while mold, gives mirabo its unmistakable appearance. The pate of this cheese is a soft and creamy delight, and the finest crushed walnuts, speckled throughout, produce a wonderfully mild and nutty flavor. For an additional 10% off the cheese, purchase with fruity, full-scented white wine such as Vin Robles or a red such as Haymen Hill Pinot Noir.
BEER TASTING - Thursday June 22 - 5-8 p.m.
Regular fans will agree there has been a snag or two getting the weekly beer tasting back on track.
The Good News Is - Our own Kristin Weber has stepped up to the plate -
She has put together a fine list for Thursday AND will be taking over as the President of our Beer Division.
Kristin is also making plans to upgrade the beer tasting in signifacant ways - please ask her all about it on Thursday - There are BIG changes coming - including the introduction of food pairings.
1 - Lindemans Framboise $6/12oz. - http://www.merchantduvin.com/
Long before hops were common in most beers, various fruits and vegetables were used to season beers. The acidity of Lambic beers blends perfectly with raspberries. Lindemans lambics were introduced to the United States in 1979, making them the first lambics marketed in U. S. history. Incredible aroma, delicate raspberry with a lot of fruity acidity.
2 - Hoegaarden White Beer $9/6pk. - http://www.inbev.com/brands/2__0__0__legal.cfm
Hoegaarden Brewery (pronounced whogarden) was founded by Pierre Celis in Hoegaarden in Flanders (yes, the medieval village). The witbier (white beer) reached a revival period in the sixties when he created a beer with the traditional ingredients of water, yeast, wheat, hops, coriander and dried Curacao orange peel.
3 - Franziskaner Bavarian Wheat Beer $8/6pk. - http://www.franziskaner.com/
This is a Wheat Beer, brewed exclusively from alpine water, malt, yeast and hops according to the Bavarian Purity Law of 1516. This unfiltered Wheat Beer has a cloudy appearance. A crisp, distinctive, extremely refreshing taste with a hint of clove.
4 - McEwan's Scotch Ale $10/6pk. - http://www.scottish-newcastle.com/
Scotch ale, is much higher in gravity. It is often called "strong Scotch ale," or by its common nick-name of "Wee Heavy." It is very rich, strong, and sweet. A perfect desert beer.
WINE TASTING - Friday June 23 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Copain Les Printemps Rose - California- $15
We continue to feature one rose each week because too many people still have questions about it. The most common thing people say is: "I don't like sweet wine." All rose is not sweet. They are fantastic with food and should be a regular addition to your summer table - try it.
From Wells Guthrie’s top single-vineyard sources in Mendocino County, this is made from a saignée of 80% Pinot, 20% Syrah.
The wine is drained off the skins of the pinot and syrah at different times during cold soak once appropriate color has been achieved. It is then fermented in neutral barrels using “native yeasts.” It is bottled unfined and unfiltered.
2 - Castillo De Monseran - $7 - http://www.sanvalero.com
This is a wine that should always be on your shelf. It is very drinkable and the quality is amazing for the price. All of your friends will think you paid much more for it. Rich, ripe and spicy. Serve it with tomato and goat cheese salads or grilled meats. At this price you will want it by the case.
3 - Clos De Los Siete - $16 - Argentina - http://www.monteviejo.com/
These wine growers are lucky enough to not have to use pesticides, due to the very arid climate which prevents the development of grapevine diseases. But the great particularity of the Clos de los Siete is the process of winemaking using gravity. From pressing to bottling, and including the pouring of wine from vats to aging barrels, the entire process depends on gravity, using the weight of the raisin for downward movement in order to avoid using pumps. Deep color and smooth with lots of sweet vanillary oak. Blueberry and cassis. Supple with layers of chewy black fruits. There is a touch of green pepper underneath it all. Rich and hedonistic - superb for money.
4 - El Pundito - Rioja - $54 - Rated 95 points by WS.
This is the blockbuster for the week. Only 100 cases imported and we are lucky enough to have a good supply.
So thick it's almost syrupy, this red never loses its balance. Dense and thick, with blackberry, currant, mineral, dark chocolate and espresso flavors that build on each other through the long finish--yet it remains graceful and brings you back for another sip - and another, and another....
