Greetings from all of us in New London,
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463 - http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817 - http://www.thamesriver.com/trg/gourmet.html
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474 - http://brieandbleu.com/
IMPORT - 860-443-6817 - http://thamesriver.com/trg/featured.html
Happy New Year! And best wishes to all of our readers and customers -
Thank You for a great 2007.
We start the New Year off with a great lineup on Friday night.
Since this is a vacation week for some of us just a couple items of interest before the wines for Friday.
• We are happy to announce that we are now officially a Davidoff Select Merchant.
The first boxes of the finest cigars being hand crafted in the world today have made their way into gift baskets with wine & fine spirits over the Christmas holidays. If you know someone that enjoys fine cigars - consider adding them to your next gift order. There will be much more information to share with you in the weeks ahead. Ask us about the special pricing and selection the next time you visit or call.
• We have two dozen grower champagnes, plus Cava, prosecco, and other sparkling wines from North America, Italy , and France. Of particular interest, is the Pierre Peters Cuvee Speciale 1999, LeMesnil-Sur-Oger Grand Cru, perhaps the best Champagne we've ever had , $175 a MAGNUM. Head and shoulders better and above both, Cristal & Dom Perignon and less than HALF the price. High prices and orange labels are for Hedge Fund managers, desperate aging hipsters and snooty big-shots - Grower Champagne - This is wine for people in the know.
Wine Tasting - Please Join Us
Friday January 4, 2008 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Martin Sancho Verdejo 2006 $16 - Spain
This wine comes from ancient, 150-year-old vines in the Rueda wine region, just about half way between Madrid and Bilbao. The vines are grown in alluvial soils, which are smooth, white rock with very little sediment for several feet. The owner, Angel Rodriquez, takes great pride in his 25-acre vineyard, which has been passed down for many generations. This is a beautiful white wine full of green fruits, spice, a slight smokiness, bitter almond, and melon. From free-run juice, the new wine is racked into centuries-old subterranean oak bocoyes prior to clarification and bottling. 2006 was an unusually early harvest that has resulted in a bold classic Verdejo character, with deep minerality complementing abundant ripe fruit and texture in a long, weighty finish.
2 - Apaltagua Envero 2004 $16 - Chile (rated 89 points by Stephen Tanzer)
The Apaltagua Winery is located in the prestigious Apalta region in Chile's Colchagua Valley. They specialize in one distinguished, but lesser known, grape varietal - Carmenère. Carmenère is considered the "lost Bordeaux" variety, as it was originally planted in Bordeaux, but was abandoned there because it was too late ripening for the Bordeaux climate.
Tanzer: "Deep ruby. Explosively fruity, with strong raspberry, cherry jam and redcurrant scents, with a complicating note of cinnamon. Lush and silky on the palate, with a pure raspberry quality that's extremely easy to like. Pliant, suave and elegant, with a long, sweet red berry tone to the finish and very soft tannins. This is an excellent value and is drinking well right now." - For me, this is a perfect wine for a nice steak or grilled chops. Keep that in the back of your mind when you try it on Friday night.
3 - Boekenhoutskloof The Chocolate Block 2006 $36 - South Africa
This is a house favorite - The Chocolate Block - always draws attention and devoted fans whenever we are able to share it.
Boekenhoutskloof, founded in 1776, is far up the "Valley" in the Franschhoek foothills. Situated 40 minutes drive from Cape Town, South Africa, it falls within the Cape's abundant winelands. It is a dramatic and enchanting place and should you ever have the opportunity to visit, as we did last year, you must make the trip.
This is a new vintage from an old friend - please try it on Friday night.
Watch as we taste with the winemaker HERE: http://blip.tv/file/206160
See our photos HERE: http://thamesriver.com/wine/photos.html
Visit their great website HERE: http://www.boekenhoutskloof.co.za/
4 - Heitz Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon 2003 Napa California $50 - http://www.heitzcellar.com/
Joe and Alice Heitz established Heitz Wine Cellars in 1961! They were originally from Illinois and South Dakota respectively, but met in California in the mid 1940's. When Heitz Cellars opened in 1961, the Napa Valley had fewer than twenty wineries. Today there are more than two hundred. The original winery on St. Helena Highway is still open to the public as a sales and tasting room for visitors and is a glimpse into the origins of Heitz Cellars. The 2003 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the richest in years. The gorgeous varietal fruit flavors on the palate are just exquisite and impeccably balanced with complex tannins. It is a fabulous wine illuminating the purity and radiance of the cabernet grapes and showcasing the talents of the winemaker --- a joy to drink now and into the future. This will go quickly - try it on Friday night and see for yourself why these wines are sought after - everywhere.
Thanks for your support - we have a great year lined up - full of surprises and excitement.
We hope to see you on Friday night.
Please Join Us - It Is Fun, Informal and a Great Way To Start Your Weekend.
AAA.
Sunday, December 30, 2007
Sunday, December 23, 2007
Christmas Edition, Segura Viudas, Varaschin Prosecco , Gruet Blanc de Noirs , A. Margaine Champagne
Greetings from all of us in New London,
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463 - http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474 - http://brieandbleu.com/
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817 - http://www.thamesriver.com/trg/gourmet.html
IMPORT - 860-443-6817 - http://www.thamesriver.com/trg/featured.html
HOLIDAY HOURS: We Will Be Open Monday December 24th - until 9 p.m. -
Last Minute Shopping Is Not A Problem.
The New Year is peeking at us from around the corner and to celebrate we have a HUGE tasting planned for Friday night - I only hope that you can join us.
There has been a parade of friends and customers stopping into the store to wish us the best for the holidays and the coming New Year.
Thanks for making it such a party all of the time, and thank you very much for your tremendous support - it has been a great year.
Wine Tasting - Please Join Us
Friday December 28 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
This Week:
It's all about the BUBBLY - By popular demand it's an all sparkling line up - and the bubbly will be flowing like water.
Cava, Champagne, Prosecco,…need we continue? Good fizz is wonderful at any time of year but this is the season when we feel we can indulge ourselves -
With so many sparkling choices to select from, why wait for a special occasion to break out the bubbly?
Need a case or two? Remember that we can deliver your holiday party needs right to your doorstep - all you need to do is ask.
1 - Segura Viudas Brut reserva Cava $10
Cava - is sparkling wine from Spain. And this one makes your mouth water from the first sip. A very affordable party wine that will fill the bill with food and mid-night toasts too. The bubbles are very persistent - unlike others in this price range. This Cava has a racy flavor and it feels light-bodied with a nice gold color, and a lively fresh aroma and subtle scents of lemon. This is a great party wine. Raise your glass to Spain on Friday night.
2 - Varaschin Prosecco Brut Rose $13
This is a house favorite. We sell cases and cases of it - in fact we even serve it by the glass at Brie & Bleu. Varaschin's wine-firm was founded in S. Pietro di Barbozza around 1930 by Matteo Varaschin - This is a Brut Rosé - It is a great bottle to open as you grab that cook book off of the shelf or tear the recipie out of the The Times magazine section at a quarter to twelve on Sunday. 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 - We promise.
3 - Gruet Blanc de Noirs $17
In 1983, the Gruet family was traveling through the Southwestern part of the United States, and while in New Mexico met a group of European winemakers who had successfully planted vineyards in Engle, near the town of Truth or Consequence, 170 miles south of Albuquerque. The land was inexpensive and the opportunity golden. In 1984, Gilbert Gruet, whose Champagne house, Gruet et Fils had produced fine Champagne in Bethon, France, since 1952, made the decision to plant an experimental vineyard, exclusively planted to Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes. His children, winemaker Laurent and daughter Nathalie, and family friend Farid Himeur then relocated to the great state of New Mexico to begin their American wine making adventure - and the rest, as they say, is history. This is gorgeous - rich & creamy, with delicious hints of berries. Give this a try on Friday night.
4 - A. Margaine Champagne $42.
This Champagne is part of our "Grower-Producer" portfolio. We are proud to offer the largest selection of boutique Champagne's in the state of Connecticut. This particular wine is one of the best Champagne values in our store because we made our commitment to purchase it before the recent dollar shift with the Euro. We will not be able to offer it at this price again. When you compare this Champagne - or for that matter any of our small producer Champagnes to the big brands you will never be disappointed.
And when you compare the price for these "grower's" top Cuvés with prices for the big brands - then it becomes almost laughable - because these wines sell for half as much and in some cases less than half as much as the big brand names. And that's because they do not have designer bottles, and enormous PR budgets, and product placement expenses to pass along to us - the consumers.
Most of the familiar big names of Champagne are manufactured using industrial protocols in modern factories - and they are produced in huge quantities.
The flavors that one tastes are decided upon by a committee in a boardroom - and we can get any of these famous brands for you if you need them - BUT
We have decided offer a magnificent collection of “Grower Champagne.” Champagne that is produced by individuals and their families in limited quantities.
They pick the grapes themselves, make the wine and bottle it themselves. They make in an entire year what the big names produce in a matter of hours.
Crafted with old world traditions, these are artisanal wines that reflect the land were they came from and the people that made them - and present wonderfully unique, almost magical flavors in the glass.
Offer Grower Champagne to your family and friends this year - and taste the difference.
All of these Grower-Producer Champagne's deserve your attention - they represent something quite special, and I hope you will try this one on Friday night.
All of us want to wish you and your families our warm regards for Christmas and the coming holidays - We hope to see you this week.
Please Join Us - it's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463 - http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474 - http://brieandbleu.com/
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817 - http://www.thamesriver.com/trg/gourmet.html
IMPORT - 860-443-6817 - http://www.thamesriver.com/trg/featured.html
HOLIDAY HOURS: We Will Be Open Monday December 24th - until 9 p.m. -
Last Minute Shopping Is Not A Problem.
The New Year is peeking at us from around the corner and to celebrate we have a HUGE tasting planned for Friday night - I only hope that you can join us.
There has been a parade of friends and customers stopping into the store to wish us the best for the holidays and the coming New Year.
Thanks for making it such a party all of the time, and thank you very much for your tremendous support - it has been a great year.
Wine Tasting - Please Join Us
Friday December 28 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
This Week:
It's all about the BUBBLY - By popular demand it's an all sparkling line up - and the bubbly will be flowing like water.
Cava, Champagne, Prosecco,…need we continue? Good fizz is wonderful at any time of year but this is the season when we feel we can indulge ourselves -
With so many sparkling choices to select from, why wait for a special occasion to break out the bubbly?
Need a case or two? Remember that we can deliver your holiday party needs right to your doorstep - all you need to do is ask.
1 - Segura Viudas Brut reserva Cava $10
Cava - is sparkling wine from Spain. And this one makes your mouth water from the first sip. A very affordable party wine that will fill the bill with food and mid-night toasts too. The bubbles are very persistent - unlike others in this price range. This Cava has a racy flavor and it feels light-bodied with a nice gold color, and a lively fresh aroma and subtle scents of lemon. This is a great party wine. Raise your glass to Spain on Friday night.
2 - Varaschin Prosecco Brut Rose $13
This is a house favorite. We sell cases and cases of it - in fact we even serve it by the glass at Brie & Bleu. Varaschin's wine-firm was founded in S. Pietro di Barbozza around 1930 by Matteo Varaschin - This is a Brut Rosé - It is a great bottle to open as you grab that cook book off of the shelf or tear the recipie out of the The Times magazine section at a quarter to twelve on Sunday. 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 - We promise.
3 - Gruet Blanc de Noirs $17
In 1983, the Gruet family was traveling through the Southwestern part of the United States, and while in New Mexico met a group of European winemakers who had successfully planted vineyards in Engle, near the town of Truth or Consequence, 170 miles south of Albuquerque. The land was inexpensive and the opportunity golden. In 1984, Gilbert Gruet, whose Champagne house, Gruet et Fils had produced fine Champagne in Bethon, France, since 1952, made the decision to plant an experimental vineyard, exclusively planted to Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes. His children, winemaker Laurent and daughter Nathalie, and family friend Farid Himeur then relocated to the great state of New Mexico to begin their American wine making adventure - and the rest, as they say, is history. This is gorgeous - rich & creamy, with delicious hints of berries. Give this a try on Friday night.
4 - A. Margaine Champagne $42.
This Champagne is part of our "Grower-Producer" portfolio. We are proud to offer the largest selection of boutique Champagne's in the state of Connecticut. This particular wine is one of the best Champagne values in our store because we made our commitment to purchase it before the recent dollar shift with the Euro. We will not be able to offer it at this price again. When you compare this Champagne - or for that matter any of our small producer Champagnes to the big brands you will never be disappointed.
And when you compare the price for these "grower's" top Cuvés with prices for the big brands - then it becomes almost laughable - because these wines sell for half as much and in some cases less than half as much as the big brand names. And that's because they do not have designer bottles, and enormous PR budgets, and product placement expenses to pass along to us - the consumers.
Most of the familiar big names of Champagne are manufactured using industrial protocols in modern factories - and they are produced in huge quantities.
The flavors that one tastes are decided upon by a committee in a boardroom - and we can get any of these famous brands for you if you need them - BUT
We have decided offer a magnificent collection of “Grower Champagne.” Champagne that is produced by individuals and their families in limited quantities.
They pick the grapes themselves, make the wine and bottle it themselves. They make in an entire year what the big names produce in a matter of hours.
Crafted with old world traditions, these are artisanal wines that reflect the land were they came from and the people that made them - and present wonderfully unique, almost magical flavors in the glass.
Offer Grower Champagne to your family and friends this year - and taste the difference.
All of these Grower-Producer Champagne's deserve your attention - they represent something quite special, and I hope you will try this one on Friday night.
All of us want to wish you and your families our warm regards for Christmas and the coming holidays - We hope to see you this week.
Please Join Us - it's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Sunday, December 16, 2007
The Experts Agree, Domaine du Salvard Cheverny, Clos la Coutale Cahors, Bouchard Monthelie Les Duresses, Villa Le Prata Brunello di Montalcino
Greetings from all of us in New London,
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463 - 84 Bank Street
Shop On Line: http://thamesriver.com/wine/instock.html
Calendar of Events: http://www.thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817 - 70 State Street - www.thamesriver.com
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474 - 84 Bank Street - : http://www.brieandbleu.com/
IMPORT - 860-443-6817 - 60 State Street - http://thamesriver.com/trg/featured.html
This has been a tough week - all of our best laid plans were disrupted by the storm, and as we go to press there is another storm beating us silly.
But there is a beautiful light at the end of the tunnel - The Friday night tasting has a great line up and the list is just below a few items of interest.
• First a word about cheese.
The greatest minds in the business agree: White wine is a more likely cheese partner than the mighty red. That's right, white wine - it's true. We have carefully chosen a selection of cheese that will pair perfectly with the Grower Champagne, Cava, Champagne, Prosecco, Moscato, and other miraculous whites that we feature at the wine store. And with so many sparklers to choose from, why wait for a special occasion to break out the bubbly? We proved this just last week at our Champagne & Pizza tasting.
Make any night of the week unforgettable with this perfect sampling: sinful, creamy goodness comes in the form of Delice de Bourgogne - Jasper Hill Farm’s Constant Bliss has a bit more bite, and a bit of a crumble, American Gruyere is creamy and pungent, while cave-aged Swiss Gruyere is crystalline and nutty. Got bubbly?
That’s not to say that we can’t find some killer pairings with red wines: the zesty twang of Cato Corner Bridgid’s Abbey; mushroomy Tomme Crayeuse; the refined, grassy sheep Ossau Vielle Cave; or the dense, buttery crumble of Double Gloucester. Serve any one of these with a glass of red to your friends and family over the holidays and you will be kissed on all four cheeks. Brie & Bleu has options galore and we can deliver all of your holiday needs to your front door. A holiday party needs wine and cheese.
• To answer one of the most asked questions from the last week or so - Our winter series of food and wine dinners will begin just after the holidays - around the second or third week of January. Great menus, fabulous wine, and special guests. Watch for the list on the calendar of events and right here in the weekly email - & watch for The Return of Fondue - coming soon.
• Holiday Hours - 10a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday thru Saturday.
• Customized pairing for your holiday menu - no charge - bring in your menu, we will go over it with you and make suggestions. It really does make a difference.
• Delivery is no problem - the Thames River Greenery delivery team is at your service.
Dave's Fave - Monday Tasting - No Charge
Georges DuBoeuf Beaujolais Nouveau 2007 $13
Dave Says:
Where's DuBoeuf? Okay, this came out last month, and it is the 25th anniversary of Nouveau imported into this country (remember how excited your aunt was back in the Reagan years?), but I suspect many of you are chuckling, and you should know that we are proud of our fine customers for chuckling... Yeah, we got into the small grower-producer Nouveau guys, who import, say, 700 cases into the country, while Georges imports, oh, 16,000 cases, but still, even the pros whisper, "It's supposed to be good this year." Cripes, Jim just caught me writing this - "You're not pouring that are you?" Well, YEAH man, why not? Now I'm curious, let's crack one Monday!
Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday December 21 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Domaine du Salvard Cheverny 2006 $16
Domaine du Salvard Cheverny is produced from vines grown by the Delaille family, which has cultivated their 37 acre parcel since about 1930. Location-wise, Cheverny in the east portion of Touraine near the village of Blois. This area is about 150 miles from Paris, just south of the Loire River. The Domaine is ranked amongst the top producers in this 'best kept secret terroir'. This delicious white is similar in style to a Pouilly-Fumé - It' a Sauvignon Blanc with lots of herbaceous and mineral character. This is a very friendly and easy drinking wine and It is Imported by Kermit Lynch Wines - and many of you know that we are big fans of Mr. Lynch. He knows how to pick them. Be sure to try it on Friday night.
2 - Clos la Coutale Cahors 2005 $16
Malbec from the place where they invented the stuff, another Kermit Lynch selection.
This is what Kermit has to say: "Astonishing elegance, red fruit with spicy overtones. A well-constructed wine. Clos La Coutale can be drunk young thanks to its good fruit, but has great aging potential, between 10-20 years. This wine accompanies duck, red meat and tasty cheeses perfectly. It is found in the best French restaurants like l'Auberge de l'Ile where Serge Dubbs, named the Best Sommelier in the World, (1990) works." This is what our own Jim Morrison says: "This is one of the few Cahors I have ever bought. I've always tried to find a wine that was obviously Malbec yet obviously not Argentine. I should have just asked Kermit." Two experts - two thumbs up. Please try it and add your two cents on Friday.
