Greetings From New London -
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463 - 84 Bank Street
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817 - 70 State Street
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474 - 84 Bank Street
Now Open: Import - 60 State Street
www.thamesriver.com
From the mailbag this week here is a particular favorite:
Dear TRW&S,
My Dad doesn't know Shiraz from Shinola. He doesn't even know his Alsace from his Elbow.
We can't take him anywhere. Can you help?
Hopefully,
C.B.Vincent
Thank goodness we got to these people in time.
Of course we can help - our weekly wine tasting is the perfect way to introduce your friends, family and even dear old dad to all the wines of the world. It's fun, informal and a great way to start your weekend.
We have a great line up of wine for this weekend - the details are listed below.
First a few items of interest:
• Thanks to everyone that attended the dinner last Wednesday - Authors, artists, personalities of all kinds - Thanks for making it so much fun.
• Thanks to Elan Magazine for the great article in the current issue - Fall 2006 - see it here: www.shorepublishing.com
• Cognac and Cigars Tuesday September 5 - 6 p.m. - On the deck at Brie & Bleu - this is a very popular night. Enjoy a light menu of appetizers, a selection of world famous cognac and fine cigars. Ladies, don't be bashful - Please call to reserve. $35 plus tax - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3.
• Our list of September Dinners is now up and reservations are being accepted. Check the calendar of events page for details.
• If you close your eyes and step through the door of Xocolatl at 140 State Street you just might forget where you are. Xocolatl the new Chocolate Café is amazing. This is the perfect place to visit after dinner or a show or anytime you need a chocolate "fix."
• Welcome to our new neighbors! Flavours of Life, the Fair Trade Store on Bank Street, will be moving to their new location at 84 Bank Street. Saturday September 2 - Fair Trade is an international movement which makes sure that Third World artists, artisans and farmers get a fair price for their work on international markets. Flavours of Life, owned by Marcie Boyer, sells exotic, handmade, fair-trade goods from all around the world.
Art, crafts, clothing , jewelry and organic foods (coffee,tea,chocoalte,rice and sugar).
This Week At Brie & Bleu -
Our Cheese Monger Colleen McNerney has selected a cheese this week that has caused quite a commotion at the store.
There is an italian import company named - Cilento and they supply us with this amazing "Mozzarella di Bufala Campana"
This Buffalo Mozzarella is so good that the employees in the store are fighting over the samples! Please try it.
This is what Colleen has to say about it:
Buffalo Mozzarella is the cheese of the week at $5 a packet. Mozzarella, a delicate and mild, milky cheese is soft to semi-soft. Great accompaniments are: Olives; tomatoes; roasted red peppers; crusty bread. It is served best this time a year with fresh tomatoes from the garden - yum! Serve it with lesser-oaked Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc such as Silverstone or a light-bodied Pinot Noir wine such as Flowers bought at the Thames River Wine and Spirits for an additional 10% off the cheese.
WINE TASTING - Please Join Us.
FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 1ST - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Chamard Estate Chardonnay - Connecticut - $13 - http://www.chamard.com/index.html
Located in Clinton - Wine Spectator Magazine has called Chamard a "gem of a vineyard."
Chamard benefits from a unique micro-climate influenced greatly by Long Island Sound. Located two miles from the sound and six miles from the mouth of the Connecticut River, this maritime climate produces mild winter temperatures and a long, warm growing season. The rich, stony soil, gently sloping land and moderate climate provide an ideal environment for the growing of European wine grapes. A rich, full-bodied wine with complex aromas of ripe fruit, spices and toasty oak flavors. This Chardonnay is well-balanced, has a rich creamy texture and a long juicy finish.
2 - Finca Flichman Malbec Reserva - Argentina - $12 www.flichman.com.ar
In 1873, in the area of Barrancas, Maipú, province of Mendoza, Their first vineyards were planted. At the start of 1910, the Flichman family re-inaugurated the property with the name of Finca Flichman. It was Sami Flichman, a visionary pioneer, who developed the first vineyards in a depression formed by the Mendoza River in ancient times. The grapes come from an old vineyard still on original rootstock in their Barrancas estate. Soft crushing leaves many grapes whole, and the maceration takes 18 days - then it is given a quick touch of oak of not more than six months, to be quickly bottled and stacked for 6-10 months before being sold. Red with a clean, direct aroma of plum, mulberry and nuts and a sustained aftertaste of red fruit on an oak base. This is another example of great value coming from South America - At this price what we have will go quickly. Please be sure to try this one on Friday night.
3 - 2003 - Montaribaldi Berbera d' Alba - Italy -
This beautiful dry red has it all and 2003 was especially hot - producing a huge wine - full & ripe.
You want history? this stuff is loaded with it: The Barbera variety's origins are extremely ancient but the first documents in which it is cited date to only several centuries ago. In fact, the first formal citation of Barbera appears in a document of the 17th century that is now preserved in the city hall of Nizza Monferrato. And it was first officially mentioned in 1798 when Count Nuvolone, deputy director of the agrarian society of Turin, drew up the first ampelography of the varieties cultivated in the vineyards of Piedmont. FOOD -Have the staff at Brie & Bleu cut a nice piece of Parmigiano Reggiano for you and then sit back with a few olives and a glass of this wine. Heaven. Truly - what its all about.