As you stroll around town on Friday for the art, music and food - stop in and give this a try.
Thanks for your support - we appreciate it.
Be sure to say hello when you stop in - we love to get your feed back.
Please join us. It's fun, informal and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Monday, June 12, 2006
Father's Day, Old Chatham, Varaschin Prosecco, Domain Ferret Pouilly-Fuisse, Parker Station, Klinker Brick
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
Brie & Bleu: http://www.brieandbleu.com/
Blog: http://newlondonwine.blogspot.com/
Wines for Friday are listed below the news and information and highlighted in RED.
First a couple of news iems -
• There is a new face at the wine store - Please give a warm TRW&S welcome to Kristin Webers.
Apparently no relation the Weber Grill empire - but she does travel with her own spatula - perhaps I've said too much already.
Kristin is eager to meet our friends and customers - please say hello to her the next time you stop in.
• Update from Oregon - President Emeritus of our Beer Division Jorgé Casablanca has finally made it to Portland.
Many of you know he was delayed in Chicago when he stopped at the Museum of Fine Art and was tapped to help local authorities solve a problem with a Belgian Monk and the disappearance of a Bacchanalian Codec with an ancient beer recipe.
Seriously, we hope that George will report on the food and beer scene from Portland - as soon as he pulls himself together.
• Our first dinner series of the season is filling up. Please take a look at the menus and dates on the calendar of events page.
If you see something you like - call. ALSO we have a big surprise for you out on the deck at Brie & Bleu - be sure to take a peek.
• How many of you stand with your siblings right in front of your aging father and say - "So, what are we going to do with Pop?"
Don't forget that this Sunday is Father's Day - we have several great gift ideas. AND we will deliver them without charge when you place the order with us at Thames River Greenery. Wine - Spirits - Food - Themed Gift Baskets (golfer - fishing, etc.) - please call early for timely deliveries.
860-443-6817 - www.thamesriver.com
Thanks so much to everyone for your support - we love the emails & calls.
It is your input that makes us special, we could not do it without you.
This Week At Brie & Bleu - www.brieandbleu.com
The featured cheese this week is Hudson Valley Camembert a soft ripened cheese made in Old Chatham, New York by the Old Chatham Sheepherding Company. The sheepherding company has the largest flock of dairy sheep in the country to date with 1200 sheep. The animals graze openly on sprawling green pastures in the Hudson Valley. This award winning bloomy, soft-ripened, camembert style cheese is made with a combination of Old Chatham's sheep milk and BGH free cow's milk from a neighboring herd. The cheese comes in a unique square shape. The creamy pate gives way to clean flavors by balancing the two milks, leaving behind mellow, soft flavors for a lush, buttery finish on the palate.
The cheese is usually $8 a square but this week $6.
Pair with a nice Chardonnay such as Silverstone or a Pinot Noir such as Hayman Hill Pinot Noir - Take an additional 10% off the cheese when purchased at the same time as the wines - from Thames River Wine and Spirits.
This Thursday - Beer Tasting & Food Paring - 5-8 p.m. - No Charge
See you there!
FRIDAY - WINE TASTING PLEASE JOIN US - Friday June 16 - 6-9 p.m. No Charge
1 - Varaschin Prosecco Brut Rosé - $12
Varaschin's wine-firm was founded in S. Pietro di Barbozza around 1930 by Matteo Varaschin.
This is a Brut Rosé - We have been drinking this for 3 or 4 Sundays in a row now. Just like the Nino Franco Prosecco it is a great bottle to open as you grab that cook book off of the shelf or tear the recipie out of the magazine section at a quarter to twelve. It gets the juices going - and allows you to come up with a plan for the rest of the day. It is great with food. It is aromatic and elegant with soft floral and fruit notes - It is NOT a bottle of sweet fizzy wine - I promise.
2 - Domain Ferret Pouilly-Fuisse - $30
The Ferret family began the domaine in 1760 - they have a lot of practice producing good wine and this is one of their favorites. Our summer menus include a lot of seafood and lighter fare and this is a perfect choice to pair with them. If your lucky enough to be invited to one of those lush garden parties - the kind where everyone is laughing, people are wearing shoes without socks, and the air is filled with the sounds of summer - the hosts are probably serving a wine just like this. Delicious with moderately concentrated baked apple and vanilla flavors and a soft mineral finish - accept our invitation - please give this one a try
3 - Parker Station Pinot Noir - $14 - http://www.fessparker.com/index.htm
Do any of you remember Fess Parker - he played Davy Crockett on TV way back when in the late fifties and early sixties.