3 - Domaine Bouchard Monthelie Les Duresses 1er Cru 2005 $42
Red Burgundy from the much hailed 2005 vintage, an excellent and affordable example of varietal, region and vintage. We have literally dozens of wines from the Cote d'Or; village, premier cru and grand cru wines - we have one of the best selections available in the state. This is a very good value and deserves your attention on Friday night. If you are looking for a special bottle to serve over the holidays or if you need a gift that will make an impression, this will do the job nicely. Burgundy lovers will snap this up quickly - arrive early.
4 - Villa Le Prata Brunello di Montalcino 2001 $58
We bought cases & cases of this wine for a huge corporate wine basket order. It is difficult to find - so we bought a little extra just to have around the house. Jim was quickly reminded that this may be his very favorite Brunello. "I've had this wine head to head with many Gambero Rosso darlings and as my taste matures, I prefer it more and more. A Real Brunello drinker's Brunello in an authentic style. Open and complicated with depth and finesse, a true masterpiece, same as it ever was." Be sure to try this on Friday - it will go quickly - but it is definitely worth your consideration. You may decide to make it your very own Stocking Stuffer.
We want to thank all of our customers and friends for the tremendous support you have shown to us - It is a great holiday season.
We hope to see you all on Friday night, and be sure to say hello the next time you visit the store.
Please Join Us. It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463 - 84 Bank Street
Shop On Line: http://thamesriver.com/wine/instock.html
Calendar of Events: http://www.thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817 - 70 State Street - www.thamesriver.com
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474 - 84 Bank Street - : http://www.brieandbleu.com/
IMPORT - 860-443-6817 - 60 State Street - http://thamesriver.com/trg/featured.html
This has been a tough week - all of our best laid plans were disrupted by the storm, and as we go to press there is another storm beating us silly.
But there is a beautiful light at the end of the tunnel - The Friday night tasting has a great line up and the list is just below a few items of interest.
• First a word about cheese.
The greatest minds in the business agree: White wine is a more likely cheese partner than the mighty red. That's right, white wine - it's true. We have carefully chosen a selection of cheese that will pair perfectly with the Grower Champagne, Cava, Champagne, Prosecco, Moscato, and other miraculous whites that we feature at the wine store. And with so many sparklers to choose from, why wait for a special occasion to break out the bubbly? We proved this just last week at our Champagne & Pizza tasting.
Make any night of the week unforgettable with this perfect sampling: sinful, creamy goodness comes in the form of Delice de Bourgogne - Jasper Hill Farm’s Constant Bliss has a bit more bite, and a bit of a crumble, American Gruyere is creamy and pungent, while cave-aged Swiss Gruyere is crystalline and nutty. Got bubbly?
That’s not to say that we can’t find some killer pairings with red wines: the zesty twang of Cato Corner Bridgid’s Abbey; mushroomy Tomme Crayeuse; the refined, grassy sheep Ossau Vielle Cave; or the dense, buttery crumble of Double Gloucester. Serve any one of these with a glass of red to your friends and family over the holidays and you will be kissed on all four cheeks. Brie & Bleu has options galore and we can deliver all of your holiday needs to your front door. A holiday party needs wine and cheese.
• To answer one of the most asked questions from the last week or so - Our winter series of food and wine dinners will begin just after the holidays - around the second or third week of January. Great menus, fabulous wine, and special guests. Watch for the list on the calendar of events and right here in the weekly email - & watch for The Return of Fondue - coming soon.
• Holiday Hours - 10a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday thru Saturday.
• Customized pairing for your holiday menu - no charge - bring in your menu, we will go over it with you and make suggestions. It really does make a difference.
• Delivery is no problem - the Thames River Greenery delivery team is at your service.
Dave's Fave - Monday Tasting - No Charge
Georges DuBoeuf Beaujolais Nouveau 2007 $13
Dave Says:
Where's DuBoeuf? Okay, this came out last month, and it is the 25th anniversary of Nouveau imported into this country (remember how excited your aunt was back in the Reagan years?), but I suspect many of you are chuckling, and you should know that we are proud of our fine customers for chuckling... Yeah, we got into the small grower-producer Nouveau guys, who import, say, 700 cases into the country, while Georges imports, oh, 16,000 cases, but still, even the pros whisper, "It's supposed to be good this year." Cripes, Jim just caught me writing this - "You're not pouring that are you?" Well, YEAH man, why not? Now I'm curious, let's crack one Monday!
Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday December 21 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Domaine du Salvard Cheverny 2006 $16
Domaine du Salvard Cheverny is produced from vines grown by the Delaille family, which has cultivated their 37 acre parcel since about 1930. Location-wise, Cheverny in the east portion of Touraine near the village of Blois. This area is about 150 miles from Paris, just south of the Loire River. The Domaine is ranked amongst the top producers in this 'best kept secret terroir'. This delicious white is similar in style to a Pouilly-Fumé - It' a Sauvignon Blanc with lots of herbaceous and mineral character. This is a very friendly and easy drinking wine and It is Imported by Kermit Lynch Wines - and many of you know that we are big fans of Mr. Lynch. He knows how to pick them. Be sure to try it on Friday night.
2 - Clos la Coutale Cahors 2005 $16
Malbec from the place where they invented the stuff, another Kermit Lynch selection.
This is what Kermit has to say: "Astonishing elegance, red fruit with spicy overtones. A well-constructed wine. Clos La Coutale can be drunk young thanks to its good fruit, but has great aging potential, between 10-20 years. This wine accompanies duck, red meat and tasty cheeses perfectly. It is found in the best French restaurants like l'Auberge de l'Ile where Serge Dubbs, named the Best Sommelier in the World, (1990) works." This is what our own Jim Morrison says: "This is one of the few Cahors I have ever bought. I've always tried to find a wine that was obviously Malbec yet obviously not Argentine. I should have just asked Kermit." Two experts - two thumbs up. Please try it and add your two cents on Friday.
3 - Domaine Bouchard Monthelie Les Duresses 1er Cru 2005 $42
Red Burgundy from the much hailed 2005 vintage, an excellent and affordable example of varietal, region and vintage. We have literally dozens of wines from the Cote d'Or; village, premier cru and grand cru wines - we have one of the best selections available in the state. This is a very good value and deserves your attention on Friday night. If you are looking for a special bottle to serve over the holidays or if you need a gift that will make an impression, this will do the job nicely. Burgundy lovers will snap this up quickly - arrive early.
4 - Villa Le Prata Brunello di Montalcino 2001 $58
We bought cases & cases of this wine for a huge corporate wine basket order. It is difficult to find - so we bought a little extra just to have around the house. Jim was quickly reminded that this may be his very favorite Brunello. "I've had this wine head to head with many Gambero Rosso darlings and as my taste matures, I prefer it more and more. A Real Brunello drinker's Brunello in an authentic style. Open and complicated with depth and finesse, a true masterpiece, same as it ever was." Be sure to try this on Friday - it will go quickly - but it is definitely worth your consideration. You may decide to make it your very own Stocking Stuffer.
We want to thank all of our customers and friends for the tremendous support you have shown to us - It is a great holiday season.
We hope to see you all on Friday night, and be sure to say hello the next time you visit the store.
Please Join Us. It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Sunday, December 09, 2007
TOP SECRET, Etude Cabernet, Steltzner Merlot, Tres Picos Garnacha,
Greetings from all of us in New London,
Thames River Wine & Spirits - http://www.thamesriver.com/wine/index.html
Brie & Bleu - http://brieandbleu.com/
Thames River Greenery - http://www.thamesriver.com/trg/gourmet.html
IMPORT - http://www.thamesriver.com/trg/featured.html
The line up for the Friday night tasting is just below a few items of interest. And the list includes something special.
• We have a wine so special that we cannot list it's name - we promised the distributor.
All I can tell you is that it is from one of the greatest and most sought after names in California. It retails for $58 a bottle. And people have been known to weep openly after taking their first sip.
It's almost impossible to find on the shelves of any store - and certainly no one else would open it up with out charge the way that we will on Friday night.
It is all about SHARING - Come early - and bring a box of tissues.
• Most asked question of the week:
"Is it too late to order gift baskets and have them delivered for the holiday?"
No it is not too late - AND, remember you can mix and match any of the items from any of our stores - for example: You may add Moonstruck Chocolates from Thames River Greenery to a wine and cheese basket, or Christopher Radko Ornaments from IMPORT to a gourmet basket, or a beautiful centerpiece from TRG to a bottle of wine - no problem. And we will wrap and deliver it right to the front door of the people receiving it.
Place just one call to order from all our stores: 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 6 8 1 7
Dave's Fave - Monday Tasting - 1-6 p.m. - No Charge
Domaine Houchart Cotes de Provence 2004 $10
Dave Says:
It's cold and gray in New London, seems like you're always walking into a headwind, you can't find your gloves from last year and the zipper on your parka broke. Isn't it time we go to the South of France? Mais oui, let us travel there via this lovely Cotes de Provence. The Provencal vineyards of Domaine Houchart are situated at the foot of stunning Mount St. Victoire, and amongst the Grenache and Syrah vines grow pine, almond and olive trees, along with herbs such as thyme and rosemary. Monday, right here on old Bank Street, we can close our eyes and drift off to that vineyard in the hot sun. Sounds nice, non?
Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday December 14 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - IT'S A SECRET - California 2005 - $58 - Sonoma Coast - Single Vineyard.
2 - Tres Picos Garnacha 2006 $15 - Included in the Wine Spectator Top 100
This is a favorite of ours and for good reason. Deep and sweet, Tres Picos Borsao is cherry red in color with a hints of purple. In the nose, there is a bouquet of mature red fruits with traces of flowers that are typical of the best Garnachas. In the mouth, it is rich and well-structured with flavors of blackberries, vanilla and plums. Perfectly combined, Tres Picos Borsao leaves us with a long, silky and balanced finish. We have offered this wine for quite awhile - now that it has made "The List" - everyone will discover what you may already know - this is an amazing wine for the price. Please try it again or for the very first time on Friday night.
3 - Steltzner Merlot 2004 $28
From Stag's Leap District Napa Valley www.steltzner.com
Richard Steltzner established his first Stags Leap District vineyards in 1965 on a nice little spot on the Silverado Trail in Napa. Steltzner Vineyards' first commercial release was in 1977, and the Steltzner Family established their own modest facility in 1983, with a 3,000 case capacity in the Stags Leap District. Allison Steltzner has been to our store and for those of you that had the opportunity to meet her you will agree that the entire family is deeply committed to making the best wine possible. This merlot has some great blueberry aromas along with a hint of smokiness and it is "like buddah" in your mouth. Please try it on Friday night.
4 - Etude Cabernet 2003 $90 www.etudewines.com
Very Limited Production - All of the major publications and reviewers rate this wine in the 90's. It is one of the finest examples of it's kind.
This is how the winemaker describes the wine: "Vibrant raspberry and blueberry aromas along with a bright perfume note are the signatures of this balanced and refined Cabernet Sauvignon. On the palate, the wine offers forward flavors of dark berries, violets and cassis that lead to a highly structured and complex finish packed with notes of bittersweet chocolate, black plum and almond." This is a wine that fancy restaurants and big shot collectors like to keep to themselves - but you can try it with us on Friday night.
It is a busy holiday season - take a break from the running around and join us on Friday night to try some very special wines.
Thank you for all of the cards, emails, and calls - we appreciate your support, and we hope to see you this week.
Please Join Us.
It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Thames River Wine & Spirits - http://www.thamesriver.com/wine/index.html
Brie & Bleu - http://brieandbleu.com/
Thames River Greenery - http://www.thamesriver.com/trg/gourmet.html
IMPORT - http://www.thamesriver.com/trg/featured.html
The line up for the Friday night tasting is just below a few items of interest. And the list includes something special.
• We have a wine so special that we cannot list it's name - we promised the distributor.
All I can tell you is that it is from one of the greatest and most sought after names in California. It retails for $58 a bottle. And people have been known to weep openly after taking their first sip.
It's almost impossible to find on the shelves of any store - and certainly no one else would open it up with out charge the way that we will on Friday night.
It is all about SHARING - Come early - and bring a box of tissues.
• Most asked question of the week:
"Is it too late to order gift baskets and have them delivered for the holiday?"
No it is not too late - AND, remember you can mix and match any of the items from any of our stores - for example: You may add Moonstruck Chocolates from Thames River Greenery to a wine and cheese basket, or Christopher Radko Ornaments from IMPORT to a gourmet basket, or a beautiful centerpiece from TRG to a bottle of wine - no problem. And we will wrap and deliver it right to the front door of the people receiving it.
Place just one call to order from all our stores: 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 6 8 1 7
Dave's Fave - Monday Tasting - 1-6 p.m. - No Charge
Domaine Houchart Cotes de Provence 2004 $10
Dave Says:
It's cold and gray in New London, seems like you're always walking into a headwind, you can't find your gloves from last year and the zipper on your parka broke. Isn't it time we go to the South of France? Mais oui, let us travel there via this lovely Cotes de Provence. The Provencal vineyards of Domaine Houchart are situated at the foot of stunning Mount St. Victoire, and amongst the Grenache and Syrah vines grow pine, almond and olive trees, along with herbs such as thyme and rosemary. Monday, right here on old Bank Street, we can close our eyes and drift off to that vineyard in the hot sun. Sounds nice, non?
Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday December 14 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - IT'S A SECRET - California 2005 - $58 - Sonoma Coast - Single Vineyard.
2 - Tres Picos Garnacha 2006 $15 - Included in the Wine Spectator Top 100
This is a favorite of ours and for good reason. Deep and sweet, Tres Picos Borsao is cherry red in color with a hints of purple. In the nose, there is a bouquet of mature red fruits with traces of flowers that are typical of the best Garnachas. In the mouth, it is rich and well-structured with flavors of blackberries, vanilla and plums. Perfectly combined, Tres Picos Borsao leaves us with a long, silky and balanced finish. We have offered this wine for quite awhile - now that it has made "The List" - everyone will discover what you may already know - this is an amazing wine for the price. Please try it again or for the very first time on Friday night.
3 - Steltzner Merlot 2004 $28
From Stag's Leap District Napa Valley www.steltzner.com
Richard Steltzner established his first Stags Leap District vineyards in 1965 on a nice little spot on the Silverado Trail in Napa. Steltzner Vineyards' first commercial release was in 1977, and the Steltzner Family established their own modest facility in 1983, with a 3,000 case capacity in the Stags Leap District. Allison Steltzner has been to our store and for those of you that had the opportunity to meet her you will agree that the entire family is deeply committed to making the best wine possible. This merlot has some great blueberry aromas along with a hint of smokiness and it is "like buddah" in your mouth. Please try it on Friday night.
4 - Etude Cabernet 2003 $90 www.etudewines.com
Very Limited Production - All of the major publications and reviewers rate this wine in the 90's. It is one of the finest examples of it's kind.
This is how the winemaker describes the wine: "Vibrant raspberry and blueberry aromas along with a bright perfume note are the signatures of this balanced and refined Cabernet Sauvignon. On the palate, the wine offers forward flavors of dark berries, violets and cassis that lead to a highly structured and complex finish packed with notes of bittersweet chocolate, black plum and almond." This is a wine that fancy restaurants and big shot collectors like to keep to themselves - but you can try it with us on Friday night.
It is a busy holiday season - take a break from the running around and join us on Friday night to try some very special wines.
Thank you for all of the cards, emails, and calls - we appreciate your support, and we hope to see you this week.
Please Join Us.
It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Sunday, December 02, 2007
New York Times, Clos Des Papes Chateauneuf du Pape , Byron Santa Maria Valley Pinot Noir, Masi Campofiorin Ripasso, Beckman Estate Cabernet
Greetings from all of us in New London,
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
IMPORT - http://www.thamesriver.com/trg/featured.html
Coming Soon - City News - http://www.thamesriver.com/citynews/index.html
It is a very busy week here - So we have just a couple of items of interest before we list the wines for our tasting on Friday night.
And there are a couple real favorites on the list, be sure to arrive early - they will go quickly.
• You may have seen the photos of our stores in Sundays local paper - we hosted the now annual display of Ballerina's dancing in the store front windows as part of the Light & Song celebration: http://theday.com/re_print.aspx?re=e99e87b0-e00c-4aa7-9685-f5187103faf0
• The Sunday New York Times has a nice article in the Holiday Magazine Section, on page 100, about Grower Champagne. Now - how long have we been singing the praises of Grower Champagne? - Their list of favorites is virtually a menu of what we have on our shelves right now. Please take a look the next time you visit the store - and if you would like to see the article, here is a link to the story titled Brut Force: http://www.nytimes.com/indexes/2007/12/02/style/t/index.html?8dpc#pageName=02ssfair
And if you still have not seen our most recent interviews with the Grower Champagne Maestro, Terry Theise, take a look on the WineRadio section of our calendar of events page - it will enlighten you on the magic that's in the bottle. Here: http://www.thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
• Dave's Fave - Monday Tasting - No Charge Santa Ema Merlot Reserve 2005 $12
Dave Says: First off, in Beaujolais Nouveau news, three small grower-producer Nouveaux have arrived via boat (the Duboeuf came via their fleet of old Concordes). What are they like, you ask? Never fear - I and fellow Wine Consultant (Hartford Courant's language) Adam Demorest have volunteered to sample and compare all of them over the weekend, so by the time you read this, we will be awash in New-Found Nouveau Know-How.
And for Monday, "We ARE SO drinking Merlot!!!" Santa Ema Reserva is a big stunner from Chile with a small table-wine price. So don't neglect this grape because of the rantings of a fictional cinema nebbish: come on in and try it Monday!
Wine Tasting - Please Join Us Friday December 7 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 -Clos Des Papes Chateauneuf du Pape BLANC 2006 $70 -
Rated 95 points Wine Spectator
Alain Junguenet made a name for himself as a Grand Prix racecar driver, before turning his passion for wine and his friendship with many of France’s foremost vignerons into a second career that was to bring him much more notoriety. “The name Alain Junguenet on a bottle,” wrote Robert Parker in December, 1991, “is an indication of a fine wine that is probably under-valued in terms of its quality,” and that remains all the more true today.
This is what Wine Spectator has to say about this wine: "Supertight and pure, with blanched almond, star fruit, acacia and lemon verbena notes all gliding along a bright, minerally frame. Lingering hints of orange blossom, honeysuckle and lime add further complexity. Should age beautifully."