4 - Pepperbridge Merlot - $45 - Washington www.pepperbridge.com
Robert Parker rated this 90 points. Wine Spectator gave it 92 points - Pepper Bridge Vineyard has gained an outstanding reputation with winemakers throughout the state of Washington and especially the Walla Walla Valley. Pepper Bridge Vineyard is one of our two estate vineyards located in the Walla Walla Valley Appellation. The original 10 acres were planted in 1991. Since then, the vineyard has been expanded to almost 200 acres. This Merlot is densely packed with luscious, intense flavors of ripe currants, black cherries and wild berries. Hints of exotic spice with touches of chocolate, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Rich and concentrated, this plush merlot finishes with a smooth, refined elegance. This is one of those real yummy wines. Give it a try see for yourself.
Thanks so much for all of the comments, and your continued support - we appreciate it.
We have many things in the pipeline for you - the best is yet to come.
AAA.
Sunday, August 27, 2006
Monday, August 21, 2006
Homage to Kermit Lynch, Daniel Chotard, Chateau D'Epire, Chateau Du Trignon, Riesling Showdown
Greetings From New London -
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463 - 84 Bank Street
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817 - 70 State Street
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474 - 84 Bank Street
Now Open: Import - 60 State Street
We will keep it short this week - just a couple of items before Friday's list of wines
• Thanks to The Day newspaper for the great mention and photo in the Sunday paper.
•A very special Thank You goes to Carol & Hank Mann for hosting what has to be considered as the ultimate Riesling Showdown.
A small group of lucky guests gathered in Stonington for a tasting of 25 Rieslings! Our thanks also to Mr. Ken Mason of Classic Wines for providing a "fly on the wall" commentary of the estates and the great German wine makers that he knows personally.
And a kiss on both cheeks to Leslie Mann, from Boston's Formaggio Kitchen, for bringing some remarkable cheeses - it was impossible to pick a favorite. It was a full day of food, friends, wine....La Dolce Vita.
• Our wine dinners continue - keep your eyes on the website for menus & dates.
The Summer Grilling dinners have been so much fun. Lots of new faces and great food and wine - thanks for your support.
• The cheese information from Brie & Bleu did not arrive in time to make the email -
Colleen is a busy girl - but I miss her cheese information when it is not here - let her know that it's just not the same.
• Just announced - due to popular request - Cognac & Cigars - 9.15.06 - 6 p.m.
On the deck at Brie & Bleu - give us a call 860-443-9463 for more information or keep an eye on the calendar of events.
Limited seating makes these evenings sell out quickly - please call early.
We have an especially interesting tasting for you this Friday - we hope you can join us.
We are paying homage as they say to a man that helped create the wine business that we all know and love today -
This Friday we feature the wines of Mr. Kermit Lynch.
In 1972 he opened a retail wine shop in Berkeley, CA and later began importing and distributing nationally. He has been named Wine Professional of the Year by the James Beard Foundation, and the French government presented him a medal and named him Chevalier de l'Ordre de Mérite Agricole. His book Adventures on the Wine Route, won the Veuve Clicquot Wine Book of the Year award.
The Kermitt Lynch logo on a bottle of wine means a lot - In a world that is full of unpleasent surprises it is nice to know what to expecvt from wine with the KL logo: Quality, Value, integrity
WINE TASTING - Friday August 25 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
Please Join Us
1 - Domaine Daniel Chotard Sancerre 2005 - $21
The wine is a beautiful bright pale yellow color With a nice pure scent, hints of citrus fruits and white flowers. In the mouth it is fresh and full. The finish is typically elegant, well-balanced and long . Excellent served chilled at about 45 degrees with fish, shell fish, white meats, and our local speciality cheeses - like Cato Corner. Otherwise serve simply by itself as an aperitif.
2 -Chateau D'Epire Savennières - $16
The Château d'Epiré is one of the oldest and more famous vineyard of the appellation Savennières.
It has never been sold since the XVIIth century. The Castle and the Orangerie were built in 1850 after the transformation of the old family house.
In those times the Savennières wine was one of the most expensive in France. Historically Savennières is well known. Louis XI compared it to a golden drop, the empress Joséphine, Napoléon's wife, used to drink it to forget her loneliness. The Savennières Château d'Epiré 1993 was served to John Paul II when he payed a visit to Brittany. We will serve it to you on Friday night - it's your turn to be treated royally - yes?
3 - Chateau Du Trignon Gigondas - $24 - rated 91 points by Robert Parker.
Château du Trignon has been in the hands of the Roux family since 1896. For many years it was run by André Roux - he retired in 1987 and the property is now managed by his nephew, Pascal. The château and winery are located in Sablet, one of the most picturesque Côte du Rhône villages. It produces a wide variety of wines but is most renowned for its Gigondas. This wine is dark ruby/purple in color and is accompanied by layers revealing herbs, blueberries, raspberries, and black cherries. Medium to full-bodied, elegant, pure, and well-balanced.
4 - Chateau Du Trignon Rasteau - $18
I wanted particularly to draw your attention to one wine, modestly priced, that is among the most interesting reds we have to show you at the moment. To me it is a classic "bistro wine," it is made to be enjoyed with dinner and conversation. There is something special about this wine and the gigondas mentioned above - they have a character that says family - they are wines that I like to drink at a price that offers real value.
The Chateau du Trignon is located near the village of Gigondas in the Southern Rhone river valley of France. Sunny and hot, the Rhone is known for producing fruit-filled wines with body and spice, usually at modest prices. The best hint of dried herbs and smell of late summer.