He also appeared in about 35 other movies and was a favorite of Walt Disney - Well Fess did not spend all his pay on saloon girls and cheap whiskey - he would never drink cheap whiskey. Instead he started making wine. This is what Robert Parker said recently about the wines:
“…no one has better vineyards or has pumped more money into specific terroirs than Fess Parker.
The quality of his wines goes from strength to strength, yet they remain realistically priced. Consumers take note. Fess Parker and his winemaking team (son, Eli, leads the pack) continue to raise the quality to impressive levels." Robert Parker, Jr.
So, join us on Friday and give this one a try - wear your coon skin hat if you can find it.
4 - Klinker Brick - $18 - http://www.klinkerbrickwinery.com
It is hardly a secret that the most rich, intense and multi-dimensional zinfandel tends to be produced from “Old Vines”, vines that are at least 50 years old. “Old Vines”, also known as Ancient Vines, Gnarly vines, Old Timer Vines, Old World Vines or Old Twisted Vines are in decline, mature in age, with low vigor. They tend to have fewer clusters of grapes with smaller berry size, yielding more intense sugars, color and concentration of flavors, producing wines that are generally better balanced with more body and structure. This wine is a perfect example. This wine resembles a French Syrah with ripe berry aromas with chocolate overtones. This wine has excellent balance and a smooth, lingering finish. - If your a fan of that friendly, smooth, approachable "Zin" character - try this. Oh yeah, remember, if you can find that old vine-skin hat please wear it to the tasting.
Thank you all for making it so much fun. We have a big summer season planned and we will keep you posted along the way. Remember, we update the calendar of events often - so check it often for changes.
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
Brie & Bleu: http://www.brieandbleu.com/
Blog: http://newlondonwine.blogspot.com/
Wines for Friday are listed below the news and information and highlighted in RED.
First a couple of news iems -
• There is a new face at the wine store - Please give a warm TRW&S welcome to Kristin Webers.
Apparently no relation the Weber Grill empire - but she does travel with her own spatula - perhaps I've said too much already.
Kristin is eager to meet our friends and customers - please say hello to her the next time you stop in.
• Update from Oregon - President Emeritus of our Beer Division Jorgé Casablanca has finally made it to Portland.
Many of you know he was delayed in Chicago when he stopped at the Museum of Fine Art and was tapped to help local authorities solve a problem with a Belgian Monk and the disappearance of a Bacchanalian Codec with an ancient beer recipe.
Seriously, we hope that George will report on the food and beer scene from Portland - as soon as he pulls himself together.
• Our first dinner series of the season is filling up. Please take a look at the menus and dates on the calendar of events page.
If you see something you like - call. ALSO we have a big surprise for you out on the deck at Brie & Bleu - be sure to take a peek.
• How many of you stand with your siblings right in front of your aging father and say - "So, what are we going to do with Pop?"
Don't forget that this Sunday is Father's Day - we have several great gift ideas. AND we will deliver them without charge when you place the order with us at Thames River Greenery. Wine - Spirits - Food - Themed Gift Baskets (golfer - fishing, etc.) - please call early for timely deliveries.
860-443-6817 - www.thamesriver.com
Thanks so much to everyone for your support - we love the emails & calls.
It is your input that makes us special, we could not do it without you.
This Week At Brie & Bleu - www.brieandbleu.com
The featured cheese this week is Hudson Valley Camembert a soft ripened cheese made in Old Chatham, New York by the Old Chatham Sheepherding Company. The sheepherding company has the largest flock of dairy sheep in the country to date with 1200 sheep. The animals graze openly on sprawling green pastures in the Hudson Valley. This award winning bloomy, soft-ripened, camembert style cheese is made with a combination of Old Chatham's sheep milk and BGH free cow's milk from a neighboring herd. The cheese comes in a unique square shape. The creamy pate gives way to clean flavors by balancing the two milks, leaving behind mellow, soft flavors for a lush, buttery finish on the palate.