Their red wine was rated number 1 on the Wine Spectator Top 100 list - This is a wine you really will not want to miss - please try it on Friday night.
2 - Byron Santa Maria Valley Pinot Noir 2005 $27 www.byronwines.com
The Byron name is familiar to you because it is often on the top rated lists of all the noted publications. The Santa Maria Valley is an appellation apart, 300 miles south of Napa Valley, 150 miles north of Los Angeles. Byron Vineyard and Winery was founded in 1984 by winemaker Ken Brown. With years of experience as a winemaker in Santa Barbara County, Ken recognized the region's potential for great wines in the Burgundian style, and was the first winemaker to introduce Rhone-style grape varieties to the area.
With the aid of noted architect R. Scott Johnson, who designed the Opus One winery in Napa Valley and San Francisco's Transamerica building, Ken designed a multi-level winery that replaces pumping with gravity flow, resulting in more complex, dynamic wines. The result is a remarkably smooth wine. This wine displays aromas of dark plum and dark cherry, accented by hints of brown sugar, brown spice, vanilla, and smoke. The flavor profile has a core of dark cherry and dark plum with hints of clove and brown spices, backed by a smoky finish. An absolutely excellent food wine - you will be a hero when you serve this to your family and friends over the holidays. Try it on Friday night and see why we have made this a "house favorite" here at the store.
3 - Masi Campofiorin Ripasso 2002 $16
Ripasso is an Italian red wine from Valpolicella made by fermenting young wine with the skins and lees left over from making Amarone.
The Boscaini family have been the owners of the Masi vineyards for six generations. Masi is a specialized producer of premium wines from the Venetian area. This led writer Hugh Johnson to refer to Masi as "a touchstone for Verona wines. Masi rediscovered and refined the technique of double fermentation using semi-dried grapes. This speciality of Masi, resulting from the refermentation of wine from fresh Veronese red grapes with a percentage of semi-dried grapes of the same varietals , splendidly encompasses the qualities of the Verona area: the excellence of the zone, the highly individual style of the indigenous Veronese grape varieties, and the originality of the techniques of "appassimento" (semi-drying) and double fermentation by Masi. It combines simplicity and grace with power and majesty. It is rich, full-bodied, round and velvety, and has an aging potential of 10 to 15 years."
This is a great bottle of wine for the price. We drink it ourselves and I think that after you try it on Friday night it may become a favorite of yours too. Here is a link to a photo of the family - look at these folks - they care about what they make: http://www.masi.it/agricola/components_table/FAMIGLIA_PAGE.pag
4 - Beckman Estate Cabernet 2004 $24
This is still our best selling California Cabernet, all estate fruit, only 1500 cases made. For the life of us we cannot figure out why the price has not gone through the roof. The name Beckman has been whispered around as the "next big thing" for a while now. Awed and inspired by a perfect convergence of soil, microclimate, wind and sun - Tom Beckmen purchased a stunning, unplanted 365-acre hillside property overlooking the Santa Ynez Valley in 1996. Respect for the land is a fundamental element of the Beckmen Vineyards philosophy. In this spirit, beginning in 2006, Steve Beckmen began farming 100 percent of the Purisima Vineyard biodynamically. In the years since Beckmen first started farming Purisima Mountain Vineyard, it has proved to be an ideally situated property that consistently bears superior fruit. The stellar vineyard, together with Tom and Steve Beckmen's approach to winegrowing and their innovative viticultural practices, represents a coming of age for Santa Barbara County winegrowing.
For lovers of Cabernet you will not want to miss this one. The nose of this wine is almost bottomless with aromas of jammy black cherry, earth, and chocolate. Flavors start off big and follow up with a seductively long finish. Please try it on Friday.
Your support during this holiday season is tremendous - thank you all for shopping locally, we appreciate it.
Thank you for all of the comments and suggestions - we are listening and there is a lot on the way.
Please Join Us -
It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
IMPORT - http://www.thamesriver.com/trg/featured.html
Coming Soon - City News - http://www.thamesriver.com/citynews/index.html
It is a very busy week here - So we have just a couple of items of interest before we list the wines for our tasting on Friday night.
And there are a couple real favorites on the list, be sure to arrive early - they will go quickly.
• You may have seen the photos of our stores in Sundays local paper - we hosted the now annual display of Ballerina's dancing in the store front windows as part of the Light & Song celebration: http://theday.com/re_print.aspx?re=e99e87b0-e00c-4aa7-9685-f5187103faf0
• The Sunday New York Times has a nice article in the Holiday Magazine Section, on page 100, about Grower Champagne. Now - how long have we been singing the praises of Grower Champagne? - Their list of favorites is virtually a menu of what we have on our shelves right now. Please take a look the next time you visit the store - and if you would like to see the article, here is a link to the story titled Brut Force: http://www.nytimes.com/indexes/2007/12/02/style/t/index.html?8dpc#pageName=02ssfairAnd if you still have not seen our most recent interviews with the Grower Champagne Maestro, Terry Theise, take a look on the WineRadio section of our calendar of events page - it will enlighten you on the magic that's in the bottle. Here: http://www.thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
• Dave's Fave - Monday Tasting - No Charge Santa Ema Merlot Reserve 2005 $12
Dave Says: First off, in Beaujolais Nouveau news, three small grower-producer Nouveaux have arrived via boat (the Duboeuf came via their fleet of old Concordes). What are they like, you ask? Never fear - I and fellow Wine Consultant (Hartford Courant's language) Adam Demorest have volunteered to sample and compare all of them over the weekend, so by the time you read this, we will be awash in New-Found Nouveau Know-How.
And for Monday, "We ARE SO drinking Merlot!!!" Santa Ema Reserva is a big stunner from Chile with a small table-wine price. So don't neglect this grape because of the rantings of a fictional cinema nebbish: come on in and try it Monday!
Wine Tasting - Please Join Us Friday December 7 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 -Clos Des Papes Chateauneuf du Pape BLANC 2006 $70 -
Rated 95 points Wine Spectator
Alain Junguenet made a name for himself as a Grand Prix racecar driver, before turning his passion for wine and his friendship with many of France’s foremost vignerons into a second career that was to bring him much more notoriety. “The name Alain Junguenet on a bottle,” wrote Robert Parker in December, 1991, “is an indication of a fine wine that is probably under-valued in terms of its quality,” and that remains all the more true today.
This is what Wine Spectator has to say about this wine: "Supertight and pure, with blanched almond, star fruit, acacia and lemon verbena notes all gliding along a bright, minerally frame. Lingering hints of orange blossom, honeysuckle and lime add further complexity. Should age beautifully."
Their red wine was rated number 1 on the Wine Spectator Top 100 list - This is a wine you really will not want to miss - please try it on Friday night.
2 - Byron Santa Maria Valley Pinot Noir 2005 $27 www.byronwines.com
The Byron name is familiar to you because it is often on the top rated lists of all the noted publications. The Santa Maria Valley is an appellation apart, 300 miles south of Napa Valley, 150 miles north of Los Angeles. Byron Vineyard and Winery was founded in 1984 by winemaker Ken Brown. With years of experience as a winemaker in Santa Barbara County, Ken recognized the region's potential for great wines in the Burgundian style, and was the first winemaker to introduce Rhone-style grape varieties to the area.
With the aid of noted architect R. Scott Johnson, who designed the Opus One winery in Napa Valley and San Francisco's Transamerica building, Ken designed a multi-level winery that replaces pumping with gravity flow, resulting in more complex, dynamic wines. The result is a remarkably smooth wine. This wine displays aromas of dark plum and dark cherry, accented by hints of brown sugar, brown spice, vanilla, and smoke. The flavor profile has a core of dark cherry and dark plum with hints of clove and brown spices, backed by a smoky finish. An absolutely excellent food wine - you will be a hero when you serve this to your family and friends over the holidays. Try it on Friday night and see why we have made this a "house favorite" here at the store.
3 - Masi Campofiorin Ripasso 2002 $16
Ripasso is an Italian red wine from Valpolicella made by fermenting young wine with the skins and lees left over from making Amarone.
The Boscaini family have been the owners of the Masi vineyards for six generations. Masi is a specialized producer of premium wines from the Venetian area. This led writer Hugh Johnson to refer to Masi as "a touchstone for Verona wines. Masi rediscovered and refined the technique of double fermentation using semi-dried grapes. This speciality of Masi, resulting from the refermentation of wine from fresh Veronese red grapes with a percentage of semi-dried grapes of the same varietals , splendidly encompasses the qualities of the Verona area: the excellence of the zone, the highly individual style of the indigenous Veronese grape varieties, and the originality of the techniques of "appassimento" (semi-drying) and double fermentation by Masi. It combines simplicity and grace with power and majesty. It is rich, full-bodied, round and velvety, and has an aging potential of 10 to 15 years."
This is a great bottle of wine for the price. We drink it ourselves and I think that after you try it on Friday night it may become a favorite of yours too. Here is a link to a photo of the family - look at these folks - they care about what they make: http://www.masi.it/agricola/components_table/FAMIGLIA_PAGE.pag
4 - Beckman Estate Cabernet 2004 $24
This is still our best selling California Cabernet, all estate fruit, only 1500 cases made. For the life of us we cannot figure out why the price has not gone through the roof. The name Beckman has been whispered around as the "next big thing" for a while now. Awed and inspired by a perfect convergence of soil, microclimate, wind and sun - Tom Beckmen purchased a stunning, unplanted 365-acre hillside property overlooking the Santa Ynez Valley in 1996. Respect for the land is a fundamental element of the Beckmen Vineyards philosophy. In this spirit, beginning in 2006, Steve Beckmen began farming 100 percent of the Purisima Vineyard biodynamically. In the years since Beckmen first started farming Purisima Mountain Vineyard, it has proved to be an ideally situated property that consistently bears superior fruit. The stellar vineyard, together with Tom and Steve Beckmen's approach to winegrowing and their innovative viticultural practices, represents a coming of age for Santa Barbara County winegrowing.
For lovers of Cabernet you will not want to miss this one. The nose of this wine is almost bottomless with aromas of jammy black cherry, earth, and chocolate. Flavors start off big and follow up with a seductively long finish. Please try it on Friday.
Your support during this holiday season is tremendous - thank you all for shopping locally, we appreciate it.
Thank you for all of the comments and suggestions - we are listening and there is a lot on the way.
Please Join Us -
It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA
Sunday, November 25, 2007
Dance Ballerina - Dance, Chateau de Pizay Morgon, Adelsheim Pinot Gris, Archery Summit Arcus Estate, Steele Stymie Merlot, Alonso del Yerro Ribera
Greetings from all of us in New London,
www.thamesriver.com
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
IMPORT - 860-443-6817
City News - coming soon
Shop On Line Page: http://thamesriver.com/wine/instock.html
Calendar Page: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
It was a fantastic Thanksgiving, thanks for all of your support and warm wishes. We have a nice line up for you on Friday night - including some pricey bottles that may find their way to your holiday tables. The list is just below a few items of interest.
• We will be open late - until 9 p.m. - every day except Sunday - right through all of the holidays.
• We are your passport to world's great food and wine regions - and we are right here and open late when you need us.We especially want to remind you that we have some remarkable gifts and gift baskets that can be delivered to friends and family with just one call. And we would like to you take a look at our shop on line page - there are items there that any wine lover will find irresistible. Take a look here: http://thamesriver.com/wine/instock.html
• You really need to pop into IMPORT to take a look. Unique gifts, home furnishings, and wonderful necessities, now decorated for the holidays and we will keep it open late every Thursday until 9 p.m. - for that matter all of London's Merchants will be open for your strolling and shopping pleasure.
Start your evening at Brie & Bleu nibble at the cheese samples, have a glass of wine, maybe order an appetizer or dinner, and then go for a little walk. Get some fresh air and visit the downtown merchants that are open late on Thursdays for holiday shopping.
• Saturday December 1st - Seven ballerinas will be performing this year in Ballet on Display thanks to the overwhelming generosity of ECB who will be providing free previews of The Nutcracker in several of State Street's storefront windows. The special window performances will begin at 5:15 pm and will end at approximately 5:45 PM. Appearance windows will include Thames River Greenery & Beanery, City News , IMPORT, and ALVA Gallery. Performances will include dances by the Snow Queen, Mirliton Princess, and Flower, plus Chinese and Spanish ensembles. Watch as Live Ballerinas Dance in selected windows downtown. Presented by New London Main Street - this is a magical performance and fantastic for kids.
More details here: http://newlondonmainstreet.org/events/lightsandsong2007.php
• Our Special Champagne Tasting Dec 10th is sold out - thank you.
But for those of you in need of Champagne remember that we carry over 20 Grower Producer Champagnes, the largest collections in Connecticut. And other Sparkling wines from Spain , Italy , The Loire Valley, Oregon, Long Island , and New Mexico - that's right, New Mexico. You have to try it.
Learn more here: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
Just click on the picture of Terry Theise and the WineRadio episode about Grower Champagne.
"Dave's Fave" - MONDAY TASTING - No Charge
Chateau de Pizay Morgon 2006 $12
Please visit our own David Anderson and try his latest selection.
Dave Says: "You're never going to get a wine that does everything for you forever for twelve bucks. What you can get for twelve bucks is the perfect wine for a day, or a meal, or a certain group of friends, or even just your end-of-day mood - a charming wine that just makes you happy - I love this."
"Now let's get this out in the open: Morgon is -wince- Beaujolais. But everybody, including The Guy in The Movie, loves Pinot Noir, right? The Gamay grape, from Southern Burgundy, is absolutely in the same sphere. Do I know the ratings or points on this little number? No clue. But I do know I brought this to some of my best friends for Thanksgiving and immediately got "this is great," "tastes like berries and cream," and all was good." - Stop in on Monday and let Dave show you what he is talking about.
Wine Tasting - Please Join Us
Friday November 30 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Adelsheim Pinot Gris 2006 $19
Some of you may have met David Adelsheim when he made a visit to our store. David was also one of the first guest's that we had on our WineRadio show. The entire family really cares about making the best wine possible - after all, their name is on every label.
Pinot Gris, originating in Burgundy like the other members of the Pinot family, has had a long history all over Europe. Oregon winegrowers introduced Pinot gris to New World viticulture and in forty years the variety has become the white wine of Oregon. Adelsheim Vineyard can lay claim to being one of the very oldest producers of this variety outside of Europe. With this wine, their 23rd vintage, the experience shows – they have long been acknowledged as producing a reference standard for the “Oregon style”.
This is how their winemaker describes the 2006 vintage: "Crisp, bright flavors have always been the hallmark of Adelsheim Pinot gris. In this 2006, you’ll find beautifully delineated Bosc pear, white peach, and Winesap apple, with a touch of spice. It pulls off the difficult feat of providing a gentle creaminess that lends a mouth-filling texture and long finish, yet still impressing as a wine that’s crisp and clean. Try it with mildly spicy foods (such as ceviche), not so mildly spicy Thai cuisine, rich fish entrees, and even classic oven-roasted fowl."
2 - Archery Summit Arcus Estate Pinot Noir 2004 $90
With some of the oldest Pinot Noir vines in the Willamette Valley, Arcus Estate vineyard beautifully expresses the terroir of the valley’s Dundee Hills. Saturated with fruit, this wine shows great depth and is luscious with plush, integrated tannins and notes of vanilla bean and fresh berries that persist through the finish. It is a wine that is made in tiny amounts and doled out carefully in scanty portions by stingy distributors. You will find this wine in fancy restaurants with three digit pricing - but you can try with us for free this friday night.
3 - Steele Stymie Merlot 2002 $45
From the label: " Stymie was one of the most famous race horses in American history. Once Stymie gained a lead, he would never relinquish it . So dramatic was his racing that his name became an offical word in our vocabulary . To " stymie " someone is to never let them advance. It was a winning wager on Stymie by my father that gave him the capital to move our entire family from New York to San Francisco in 1950. The Steele-Stymie is reserved for our rarest, small production wines of the highest quality." This superb Merlot is the perfect “special occasion” wine and pairs well with big hearty foods. Exceptional with any preparation of lamb or beef, steaks, cherry-wood grilled venison chops, ragout, and any other full-flavored dish. And you will be missing out if you don’t try this Merlot with chocolate." Please try this wine on Friday night - it is worth your attention.
4 - Alonso del Yerro Ribera del Duero "Maria" 2005 $60
Robert Parker has rated the 2004 vintage 96 points. And this is what he had to say: "From high elevation vines, the Alonso del Yerro Maria represents a strict selection of the winery’s finest barrels. Aged sur-lie for 18 months with frequent batonnage, it is one of the finest Ribera del Dueros I have tasted over the last year. A deep purple color is followed by scents of espresso, creme de cassis, scorched earth, and pain grille. It reveals the lushness and silky texture of a great Pomerol married to a Spanish personality. Full-bodied and rich, but light on its feet, this beauty can be drunk now and over the next decade. This superb offering suggests this producer from the somewhat over-crowded Ribera del Duero appellation deserves consumers’ attention. No other than the great French winemaking guru, Stephane Derenoncourt, oversees the viticulture and winemaking at this estate." This will go quickly - but if you can arrive before it is gone you will have the opportunity to try a truly exceptional wine, we hope you can join us.
The holidays are stressful and full of obligation. Our goal is to make your shopping as easy as possible at all of our stores. We are happy to take orders, direct your calls, and make arrangements for wrapping and delivery to your friends and family with just one call.
8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 6 8 1 7. That is the main number for Thames River Greenery. We can handle just about any request from that main number - whether it is a single greeting card or a corporate order for 200 wine and cheese baskets - just say the word. You shop, we will wrap and deliver.
Thanks for your great support and all of the calls and email - we all appreciate the comments and suggestions - we are listening.
Please Join us, it's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend. We hope to see you on Friday night.
AAA.
www.thamesriver.com
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
IMPORT - 860-443-6817
City News - coming soon
Shop On Line Page: http://thamesriver.com/wine/instock.html
Calendar Page: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
It was a fantastic Thanksgiving, thanks for all of your support and warm wishes. We have a nice line up for you on Friday night - including some pricey bottles that may find their way to your holiday tables. The list is just below a few items of interest.
• We will be open late - until 9 p.m. - every day except Sunday - right through all of the holidays.