Please give this one a try - and get it while you can. You may find that you need a case or so in your cellar at all times.
It was a week full of parties, people stopping by to say hello - first time visitors and long time friends.
Thank you all for making it so much fun.
We appreciate all of your support - the best is yet to come.
Please Join Us - it's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Copyright 2006 TRW&S. All Rights Reserved
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463 - 84 Bank Street
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817 - 70 State Street
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474 - 84 Bank Street
Now Open: Import - 60 State Street
We will keep it short this week - just a couple of items before Friday's list of wines
• Thanks to The Day newspaper for the great mention and photo in the Sunday paper.
•A very special Thank You goes to Carol & Hank Mann for hosting what has to be considered as the ultimate Riesling Showdown.
A small group of lucky guests gathered in Stonington for a tasting of 25 Rieslings! Our thanks also to Mr. Ken Mason of Classic Wines for providing a "fly on the wall" commentary of the estates and the great German wine makers that he knows personally.
And a kiss on both cheeks to Leslie Mann, from Boston's Formaggio Kitchen, for bringing some remarkable cheeses - it was impossible to pick a favorite. It was a full day of food, friends, wine....La Dolce Vita.
• Our wine dinners continue - keep your eyes on the website for menus & dates.
The Summer Grilling dinners have been so much fun. Lots of new faces and great food and wine - thanks for your support.
• The cheese information from Brie & Bleu did not arrive in time to make the email -
Colleen is a busy girl - but I miss her cheese information when it is not here - let her know that it's just not the same.
• Just announced - due to popular request - Cognac & Cigars - 9.15.06 - 6 p.m.
On the deck at Brie & Bleu - give us a call 860-443-9463 for more information or keep an eye on the calendar of events.
Limited seating makes these evenings sell out quickly - please call early.
We have an especially interesting tasting for you this Friday - we hope you can join us.
We are paying homage as they say to a man that helped create the wine business that we all know and love today -
This Friday we feature the wines of Mr. Kermit Lynch.
In 1972 he opened a retail wine shop in Berkeley, CA and later began importing and distributing nationally. He has been named Wine Professional of the Year by the James Beard Foundation, and the French government presented him a medal and named him Chevalier de l'Ordre de Mérite Agricole. His book Adventures on the Wine Route, won the Veuve Clicquot Wine Book of the Year award.
The Kermitt Lynch logo on a bottle of wine means a lot - In a world that is full of unpleasent surprises it is nice to know what to expecvt from wine with the KL logo: Quality, Value, integrity
WINE TASTING - Friday August 25 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
Please Join Us
1 - Domaine Daniel Chotard Sancerre 2005 - $21
The wine is a beautiful bright pale yellow color With a nice pure scent, hints of citrus fruits and white flowers. In the mouth it is fresh and full. The finish is typically elegant, well-balanced and long . Excellent served chilled at about 45 degrees with fish, shell fish, white meats, and our local speciality cheeses - like Cato Corner. Otherwise serve simply by itself as an aperitif.
2 -Chateau D'Epire Savennières - $16
The Château d'Epiré is one of the oldest and more famous vineyard of the appellation Savennières.
It has never been sold since the XVIIth century. The Castle and the Orangerie were built in 1850 after the transformation of the old family house.
In those times the Savennières wine was one of the most expensive in France. Historically Savennières is well known. Louis XI compared it to a golden drop, the empress Joséphine, Napoléon's wife, used to drink it to forget her loneliness. The Savennières Château d'Epiré 1993 was served to John Paul II when he payed a visit to Brittany. We will serve it to you on Friday night - it's your turn to be treated royally - yes?
3 - Chateau Du Trignon Gigondas - $24 - rated 91 points by Robert Parker.
Château du Trignon has been in the hands of the Roux family since 1896. For many years it was run by André Roux - he retired in 1987 and the property is now managed by his nephew, Pascal. The château and winery are located in Sablet, one of the most picturesque Côte du Rhône villages. It produces a wide variety of wines but is most renowned for its Gigondas. This wine is dark ruby/purple in color and is accompanied by layers revealing herbs, blueberries, raspberries, and black cherries. Medium to full-bodied, elegant, pure, and well-balanced.
4 - Chateau Du Trignon Rasteau - $18
I wanted particularly to draw your attention to one wine, modestly priced, that is among the most interesting reds we have to show you at the moment. To me it is a classic "bistro wine," it is made to be enjoyed with dinner and conversation. There is something special about this wine and the gigondas mentioned above - they have a character that says family - they are wines that I like to drink at a price that offers real value.
The Chateau du Trignon is located near the village of Gigondas in the Southern Rhone river valley of France. Sunny and hot, the Rhone is known for producing fruit-filled wines with body and spice, usually at modest prices. The best hint of dried herbs and smell of late summer.
Please give this one a try - and get it while you can. You may find that you need a case or so in your cellar at all times.
It was a week full of parties, people stopping by to say hello - first time visitors and long time friends.
Thank you all for making it so much fun.
We appreciate all of your support - the best is yet to come.
Please Join Us - it's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Copyright 2006 TRW&S. All Rights Reserved
Monday, August 14, 2006
Dinner With Eitienne Hugel, Macon-Cheveau, Saint-Amour, Kaiken, Trapiche - Viña Felipe Villafañe
Greetings From New London -
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463 - 84 Bank Street
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817 - 70 State Street
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474 - 84 Bank Street
Now Open: Import - 60 State Street
www.thamesriver.com
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/
Of course we have a great selection of wines for Friday night. They are listed below .