The cheese is usually $8 a square but this week $6.
Pair with a nice Chardonnay such as Silverstone or a Pinot Noir such as Hayman Hill Pinot Noir - Take an additional 10% off the cheese when purchased at the same time as the wines - from Thames River Wine and Spirits.
This Thursday - Beer Tasting & Food Paring - 5-8 p.m. - No Charge
See you there!
FRIDAY - WINE TASTING PLEASE JOIN US - Friday June 16 - 6-9 p.m. No Charge
1 - Varaschin Prosecco Brut Rosé - $12
Varaschin's wine-firm was founded in S. Pietro di Barbozza around 1930 by Matteo Varaschin.
This is a Brut Rosé - We have been drinking this for 3 or 4 Sundays in a row now. Just like the Nino Franco Prosecco it is a great bottle to open as you grab that cook book off of the shelf or tear the recipie out of the magazine section at a quarter to twelve. It gets the juices going - and allows you to come up with a plan for the rest of the day. It is great with food. It is aromatic and elegant with soft floral and fruit notes - It is NOT a bottle of sweet fizzy wine - I promise.
2 - Domain Ferret Pouilly-Fuisse - $30
The Ferret family began the domaine in 1760 - they have a lot of practice producing good wine and this is one of their favorites. Our summer menus include a lot of seafood and lighter fare and this is a perfect choice to pair with them. If your lucky enough to be invited to one of those lush garden parties - the kind where everyone is laughing, people are wearing shoes without socks, and the air is filled with the sounds of summer - the hosts are probably serving a wine just like this. Delicious with moderately concentrated baked apple and vanilla flavors and a soft mineral finish - accept our invitation - please give this one a try
3 - Parker Station Pinot Noir - $14 - http://www.fessparker.com/index.htm
Do any of you remember Fess Parker - he played Davy Crockett on TV way back when in the late fifties and early sixties.
He also appeared in about 35 other movies and was a favorite of Walt Disney - Well Fess did not spend all his pay on saloon girls and cheap whiskey - he would never drink cheap whiskey. Instead he started making wine. This is what Robert Parker said recently about the wines:
“…no one has better vineyards or has pumped more money into specific terroirs than Fess Parker.
The quality of his wines goes from strength to strength, yet they remain realistically priced. Consumers take note. Fess Parker and his winemaking team (son, Eli, leads the pack) continue to raise the quality to impressive levels." Robert Parker, Jr.
So, join us on Friday and give this one a try - wear your coon skin hat if you can find it.
4 - Klinker Brick - $18 - http://www.klinkerbrickwinery.com
It is hardly a secret that the most rich, intense and multi-dimensional zinfandel tends to be produced from “Old Vines”, vines that are at least 50 years old. “Old Vines”, also known as Ancient Vines, Gnarly vines, Old Timer Vines, Old World Vines or Old Twisted Vines are in decline, mature in age, with low vigor. They tend to have fewer clusters of grapes with smaller berry size, yielding more intense sugars, color and concentration of flavors, producing wines that are generally better balanced with more body and structure. This wine is a perfect example. This wine resembles a French Syrah with ripe berry aromas with chocolate overtones. This wine has excellent balance and a smooth, lingering finish. - If your a fan of that friendly, smooth, approachable "Zin" character - try this. Oh yeah, remember, if you can find that old vine-skin hat please wear it to the tasting.
Thank you all for making it so much fun. We have a big summer season planned and we will keep you posted along the way. Remember, we update the calendar of events often - so check it often for changes.
Please Join Us - It's fun, informal and a great way to learn about wine.
AAA.
Monday, June 05, 2006
The New London Project, Domaine Houchart, Hayman Hill Pinot Noir, Vincent Morgon Cru Du Beaujolais, Norman Vineyards "The Monster"
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
First -
Thanks to everyone that attended our our little féte on the deck at Brie & Bleu on Sunday.
The guest of honor was a man that has been living in the Casbah in Marrakesh for almost 30 years.
The scene was like a gathering of the "beat poets" back in the day.
Next -
Remember that our Summer Dinner Series is on the books -
Check our calendar of events page for menu details and dates.