• We are your passport to world's great food and wine regions - and we are right here and open late when you need us.We especially want to remind you that we have some remarkable gifts and gift baskets that can be delivered to friends and family with just one call. And we would like to you take a look at our shop on line page - there are items there that any wine lover will find irresistible. Take a look here: http://thamesriver.com/wine/instock.html
• You really need to pop into IMPORT to take a look. Unique gifts, home furnishings, and wonderful necessities, now decorated for the holidays and we will keep it open late every Thursday until 9 p.m. - for that matter all of London's Merchants will be open for your strolling and shopping pleasure.
Start your evening at Brie & Bleu nibble at the cheese samples, have a glass of wine, maybe order an appetizer or dinner, and then go for a little walk. Get some fresh air and visit the downtown merchants that are open late on Thursdays for holiday shopping.
• Saturday December 1st - Seven ballerinas will be performing this year in Ballet on Display thanks to the overwhelming generosity of ECB who will be providing free previews of The Nutcracker in several of State Street's storefront windows. The special window performances will begin at 5:15 pm and will end at approximately 5:45 PM. Appearance windows will include Thames River Greenery & Beanery, City News , IMPORT, and ALVA Gallery. Performances will include dances by the Snow Queen, Mirliton Princess, and Flower, plus Chinese and Spanish ensembles. Watch as Live Ballerinas Dance in selected windows downtown. Presented by New London Main Street - this is a magical performance and fantastic for kids.
More details here: http://newlondonmainstreet.org/events/lightsandsong2007.php
• Our Special Champagne Tasting Dec 10th is sold out - thank you.
But for those of you in need of Champagne remember that we carry over 20 Grower Producer Champagnes, the largest collections in Connecticut. And other Sparkling wines from Spain , Italy , The Loire Valley, Oregon, Long Island , and New Mexico - that's right, New Mexico. You have to try it.
Learn more here: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
Just click on the picture of Terry Theise and the WineRadio episode about Grower Champagne.
"Dave's Fave" - MONDAY TASTING - No Charge
Chateau de Pizay Morgon 2006 $12
Please visit our own David Anderson and try his latest selection.
Dave Says: "You're never going to get a wine that does everything for you forever for twelve bucks. What you can get for twelve bucks is the perfect wine for a day, or a meal, or a certain group of friends, or even just your end-of-day mood - a charming wine that just makes you happy - I love this."
"Now let's get this out in the open: Morgon is -wince- Beaujolais. But everybody, including The Guy in The Movie, loves Pinot Noir, right? The Gamay grape, from Southern Burgundy, is absolutely in the same sphere. Do I know the ratings or points on this little number? No clue. But I do know I brought this to some of my best friends for Thanksgiving and immediately got "this is great," "tastes like berries and cream," and all was good." - Stop in on Monday and let Dave show you what he is talking about.
Wine Tasting - Please Join Us
Friday November 30 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Adelsheim Pinot Gris 2006 $19
Some of you may have met David Adelsheim when he made a visit to our store. David was also one of the first guest's that we had on our WineRadio show. The entire family really cares about making the best wine possible - after all, their name is on every label.
Pinot Gris, originating in Burgundy like the other members of the Pinot family, has had a long history all over Europe. Oregon winegrowers introduced Pinot gris to New World viticulture and in forty years the variety has become the white wine of Oregon. Adelsheim Vineyard can lay claim to being one of the very oldest producers of this variety outside of Europe. With this wine, their 23rd vintage, the experience shows – they have long been acknowledged as producing a reference standard for the “Oregon style”.
This is how their winemaker describes the 2006 vintage: "Crisp, bright flavors have always been the hallmark of Adelsheim Pinot gris. In this 2006, you’ll find beautifully delineated Bosc pear, white peach, and Winesap apple, with a touch of spice. It pulls off the difficult feat of providing a gentle creaminess that lends a mouth-filling texture and long finish, yet still impressing as a wine that’s crisp and clean. Try it with mildly spicy foods (such as ceviche), not so mildly spicy Thai cuisine, rich fish entrees, and even classic oven-roasted fowl."
2 - Archery Summit Arcus Estate Pinot Noir 2004 $90
With some of the oldest Pinot Noir vines in the Willamette Valley, Arcus Estate vineyard beautifully expresses the terroir of the valley’s Dundee Hills. Saturated with fruit, this wine shows great depth and is luscious with plush, integrated tannins and notes of vanilla bean and fresh berries that persist through the finish. It is a wine that is made in tiny amounts and doled out carefully in scanty portions by stingy distributors. You will find this wine in fancy restaurants with three digit pricing - but you can try with us for free this friday night.
3 - Steele Stymie Merlot 2002 $45
From the label: " Stymie was one of the most famous race horses in American history. Once Stymie gained a lead, he would never relinquish it . So dramatic was his racing that his name became an offical word in our vocabulary . To " stymie " someone is to never let them advance. It was a winning wager on Stymie by my father that gave him the capital to move our entire family from New York to San Francisco in 1950. The Steele-Stymie is reserved for our rarest, small production wines of the highest quality." This superb Merlot is the perfect “special occasion” wine and pairs well with big hearty foods. Exceptional with any preparation of lamb or beef, steaks, cherry-wood grilled venison chops, ragout, and any other full-flavored dish. And you will be missing out if you don’t try this Merlot with chocolate." Please try this wine on Friday night - it is worth your attention.
4 - Alonso del Yerro Ribera del Duero "Maria" 2005 $60
Robert Parker has rated the 2004 vintage 96 points. And this is what he had to say: "From high elevation vines, the Alonso del Yerro Maria represents a strict selection of the winery’s finest barrels. Aged sur-lie for 18 months with frequent batonnage, it is one of the finest Ribera del Dueros I have tasted over the last year. A deep purple color is followed by scents of espresso, creme de cassis, scorched earth, and pain grille. It reveals the lushness and silky texture of a great Pomerol married to a Spanish personality. Full-bodied and rich, but light on its feet, this beauty can be drunk now and over the next decade. This superb offering suggests this producer from the somewhat over-crowded Ribera del Duero appellation deserves consumers’ attention. No other than the great French winemaking guru, Stephane Derenoncourt, oversees the viticulture and winemaking at this estate." This will go quickly - but if you can arrive before it is gone you will have the opportunity to try a truly exceptional wine, we hope you can join us.
The holidays are stressful and full of obligation. Our goal is to make your shopping as easy as possible at all of our stores. We are happy to take orders, direct your calls, and make arrangements for wrapping and delivery to your friends and family with just one call.
8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 6 8 1 7. That is the main number for Thames River Greenery. We can handle just about any request from that main number - whether it is a single greeting card or a corporate order for 200 wine and cheese baskets - just say the word. You shop, we will wrap and deliver.
Thanks for your great support and all of the calls and email - we all appreciate the comments and suggestions - we are listening.
Please Join us, it's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend. We hope to see you on Friday night.
AAA.
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Thanksgiving Edition - 2007 - Foreau Vouvray, L'Ecole no. 41, Tenuta San Leone Amarone , Buty Winery - Rediviva of the Stones
Greetings from all of us inNew London,
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
IMPORT - 860-443-6817
City News - Coming Soon
www.ThamesRiver.com
This is the Thanksgiving Edition - and there is so much to prepare for this week - that we will mention just a few items of interest before the list of wine for Friday night.
• First, we have gotten a lot of questions about our schedule for the holiday:
We will be open - Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday from 10 a.m. until 9 p.m. -
And we are on call for you to bring in your menus and recipe ideas so that we might match it with the perfect wine for each dish. We even have ideas for the perfect "welcome to our home" glass of wine. Of course we have great Kosher selections and a complete selection of beer and spirits too.
• There is no doubt that the Nouveau Beaujolais craze is alive and well - even though it has cooled a bit over the past year or so there are still plenty of us that wait for the new release with excitement and stock up accordingly. There is however something else you should know about. You need to know what the Italians have been drinking instead of Beaujolais for about five hundred years. Our own Dave Anderson has the Italian alternative to share with you this Monday starting at noon. It is a fabulous change of pace at a great price. This is a food wine that you can stock up on and pour with abandon.
Special Monday Tasting with Dave Anderson - Dave's Fave:
Cantine del Colle Novello di Primo Cielo 2007 $9
Dave Says:
"Monday, we're going after a seasonal tradition in our own quirky way - oui, oui "Le Nouveau est Arrivee," but we've also been charmed by Beaujolais Nouveau's Italian counterpart, NOVELLO... Yum out. Bright fruit flavors from this year's harvest in southern Italy. So when big uncle Bob blurts out over the Thanksgiving table, "We're sick of this old stuff, bring us some fresh wine!" BOOM - break out the Novello. We love it, stop by Monday afternoon for a taste!"
• On Wednesday afternoon we welcome our good friends from the Jonathan Edward's Winery in North Stonington. This is our yearly tradition. Our FOURTH annual Jonathan Edwards tasting right here in the store signals Thanksgiving in a big way. The folks at Jonathan Edwards do a fabulous job - we are very happy to continue the holiday tradition with them. Please join us - from 1 - 6 p.m. This year they will feature their Petit Sirah.
• MORE QUESTIONS & ANSWERS:
Q- Can I still book a private party or wine tasting or have a special menu made up for my Holiday or Office Party?
A- YES. We will accommodate you if at all possible - early, late - even on Monday when Brie & Bleu is normally closed. The easiest way to check the dates and your options is to call - 860-443-9463 - any day after 10a.m.
Q- Will you be offering gift baskets and gift wrapping again this year?
A- Yes. We will have a variety of gift basket ideas to choose from and the ability to combine different items from all of our stores into a single basket or gift delivery too. Wine, cheese, flowers, plants, decorative items you name it. You shop - we will dress it, wrap it, ship or deliver it - no fuss, no muss, no messy mop-up.
Please Join Us - Wine Tasting
Friday November 23 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Foreau Vouvray sec 2004 $32
Philippe Foreau is the third generation of the Foreau family to produce Vouvray from this fabled domaine which his grandfather purchased in 1923.
Wine Spectator - "400 cases imported Gorgeous nose of papaya, peach and cream. This fools you into thinking it's a lush wine, but it's really bone-dry, with nervy citrus peel, mineral and chamomile flower notes. Long, minerally finish is precise and resonant." This is amazingly dense and rich in the mouth, with a remarkable elegance and a nearly perfect balance of fruit and acidity. Please give it a whirl on Friday night.
2 - L'Ecole no. 41 Merlot 2004 $30
L'Ecole Nº 41 is known for producing superior quality wines that are rich, flavorful and full-bodied. Stephen Tanzer rated this 87 points
“Good full, deep red. Currant, game, tobacco, chocolate and nutty oak on the nose. Juicy, leanish and suave, with good lift to the currant and spice flavors. Not especially complex but shows good life in the mouth. Finishes with a light dusting of tannins.” ST. I had a bottle of this last night at Brie & Bleu. Our own Kristen Webbers selected it for me to go with the Braised Beef over noodles special - it was luscious. See if it works for you, this Friday night.
3 - Tenuta San Leone Amarone della Valpolicella 2003 $30
This is a deep ruby red with wonderful aromas of cherry, vanilla, and spice. It has a velvety feel with a great body - like a Super Model. This is for pouring into a large glass and serving with a fine roast. Also it would be an excellent companion for conversation - like a Super Model?
4 - Buty Winery - Rediviva of the Stones 2004 $50
This is their most popular and hard to get wine, very, very, very limited production of this vintage. This small Walla Walla winery (it's pronounced "beauty") is on the cutting edge of quality and innovation. Caleb Foster and Nina Buty Foster founded their family business in 2000, but Caleb's winemaking experience dates back a decade. His résumé includes eight years with Rick Small at Woodward Canyon, winemaking positions at Mount Baker Winery and Glen Fiona, and further experience working crush in New Zealand and South Africa. "We could make 10,000 cases tomorrow and sell all of it," says Caleb matter-of-factly. "The demand is there. But we have a new daughter, and we always wanted a very small winery." Then again, he muses, "every market wants more; and the fruit's there to get. So I struggle with that." While he struggles, I suggest you get a bottle or two of Buty, before someone beats you to it. Try something very special this Friday night - it will go quickly.
As always we take great pleasure in sharing the the great wines and spirits of the world with you. We open bottles that for the most part go to collectors, movie stars and diplomats. Why should they have all the fun? You are the stars of our show. Your support, comments and suggestions make us better everyday. Thank you, from all of us. And we hope that you enjoy the holiday with family and friends.
Please Join Us.
It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
IMPORT - 860-443-6817
City News - Coming Soon
www.ThamesRiver.com
This is the Thanksgiving Edition - and there is so much to prepare for this week - that we will mention just a few items of interest before the list of wine for Friday night.
• First, we have gotten a lot of questions about our schedule for the holiday:
We will be open - Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday from 10 a.m. until 9 p.m. -
And we are on call for you to bring in your menus and recipe ideas so that we might match it with the perfect wine for each dish. We even have ideas for the perfect "welcome to our home" glass of wine. Of course we have great Kosher selections and a complete selection of beer and spirits too.
• There is no doubt that the Nouveau Beaujolais craze is alive and well - even though it has cooled a bit over the past year or so there are still plenty of us that wait for the new release with excitement and stock up accordingly. There is however something else you should know about. You need to know what the Italians have been drinking instead of Beaujolais for about five hundred years. Our own Dave Anderson has the Italian alternative to share with you this Monday starting at noon. It is a fabulous change of pace at a great price. This is a food wine that you can stock up on and pour with abandon.
Special Monday Tasting with Dave Anderson - Dave's Fave:
Cantine del Colle Novello di Primo Cielo 2007 $9
Dave Says:
"Monday, we're going after a seasonal tradition in our own quirky way - oui, oui "Le Nouveau est Arrivee," but we've also been charmed by Beaujolais Nouveau's Italian counterpart, NOVELLO... Yum out. Bright fruit flavors from this year's harvest in southern Italy. So when big uncle Bob blurts out over the Thanksgiving table, "We're sick of this old stuff, bring us some fresh wine!" BOOM - break out the Novello. We love it, stop by Monday afternoon for a taste!"
• On Wednesday afternoon we welcome our good friends from the Jonathan Edward's Winery in North Stonington. This is our yearly tradition. Our FOURTH annual Jonathan Edwards tasting right here in the store signals Thanksgiving in a big way. The folks at Jonathan Edwards do a fabulous job - we are very happy to continue the holiday tradition with them. Please join us - from 1 - 6 p.m. This year they will feature their Petit Sirah.
• MORE QUESTIONS & ANSWERS:
Q- Can I still book a private party or wine tasting or have a special menu made up for my Holiday or Office Party?
A- YES. We will accommodate you if at all possible - early, late - even on Monday when Brie & Bleu is normally closed. The easiest way to check the dates and your options is to call - 860-443-9463 - any day after 10a.m.
Q- Will you be offering gift baskets and gift wrapping again this year?
A- Yes. We will have a variety of gift basket ideas to choose from and the ability to combine different items from all of our stores into a single basket or gift delivery too. Wine, cheese, flowers, plants, decorative items you name it. You shop - we will dress it, wrap it, ship or deliver it - no fuss, no muss, no messy mop-up.
Please Join Us - Wine Tasting
Friday November 23 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Foreau Vouvray sec 2004 $32
Philippe Foreau is the third generation of the Foreau family to produce Vouvray from this fabled domaine which his grandfather purchased in 1923.
Wine Spectator - "400 cases imported Gorgeous nose of papaya, peach and cream. This fools you into thinking it's a lush wine, but it's really bone-dry, with nervy citrus peel, mineral and chamomile flower notes. Long, minerally finish is precise and resonant." This is amazingly dense and rich in the mouth, with a remarkable elegance and a nearly perfect balance of fruit and acidity. Please give it a whirl on Friday night.
2 - L'Ecole no. 41 Merlot 2004 $30
L'Ecole Nº 41 is known for producing superior quality wines that are rich, flavorful and full-bodied. Stephen Tanzer rated this 87 points
“Good full, deep red. Currant, game, tobacco, chocolate and nutty oak on the nose. Juicy, leanish and suave, with good lift to the currant and spice flavors. Not especially complex but shows good life in the mouth. Finishes with a light dusting of tannins.” ST. I had a bottle of this last night at Brie & Bleu. Our own Kristen Webbers selected it for me to go with the Braised Beef over noodles special - it was luscious. See if it works for you, this Friday night.
3 - Tenuta San Leone Amarone della Valpolicella 2003 $30
This is a deep ruby red with wonderful aromas of cherry, vanilla, and spice. It has a velvety feel with a great body - like a Super Model. This is for pouring into a large glass and serving with a fine roast. Also it would be an excellent companion for conversation - like a Super Model?
4 - Buty Winery - Rediviva of the Stones 2004 $50
This is their most popular and hard to get wine, very, very, very limited production of this vintage. This small Walla Walla winery (it's pronounced "beauty") is on the cutting edge of quality and innovation. Caleb Foster and Nina Buty Foster founded their family business in 2000, but Caleb's winemaking experience dates back a decade. His résumé includes eight years with Rick Small at Woodward Canyon, winemaking positions at Mount Baker Winery and Glen Fiona, and further experience working crush in New Zealand and South Africa. "We could make 10,000 cases tomorrow and sell all of it," says Caleb matter-of-factly. "The demand is there. But we have a new daughter, and we always wanted a very small winery." Then again, he muses, "every market wants more; and the fruit's there to get. So I struggle with that." While he struggles, I suggest you get a bottle or two of Buty, before someone beats you to it. Try something very special this Friday night - it will go quickly.
As always we take great pleasure in sharing the the great wines and spirits of the world with you. We open bottles that for the most part go to collectors, movie stars and diplomats. Why should they have all the fun? You are the stars of our show. Your support, comments and suggestions make us better everyday. Thank you, from all of us. And we hope that you enjoy the holiday with family and friends.
Please Join Us.
It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Terry Theise on Grower Champagne and his all new advice on winning at LOVE.
Click To Play
The Man, the Myth, the Legend! If it is true that the road of excess leads to the palace of wisdom, Terry Theise has been there and back. A brief perusal of his writing makes it quickly apparent that the man has no reservations about conveying his thoughts and feelings on wine, life, sex, philosophy and general cosmology. In Terry's world, it's all inter-related. So, without further ado, we encourage you to jump headlong into the wonderful world of Terry Theise German, Austrian and Champagne Estate Selections. Prepare yourself for a psychotropic experience.