But before we get started - get comfortable.
Refill your "cup". Close the door and pull yourself together - we have a couple of interesting things to tell you about.
First -
When we took WineRadio on location to Boston a couple of months ago we had the opportunity to interview some of the most fascinating winemakers one could imagine. A highlight of the visit was the time we spent with Eitienne Hugel.
His family has been making wine in Alsace for 12 generations - that's right - 12 generations.
At the time we invited Eitienne to visit with us the next time he was in the U.S.A. - Well you know how that goes - we hugged, we kissed, we exchanged phone numbers - What are the odds the guy would actually call us???
Guess Who's Coming To Dinner -
Tuesday September 12, 2006 - 6 p.m. - Join us for dinner with Eitienne Hugel
Very Limited Seating - Please Call Early to Reserve. - 860-443-9463
$50 per person plus tax and service.
This will be a great night.
To Listen to part of our interview with Eitienne click the link below and scroll down until you see the Hugel featured item.
Eitienne is the gentleman holding the bottle of wine. http://thamesriver.com/wine/instock.html
ALSO -
A couple of seats for the recently added wine dinner for THIS Wednesday - August 16 - are available.
first come first served.
THIS WEEK AT BRIE & BLEU -
Colleen has selected Fontina Cheese
Fontina usually $14\lb is $12/lb this week at Brei and Bleu.
A little history about the cheese - although the origins of this cheese go back to ancient times, it was not until 1700 that the name Fontina first appears in an historical document. The etymology of the name, however, is a matter of some dispute. Fontina is a cylindrical semi-cooked, full-fat, semi-hard cheese. It is made from whole cow's milk drawn from the first milking. The rind is thin and close-textured, while the paste is rather soft and elastic and varies in colour from whitish-yellow to yellow. The cheese has a distinctive, sweet taste. Aged over 60 days, this appealing, semi-soft mild cheese has a silky texture and a sweet, buttery, slightly earthy flavor. Versatile, it melts beautifully to make excellent fondue and great-tasting quiche, but it is also a great choice for a cheese tray. For an additional 10% off the cheese pair with a a nice Sauvignon Blanc such as Ruston from Thames River Wine and Spirits.
BEER ME DADDY!
Kristin Webers, our executive in charge of the beer division, is lining up some special guests -
She will announce them as soon as they confirm.
For example - there are a number of small brewers that receive no formal distribution in CT at all -
Yet they produce beer with cult like followings throughout New England.
We are doing our best to bring them to New London, for your sipping and dancing pleasure.
Kristin offers this toast:
"May your blessings outnumber
the shamrocks that grow,
And may trouble avoid you
wherever you go."
And she asks that you send us your favorite toast - we are making a list to share with our readers.
BEER DINNER -Thursday, Sept 14th - 6 - 8 p.m.
Menu Includes:
Grilled marinated skirt steak
Vinagrette asparagus
and Roasted potatoes
w/ a surprise chocolate dessert
Beers Include:
Otter Creek Stovepipe Porter
Stovepipe Porter is made in the traditional porter stlye, and is a favorite with all porter lovers.
Flying Dog
Old Scratch Amber Lager, one of the world's best Amber Lagers.
Sam Smith's Oatmeal Stout, - which speaks for itself with chocolate.
For additional Information or to make a reservation - Please Call - 860-443-9463 - Kristin would love to hear from you.
Please Reserve Early - Limited seating - first come, first served.
$35 per person plus tax and service
Wine Tasting - Please Join Us
Friday August 18 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Domaine Michel Cheveau - Macon-Cheveau - $18
Mâconnais wines are principally dry whites made from the Chardonnay grape, which thrives on the local limestone soils. A small amount of red is also made, most from Gamay but also a tiny amount from Pinot Noir. It is the whites however which are the main focus of interest, and we offer a good selection of Mâconnais whites, including well-known appellations such as Pouilly-Fuissé and Saint Véran, but also wines from the outstanding newly-created appellation of Viré-Clessé, and of course good-value Mâcon-Villages. The growers are all small family-scale businesses, all passionate about quality. Mâconnais wines represent a bit of a bargain - real white Burgundies at a fraction of the cost of those from the northern part of the region. They are absolutely perfect with fish, poultry, and white meat dishes
2 - Domaine Michel Chevea - Saint-Amour - $24
At the northern limit of the Beaujolais lies the romantically-named Cru of Saint-Amour, where granite laced soils of the Beaujolais, favored by the Gamay, give way to limestone in the Mâconnais to the north, better for Chardonnay. At this boundary, many of the vignerons own land in both the Beaujolais and the Mâconnais districts and make and sell wines from both regions; Saint-Amour in fact borders the Saint-Véran appellation in the Mâconnais. After Chénas, Saint-Amour is the second smallest Cru. The name is derived from Saint Amateur, a Roman soldier who converted to Christianity and founded a monastery overlooking the river Sâone. Today, much is made of the name, and the wines are heavily promoted in connection with Saint Valentines day. Saint-Amour wines can sometimes be a little reserved when young, needing some time to open up and show their character. After a year or so however, they become supple and fruity, with flavors of apricot, cherries, sometimes spicy, and with great intensity of color. Serve and enjoy them with red meat, poultry, maybe a nice little casseolet.