Also -
It is not too early to mark your calendars for Friday June 23, 2006
for The New London Project -
Joe Standart’s life-size to 20ft. mural-sized portraits of New Londoner’s will transform downtown New London’s museum, galleries, and public spaces, immersing the city’s downtown district in a vibrant photography exhibition throughout the summer of 2006. The exhibition also includes photographs by New London High School’s students.
Live bands and refreshments at the citywide opening on Friday, June 23rd, 2006 at the following venues:
5:00 - 7:00pm ~ The Lyman Allyn Art Museum www.lymanallyn.org
6:00pm ~ Unveling of a 20ft. mural print on the facade of Union Station
6:00 - 8:00pm ~ Alva Gallery www.alvagallery.com
6:00 - 9:00pm ~ Golden Street Gallerywww.goldenstreetgallery.com
7:00 - 10:00pm ~ Hygienic Art Gallery and Art Park www.hygienic.org
Now -
This week at Brie & Bleu- Remember the new menu is in full swing and here is the featured item for this week:
Saint Nectaire at $12/lb is $10/lb this week at Brie & Bleu. This cheese from Auvergne takes its name from Sainte Nectaire, a small mountain village named for the 17th century leading family, Sennecterre. Made from pasteurized cow's milk and traditional rennet, the cheese is mild and fruity with a soft, meaty texture with occasional tiny eyes. A whole cheese is about 8 inches in diameter and weighs about 4lbs. The rind is pale pink with a covering of pale gray mold. St. Nectaire is in the washed-rind category of cheese, yet is almost the opposite of Limburger cheese which you will also taste in this shipment. If you are yearning for a creamy, milky cheese, St. Nectaire is the perfect cheese. It goes extremely well with many things including fruits, raw vegetables, olives, bread and salami. For an additional 10% off the cheese purchase wines that pair well with the St. Nectaire such as Rutz Pinot Noir or Turnbull Sauvignon Blanc.
WINE TASTING Friday June 9 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Domaine Houchart - $9 - www.jeromequiot.com
This wine exhibits fruity and floral notes, good structure in the mouthfor a great combination with food. Freshness and good acidity for this dry rose. Domaine Houchart is today owned by Geneviève, the wife of Jérôme Quiot, having been originally acquired by her grand-father. During the period the 1850's, Aurélien Houchart was an energic proprietor and negociant in wine, and created one of the largest domains in Provence. This domain has been farmed since Roman times, when it must have been a "Villa", patrician home of the period, some distance away from the "Via Aurelia". Amongst the friends of Aurélien Houchart was the famous painter Paul Cézanne, who frequently came to visit.
2 - Hayman Hill Pinot Noir - $14
With aromas of red berry fruit, hints of cinnamon, vanilla, and deliciously curing beef, flavors give way to a long, silky finish.
This is just great wine at a great price. Full of darker black cherry flavors, blackberry and spice with a little oak flavor.
Very polished and smooth.
3 - Vincent Morgon Cru Du Beaujolais - $19
A pretty region just south of Burgundy, Beaujolais makes fresh, fruity but sometimes rather simple red wines from the Gamay grape. Quite deep colored. There’s an attractive meaty, spicy edge to the cherry and raspberry fruit on the nose. Savoury, firm palate shows good acidity and some tannin. A satisfying wine that is perfect with food.
4 - Norman Vineyards "The Monster" Zinfandel - $21 - http://www.normanvineyards.com/
This is one of our most asked about "Zins". True to its name, this deep and complex wine has ripe and jammy aromas of raspberry and black fruit, with spicy notes of molasses and licorice. Full-bodied and loaded with berry and chocolate flavors, it has a silky mouth-feel and a lingering finish of tar and pepper. Perfect with roast leg-of-lamb and Asian or Latin cuisine. Be sure to try this one.
Thanks to everyone for their support and comments during the week - we appreciate it.
Please join us.
It is 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
First -
Thanks to everyone that attended our our little féte on the deck at Brie & Bleu on Sunday.
The guest of honor was a man that has been living in the Casbah in Marrakesh for almost 30 years.
The scene was like a gathering of the "beat poets" back in the day.