Sunday, November 11, 2007
Madeleine Peyroux, Single Gourmet, Champagne and Pizza, ,Johanneshof Reinisch,Hugel Gewurztraminer,Vina Albali, Dom Martinho, Il Tarocco
Greetings from all of us in New London -
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-6817
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
IMPORT - 860-443-6817
Great wine on Friday - Just perfect for the upcoming holiday's - the list is below these few items of news & interest.
• First many thanks to the Hartford Courant, and Melissa Pionzio for the profile they did on us in last Thursday's edition. If you missed it, take a look at the great photo that went with the story. It is posted on our calendar page - here: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
Contact Melissa Pionzio here: mpionzio@courant.com
• Monday November 12 - Our Wine & Cheese Italian Style, A food demonstration & wine and cheese paring is full - Thank you. The next edition will be in January. For information call 8 6 0 - 4 3 7 - 2 4 7 4 - this makes a great "stocking stuffer" for foodies.
• Saturday November 17 - 12:00 Noon - 2:00 p.m. - Live Radio Broadcast & Prize Drawing.
Single Gourmet of Eastern Connecticut and Rhode Island is hosting a wine & beer tasting. In addition, radio personality Bruce Newbury will be hosting a live broadcast of his popular show "Dining Out With Bruce Newbury." This is open all all men and women that are interested in learning more about Single Gourmet, the regions best social, dining, and events club. Single Gourmet is not a dating service. It is simply a way for singles to get out and enjoy area restaurants. If you are unable to attend the event on Saturday November 17, please stop by Brie & Bleu to leave an entry to win a free membership in Single Gourmet. Listen to the show on WXLM 102.3 FM
• Madeleine Peyroux - Garde Arts Center Saturday November 17 - 8 p.m.
If you have not made your plans for Saturday night, consider the amazing show that is coming to The Garde. Start your evening with us and then make your way up to the Garde Theater for a performer that is selling out across the country.
The New York Times says: "A Mona Lisa Voice" - French-American jazz singer, songwriter and guitarist is a growing phenomenon in contemporary music and is winning the hearts of music lovers all over the world with her dazzling “Billie Holliday” sound.
For all of the details and ticket information go here: http://tickets.gardearts.org/show.asp
• Burgundy Lovers - take a look at our updated Shop On Line Page - we have some sweet choices. http://thamesriver.com/wine/instock.html
• Monday December 10 - 6 p.m. - Champagne & Pizza Tasting.
This is not a typo - It is a special night. And we plan on proving a very important point: "That the only thing we have to fear...is - oops - no, that's not it. We plan on proving that the only thing you need to drink a bottle of Champagne...Is a bottle of Champagne.
It was an identical, staff only, tasting a year ago that inspired this special evening.
We will will taste through the remarkable Champagne of Marc Hebrart, Pierre Gimmonnet, Pierre Peters, Aubry Fils , Vilmart and A. Margaine, including Tete de Cuvee and Special Club Champagnes. Without a doubt - these are some of the finest boutique Champagnes in the world. You will not find them anywhere else in Connecticut. When the night is done - you will know the truth about Champagne. $50 -
please use your credit card to make a reservation - 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3.
Dave's Fave - Monday Tasting - No Charge
The Perfect Turkey Wine? - You Be The Judge
Johanneshof Reinisch "St. Laurent vom Steinfeld" 2004 $14
Dave Says: "This Monday afternoon, let us sample together this little mystery from Austria. I've been on an Austrian kick recently, spurred on by the recent visit of Terry Theise, and the fun we've all had with his big ol' bottles of Berger Zweigelt... As for this St. Laurent, this much I know: it is red wine. Luckily, they totally clear it up for us on the bottle label (verbatim): "From uncertain origin and nowadays observed as an Austrian speciality these wines of the St. Laurent grape impress with a bouquet reminding on hackberries and marzipan." Can't you taste the hackberries now? I can't wait!" And bring in your holiday menus we will help you pair the perfect wine with each and every food - Dave will not be stumped.
Wine Tasting - Please Join Us
Friday November 16 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Hugel Gewurztraminer 2005 $23 www.hugel.com
It's no secret that we are big fans of the House of Hugel. The wine is exceptional. And many of you know that Etienne Hugel has shared the dinner table with us and our customers. Many of you have also seen the interviews that we have done with Etienne on our WineRadio show.
The Hugel family started making wine 1639 in Alsace France. Only in Alsace does the aromatic expressiveness of this variety attain such summits. Spicy and suave, it can be enjoyed on its own, but makes a marvellous accompaniment to all rich, spicy dishes, smoked fish, Oriental cuisine. This a great food wine. Please try it.
2 - Vina Albali Reserva 1999 $9
This is from the heart of the La Mancha region of Spain. (that's right - Man of La Mancha) This area is Spain's largest wine producing area. Much of La Mancha's wine is industrially produced and used for blending. There is, however, a smaller wine growing area within La Mancha around the city of Valdepeñas that is known for several good quality wines that are among the best values in Spain. Felix Solis is the maker of this respected Viña Albali Reserva, made from the flavorful Cencibel grape (known as Tempranillo in the Rioja region). You will be surprised at how favorably this wine compares to Rioja's - but it is half the price. You might want a case of this for the upcoming holiday's - please try it at this week's tasting.
3 - Quinta do Carmo Dom Martinho 2004 $14 - from Alentejo Portugal
Dom Martinho is one of the three red wines grown and produced at the spectacular Quinta do Carmo estate. Located in the Alentejo, the home of
great still winemaking in Portugal, the estate itself is vast and beautiful. 300 of its more than 2000 acres are planted to vineyards in two distinct
soils: a black slate for the one, and a brilliant deep limestone for the other. Dom Martinho is one of the single great parcels of the vineyard and gives its name to the estate’s youngest, fruit driven red. Since 1992, the Domains Barons de Rothschild (Lafite)
have been contributing a great deal to the quality of this estate while continuing the tradition of wine-making. The soil consists of two main geologi-
cal types: clay-limestone and clay-slate. The methods of cultivation keep to the old techniques, using the double cordon rigorous system. Beautiful garnet color makes this nearly black - The nose very rich in black fruit (blackberries, blackcurrants) aromas, spice. Full-bodied, rich and supple on the palate with good concentration. Tremendous value for the dollar - a great wine for the holiday table - do not miss trying this one on Friday night.
4 - Il Tarocco Chianti Classico 2001 $26
The blending grape for this wine is BLACK canaiolo - and that helps to give it an intense ruby color. Elegant aroma of beautiful mature red fruit with floral notes and balanced taste, full, intense and persistent. This wine is great with tasty pasta, white and red meats, stewed meat, matured cheeses and rich plates of flavor and substance. While the price is a few dollars more - it delivers in spades. You will be able to serve this wine to your guests and family with the expectation of hearing oooh's and ahhh's. It is a lot of wine for the price.
Thanks so much for all of the calls, emails, and your support. We appreciate it.
We have some great events planned for the coming months - watch for details right here in the email, or on our website.
We are at your service - Please Join Us -
It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-6817
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
IMPORT - 860-443-6817
Great wine on Friday - Just perfect for the upcoming holiday's - the list is below these few items of news & interest.
• First many thanks to the Hartford Courant, and Melissa Pionzio for the profile they did on us in last Thursday's edition. If you missed it, take a look at the great photo that went with the story. It is posted on our calendar page - here: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
Contact Melissa Pionzio here: mpionzio@courant.com
• Monday November 12 - Our Wine & Cheese Italian Style, A food demonstration & wine and cheese paring is full - Thank you. The next edition will be in January. For information call 8 6 0 - 4 3 7 - 2 4 7 4 - this makes a great "stocking stuffer" for foodies.
• Saturday November 17 - 12:00 Noon - 2:00 p.m. - Live Radio Broadcast & Prize Drawing.
Single Gourmet of Eastern Connecticut and Rhode Island is hosting a wine & beer tasting. In addition, radio personality Bruce Newbury will be hosting a live broadcast of his popular show "Dining Out With Bruce Newbury." This is open all all men and women that are interested in learning more about Single Gourmet, the regions best social, dining, and events club. Single Gourmet is not a dating service. It is simply a way for singles to get out and enjoy area restaurants. If you are unable to attend the event on Saturday November 17, please stop by Brie & Bleu to leave an entry to win a free membership in Single Gourmet. Listen to the show on WXLM 102.3 FM
• Madeleine Peyroux - Garde Arts Center Saturday November 17 - 8 p.m.
If you have not made your plans for Saturday night, consider the amazing show that is coming to The Garde. Start your evening with us and then make your way up to the Garde Theater for a performer that is selling out across the country.
The New York Times says: "A Mona Lisa Voice" - French-American jazz singer, songwriter and guitarist is a growing phenomenon in contemporary music and is winning the hearts of music lovers all over the world with her dazzling “Billie Holliday” sound.
For all of the details and ticket information go here: http://tickets.gardearts.org/show.asp
• Burgundy Lovers - take a look at our updated Shop On Line Page - we have some sweet choices. http://thamesriver.com/wine/instock.html
• Monday December 10 - 6 p.m. - Champagne & Pizza Tasting.
This is not a typo - It is a special night. And we plan on proving a very important point: "That the only thing we have to fear...is - oops - no, that's not it. We plan on proving that the only thing you need to drink a bottle of Champagne...Is a bottle of Champagne.
It was an identical, staff only, tasting a year ago that inspired this special evening.
We will will taste through the remarkable Champagne of Marc Hebrart, Pierre Gimmonnet, Pierre Peters, Aubry Fils , Vilmart and A. Margaine, including Tete de Cuvee and Special Club Champagnes. Without a doubt - these are some of the finest boutique Champagnes in the world. You will not find them anywhere else in Connecticut. When the night is done - you will know the truth about Champagne. $50 -
please use your credit card to make a reservation - 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3.
Dave's Fave - Monday Tasting - No Charge
The Perfect Turkey Wine? - You Be The Judge
Johanneshof Reinisch "St. Laurent vom Steinfeld" 2004 $14
Dave Says: "This Monday afternoon, let us sample together this little mystery from Austria. I've been on an Austrian kick recently, spurred on by the recent visit of Terry Theise, and the fun we've all had with his big ol' bottles of Berger Zweigelt... As for this St. Laurent, this much I know: it is red wine. Luckily, they totally clear it up for us on the bottle label (verbatim): "From uncertain origin and nowadays observed as an Austrian speciality these wines of the St. Laurent grape impress with a bouquet reminding on hackberries and marzipan." Can't you taste the hackberries now? I can't wait!" And bring in your holiday menus we will help you pair the perfect wine with each and every food - Dave will not be stumped.
Wine Tasting - Please Join Us
Friday November 16 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Hugel Gewurztraminer 2005 $23 www.hugel.com
It's no secret that we are big fans of the House of Hugel. The wine is exceptional. And many of you know that Etienne Hugel has shared the dinner table with us and our customers. Many of you have also seen the interviews that we have done with Etienne on our WineRadio show.
The Hugel family started making wine 1639 in Alsace France. Only in Alsace does the aromatic expressiveness of this variety attain such summits. Spicy and suave, it can be enjoyed on its own, but makes a marvellous accompaniment to all rich, spicy dishes, smoked fish, Oriental cuisine. This a great food wine. Please try it.
2 - Vina Albali Reserva 1999 $9
This is from the heart of the La Mancha region of Spain. (that's right - Man of La Mancha) This area is Spain's largest wine producing area. Much of La Mancha's wine is industrially produced and used for blending. There is, however, a smaller wine growing area within La Mancha around the city of Valdepeñas that is known for several good quality wines that are among the best values in Spain. Felix Solis is the maker of this respected Viña Albali Reserva, made from the flavorful Cencibel grape (known as Tempranillo in the Rioja region). You will be surprised at how favorably this wine compares to Rioja's - but it is half the price. You might want a case of this for the upcoming holiday's - please try it at this week's tasting.
3 - Quinta do Carmo Dom Martinho 2004 $14 - from Alentejo Portugal
Dom Martinho is one of the three red wines grown and produced at the spectacular Quinta do Carmo estate. Located in the Alentejo, the home of
great still winemaking in Portugal, the estate itself is vast and beautiful. 300 of its more than 2000 acres are planted to vineyards in two distinct
soils: a black slate for the one, and a brilliant deep limestone for the other. Dom Martinho is one of the single great parcels of the vineyard and gives its name to the estate’s youngest, fruit driven red. Since 1992, the Domains Barons de Rothschild (Lafite)
have been contributing a great deal to the quality of this estate while continuing the tradition of wine-making. The soil consists of two main geologi-
cal types: clay-limestone and clay-slate. The methods of cultivation keep to the old techniques, using the double cordon rigorous system. Beautiful garnet color makes this nearly black - The nose very rich in black fruit (blackberries, blackcurrants) aromas, spice. Full-bodied, rich and supple on the palate with good concentration. Tremendous value for the dollar - a great wine for the holiday table - do not miss trying this one on Friday night.
4 - Il Tarocco Chianti Classico 2001 $26
The blending grape for this wine is BLACK canaiolo - and that helps to give it an intense ruby color. Elegant aroma of beautiful mature red fruit with floral notes and balanced taste, full, intense and persistent. This wine is great with tasty pasta, white and red meats, stewed meat, matured cheeses and rich plates of flavor and substance. While the price is a few dollars more - it delivers in spades. You will be able to serve this wine to your guests and family with the expectation of hearing oooh's and ahhh's. It is a lot of wine for the price.
Thanks so much for all of the calls, emails, and your support. We appreciate it.
We have some great events planned for the coming months - watch for details right here in the email, or on our website.
We are at your service - Please Join Us -
It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Monday, November 05, 2007
INCLUSIONS, The Perfect Pairing, Txakolina , Las Rocas, Domaine du Gour de Chaule , McCrea Boushey Vineyard
Greetings From All Of Us In New London,
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
IMPORT - 860-443-6817
www.thamesriver.com
With the coming holidays in mind we have selected a great line-up of wines that are great with food, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. The list is just below these items of interest.
• Thanks to everyone that came out to support the premier of INCLUSIONS at The Garde last Friday night. Even with all of the traffic issues that plagued the area - there was a fantastic turnout. It was a true New London Happening. The Red Carpet was buzzing. New London TV Icon "Murray - The Eye - Renshaw had his cameras set up and did a beautiful job interviewing the guests as they arrived. And there was even an impromptu marriage proposal on the Red Carpet! I'm sure that all of the action will be on the next episode of The Renshaw report. Local Channel 26.
Gordon Videll and his crew made the City of New London shine in his movie, and if we do say so ourselves, our cellar never looked so good than it did on the big screen. Bravo Gordon - We will see you on location.
• Belissima! -
One of the most frequent requests that we get is for "somekind of food & wine class."
And so, we have pooled the enormous talents of Michelle DeCeaser and Andrea Issacs to present the food and wines of the world. A Passport to travel and learn about the regions and their local food & wine - We Start With Italy.
Monday November 12 - 6 p.m. - The first session starts with Andrea Issacs demonstrating the secrets of making Fresh Mozzarella. You will then have the chance to explore the secrets of eating fresh mozzarella - At the same time we will serve it with Prosecco, Italy's sparkling wine. Michelle DeCeaser will explain Prosecco and why it is nearly perfect for serving with any food. It is the perfect way to start things off.
For the rest of the hour - here is the line up:
- We pair Robiola cheese with Gavé wine from the Piedmont region.
- Next, it's Parmesano Reggiano paired with Emilia Romagne -
with a demonstration and serving of Pasta Cacio al Pepe.
- Then, Piave Vecchio paired with Valpolicella from Italy's Veneto region.
- Finally, Dolce Gorgonzola paired with Lombardi wine and a demonstration and serving of Bruschetta with Carmelized Pears and Gorgonzola Dolce.
All sessions are just $25 and include everything. Food, wine, instruction, recipe guides, and your passport to travel the world of food & wine with Andrea and Michelle. All sessions will be on Monday evenings and start at 6:00 p.m. Please call to reserve early. 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3
• Hygienic Art Galleries
ART=GIFT Hygienic "Mini Series" Holiday Boutique
Opening Saturday November 17, 7-10 pm
Exhibition Runs from Opening November 17th-Sunday December 23
"Get your shopping on at Hygienic's "Mini Series" Boutique where ART=GIFT.
An invitational event featuring small works by selected artists"
Hygienic Art Galleries
79-83 Bank Street
New London, CT
HOURS Thurs 11-3, Friday 11-6, Saturday 11-6, Sunday 12-3
Dave's Fave - Monday Tasting - No Charge
Berkshire Brewing Co.'s "Steel Rail Extra Pale Ale" and "Lost Sailor India Pale Ale" - $3.50/22oz Bomber
Dave Says: "Surprise - I'm pushing beer this week - these are our first offerings from Berkshire Brewing out of South Deerfield, Massachusetts. They brew Truly Great Beer - everything is fresh, unfiltered, unpasteurized, no chemical additives or preservatives. My beer-guzzling friends have all been startled by how tasty these are. Brewer Chris Lalli drives the beer down here himself in the mornings cold (you've got to keep them cold). They represent everything wonderful about local handmade product and we are proud to have their suds in the cooler!"
Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday November 9 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Txomin Etxaniz Getariako Txakolina 2006 $20
When we first discovered this wine, on the tables of just about every cafe and restaurant in the storybook village of San Sabastian in Spain, it was a revelation. San Sabastian is a mecca for the great chefs of Europe. It is often said that when Michelin Star Chefs need to re-charge their batteries and find new inspiration - they go to San Sabastian. It is all about the food there - and what do they drink? It is this wine in the slender green bottle.
Pronounced - "Shock - oh - Lina." In the café's it is poured with great flourish, holding the bottle about a foot from the glass to release the flavors and the hint of effervescence that fill your senses. Crisp and clean with the color of young straw - and exceptional with food.
The price has squeaked up a couple of dollars since we introduced it a couple of years ago - but if you have just one wine on your holiday table - this might be the one you need. Much awaited and much beloved, we have a very limited four cases for the year. From the heart of Basque freedom country - you need to try this on Friday night.
2 - Las Rocas Vinas Viejas Garnacha 2005 $16
Ancient vines are just part of the secret that makes this wine a delicious treat. From Calatayud Spain - located about 150 miles northeast of Madrid.