3 - Kaiken Cabernet - $12 - http://www.kaikenwines.com/english/index.htm
The Andes Mountains divide two of the most spectacular countries in the world, Chile and Argentina. Kaiken is a Mapuche Indian word for a Patagonian goose that lives on both side of the Andes. One of Chile's most energetic and respected winemakers, Aurelio Montes has set up an operation on the other side of the Andes, in Argentina. Montes eventually plans to acquire his own vineyard land in Argentina and build his own winery there. Look for plum, licorice, cassis, earth and coffee aromas and flavors. The bitter-chocolate finish is dynamite in terms of tannic structure and length. A flat-out bargain from an excellent Argentinean vintage. Please give this one a try - it is a memorable wine.
4 - Trapiche - Viña Felipe Villafañe - single vineyard - Malbec - $38 - http://www.trapiche.com.ar/2bodega.html
Established in 1883, Trapiche is the most widely recognized Argentinean wine producer in the world.
We were lucky enough to have Gustavo Arroyo, Trapiche director of US Sales, as our guest on WineRadio just a couple of months ago.
Located in Mendoza at the foothills of the Andes mountains, Trapiche has some of the most extensive landholdings in the area, with over 2,500 acres of its own vineyards.
Now 104 years of age, Felipe Villafañe planted his La Consulta vineyard with malbec in 1948, decades ahead of his time, and he has dedicated much of his life to this vineyard. Located in the San Carlos subregion of Mendoza, the vineyard's has alluvial sandy loam soil and a altitude of more than 1,000 meters The red color is very intense, with purple hints. Harmonious notes of plums, berries, and spices appear on the nose. In the mouth the wine displays a complex array of cherry jam, chocolate, and vanilla with thick tannins. The oak and smoke aromas provide extra length and dimension. Serve with venison, roasts, red meat, grilled meats, game, beef. This is amazing wine - please be sure to try it on Friday night.
Thanks for all of the emails and calls this past week - we appreciate all of them.
And thank you for making this so much fun - we could'nt do it without you.
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
Now Open: Import - 60 State Street
www.thamesriver.com
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/
Of course we have a great selection of wines for Friday night. They are listed below .
But before we get started - get comfortable.
Refill your "cup". Close the door and pull yourself together - we have a couple of interesting things to tell you about.
First -
When we took WineRadio on location to Boston a couple of months ago we had the opportunity to interview some of the most fascinating winemakers one could imagine. A highlight of the visit was the time we spent with Eitienne Hugel.
His family has been making wine in Alsace for 12 generations - that's right - 12 generations.
At the time we invited Eitienne to visit with us the next time he was in the U.S.A. - Well you know how that goes - we hugged, we kissed, we exchanged phone numbers - What are the odds the guy would actually call us???
Guess Who's Coming To Dinner -
Tuesday September 12, 2006 - 6 p.m. - Join us for dinner with Eitienne Hugel
Very Limited Seating - Please Call Early to Reserve. - 860-443-9463
$50 per person plus tax and service.
This will be a great night.
To Listen to part of our interview with Eitienne click the link below and scroll down until you see the Hugel featured item.
Eitienne is the gentleman holding the bottle of wine. http://thamesriver.com/wine/instock.html
ALSO -
A couple of seats for the recently added wine dinner for THIS Wednesday - August 16 - are available.
first come first served.
THIS WEEK AT BRIE & BLEU -
Colleen has selected Fontina Cheese
Fontina usually $14\lb is $12/lb this week at Brei and Bleu.
A little history about the cheese - although the origins of this cheese go back to ancient times, it was not until 1700 that the name Fontina first appears in an historical document. The etymology of the name, however, is a matter of some dispute. Fontina is a cylindrical semi-cooked, full-fat, semi-hard cheese. It is made from whole cow's milk drawn from the first milking. The rind is thin and close-textured, while the paste is rather soft and elastic and varies in colour from whitish-yellow to yellow. The cheese has a distinctive, sweet taste. Aged over 60 days, this appealing, semi-soft mild cheese has a silky texture and a sweet, buttery, slightly earthy flavor. Versatile, it melts beautifully to make excellent fondue and great-tasting quiche, but it is also a great choice for a cheese tray. For an additional 10% off the cheese pair with a a nice Sauvignon Blanc such as Ruston from Thames River Wine and Spirits.
BEER ME DADDY!
Kristin Webers, our executive in charge of the beer division, is lining up some special guests -
She will announce them as soon as they confirm.
For example - there are a number of small brewers that receive no formal distribution in CT at all -
Yet they produce beer with cult like followings throughout New England.
We are doing our best to bring them to New London, for your sipping and dancing pleasure.
Kristin offers this toast:
"May your blessings outnumber
the shamrocks that grow,
And may trouble avoid you
wherever you go."
And she asks that you send us your favorite toast - we are making a list to share with our readers.
BEER DINNER -Thursday, Sept 14th - 6 - 8 p.m.
Menu Includes:
Grilled marinated skirt steak
Vinagrette asparagus
and Roasted potatoes
w/ a surprise chocolate dessert
Beers Include:
Otter Creek Stovepipe Porter
Stovepipe Porter is made in the traditional porter stlye, and is a favorite with all porter lovers.
Flying Dog
Old Scratch Amber Lager, one of the world's best Amber Lagers.
Sam Smith's Oatmeal Stout, - which speaks for itself with chocolate.