Next -
Remember that our Summer Dinner Series is on the books -
Check our calendar of events page for menu details and dates.
Also -
It is not too early to mark your calendars for Friday June 23, 2006
for The New London Project -
Joe Standart’s life-size to 20ft. mural-sized portraits of New Londoner’s will transform downtown New London’s museum, galleries, and public spaces, immersing the city’s downtown district in a vibrant photography exhibition throughout the summer of 2006. The exhibition also includes photographs by New London High School’s students.
Live bands and refreshments at the citywide opening on Friday, June 23rd, 2006 at the following venues:
5:00 - 7:00pm ~ The Lyman Allyn Art Museum www.lymanallyn.org
6:00pm ~ Unveling of a 20ft. mural print on the facade of Union Station
6:00 - 8:00pm ~ Alva Gallery www.alvagallery.com
6:00 - 9:00pm ~ Golden Street Gallerywww.goldenstreetgallery.com
7:00 - 10:00pm ~ Hygienic Art Gallery and Art Park www.hygienic.org
Now -
This week at Brie & Bleu- Remember the new menu is in full swing and here is the featured item for this week:
Saint Nectaire at $12/lb is $10/lb this week at Brie & Bleu. This cheese from Auvergne takes its name from Sainte Nectaire, a small mountain village named for the 17th century leading family, Sennecterre. Made from pasteurized cow's milk and traditional rennet, the cheese is mild and fruity with a soft, meaty texture with occasional tiny eyes. A whole cheese is about 8 inches in diameter and weighs about 4lbs. The rind is pale pink with a covering of pale gray mold. St. Nectaire is in the washed-rind category of cheese, yet is almost the opposite of Limburger cheese which you will also taste in this shipment. If you are yearning for a creamy, milky cheese, St. Nectaire is the perfect cheese. It goes extremely well with many things including fruits, raw vegetables, olives, bread and salami. For an additional 10% off the cheese purchase wines that pair well with the St. Nectaire such as Rutz Pinot Noir or Turnbull Sauvignon Blanc.
WINE TASTING Friday June 9 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Domaine Houchart - $9 - www.jeromequiot.com
This wine exhibits fruity and floral notes, good structure in the mouthfor a great combination with food. Freshness and good acidity for this dry rose. Domaine Houchart is today owned by Geneviève, the wife of Jérôme Quiot, having been originally acquired by her grand-father. During the period the 1850's, Aurélien Houchart was an energic proprietor and negociant in wine, and created one of the largest domains in Provence. This domain has been farmed since Roman times, when it must have been a "Villa", patrician home of the period, some distance away from the "Via Aurelia". Amongst the friends of Aurélien Houchart was the famous painter Paul Cézanne, who frequently came to visit.
2 - Hayman Hill Pinot Noir - $14
With aromas of red berry fruit, hints of cinnamon, vanilla, and deliciously curing beef, flavors give way to a long, silky finish.
This is just great wine at a great price. Full of darker black cherry flavors, blackberry and spice with a little oak flavor.
Very polished and smooth.
3 - Vincent Morgon Cru Du Beaujolais - $19
A pretty region just south of Burgundy, Beaujolais makes fresh, fruity but sometimes rather simple red wines from the Gamay grape. Quite deep colored. There’s an attractive meaty, spicy edge to the cherry and raspberry fruit on the nose. Savoury, firm palate shows good acidity and some tannin. A satisfying wine that is perfect with food.
4 - Norman Vineyards "The Monster" Zinfandel - $21 - http://www.normanvineyards.com/
This is one of our most asked about "Zins". True to its name, this deep and complex wine has ripe and jammy aromas of raspberry and black fruit, with spicy notes of molasses and licorice. Full-bodied and loaded with berry and chocolate flavors, it has a silky mouth-feel and a lingering finish of tar and pepper. Perfect with roast leg-of-lamb and Asian or Latin cuisine. Be sure to try this one.
Thanks to everyone for their support and comments during the week - we appreciate it.
Please join us.
It is fun, informal and a great way to learn about wine.
AAA.
The New London Project, Domaine Houchart, Hayman Hill Pinot Noir, Vincent Morgon Cru Du Beaujolais, Norman Vineyards "The Monster"
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
First -
Thanks to everyone that attended our our little féte on the deck at Brie & Bleu on Sunday.