This wine is very dark and a slightly hazy reddish-purple color. The aromas are classic Grenache, a heaping bowl of fresh raspberries. It's juicy and tart, with plenty of acidity and even a dose of scratchy tannin to save it from "fruit bomb" status. Excellent with pork or poultry. This wine is friendly with a great velvety finish. Also very limited, only two cases for the year - it will go quickly. Please try it on Friday night.
3 - Domaine du Gour de Chaule Gigondas 2003 $32
The Domaine du Gour de Chaulé, situated in the heart of the village of Gigondas, was founded in 1900 by Eugene Bonfils, the grandfather of the current proprietor, Aline Bonfils. All the wine produced at the estate was sold in bulk to negociants until 1972 when the mother of Madame Bonfils began to bottle a small percentage for sale to private clients. The tradition of estate bottling has continued to grow under the direction of Aline Bonfils so that now approximately 50% of the annual production is selected for sale in bottle (approximately 25,000 to 30,000 bottles). This wine is a deep ruby red color, great aromas of spice and chocolate. This is a great bottle for the coming holiday - it is perfect for food, friends, and family.
4 - McCrea Boushey Vineyard Syrah 2003 $58
Washington state - similar to California's South Central Coast - is known for Syrah. The Columbia Valley in particular is a hotbed, with many top producers sourcing their grapes from this American Viticultural Area and several Columbia Valley subappellations including the Wahluke Slope. Washington Syrah generally tends to be more understated than California Syrah, which is beloved by many for its big, juicy dark fruit. There's some complexity in the aromas of mushrooms, boysenberry, earth and spice. It's robust and has lovely fruit that leaves a lingering sweetness and spicy richness, that helps hide its 14.8 percent alcohol. Ruby with blue overtones it has an almost liqueur-like feel in the mouth. This is a big boy, with lush dark berry fruit, chocolate and silky tannins. This is on the pricey side of the street - but it delivers. Try it for yourself and decide if it is a bottle to share or keep as a secret.
We have lots of new things planned for the coming month's - all based on your requests. Thanks for all of the calls and emails, and for your continued support. We all appreciate it.
Please Join Us. It's fun informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
IMPORT - 860-443-6817
www.thamesriver.com
With the coming holidays in mind we have selected a great line-up of wines that are great with food, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. The list is just below these items of interest.
• Thanks to everyone that came out to support the premier of INCLUSIONS at The Garde last Friday night. Even with all of the traffic issues that plagued the area - there was a fantastic turnout. It was a true New London Happening. The Red Carpet was buzzing. New London TV Icon "Murray - The Eye - Renshaw had his cameras set up and did a beautiful job interviewing the guests as they arrived. And there was even an impromptu marriage proposal on the Red Carpet! I'm sure that all of the action will be on the next episode of The Renshaw report. Local Channel 26.
Gordon Videll and his crew made the City of New London shine in his movie, and if we do say so ourselves, our cellar never looked so good than it did on the big screen. Bravo Gordon - We will see you on location.
• Belissima! -
One of the most frequent requests that we get is for "somekind of food & wine class."
And so, we have pooled the enormous talents of Michelle DeCeaser and Andrea Issacs to present the food and wines of the world. A Passport to travel and learn about the regions and their local food & wine - We Start With Italy.
Monday November 12 - 6 p.m. - The first session starts with Andrea Issacs demonstrating the secrets of making Fresh Mozzarella. You will then have the chance to explore the secrets of eating fresh mozzarella - At the same time we will serve it with Prosecco, Italy's sparkling wine. Michelle DeCeaser will explain Prosecco and why it is nearly perfect for serving with any food. It is the perfect way to start things off.
For the rest of the hour - here is the line up:
- We pair Robiola cheese with Gavé wine from the Piedmont region.
- Next, it's Parmesano Reggiano paired with Emilia Romagne -
with a demonstration and serving of Pasta Cacio al Pepe.
- Then, Piave Vecchio paired with Valpolicella from Italy's Veneto region.
- Finally, Dolce Gorgonzola paired with Lombardi wine and a demonstration and serving of Bruschetta with Carmelized Pears and Gorgonzola Dolce.
All sessions are just $25 and include everything. Food, wine, instruction, recipe guides, and your passport to travel the world of food & wine with Andrea and Michelle. All sessions will be on Monday evenings and start at 6:00 p.m. Please call to reserve early. 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3
• Hygienic Art Galleries
ART=GIFT Hygienic "Mini Series" Holiday Boutique
Opening Saturday November 17, 7-10 pm
Exhibition Runs from Opening November 17th-Sunday December 23
"Get your shopping on at Hygienic's "Mini Series" Boutique where ART=GIFT.
An invitational event featuring small works by selected artists"
Hygienic Art Galleries
79-83 Bank Street
New London, CT
HOURS Thurs 11-3, Friday 11-6, Saturday 11-6, Sunday 12-3
Dave's Fave - Monday Tasting - No Charge
Berkshire Brewing Co.'s "Steel Rail Extra Pale Ale" and "Lost Sailor India Pale Ale" - $3.50/22oz Bomber
Dave Says: "Surprise - I'm pushing beer this week - these are our first offerings from Berkshire Brewing out of South Deerfield, Massachusetts. They brew Truly Great Beer - everything is fresh, unfiltered, unpasteurized, no chemical additives or preservatives. My beer-guzzling friends have all been startled by how tasty these are. Brewer Chris Lalli drives the beer down here himself in the mornings cold (you've got to keep them cold). They represent everything wonderful about local handmade product and we are proud to have their suds in the cooler!"
Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday November 9 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Txomin Etxaniz Getariako Txakolina 2006 $20
When we first discovered this wine, on the tables of just about every cafe and restaurant in the storybook village of San Sabastian in Spain, it was a revelation. San Sabastian is a mecca for the great chefs of Europe. It is often said that when Michelin Star Chefs need to re-charge their batteries and find new inspiration - they go to San Sabastian. It is all about the food there - and what do they drink? It is this wine in the slender green bottle.
Pronounced - "Shock - oh - Lina." In the café's it is poured with great flourish, holding the bottle about a foot from the glass to release the flavors and the hint of effervescence that fill your senses. Crisp and clean with the color of young straw - and exceptional with food.
The price has squeaked up a couple of dollars since we introduced it a couple of years ago - but if you have just one wine on your holiday table - this might be the one you need. Much awaited and much beloved, we have a very limited four cases for the year. From the heart of Basque freedom country - you need to try this on Friday night.
2 - Las Rocas Vinas Viejas Garnacha 2005 $16
Ancient vines are just part of the secret that makes this wine a delicious treat. From Calatayud Spain - located about 150 miles northeast of Madrid.
This wine is very dark and a slightly hazy reddish-purple color. The aromas are classic Grenache, a heaping bowl of fresh raspberries. It's juicy and tart, with plenty of acidity and even a dose of scratchy tannin to save it from "fruit bomb" status. Excellent with pork or poultry. This wine is friendly with a great velvety finish. Also very limited, only two cases for the year - it will go quickly. Please try it on Friday night.
3 - Domaine du Gour de Chaule Gigondas 2003 $32
The Domaine du Gour de Chaulé, situated in the heart of the village of Gigondas, was founded in 1900 by Eugene Bonfils, the grandfather of the current proprietor, Aline Bonfils. All the wine produced at the estate was sold in bulk to negociants until 1972 when the mother of Madame Bonfils began to bottle a small percentage for sale to private clients. The tradition of estate bottling has continued to grow under the direction of Aline Bonfils so that now approximately 50% of the annual production is selected for sale in bottle (approximately 25,000 to 30,000 bottles). This wine is a deep ruby red color, great aromas of spice and chocolate. This is a great bottle for the coming holiday - it is perfect for food, friends, and family.
4 - McCrea Boushey Vineyard Syrah 2003 $58
Washington state - similar to California's South Central Coast - is known for Syrah. The Columbia Valley in particular is a hotbed, with many top producers sourcing their grapes from this American Viticultural Area and several Columbia Valley subappellations including the Wahluke Slope. Washington Syrah generally tends to be more understated than California Syrah, which is beloved by many for its big, juicy dark fruit. There's some complexity in the aromas of mushrooms, boysenberry, earth and spice. It's robust and has lovely fruit that leaves a lingering sweetness and spicy richness, that helps hide its 14.8 percent alcohol. Ruby with blue overtones it has an almost liqueur-like feel in the mouth. This is a big boy, with lush dark berry fruit, chocolate and silky tannins. This is on the pricey side of the street - but it delivers. Try it for yourself and decide if it is a bottle to share or keep as a secret.
We have lots of new things planned for the coming month's - all based on your requests. Thanks for all of the calls and emails, and for your continued support. We all appreciate it.
Please Join Us. It's fun informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA
Sunday, October 28, 2007
Inclusions Premier, Shafer Merlot, Allegrini Palazzo Della Torre, Domaine du Grand Breviande,Domaine Les Hautes Noelles
Greetings from all of us in New London,
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
Brie & Bleu - 860-447-2474
IMPORT - 860-443-6817
Calendar of events: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
A great week is ahead of us - The wine list for Friday includes a really big name too.
But first, these items of interest.
• This is our Big Hollywood Weekend - Friday night at the Garde Theater -
The World Premier of I N C L U S I O N S.
This movie was locally produced and shot right here in The Whaling City - All profits from this showing will be donated to Make a Wish Foundation and the Leukemia Lymphoma Society. Please join us to support this important local event. Start your evening with us, and then make your way up to The Garde for the show.
For more details go here: http://tickets.gardearts.org/show.asp
To see the preview go here: http://www.crlvideo.com/
• Many thanks to Doug Rankin and Mr. Terry Theise for making a visit to our store last week - watch for the episode on WineRadio in the next few days.
• Many of you know that we have been trying to work with RJ Julia Bookseller in Madison, (the best bookstore ...on the planet?) to feature their visiting authors right here in New London. What's better than a meet the author book signing and a glass of wine? Well, the planets have finally aligned themselves and we hope to have none other than Rudolph Chelminski - the author of "I'll Drink To That" right here in the store in mid-November. I'll Drink To That is The remarkable saga of the wine and people of Beaujolais and Georges Duboeuf, the peasant lad who brought world recognition to this little known region. Published this month by Penguin Books.
Mr. Chelminski was raised in Connecticut - but when Life magazine dispatched him to to Paris thirty years ago he decided to stay. His articles have appeared in numerous national magazines, ranging from People and Time to The Atlantic Monthly. His other recent books include The Perfectionist.
New York Times: "A riveting behind-the-scenes look at the world of three-star French "haute cuisine" as revealed through the biography of one of Frances most celebrated chefs, "The Perfectionist" is an unforgettable portrait of Bernard Loiseau, and the sophisticated, unforgiving world of French gastronomy."
So, if you would like to add your name to the reception list please CALL the store - there is no charge, but we need to know how many bottles of wine to open - I know the answer is to open all of them - but we would like to get a head count. The final date and all of the details will be added to the calendar of events page and we will keep you posted right here as well. 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3.
• Dinner with Etienne Hugel - Monday Oct. 29 - Sold Out - Thank you.
Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday October 2 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge.
1 - Domaine Les Hautes Noelles 2006 Muscadet cotes de Grandlieu $11
Here’s a challenge: scour the world for a riper, more concentrated, more explosively flavorful and joyous Muscadet than Hautes Noelles. You won’t be able to find one! From his 17 hectares in the Cotes de Grandlieu sub-zone, proprietor Serge Batard crafts staggeringly intense Muscadet that nonetheless displays all the zingy acidity and palpable minerality you’d expect from this seaside appellation. Prolonged lees aging and bottling without racking give the wines extra texture and richness. Furthermore, Batard vinifies his parcels separately, harvesting by hand and blending just before bottling for maximum control over the final wine. Truly amazing quality here - please try it on Friday night.
2 - Domaine du Grand Breviande 2005 Chinon $12
"Black olive, dried leaf, peppery, cranberry, earthy nose" -These are the things that reviewers say about this wine. Then they throw in a little - Soft, very dry, elegant entry with dried cedar, tobacco leaf, peppery, cranberry, smoky, floral flavors. The fact is even without all of the fancy descriptions, this is a lot of wine for the money. Please try it on Friday.
3 - Allegrini Palazzo Della Torre 2003 $20 - Wine Spectator 87 points.
Named one of the most influential wine personalities of the last 20 years by Robert M. Parker Jr. in 1998, Leonardo LoCascio is America’s foremost authority on Italian wine. Mr. LoCascio makes frequent trips to Italy throughout the year, scouring the countryside for undiscovered treasures. His meticulous selection process is geared to finding wines that combine high quality and good value. The result is dozens of wines turned down for every one selected. The process tends to favor small to mid-sized wineries, often independent and family-owned. This is one of those wines.
The Washington Post recently reviewed this wine and said: "Tastes Like a ripe bouquet of spring flowers, vanilla and baked fruit, followed on the palate by silky, red berry fruit with hints of raisins and plums...Winery Allegrini is one of the most important wineries in the Valpolicella region. Its winemaking style emphasizes the unique character of the indigenous grapes." You have to try this on Friday night.
4 - Shafer 2005 Merlot $50
Robert Parker places this wine in the "90 Point" category. It speaks for itself - this powerhouse will not last long, please be sure to arrive early and try this most famous of California's wines - And see our interview with Doug Shafer himself on WineRadio.
I hope that you can join us this Friday night for the tasting and at The Garde Theater for the premier of Gordan Videll's film Inclusions.
Thanks very much for supporting all of our efforts - we appreciate it. And thanks also for all of the suggestions, comments, calls and email concerning our decision to carry on the tradition that Parade News started almost 50 years ago - we have some great plans for the space.
Please join us. It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
Brie & Bleu - 860-447-2474
IMPORT - 860-443-6817
Calendar of events: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
A great week is ahead of us - The wine list for Friday includes a really big name too.
But first, these items of interest.
• This is our Big Hollywood Weekend - Friday night at the Garde Theater -
The World Premier of I N C L U S I O N S.
This movie was locally produced and shot right here in The Whaling City - All profits from this showing will be donated to Make a Wish Foundation and the Leukemia Lymphoma Society. Please join us to support this important local event. Start your evening with us, and then make your way up to The Garde for the show.
For more details go here: http://tickets.gardearts.org/show.asp
To see the preview go here: http://www.crlvideo.com/
• Many thanks to Doug Rankin and Mr. Terry Theise for making a visit to our store last week - watch for the episode on WineRadio in the next few days.
• Many of you know that we have been trying to work with RJ Julia Bookseller in Madison, (the best bookstore ...on the planet?) to feature their visiting authors right here in New London. What's better than a meet the author book signing and a glass of wine? Well, the planets have finally aligned themselves and we hope to have none other than Rudolph Chelminski - the author of "I'll Drink To That" right here in the store in mid-November. I'll Drink To That is The remarkable saga of the wine and people of Beaujolais and Georges Duboeuf, the peasant lad who brought world recognition to this little known region. Published this month by Penguin Books.
Mr. Chelminski was raised in Connecticut - but when Life magazine dispatched him to to Paris thirty years ago he decided to stay. His articles have appeared in numerous national magazines, ranging from People and Time to The Atlantic Monthly. His other recent books include The Perfectionist.
New York Times: "A riveting behind-the-scenes look at the world of three-star French "haute cuisine" as revealed through the biography of one of Frances most celebrated chefs, "The Perfectionist" is an unforgettable portrait of Bernard Loiseau, and the sophisticated, unforgiving world of French gastronomy."
So, if you would like to add your name to the reception list please CALL the store - there is no charge, but we need to know how many bottles of wine to open - I know the answer is to open all of them - but we would like to get a head count. The final date and all of the details will be added to the calendar of events page and we will keep you posted right here as well. 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3.
• Dinner with Etienne Hugel - Monday Oct. 29 - Sold Out - Thank you.
Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday October 2 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge.
1 - Domaine Les Hautes Noelles 2006 Muscadet cotes de Grandlieu $11
Here’s a challenge: scour the world for a riper, more concentrated, more explosively flavorful and joyous Muscadet than Hautes Noelles. You won’t be able to find one! From his 17 hectares in the Cotes de Grandlieu sub-zone, proprietor Serge Batard crafts staggeringly intense Muscadet that nonetheless displays all the zingy acidity and palpable minerality you’d expect from this seaside appellation. Prolonged lees aging and bottling without racking give the wines extra texture and richness. Furthermore, Batard vinifies his parcels separately, harvesting by hand and blending just before bottling for maximum control over the final wine. Truly amazing quality here - please try it on Friday night.
2 - Domaine du Grand Breviande 2005 Chinon $12
"Black olive, dried leaf, peppery, cranberry, earthy nose" -These are the things that reviewers say about this wine. Then they throw in a little - Soft, very dry, elegant entry with dried cedar, tobacco leaf, peppery, cranberry, smoky, floral flavors. The fact is even without all of the fancy descriptions, this is a lot of wine for the money. Please try it on Friday.
3 - Allegrini Palazzo Della Torre 2003 $20 - Wine Spectator 87 points.
Named one of the most influential wine personalities of the last 20 years by Robert M. Parker Jr. in 1998, Leonardo LoCascio is America’s foremost authority on Italian wine. Mr. LoCascio makes frequent trips to Italy throughout the year, scouring the countryside for undiscovered treasures. His meticulous selection process is geared to finding wines that combine high quality and good value. The result is dozens of wines turned down for every one selected. The process tends to favor small to mid-sized wineries, often independent and family-owned. This is one of those wines.
The Washington Post recently reviewed this wine and said: "Tastes Like a ripe bouquet of spring flowers, vanilla and baked fruit, followed on the palate by silky, red berry fruit with hints of raisins and plums...Winery Allegrini is one of the most important wineries in the Valpolicella region. Its winemaking style emphasizes the unique character of the indigenous grapes." You have to try this on Friday night.
4 - Shafer 2005 Merlot $50
Robert Parker places this wine in the "90 Point" category. It speaks for itself - this powerhouse will not last long, please be sure to arrive early and try this most famous of California's wines - And see our interview with Doug Shafer himself on WineRadio.
I hope that you can join us this Friday night for the tasting and at The Garde Theater for the premier of Gordan Videll's film Inclusions.
Thanks very much for supporting all of our efforts - we appreciate it. And thanks also for all of the suggestions, comments, calls and email concerning our decision to carry on the tradition that Parade News started almost 50 years ago - we have some great plans for the space.