For additional Information or to make a reservation - Please Call - 860-443-9463 - Kristin would love to hear from you.
Please Reserve Early - Limited seating - first come, first served.
$35 per person plus tax and service
Wine Tasting - Please Join Us
Friday August 18 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Domaine Michel Cheveau - Macon-Cheveau - $18
Mâconnais wines are principally dry whites made from the Chardonnay grape, which thrives on the local limestone soils. A small amount of red is also made, most from Gamay but also a tiny amount from Pinot Noir. It is the whites however which are the main focus of interest, and we offer a good selection of Mâconnais whites, including well-known appellations such as Pouilly-Fuissé and Saint Véran, but also wines from the outstanding newly-created appellation of Viré-Clessé, and of course good-value Mâcon-Villages. The growers are all small family-scale businesses, all passionate about quality. Mâconnais wines represent a bit of a bargain - real white Burgundies at a fraction of the cost of those from the northern part of the region. They are absolutely perfect with fish, poultry, and white meat dishes
2 - Domaine Michel Chevea - Saint-Amour - $24
At the northern limit of the Beaujolais lies the romantically-named Cru of Saint-Amour, where granite laced soils of the Beaujolais, favored by the Gamay, give way to limestone in the Mâconnais to the north, better for Chardonnay. At this boundary, many of the vignerons own land in both the Beaujolais and the Mâconnais districts and make and sell wines from both regions; Saint-Amour in fact borders the Saint-Véran appellation in the Mâconnais. After Chénas, Saint-Amour is the second smallest Cru. The name is derived from Saint Amateur, a Roman soldier who converted to Christianity and founded a monastery overlooking the river Sâone. Today, much is made of the name, and the wines are heavily promoted in connection with Saint Valentines day. Saint-Amour wines can sometimes be a little reserved when young, needing some time to open up and show their character. After a year or so however, they become supple and fruity, with flavors of apricot, cherries, sometimes spicy, and with great intensity of color. Serve and enjoy them with red meat, poultry, maybe a nice little casseolet.
3 - Kaiken Cabernet - $12 - http://www.kaikenwines.com/english/index.htm
The Andes Mountains divide two of the most spectacular countries in the world, Chile and Argentina. Kaiken is a Mapuche Indian word for a Patagonian goose that lives on both side of the Andes. One of Chile's most energetic and respected winemakers, Aurelio Montes has set up an operation on the other side of the Andes, in Argentina. Montes eventually plans to acquire his own vineyard land in Argentina and build his own winery there. Look for plum, licorice, cassis, earth and coffee aromas and flavors. The bitter-chocolate finish is dynamite in terms of tannic structure and length. A flat-out bargain from an excellent Argentinean vintage. Please give this one a try - it is a memorable wine.
4 - Trapiche - Viña Felipe Villafañe - single vineyard - Malbec - $38 - http://www.trapiche.com.ar/2bodega.html
Established in 1883, Trapiche is the most widely recognized Argentinean wine producer in the world.
We were lucky enough to have Gustavo Arroyo, Trapiche director of US Sales, as our guest on WineRadio just a couple of months ago.
Located in Mendoza at the foothills of the Andes mountains, Trapiche has some of the most extensive landholdings in the area, with over 2,500 acres of its own vineyards.
Now 104 years of age, Felipe Villafañe planted his La Consulta vineyard with malbec in 1948, decades ahead of his time, and he has dedicated much of his life to this vineyard. Located in the San Carlos subregion of Mendoza, the vineyard's has alluvial sandy loam soil and a altitude of more than 1,000 meters The red color is very intense, with purple hints. Harmonious notes of plums, berries, and spices appear on the nose. In the mouth the wine displays a complex array of cherry jam, chocolate, and vanilla with thick tannins. The oak and smoke aromas provide extra length and dimension. Serve with venison, roasts, red meat, grilled meats, game, beef. This is amazing wine - please be sure to try it on Friday night.
Thanks for all of the emails and calls this past week - we appreciate all of them.
And thank you for making this so much fun - we could'nt do it without you.
AAA.
Monday, August 07, 2006
The Mighty Wurlitzer, Tramin Pinot Grigio, Chateau De Coulaine, Can Blau Monstant, Alto Moncayo Veraton, Antoine Vincent on WineRadio
Greetings from New London -
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463 - 84 Bank Street
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817 - 70 State Street
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474 - 84 Bank Street
Now Open: Import - 60 State Street
The heat and haze have lifted - at least for the moment. Thanks to everyone that came out this past week - it was quite the scene. Coming this Wednesday night - our Summer Grilling Series continues - Anne Haviland will be presiding over the mighty Wurlitzer and she will be pulling out all of the stops. Check out the full menu on our calendar of events page.
Last night we spent hours in the tony recesses of Bird-Land. Thank you to our hosts - Jenny, Steve and family.
We were wined and dined and treated to some of the best authentic South American cuisine one could imagine.
And we drank some of the most amazing wine - Trapiche single vineyard Malbec's from Argentina.
Take a look - http://www.trapiche.com.ar/2bodega.html
Due to overwhelming popular demand - we are adding a new feature to the website - and it goes a little something like this...
Our new dinner series begins in just a couple of weeks. We will be adding the ability to reserve your seating online.
We hope that this will allow so many of you that have asked for the chance to grab your seats as soon as you want.
Reserve on line and print out your confirmation. No more phoning in to the store to find out that you just missed the last two seats.