The guest of honor was a man that has been living in the Casbah in Marrakesh for almost 30 years.
The scene was like a gathering of the "beat poets" back in the day.
Next -
Remember that our Summer Dinner Series is on the books -
Check our calendar of events page for menu details and dates.
Also -
It is not too early to mark your calendars for Friday June 23, 2006
for The New London Project -
Joe Standart’s life-size to 20ft. mural-sized portraits of New Londoner’s will transform downtown New London’s museum, galleries, and public spaces, immersing the city’s downtown district in a vibrant photography exhibition throughout the summer of 2006. The exhibition also includes photographs by New London High School’s students.
Live bands and refreshments at the citywide opening on Friday, June 23rd, 2006 at the following venues:
5:00 - 7:00pm ~ The Lyman Allyn Art Museum www.lymanallyn.org
6:00pm ~ Unveling of a 20ft. mural print on the facade of Union Station
6:00 - 8:00pm ~ Alva Gallery www.alvagallery.com
6:00 - 9:00pm ~ Golden Street Gallerywww.goldenstreetgallery.com
7:00 - 10:00pm ~ Hygienic Art Gallery and Art Park www.hygienic.org
Now -
This week at Brie & Bleu- Remember the new menu is in full swing and here is the featured item for this week:
Saint Nectaire at $12/lb is $10/lb this week at Brie & Bleu. This cheese from Auvergne takes its name from Sainte Nectaire, a small mountain village named for the 17th century leading family, Sennecterre. Made from pasteurized cow's milk and traditional rennet, the cheese is mild and fruity with a soft, meaty texture with occasional tiny eyes. A whole cheese is about 8 inches in diameter and weighs about 4lbs. The rind is pale pink with a covering of pale gray mold. St. Nectaire is in the washed-rind category of cheese, yet is almost the opposite of Limburger cheese which you will also taste in this shipment. If you are yearning for a creamy, milky cheese, St. Nectaire is the perfect cheese. It goes extremely well with many things including fruits, raw vegetables, olives, bread and salami. For an additional 10% off the cheese purchase wines that pair well with the St. Nectaire such as Rutz Pinot Noir or Turnbull Sauvignon Blanc.
WINE TASTING Friday June 9 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Domaine Houchart - $9 - www.jeromequiot.com
This wine exhibits fruity and floral notes, good structure in the mouthfor a great combination with food. Freshness and good acidity for this dry rose. Domaine Houchart is today owned by Geneviève, the wife of Jérôme Quiot, having been originally acquired by her grand-father. During the period the 1850's, Aurélien Houchart was an energic proprietor and negociant in wine, and created one of the largest domains in Provence. This domain has been farmed since Roman times, when it must have been a "Villa", patrician home of the period, some distance away from the "Via Aurelia". Amongst the friends of Aurélien Houchart was the famous painter Paul Cézanne, who frequently came to visit.
2 - Hayman Hill Pinot Noir - $14
With aromas of red berry fruit, hints of cinnamon, vanilla, and deliciously curing beef, flavors give way to a long, silky finish.
This is just great wine at a great price. Full of darker black cherry flavors, blackberry and spice with a little oak flavor.
Very polished and smooth.
3 - Vincent Morgon Cru Du Beaujolais - $19
A pretty region just south of Burgundy, Beaujolais makes fresh, fruity but sometimes rather simple red wines from the Gamay grape. Quite deep colored. There’s an attractive meaty, spicy edge to the cherry and raspberry fruit on the nose. Savoury, firm palate shows good acidity and some tannin. A satisfying wine that is perfect with food.
4 - Norman Vineyards "The Monster" Zinfandel - $21 - http://www.normanvineyards.com/
This is one of our most asked about "Zins". True to its name, this deep and complex wine has ripe and jammy aromas of raspberry and black fruit, with spicy notes of molasses and licorice. Full-bodied and loaded with berry and chocolate flavors, it has a silky mouth-feel and a lingering finish of tar and pepper. Perfect with roast leg-of-lamb and Asian or Latin cuisine. Be sure to try this one.
Thanks to everyone for their support and comments during the week - we appreciate it.