Please join us. It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA
Saturday, October 20, 2007
Terry Theise, Simon Bize Bourgeone Blanc , Marquis Phillips Sarah's Blend, Klinker Brick Zin, Terra Rouge Tete,
Greetings from all of us in New London -
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474
IMPORT - 860-443-6817
www.thamesriver.com
A great line up of wine for Friday - listed just below these items of interest.
• Thanks for so many of the emails and phone calls about our announcement concerning Parade News in New London. We love all of the suggestions and can hardly wait to put some of them to use. Please spread the word - it's going to be a lot of fun.
The name will change - but the tradition will continue. We will be adding a link to a new website on our gateway at www.thamesriver.com
Look there for the latest news. And we will keep you posted as we move along.
• Now onto another special note of interest.
Many of you know that we have just about become the largest provider when it comes to "Grower" Champagne. And we do not mean in New London - we mean in the North East. It is a bold statement - but its true.
Grower Champagne is made by very small producers, in tiny batches and with love - not in a big factory by technicians standing in front of a control panel - like a few of the big brand names you are familiar with.
The man responsible for the Grower Champagne movement - The man that Food & Wine Magazine has named Man of The Year - The same man that practically leaps tall buildings in a single bound - Mr. Terry Theise - will be in our store on Monday afternoon. Please drop by and give him a warm New London welcome - about 4 p.m. - and, just to kick it up a notch - we will open a bottle or two to taste. Please stop by - I know you will enjoy meeting him.
If you want to learn more take a look at the WineRadio episode that we shot with Terry, on location at the Union League in New Haven. It is located at the bottom of our calendar of events page in the WineRadio section - here is the link: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
Terry devotes the entire second half of the show to Grower Champagne -
This is something you need to know about.
• Next - by popular demand, we have added a few additional seats for the
Meet The Winemaker Dinner with Etienne Hugel.
If you or a loved one is a wine lover - this is a night you should make room for on the calendar. Monday October 29 - 6 p.m.
Amazing wine from Hugel, paired to a menu carefully created by our own Anne Haviland - AND you will be sitting elbow to elbow with the man who made the wine. The 12th generation winemaker from one of the most famous names in Alsace France.
Please reserve now - 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3.
$75 plus tax and service - wine with each course and a surprise or two.
Check out the calendar page for more details and to see Etienne on WineRadio.
Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday, October 26 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Simon Bize Bourgeone Blanc $15
Domaine Simon Bize is one of the highly respected Burgundian addresses, a classic, or as the French are fond of saying, an ‘incontournable’ – ‘an absolute must’. This is a wine you will want to be greedy with - but at this price you may share the wealth if you so choose. It is amazing with food - in fact, French chefs are known to hang out in the cellars of Bize. One of the previous owners of the Château once fought for mules to be used in Burgundian vineyards stating that horses were too heavy and would compact the soil unnecessarily. His idea was considered to be undignified. Savigny has always been home to interesting folks. The wine is light, elegant and aromatic. Loads of flavor and long finish - you must try this on Friday night.
2 - Terra Rouge Tete - California - $ 16
We have had this wine in the store for a little while now and it has found a devoted following. This wine drinks better than most Côtes-du-Rhône Villages bottlings: sappy, spicy, fabulous flavor, and great texture. It is an eminently enjoyable everyday bottle. It has deep boysenberry fruit notes, smoky, complex flavor components that emphasize it's California terroir, and a lengthy finish. This is an affordable pleasure. Please give it a try this Friday.
3 - Marquis Phillips Sarah's Blend $18
This is what Robert Parker had to say about "Sarah's Blend":
"The dense ruby/purple-hued Sarah’s Blend is composed of 62% Shiraz and the rest equal parts Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. It offers abundant black cherry and cassis fruit in its smoky, earthy bouquet along with hints of licorice, dried herbs, and chocolate. Full-bodied, opulent, fruity, and long with surprising complexity as well as depth. Score: 91"
Marquis Philips is an American-Australian collaboration. This is a beautiful integration of the three varieties. It’s a joy to experience and taste the earthy spicy Merlot characters, the leafy berry fruits and firm structure from the Cabernet, and the chocolate and plum Shiraz flavors to finish. This harmony gives you a wine that is balanced, complex and has lots of fruit. It is hard to believe it is only eighteen dollars a bottle.
4 - Klinker Brick Zinfandel - California - $20
Steve and Lori Felten, fifth generation grape growers in the Lodi region, continue the tradition of cultivating “Old Vine” Zinfandel vineyards that their ancestors planted in the early 1900’s. Full of juicy flavors - cherries and plums mixed with the perfect balance of oak and spice. There is just a hint of mint and clove on the nose and a lingering, elegant finish. This wine was aged in American oak for 15 months. If you are a "Zin" fan, don't miss this one.
Thanks again for all of the comments and suggestions, we appreciate them. And thank you all for the tremendous support that you show each and every week. It is precisely that reason that people like Terry Theise visit our store - time and time again our suppliers and celebrity guests comment on the quality of our customers and the level of interest and support that you show. Thank you for making us stand out - and for making it so much fun.
Please join us. It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474
IMPORT - 860-443-6817
www.thamesriver.com
A great line up of wine for Friday - listed just below these items of interest.
• Thanks for so many of the emails and phone calls about our announcement concerning Parade News in New London. We love all of the suggestions and can hardly wait to put some of them to use. Please spread the word - it's going to be a lot of fun.
The name will change - but the tradition will continue. We will be adding a link to a new website on our gateway at www.thamesriver.com
Look there for the latest news. And we will keep you posted as we move along.
• Now onto another special note of interest.
Many of you know that we have just about become the largest provider when it comes to "Grower" Champagne. And we do not mean in New London - we mean in the North East. It is a bold statement - but its true.
Grower Champagne is made by very small producers, in tiny batches and with love - not in a big factory by technicians standing in front of a control panel - like a few of the big brand names you are familiar with.
The man responsible for the Grower Champagne movement - The man that Food & Wine Magazine has named Man of The Year - The same man that practically leaps tall buildings in a single bound - Mr. Terry Theise - will be in our store on Monday afternoon. Please drop by and give him a warm New London welcome - about 4 p.m. - and, just to kick it up a notch - we will open a bottle or two to taste. Please stop by - I know you will enjoy meeting him.
If you want to learn more take a look at the WineRadio episode that we shot with Terry, on location at the Union League in New Haven. It is located at the bottom of our calendar of events page in the WineRadio section - here is the link: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
Terry devotes the entire second half of the show to Grower Champagne -
This is something you need to know about.
• Next - by popular demand, we have added a few additional seats for the
Meet The Winemaker Dinner with Etienne Hugel.
If you or a loved one is a wine lover - this is a night you should make room for on the calendar. Monday October 29 - 6 p.m.
Amazing wine from Hugel, paired to a menu carefully created by our own Anne Haviland - AND you will be sitting elbow to elbow with the man who made the wine. The 12th generation winemaker from one of the most famous names in Alsace France.
Please reserve now - 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3.
$75 plus tax and service - wine with each course and a surprise or two.
Check out the calendar page for more details and to see Etienne on WineRadio.
Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday, October 26 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Simon Bize Bourgeone Blanc $15
Domaine Simon Bize is one of the highly respected Burgundian addresses, a classic, or as the French are fond of saying, an ‘incontournable’ – ‘an absolute must’. This is a wine you will want to be greedy with - but at this price you may share the wealth if you so choose. It is amazing with food - in fact, French chefs are known to hang out in the cellars of Bize. One of the previous owners of the Château once fought for mules to be used in Burgundian vineyards stating that horses were too heavy and would compact the soil unnecessarily. His idea was considered to be undignified. Savigny has always been home to interesting folks. The wine is light, elegant and aromatic. Loads of flavor and long finish - you must try this on Friday night.
2 - Terra Rouge Tete - California - $ 16
We have had this wine in the store for a little while now and it has found a devoted following. This wine drinks better than most Côtes-du-Rhône Villages bottlings: sappy, spicy, fabulous flavor, and great texture. It is an eminently enjoyable everyday bottle. It has deep boysenberry fruit notes, smoky, complex flavor components that emphasize it's California terroir, and a lengthy finish. This is an affordable pleasure. Please give it a try this Friday.
3 - Marquis Phillips Sarah's Blend $18
This is what Robert Parker had to say about "Sarah's Blend":
"The dense ruby/purple-hued Sarah’s Blend is composed of 62% Shiraz and the rest equal parts Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. It offers abundant black cherry and cassis fruit in its smoky, earthy bouquet along with hints of licorice, dried herbs, and chocolate. Full-bodied, opulent, fruity, and long with surprising complexity as well as depth. Score: 91"
Marquis Philips is an American-Australian collaboration. This is a beautiful integration of the three varieties. It’s a joy to experience and taste the earthy spicy Merlot characters, the leafy berry fruits and firm structure from the Cabernet, and the chocolate and plum Shiraz flavors to finish. This harmony gives you a wine that is balanced, complex and has lots of fruit. It is hard to believe it is only eighteen dollars a bottle.
4 - Klinker Brick Zinfandel - California - $20
Steve and Lori Felten, fifth generation grape growers in the Lodi region, continue the tradition of cultivating “Old Vine” Zinfandel vineyards that their ancestors planted in the early 1900’s. Full of juicy flavors - cherries and plums mixed with the perfect balance of oak and spice. There is just a hint of mint and clove on the nose and a lingering, elegant finish. This wine was aged in American oak for 15 months. If you are a "Zin" fan, don't miss this one.
Thanks again for all of the comments and suggestions, we appreciate them. And thank you all for the tremendous support that you show each and every week. It is precisely that reason that people like Terry Theise visit our store - time and time again our suppliers and celebrity guests comment on the quality of our customers and the level of interest and support that you show. Thank you for making us stand out - and for making it so much fun.
Please join us. It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Sunday, October 14, 2007
New London tradition, Hugel dinner, Green and Red,Bonnaventure Chinon,Berger Blauer Zweigelt, Salomon Gruner Veltliner
Greetings from all of us in New London
This is a very big week for news - the wine list for this Friday is just below these items of interest.
• First I want to answer one of the biggest questions of the week -
Many of you know that we own the building that Parade News is located in. Parade News and the Condon family have provided New London with newspapers and magazines, tobacco and impulsive necessities of all types for over fifty years. Parade News is a New London landmark - it has been in the same location since the 1950's - So,when the family decided recently to retire the business, many people wondered what's going to happen? Where will we get our newspapers and fine cigars? Where will we get that copy of European Men's Vogue for the train ride into The City?
Where will I be able to find those outlawed spiced, clove & honey cigarette's that are all the rage on The Continent?
The answer my friends is don't worry - we will carry on the proud tradition - we will not let the changing hands of time shut off the lights on a New London tradition. All of the Big City newspapers and magazines, fine cigars and tobacco, candy & chocolate, nuts & snacks, will be right there where you expect them to be. Your routine will not have to change. We will update things a bit - and make the whole thing as user-friendly as possible.
All of your requests, comments, and suggestions are welcome - and now is the time to let us know - and please spread the word.
• Next - get out your calendar and an indelible marker.
Friday, November 2 - 8 p.m.
The Garde Theater - World Premier Movie Event:
Join us on the Red Carpet and please be on hand to see the world premier of "Inclusions."
Flawless Films presents Inclusions, a locally written, shot, and produced dark comedy.
Our wine cellar is featured prominently in the movie - and we will be hosting a pre-theater bash starting at 6 p.m. in the cellar to celebrate the efforts of New London's own
Gordon Videll, the executive producer of the film.
We also hope to have a VIP lounge set-up at the Garde for all of the TV & press interviews and exclusive red carpet hijinks where the bubbly will flow like water. This will be a great night - and it is a very important cause that will benefit please join us.
All profits from this showing at the Garde will be donated to
Make a Wish Foundation and the Leukemia Lymphoma Society.
I hope to see you all "on location." For more details - go here: http://tickets.gardearts.org/show.asp
• FOOD STROLL -
Wednesday Oct. 17th - 5:30 - 8:30. Food & drink everywhere. We of course will be doing our part. Please stroll by.
• Meet The Winemaker Dinner Event: Monday October 29 - 6 p.m.
Meet Etienne Hugel - 12 Generation winemaker from Alsace France. This is your chance to sit elbow to elbow with a true legend in the wine business. We will eat, drink, and get to know this industry insider. And, the guy is "cool." -
Please check out the short video we have posted on the calendar of events page it will give you a glimpse into the line-up for the evening.
It was shot during Etienne's visit last year at Brie & Bleu: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
Seating is very limited - if you have a wine lover in your life - this is the perfect surprise "date night." Reserve early - 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3
• Green Party Fund Raiser at Muse Shoes & Gallery on Saturday October 20 - 6-10 p.m.
Corner of Golden and Green Streets Downtown New London - Enjoy music, food, and wine. Meet the candidates.
• Dave's Fave
Monday Tasting October 15th - No Charge
Domaine Santa Duc "Les Quatre Terres" Cotes du Rhone 2005 $16
Dave Says:
"We love all the wine these guys make, as Jim said, "They're too busy making great wine to worry about the label on the bottle."
So this bottle is often overlooked, but it's one of the best Cotes du Rhone in the house.
I haven't even tasted the 2005 vintage yet, so I'm looking forward to Monday too. How many times do you say that?
They're also so busy making great wine, they're not too worried about awkward English translations on the web page, "Here, wild and uncommon, a bird watches over the domain: the Grand-duc owl which sings, (known as "Canta Duc" in Provencal), his name has become over time "Santa Duc."
Come in on Monday, and we will sing of the owl!"
Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday October 19th - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Salomon Gruner Veltliner 2006 $17
This is remarkable in many ways. The estate has been in the family since 1792.
Fritz Salomon (1905-1971) was one of the true pioneers of dry wines in Austria; the first to import Pinot Blanc to Austria and he was also the first to export his wines to the USA, where they are highly regarded today. Erich Salomon has reinvigorated the fortunes of the estate and he produces beautifully typical wines, often with a characteristic understated elegance. These are not among the spectacularly alcoholic giants which are at times popular in Austria, but classical wines whose filigree fruit has earned many admirers. As they are usually in the Auslese range, they are also extremely long-lived.
Importers note: ”This is one of our front & center value GVs, always correct and snappy, This is richer and drier and it’s nutty, and zips with a nice snap and pepper." This is a great price for this wine, great with food - please try it on Friday night.
2 - Berger Blauer Zweigelt 2006 $12
This is a wine that surprised us - it comes in a liter sized bottle with a cap like a beer bottle. It is perhaps one of the best simple red table wines that we have ever had. It is hard to believe that it is only $12. It comes to us from Importer Terry Theise - the same man that Food & Wine magazine recently named Man of The Year. You will want to try this wine, and then you will want to "snag" as much as you can because it goes well with everything - a perfect everyday wine. It will go quickly. Watch our WineRadio interview with Terry Theise here: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
Just scroll down to the bottom of our calendar of events page - you can't miss it.
3 - Bonnaventure Chinon 2005 $20
Chateau de Coulaine is a family-owned estate rich in viticultural tradition which has been operating continuously since 1300! Since 1988, Etienne de Bonnaventure has assumed all viticulture and winemaking responsibilities and has grown the estate to its current 12 hectares, all situated on Chinon's plateaux. Planted to 100% Cabernet Franc, vineyards are organically farmed, all grapes are hand-harvested and vinification follows a non-interventionalist path. Coulaine's low yields result in a deeply concentrated, savory and succulent expression of Cabernet Franc with ripe and polished tannins - a harmonious balance between the traditional and modern worlds. We adore Cabernet Franc and this is simply one of the most deliciously approachable examples we have come across - This is big bang for the dollar.
And talk about a "story book" picture of a Chateau - take a look here: http://www.chinon.com/vignoble/chateau-coulaine/
4 - Green and Red Chiles Mill Zinfandel 2005 $28
Robert parker has said that they are one of his favorite Zinfendel producers.
Green & Red Vineyard, named for its red iron soils veined with green serpentine, is located in the steep hills on the east side of Napa Valley. The planting was started in 1972 on ground originally in vineyards in the 1890's. The vineyards are a small percentage of the 200-acre property, which ranges in elevation from 900 to 2,000 feet. Our separate vineyards are at different elevations with different exposures. This is the wine that was such a hit at our Asian wine dinner that one guest said it was the "best red wine he had ever had." Please try this - it may be your new favorite wine too.
Thanks for all of your support - we appreciate it.
And thanks for taking the time to call and sent email - you have a lot of great ideas - we are listening.
Please join us. It's fun informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
This is a very big week for news - the wine list for this Friday is just below these items of interest.
• First I want to answer one of the biggest questions of the week -
Many of you know that we own the building that Parade News is located in. Parade News and the Condon family have provided New London with newspapers and magazines, tobacco and impulsive necessities of all types for over fifty years. Parade News is a New London landmark - it has been in the same location since the 1950's - So,when the family decided recently to retire the business, many people wondered what's going to happen? Where will we get our newspapers and fine cigars? Where will we get that copy of European Men's Vogue for the train ride into The City?
Where will I be able to find those outlawed spiced, clove & honey cigarette's that are all the rage on The Continent?
The answer my friends is don't worry - we will carry on the proud tradition - we will not let the changing hands of time shut off the lights on a New London tradition. All of the Big City newspapers and magazines, fine cigars and tobacco, candy & chocolate, nuts & snacks, will be right there where you expect them to be. Your routine will not have to change. We will update things a bit - and make the whole thing as user-friendly as possible.
All of your requests, comments, and suggestions are welcome - and now is the time to let us know - and please spread the word.
• Next - get out your calendar and an indelible marker.
Friday, November 2 - 8 p.m.
The Garde Theater - World Premier Movie Event:
Join us on the Red Carpet and please be on hand to see the world premier of "Inclusions."
Flawless Films presents Inclusions, a locally written, shot, and produced dark comedy.
Our wine cellar is featured prominently in the movie - and we will be hosting a pre-theater bash starting at 6 p.m. in the cellar to celebrate the efforts of New London's own
Gordon Videll, the executive producer of the film.
We also hope to have a VIP lounge set-up at the Garde for all of the TV & press interviews and exclusive red carpet hijinks where the bubbly will flow like water. This will be a great night - and it is a very important cause that will benefit please join us.