Also - there is an all new episode of WineRadio featuring Antoine Vincent - from the legendary Chateau Fuissé.
It is right there on the calendar page as well.
Up & Coming -
• Sunday, August 13, 1-4 PM - Fish Tales, Tugs & Sails, a children's party on the pier, takes place at Waterfront Park, City Pier. Features include two tugboats, the Patricia Ann and the John Paul, sponsored by Cross Sound Ferry and Thames Towboat Company. Children will have a chance to meet the captain and crew of each tugboat
• Mr. Kyle Dandurand from Ameriprise Financial Services is hosting a reception on Tuesday August 15th from 6-9 p.m.
Spanish wines, cheese, and Tapas will be served. It will be a very informal evening to introduce Ameriprise services.
All are welcome. For more information contact: kyle.h.dandurand@ampf.com - or call 267-664-5711.
• Thursday, September 7 - Saturday, September 9, 2006 New London Main Street will host Books, Brushes, Jazz & Blues, a new festival, in the downtown Historic Waterfront District. More than 20 downtown clubs and restaurants will offer performances in the evening and at various times during the day by popular blues or jazz artists, many who hail from the region.
FEATURED THIS WEEK AT BRIE & BLEU -
Colleen McNerney - our little old cheese monger - has made her selection for this week:
Halloumi Cheese usually $8 a packet at Brie & Bleu is $6 a packet this week.
For centuries a staple in the diet of the captivating mediterranean island nation of Cyprus, Halloumi has now gone beyond these borders to be loved worldwide.
Traditionally it is made by a women in the village, from a mixture of sheep's and goats' milks. Every few days, once sufficient milk has been collected, it is heated in a large cauldron, and then rennet is added to start the curdling process. Once the curds are set into a soft cheese they are cut and removed from the whey and pressed. The halloumi is then re-cooked, which results in its firm, almost rubbery texture. Whilst still warm the cheeses are sprinkled with a mixture of salt and dried mint and folded and stored in brine.
Combining the texture of mozzarella with the briny moisture of feta, Halloumi is easily one of the world's most versatile cheeses. Instead of melting when cooked Halloumi browns beautifully, especially when grilled. Alternatively, this lively 100% pure sheep's milk cheese can be served fresh in a salad or sandwich. The versatility of halloumi is such that it can be used in pies and pasties, it can be cooked with chicken or with fish, or grated and served with pasta. Halloumi is excellent with beer or wine and can be served at any meal of the day.
Enjoy an additioanal 10% discount when pairing with a nice Sauvignon Blanc such as The Crossings from New Zealand purchased at Thames River Wine and Spirits.
WINE TASTING - PLEASE JOIN US
FRIDAY AUGUST 11 - 6-9 p.m.
No Charge
1 - Tramin Pinot Grigio - $14 - http://www.tramin-wine.it/
This is an exceptional white wine from the Alto Adige part of Italy. Made from 100% Pinot Grigio from a single vineyard. Careful selection of the best grapes, combined with maturation in small oak casks makes the wine into something special. The color is gold-yellow. The fine elegant aromas are reminiscent of honey and tropical fruits. Pleasant hints of vanilla round out the palate. Balanced acidity and sweet fruit make drinking this wine pure pleasure.
2 - Chateau De Coulaine Chinon Bonaventure - $18
Wine Spectator rated this wine at 89 points - The family has owned the land and vineyards since 1300 - They know what they are doing. It is Juicy, with dark cherry flavors and a light smoky finish. 100% cabernet franc grapes give this a silky feel. And all of their vines are grown and maintained organically. They know what they are doing. Please give this a try on Friday you might be surprised.
3 - Can Blau Monstant - Spain - $18 - http://www.domontsant.com/
A fabulous value from the other side of the famed Priorat appellation, this dense ruby/purple-colored 2004 exhibits wonderful minerality along with beautiful raspberry and blueberry fruit characteristics. Medium-bodied with gorgeously pure fruit, this blend of Carignan, Syrah, and Grenache is ideal for drinking now and over the next 5-6 years. Robert Parker rates this at 90 points - Give it your own rating on Friday.
4 - Alto Moncayo Veraton - Spain - $24
Australian winemaker Chris Ringland oversees the winemaking at this estate. This full-throttle, robust, exuberant, super-concentrated 100% Grenache offering may be the finest wine to ever emerge from this backwater Spanish appellation. This is a real sleeper - in short order, when the critics begin to write about this wine and it becomes even harder to find - you will be able to say to your friends "Oh, I've been drinking this wine for E V E R ! " Meet your new favorite wine - this Friday.
Thanks for all of the emails, comments, and suggestions - we appreciate all of them.
I have said it before - but it needs repeating - we get compliments all of the time on you - our customers.
The winemakers, the authors, the chefs - all of the guests that pass through - without exception they comment of the quality of our customers.
Thank you for making this place one of a kind - we appreciate your support.
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
Now Open: Import - 60 State Street
The heat and haze have lifted - at least for the moment. Thanks to everyone that came out this past week - it was quite the scene. Coming this Wednesday night - our Summer Grilling Series continues - Anne Haviland will be presiding over the mighty Wurlitzer and she will be pulling out all of the stops. Check out the full menu on our calendar of events page.
Last night we spent hours in the tony recesses of Bird-Land. Thank you to our hosts - Jenny, Steve and family.
We were wined and dined and treated to some of the best authentic South American cuisine one could imagine.