Please join us.
It is 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
First -
Thanks to everyone that attended our our little féte on the deck at Brie & Bleu on Sunday.
The guest of honor was a man that has been living in the Casbah in Marrakesh for almost 30 years.
The scene was like a gathering of the "beat poets" back in the day.
Next -
Remember that our Summer Dinner Series is on the books -
Check our calendar of events page for menu details and dates.
Also -
It is not too early to mark your calendars for Friday June 23, 2006
for The New London Project -
Joe Standart’s life-size to 20ft. mural-sized portraits of New Londoner’s will transform downtown New London’s museum, galleries, and public spaces, immersing the city’s downtown district in a vibrant photography exhibition throughout the summer of 2006. The exhibition also includes photographs by New London High School’s students.
Live bands and refreshments at the citywide opening on Friday, June 23rd, 2006 at the following venues:
5:00 - 7:00pm ~ The Lyman Allyn Art Museum www.lymanallyn.org
6:00pm ~ Unveling of a 20ft. mural print on the facade of Union Station
6:00 - 8:00pm ~ Alva Gallery www.alvagallery.com
6:00 - 9:00pm ~ Golden Street Gallerywww.goldenstreetgallery.com
7:00 - 10:00pm ~ Hygienic Art Gallery and Art Park www.hygienic.org
Now -
This week at Brie & Bleu- Remember the new menu is in full swing and here is the featured item for this week:
Saint Nectaire at $12/lb is $10/lb this week at Brie & Bleu. This cheese from Auvergne takes its name from Sainte Nectaire, a small mountain village named for the 17th century leading family, Sennecterre. Made from pasteurized cow's milk and traditional rennet, the cheese is mild and fruity with a soft, meaty texture with occasional tiny eyes. A whole cheese is about 8 inches in diameter and weighs about 4lbs. The rind is pale pink with a covering of pale gray mold. St. Nectaire is in the washed-rind category of cheese, yet is almost the opposite of Limburger cheese which you will also taste in this shipment. If you are yearning for a creamy, milky cheese, St. Nectaire is the perfect cheese. It goes extremely well with many things including fruits, raw vegetables, olives, bread and salami. For an additional 10% off the cheese purchase wines that pair well with the St. Nectaire such as Rutz Pinot Noir or Turnbull Sauvignon Blanc.
WINE TASTING Friday June 9 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Domaine Houchart - $9 - www.jeromequiot.com
This wine exhibits fruity and floral notes, good structure in the mouthfor a great combination with food. Freshness and good acidity for this dry rose. Domaine Houchart is today owned by Geneviève, the wife of Jérôme Quiot, having been originally acquired by her grand-father. During the period the 1850's, Aurélien Houchart was an energic proprietor and negociant in wine, and created one of the largest domains in Provence. This domain has been farmed since Roman times, when it must have been a "Villa", patrician home of the period, some distance away from the "Via Aurelia". Amongst the friends of Aurélien Houchart was the famous painter Paul Cézanne, who frequently came to visit.
2 - Hayman Hill Pinot Noir - $14
With aromas of red berry fruit, hints of cinnamon, vanilla, and deliciously curing beef, flavors give way to a long, silky finish.
This is just great wine at a great price. Full of darker black cherry flavors, blackberry and spice with a little oak flavor.
Very polished and smooth.
3 - Vincent Morgon Cru Du Beaujolais - $19
A pretty region just south of Burgundy, Beaujolais makes fresh, fruity but sometimes rather simple red wines from the Gamay grape. Quite deep colored. There’s an attractive meaty, spicy edge to the cherry and raspberry fruit on the nose. Savoury, firm palate shows good acidity and some tannin. A satisfying wine that is perfect with food.
4 - Norman Vineyards "The Monster" Zinfandel - $21 - http://www.normanvineyards.com/
This is one of our most asked about "Zins". True to its name, this deep and complex wine has ripe and jammy aromas of raspberry and black fruit, with spicy notes of molasses and licorice. Full-bodied and loaded with berry and chocolate flavors, it has a silky mouth-feel and a lingering finish of tar and pepper. Perfect with roast leg-of-lamb and Asian or Latin cuisine. Be sure to try this one.
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