All profits from this showing at the Garde will be donated to
Make a Wish Foundation and the Leukemia Lymphoma Society.
I hope to see you all "on location." For more details - go here: http://tickets.gardearts.org/show.asp
• FOOD STROLL -
Wednesday Oct. 17th - 5:30 - 8:30. Food & drink everywhere. We of course will be doing our part. Please stroll by.
• Meet The Winemaker Dinner Event: Monday October 29 - 6 p.m.
Meet Etienne Hugel - 12 Generation winemaker from Alsace France. This is your chance to sit elbow to elbow with a true legend in the wine business. We will eat, drink, and get to know this industry insider. And, the guy is "cool." -
Please check out the short video we have posted on the calendar of events page it will give you a glimpse into the line-up for the evening.
It was shot during Etienne's visit last year at Brie & Bleu: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
Seating is very limited - if you have a wine lover in your life - this is the perfect surprise "date night." Reserve early - 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3
• Green Party Fund Raiser at Muse Shoes & Gallery on Saturday October 20 - 6-10 p.m.
Corner of Golden and Green Streets Downtown New London - Enjoy music, food, and wine. Meet the candidates.
• Dave's Fave
Monday Tasting October 15th - No Charge
Domaine Santa Duc "Les Quatre Terres" Cotes du Rhone 2005 $16
Dave Says:
"We love all the wine these guys make, as Jim said, "They're too busy making great wine to worry about the label on the bottle."
So this bottle is often overlooked, but it's one of the best Cotes du Rhone in the house.
I haven't even tasted the 2005 vintage yet, so I'm looking forward to Monday too. How many times do you say that?
They're also so busy making great wine, they're not too worried about awkward English translations on the web page, "Here, wild and uncommon, a bird watches over the domain: the Grand-duc owl which sings, (known as "Canta Duc" in Provencal), his name has become over time "Santa Duc."
Come in on Monday, and we will sing of the owl!"
Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday October 19th - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Salomon Gruner Veltliner 2006 $17
This is remarkable in many ways. The estate has been in the family since 1792.
Fritz Salomon (1905-1971) was one of the true pioneers of dry wines in Austria; the first to import Pinot Blanc to Austria and he was also the first to export his wines to the USA, where they are highly regarded today. Erich Salomon has reinvigorated the fortunes of the estate and he produces beautifully typical wines, often with a characteristic understated elegance. These are not among the spectacularly alcoholic giants which are at times popular in Austria, but classical wines whose filigree fruit has earned many admirers. As they are usually in the Auslese range, they are also extremely long-lived.
Importers note: ”This is one of our front & center value GVs, always correct and snappy, This is richer and drier and it’s nutty, and zips with a nice snap and pepper." This is a great price for this wine, great with food - please try it on Friday night.
2 - Berger Blauer Zweigelt 2006 $12
This is a wine that surprised us - it comes in a liter sized bottle with a cap like a beer bottle. It is perhaps one of the best simple red table wines that we have ever had. It is hard to believe that it is only $12. It comes to us from Importer Terry Theise - the same man that Food & Wine magazine recently named Man of The Year. You will want to try this wine, and then you will want to "snag" as much as you can because it goes well with everything - a perfect everyday wine. It will go quickly. Watch our WineRadio interview with Terry Theise here: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
Just scroll down to the bottom of our calendar of events page - you can't miss it.
3 - Bonnaventure Chinon 2005 $20
Chateau de Coulaine is a family-owned estate rich in viticultural tradition which has been operating continuously since 1300! Since 1988, Etienne de Bonnaventure has assumed all viticulture and winemaking responsibilities and has grown the estate to its current 12 hectares, all situated on Chinon's plateaux. Planted to 100% Cabernet Franc, vineyards are organically farmed, all grapes are hand-harvested and vinification follows a non-interventionalist path. Coulaine's low yields result in a deeply concentrated, savory and succulent expression of Cabernet Franc with ripe and polished tannins - a harmonious balance between the traditional and modern worlds. We adore Cabernet Franc and this is simply one of the most deliciously approachable examples we have come across - This is big bang for the dollar.
And talk about a "story book" picture of a Chateau - take a look here: http://www.chinon.com/vignoble/chateau-coulaine/
4 - Green and Red Chiles Mill Zinfandel 2005 $28
Robert parker has said that they are one of his favorite Zinfendel producers.
Green & Red Vineyard, named for its red iron soils veined with green serpentine, is located in the steep hills on the east side of Napa Valley. The planting was started in 1972 on ground originally in vineyards in the 1890's. The vineyards are a small percentage of the 200-acre property, which ranges in elevation from 900 to 2,000 feet. Our separate vineyards are at different elevations with different exposures. This is the wine that was such a hit at our Asian wine dinner that one guest said it was the "best red wine he had ever had." Please try this - it may be your new favorite wine too.
Thanks for all of your support - we appreciate it.
And thanks for taking the time to call and sent email - you have a lot of great ideas - we are listening.
Please join us. It's fun informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Meet The Winemaker - Dinner Event
Have dinner with Etienne Hugel.
12th Generation Winemaker from Alsace France.
10 seats only - first come, first served.
$75 plus tax and service.
Reserve now - 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3
Monday October 29 - 6 p.m.
12th Generation Winemaker from Alsace France.
10 seats only - first come, first served.
$75 plus tax and service.
Reserve now - 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3
Monday October 29 - 6 p.m.
Etienne Hugel
A couple of minutes from last year's visit.
watch the video here
A couple of minutes from last year's visit.
watch the video here
Tuesday, October 09, 2007
Joe Dressner, Clos Des Briords, Chateau d' Oupia Minervois, Chateau le Bosq, Chateau Pibran, Hugel Dinner
Greetings from all of us in New London,
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474
IMPORT - 860-443-6817
www.thamesriver.com
It is a short holiday week for us - so just a few items of interest before we list the wine for Friday night. New London was enjoying the long warm days all this week. There was theater in the Hygenic Art Park, music in the plaza, and lots of action in the restaurants. Take Brie & Bleu for example - If there was a better place to enjoy a glass of wine - by the way we are serving Calera Pinot Noir by the glass right now - and a remarkable selection of cheese, while looking out at the harbor - I want to know about it.
• Shawn Colvin at The Garde Arts Center Saturday October 20th -
Tickets and information here: www.gardearts.org
• New London's Fall Food Stroll Wednesday, October 17, 2007, 5:30-8:30 PM - http://newlondonmainstreet.org/events/fallfoodstroll2007.php
• Hygenic Creep Show Opening - October 13
• Meet The Wine Maker - Special Event: -.
Ten Seats Only - First come, first served -
Wine Dinner Monday October 29th 6pm $75 - plus tax and service.
Etienne Hugel - 12th generation wine maker will sit with us, eat with us and share his family's passion for producing some of the greatest wines in the world. The wines of the Alsace region of France are very special and the Hugel name is at the top of that group. Watch the Calendar of Events page for more details - but do not wait to make your reservations -
8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3
• Last week we were invited to the Slocum and Sons wine show at the Mohegan Sun. It is an annual slug-fest with hundreds of people pushing into the giant ballrooms trying to find some free food and a place to sit down - It is not for the squeamish. There are a few redeeming aspects though - and one of them is getting to meet and talk with industry experts. If one seeks them out it can be a "Yoda" like experience. Here are a few lines from our own Jim Morrison's note book - as he was able to meet and talk with Joe Dressner, a wine industry star.
"...I had my annual encounter with Joe Dressner. The room was full of the usual suspects, Duckhorn, Cliquot, Latour, but I came away feeling that this strange man from Queens New York was the future of the wine business. Joe simply puts the emphasis on wine instead of brands. He looks for wines that are made someplace , by somebody, a radical concept in today's mass produced wine market. All of his wines are organic and Biodynamic, and now Joe is searching out vineyards with clonal diversity. "Why would I want a vineyard of clones, when you could have a vineyard of thousands of individuals, producing unique flavors in a unique location? It's the essence of Terroir......."
This guy it way ahead of the curve - His web site is a must read for anyone with an interest in wine and a sense of humor. www.joedressner.com
Wine Tasting Please Join Us -
Friday October 12 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Clos Des Briords Muscadet Sevre et Maine 2006 $15
100% Muscadet from the western Loire Valley, fermented "sur lie" - that's a fancy way of saying they keep the wine in the barrel (on the lees or sur lie) all winter, this allows the wine's aromas, body and texture to develop, and the carbonic gas produced by this process imparts a liveliness on the palate. Only wines made from the best vineyards are permitted to use the Sur Lie designation. Absolutely perfect for seafood and shellfish - Including this recipe, that we managed to steal from the private recipe box of Dr. Henry Mann:
"Saute garlic and a small chopped onion slowly; add chopped fresh tomatoes and let it simmer; add 1/2 to one bottle of dry white wine. Add some fresh or dried thyme, Chile garlic paste, and a 1/4 cup of Pernod and you could add a little saffron. I also might add some Vietnamese fish sauce. Cook it until it is perfect and correct seasoning. Then cook the mussels for a very short time, stopping as soon as mot of them are open."
Please try the wine this Friday night - and if you want to spice up your weekend - try the recipe too. You'll note that the exact measurements were not on the dog-eared copy of the Dr's stained 3x5 inch card - just cook with your heart, you will know when it is right.
2 - Chateau d' Oupia Minervois 2006 $14
This is another Joe Dressner Selection. Robert Parker has consistently praised this estate and rated the wine a “best buy.” He wrote:
“Château d'Oupia has produced the ideal bistro wine. Dark, ruby-colored, the wine is wonderfully clean and pure, with an exuberant personality, and gobs of rich, peppery, red and black fruit...Bravo to proprietor André Iché!”
Minervois is Languedoc in southern france. Comprised of Carignan , Syrah and Greanache. The wine has also been called " the ultimate bistro wine".
Created in a magnificent 13th century Chateau - this is the "Real McCoy" folks, please try it on Friday night.
3 - Chateau le Bosq 2003 $32
Robert Parker has rated this wine in the high 88/90 category -
Their commitment to exceptional quality is relentless.
Chateau Le Bosq is one of the great classics in the St. Estephe appellation. when you close your eyes and imagine a french chateau - this is the picture that you see. The Chateau itself is a majestic building built at the end of the 18th century, with one of the facades facing the vines, and the other giving a magnificent view of the Gironde estuary. 1996 saw a great deal of further investment at the Chateau including the complete renovation of the vinification complex. Talk about a food wine - this is perfect with roast turkey, bread stuffing and giblet gravy, leg of lamb with a rosemary, lemon, garlic, and roasted potatoes or the traditional roasted rib-eye steak with herbed mustard sauce and root vegetables - Start thinking Thanksgiving - and you will want this on your table. This is a pretty, elegant wine, with attractive berry and cherry aromas. Spicy, with a fine medium body, silky tannins and a long fleshy finish.
Gotta have it.
4 - Chateau Pibran 2003 $42
Rated 87/89 point by the Wine Advocate Situated on a beautiful rocky quartenary hillside, close to such presitigous neighbours as Mouton-Rothschild, Pontet-Canet and Lynch-Bages, the Château Pibran estate has benefitted from a thorough restructuring, including big dollar investment from it's owners.
Here is what Robert Parker said about this wine: "From a vineyard situated on the high plateau of Pauillac, near both Pontet-Canet and Mouton Rothschild, this blend of 65% Merlot and 35% Cabernet Sauvignon reveals excellent cassis fruit, impressive ripeness, good sweetness and depth on the palate, and a long, concentrated finish. A potential sleeper of the vintage, there are, sadly, only 5,000 cases."
This is a pricey bottle - but the holidays are just around the corner - consider adding a few bottles to your collection, you can dole it out carefully to the visiting relatives, or just snuggle up with someone special and share a great bottle of wine and a memorable experience.
Thanks very much for your support. Many new faces have discovered our updated food and wine menus at Brie & Bleu and enjoyed the late summer evenings on the deck - and of course all of our regular "clubhouse" members - thanks for making it so much fun. Lots of new announcements are just around the corner - stay tuned, we are listening.
Please join us - it's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474
IMPORT - 860-443-6817
www.thamesriver.com
It is a short holiday week for us - so just a few items of interest before we list the wine for Friday night. New London was enjoying the long warm days all this week. There was theater in the Hygenic Art Park, music in the plaza, and lots of action in the restaurants. Take Brie & Bleu for example - If there was a better place to enjoy a glass of wine - by the way we are serving Calera Pinot Noir by the glass right now - and a remarkable selection of cheese, while looking out at the harbor - I want to know about it.
• Shawn Colvin at The Garde Arts Center Saturday October 20th -
Tickets and information here: www.gardearts.org
• New London's Fall Food Stroll Wednesday, October 17, 2007, 5:30-8:30 PM - http://newlondonmainstreet.org/events/fallfoodstroll2007.php
• Hygenic Creep Show Opening - October 13
• Meet The Wine Maker - Special Event: -.
Ten Seats Only - First come, first served -
Wine Dinner Monday October 29th 6pm $75 - plus tax and service.
Etienne Hugel - 12th generation wine maker will sit with us, eat with us and share his family's passion for producing some of the greatest wines in the world. The wines of the Alsace region of France are very special and the Hugel name is at the top of that group. Watch the Calendar of Events page for more details - but do not wait to make your reservations -
8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3
• Last week we were invited to the Slocum and Sons wine show at the Mohegan Sun. It is an annual slug-fest with hundreds of people pushing into the giant ballrooms trying to find some free food and a place to sit down - It is not for the squeamish. There are a few redeeming aspects though - and one of them is getting to meet and talk with industry experts. If one seeks them out it can be a "Yoda" like experience. Here are a few lines from our own Jim Morrison's note book - as he was able to meet and talk with Joe Dressner, a wine industry star.
"...I had my annual encounter with Joe Dressner. The room was full of the usual suspects, Duckhorn, Cliquot, Latour, but I came away feeling that this strange man from Queens New York was the future of the wine business. Joe simply puts the emphasis on wine instead of brands. He looks for wines that are made someplace , by somebody, a radical concept in today's mass produced wine market. All of his wines are organic and Biodynamic, and now Joe is searching out vineyards with clonal diversity. "Why would I want a vineyard of clones, when you could have a vineyard of thousands of individuals, producing unique flavors in a unique location? It's the essence of Terroir......."
This guy it way ahead of the curve - His web site is a must read for anyone with an interest in wine and a sense of humor. www.joedressner.com
Wine Tasting Please Join Us -
Friday October 12 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Clos Des Briords Muscadet Sevre et Maine 2006 $15
100% Muscadet from the western Loire Valley, fermented "sur lie" - that's a fancy way of saying they keep the wine in the barrel (on the lees or sur lie) all winter, this allows the wine's aromas, body and texture to develop, and the carbonic gas produced by this process imparts a liveliness on the palate. Only wines made from the best vineyards are permitted to use the Sur Lie designation. Absolutely perfect for seafood and shellfish - Including this recipe, that we managed to steal from the private recipe box of Dr. Henry Mann:
"Saute garlic and a small chopped onion slowly; add chopped fresh tomatoes and let it simmer; add 1/2 to one bottle of dry white wine. Add some fresh or dried thyme, Chile garlic paste, and a 1/4 cup of Pernod and you could add a little saffron. I also might add some Vietnamese fish sauce. Cook it until it is perfect and correct seasoning. Then cook the mussels for a very short time, stopping as soon as mot of them are open."
Please try the wine this Friday night - and if you want to spice up your weekend - try the recipe too. You'll note that the exact measurements were not on the dog-eared copy of the Dr's stained 3x5 inch card - just cook with your heart, you will know when it is right.
2 - Chateau d' Oupia Minervois 2006 $14
This is another Joe Dressner Selection. Robert Parker has consistently praised this estate and rated the wine a “best buy.” He wrote:
“Château d'Oupia has produced the ideal bistro wine. Dark, ruby-colored, the wine is wonderfully clean and pure, with an exuberant personality, and gobs of rich, peppery, red and black fruit...Bravo to proprietor André Iché!”
Minervois is Languedoc in southern france. Comprised of Carignan , Syrah and Greanache. The wine has also been called " the ultimate bistro wine".
Created in a magnificent 13th century Chateau - this is the "Real McCoy" folks, please try it on Friday night.
3 - Chateau le Bosq 2003 $32
Robert Parker has rated this wine in the high 88/90 category -
Their commitment to exceptional quality is relentless.
Chateau Le Bosq is one of the great classics in the St. Estephe appellation. when you close your eyes and imagine a french chateau - this is the picture that you see. The Chateau itself is a majestic building built at the end of the 18th century, with one of the facades facing the vines, and the other giving a magnificent view of the Gironde estuary. 1996 saw a great deal of further investment at the Chateau including the complete renovation of the vinification complex. Talk about a food wine - this is perfect with roast turkey, bread stuffing and giblet gravy, leg of lamb with a rosemary, lemon, garlic, and roasted potatoes or the traditional roasted rib-eye steak with herbed mustard sauce and root vegetables - Start thinking Thanksgiving - and you will want this on your table. This is a pretty, elegant wine, with attractive berry and cherry aromas. Spicy, with a fine medium body, silky tannins and a long fleshy finish.
Gotta have it.
4 - Chateau Pibran 2003 $42
Rated 87/89 point by the Wine Advocate Situated on a beautiful rocky quartenary hillside, close to such presitigous neighbours as Mouton-Rothschild, Pontet-Canet and Lynch-Bages, the Château Pibran estate has benefitted from a thorough restructuring, including big dollar investment from it's owners.
Here is what Robert Parker said about this wine: "From a vineyard situated on the high plateau of Pauillac, near both Pontet-Canet and Mouton Rothschild, this blend of 65% Merlot and 35% Cabernet Sauvignon reveals excellent cassis fruit, impressive ripeness, good sweetness and depth on the palate, and a long, concentrated finish. A potential sleeper of the vintage, there are, sadly, only 5,000 cases."
This is a pricey bottle - but the holidays are just around the corner - consider adding a few bottles to your collection, you can dole it out carefully to the visiting relatives, or just snuggle up with someone special and share a great bottle of wine and a memorable experience.
Thanks very much for your support. Many new faces have discovered our updated food and wine menus at Brie & Bleu and enjoyed the late summer evenings on the deck - and of course all of our regular "clubhouse" members - thanks for making it so much fun. Lots of new announcements are just around the corner - stay tuned, we are listening.
Please join us - it's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
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