And we drank some of the most amazing wine - Trapiche single vineyard Malbec's from Argentina.
Take a look - http://www.trapiche.com.ar/2bodega.html
Due to overwhelming popular demand - we are adding a new feature to the website - and it goes a little something like this...
Our new dinner series begins in just a couple of weeks. We will be adding the ability to reserve your seating online.
We hope that this will allow so many of you that have asked for the chance to grab your seats as soon as you want.
Reserve on line and print out your confirmation. No more phoning in to the store to find out that you just missed the last two seats.
Also - there is an all new episode of WineRadio featuring Antoine Vincent - from the legendary Chateau Fuissé.
It is right there on the calendar page as well.
Up & Coming -
• Sunday, August 13, 1-4 PM - Fish Tales, Tugs & Sails, a children's party on the pier, takes place at Waterfront Park, City Pier. Features include two tugboats, the Patricia Ann and the John Paul, sponsored by Cross Sound Ferry and Thames Towboat Company. Children will have a chance to meet the captain and crew of each tugboat
• Mr. Kyle Dandurand from Ameriprise Financial Services is hosting a reception on Tuesday August 15th from 6-9 p.m.
Spanish wines, cheese, and Tapas will be served. It will be a very informal evening to introduce Ameriprise services.
All are welcome. For more information contact: kyle.h.dandurand@ampf.com - or call 267-664-5711.
• Thursday, September 7 - Saturday, September 9, 2006 New London Main Street will host Books, Brushes, Jazz & Blues, a new festival, in the downtown Historic Waterfront District. More than 20 downtown clubs and restaurants will offer performances in the evening and at various times during the day by popular blues or jazz artists, many who hail from the region.
FEATURED THIS WEEK AT BRIE & BLEU -
Colleen McNerney - our little old cheese monger - has made her selection for this week:
Halloumi Cheese usually $8 a packet at Brie & Bleu is $6 a packet this week.
For centuries a staple in the diet of the captivating mediterranean island nation of Cyprus, Halloumi has now gone beyond these borders to be loved worldwide.
Traditionally it is made by a women in the village, from a mixture of sheep's and goats' milks. Every few days, once sufficient milk has been collected, it is heated in a large cauldron, and then rennet is added to start the curdling process. Once the curds are set into a soft cheese they are cut and removed from the whey and pressed. The halloumi is then re-cooked, which results in its firm, almost rubbery texture. Whilst still warm the cheeses are sprinkled with a mixture of salt and dried mint and folded and stored in brine.
Combining the texture of mozzarella with the briny moisture of feta, Halloumi is easily one of the world's most versatile cheeses. Instead of melting when cooked Halloumi browns beautifully, especially when grilled. Alternatively, this lively 100% pure sheep's milk cheese can be served fresh in a salad or sandwich. The versatility of halloumi is such that it can be used in pies and pasties, it can be cooked with chicken or with fish, or grated and served with pasta. Halloumi is excellent with beer or wine and can be served at any meal of the day.
Enjoy an additioanal 10% discount when pairing with a nice Sauvignon Blanc such as The Crossings from New Zealand purchased at Thames River Wine and Spirits.
WINE TASTING - PLEASE JOIN US
FRIDAY AUGUST 11 - 6-9 p.m.
No Charge
1 - Tramin Pinot Grigio - $14 - http://www.tramin-wine.it/
This is an exceptional white wine from the Alto Adige part of Italy. Made from 100% Pinot Grigio from a single vineyard. Careful selection of the best grapes, combined with maturation in small oak casks makes the wine into something special. The color is gold-yellow. The fine elegant aromas are reminiscent of honey and tropical fruits. Pleasant hints of vanilla round out the palate. Balanced acidity and sweet fruit make drinking this wine pure pleasure.
2 - Chateau De Coulaine Chinon Bonaventure - $18
Wine Spectator rated this wine at 89 points - The family has owned the land and vineyards since 1300 - They know what they are doing. It is Juicy, with dark cherry flavors and a light smoky finish. 100% cabernet franc grapes give this a silky feel. And all of their vines are grown and maintained organically. They know what they are doing. Please give this a try on Friday you might be surprised.
3 - Can Blau Monstant - Spain - $18 - http://www.domontsant.com/
A fabulous value from the other side of the famed Priorat appellation, this dense ruby/purple-colored 2004 exhibits wonderful minerality along with beautiful raspberry and blueberry fruit characteristics. Medium-bodied with gorgeously pure fruit, this blend of Carignan, Syrah, and Grenache is ideal for drinking now and over the next 5-6 years. Robert Parker rates this at 90 points - Give it your own rating on Friday.
4 - Alto Moncayo Veraton - Spain - $24
Australian winemaker Chris Ringland oversees the winemaking at this estate. This full-throttle, robust, exuberant, super-concentrated 100% Grenache offering may be the finest wine to ever emerge from this backwater Spanish appellation. This is a real sleeper - in short order, when the critics begin to write about this wine and it becomes even harder to find - you will be able to say to your friends "Oh, I've been drinking this wine for E V E R ! " Meet your new favorite wine - this Friday.
Thanks for all of the emails, comments, and suggestions - we appreciate all of them.
I have said it before - but it needs repeating - we get compliments all of the time on you - our customers.
The winemakers, the authors, the chefs - all of the guests that pass through - without exception they comment of the quality of our customers.
Thank you for making this place one of a kind - we appreciate your support.
AAA.
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