Tuesday, February 27, 2007
A visit with Baron Eric de Rothchild
Take a minute to listen to Baron Eric de Rothchild describe his wine - maybe they are underpriced.
Monday, February 26, 2007
Guest of Honor, Rioja, Dominick Symington, KWV Steen, Flying Fish, Spellbound Petite Sirah, Beckman Cuvee Le Bec
Greetings from all of us in New London,
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474
IMPORT - 860-443-6817
www.thamesriver.com
We hope all of your Oscar wishes came true - we have a great line up for Friday night. The wines are listed below these items of interest.
• Lets begin by saying - thank you. To everyone that attended The Spottswoode wine dinner. It was sublime.
A real connoisseurs delight. The food was stellar, thanks to everyone at Brie & Bleu - Pat Connair, Jim Lalumier. It was a classic steak house style menu - a la Smith & Wollensky. The filet mignon was buttery smooth and tender enough to cut with the edge of a fork. The wines were presented by Mr. Eoin Connors and our own Jim Morrison - and if anyone can find a better match than the steaks, side dishes, and the jaw dropping wines that were poured - give us a call.
And lets put something to rest - right now.
A few days ago a customer came into the store and said: "My wife and I would love to attend one of your dinners - but we really don't know that much about wine - and we thought we might feel out of place - everyone that goes is probably an expert."
Stop the music - that is exactly why we have these dinners - and that customer, the one that is interested but unsure - is our guest of honor.
ALL of our dinners are completely unpretentious - there are food and wine lovers of all kinds at the table. Beginners and experts alike are right at home.
Don't for a minute think that this is a bunch of snooty old farts, swirling wine around in a glass and saying things like - "I say, this is an amusing little number", "Bold, yet not too assertive on the attack." or "I get hints of toast, fennel, and just a nuance of raisin."
We are your friends - we're not like the others - we would would never put you through that.
We want to share the experience with as many people as possible - and it is also the reason we open so many pricey, hard to find wines - like the Spottswoode for example. Where else will you get the opportunity to try "hundred dollar" wine without a hassle?
So if you have been thinking about joining us for dinner - but were not sure it was right for you, give it a try. It is truly one of the best values and best kept secrets in the area. It's time - You deserve to be the guest of honor.
• The rumors are true - we are sending Jim Morrison into the field to get the hard facts. Jim will be crawling around on his hands and knees in the dusty bodegas and damp cellars of Spain and Portugal. He is taking little more than his passport and a crumpled brown paper lunch bag filled with cheese and a small notebook. In Portugal he will be the guest of Mr. Dominick Symington - the Symington family headquarters are in Oporto, the family produces Graham's, Dow's, Smith-Woodhouse and Warre Ports, as well as Quinta do Vesuvio, a Port that is estate bottled.
Check it out: http://www.symington.com/index.asp
I thought it might be nice to have a little "de-briefing" when he gets back next week - but when he starts to tell us how hard he was working - we will all know the truth - we have seen the website!
• One more thing to mention before we get to the list for Friday night -
Our friends at the River Walk in Mystic - 860-536-5220are having a special evening hosted by Eoin Conners.
On Tuesday the 27th at 5:30 p.m. they will tasting three very interesting wines.
1 - Villane Rully 1999 - $24 - this is a very serious Burgundy and not easy to locate.
2 - Inama Du Lot Soave 2002 - $26 - Stephano Inama the celebrated italian winemaker will be in OUR store on Wednesday morning the 28th.
He will be taping an episode of WineRadio - anyone wishing to have bottles signed or the chance to meet him is welcome to join us @ 10 a.m.
3 - Clos De Los Siete 2005 - $16 - from famed wine maker Michel Rolland
Try these wines at the River Walk - the cost is $10 - call them for more information.
This Week At Brie & Bleu
Dinner Specials:
Friday March 2 - Fire grilled Salmon w/ Cilantro Aioli lemon Sauce
A great wine choice would be: David Bruce Sonoma Coast pinot Noir $32
The wine is so smooth that it coats the mouth like fine melted chocolate - it's a very good example of California Pinot Noir.
Saturday March 3 - Garlic grilled Chicken w/ chile peppers
Wine: Kofererhof Kerner $25 - This is a delicious white that will open your eyes to a small region of Italy. Perfect with this chicken dish.
Cheese of the week: Saint Andre at $12/lb.
The featured cheese at Brie & Blue the week is Saint Andre at $12/lb. Saint-André cheese is a high (75%) milk-fat ("triple crème") cow's milk French cheese with a soft buttery texture in a powdery white bloomy skin of mold, like an intense version of Brie. Extra heavy cream is added to the cheese during manufacture. A traditional wheel of Saint-André is smaller and shaped higher than the familiar flat wheel of Brie. Saint-André is so fat it can make a white wine taste sour and metallic: a crust of baguette and a light beer or simply a slice of pear are often suggested as better complements. Any cracker used should be utterly bland.
Enjoy,
Colleen
Wine Tasting Please Join Us -
Friday March 2nd - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - KWV Steen 2005 $11 - South Africa - Chenin Blanc
KWV was established as a private wine co-operative in 1918 to stabilise the South African wine industry after several outbreaks of phylloxera vastatrix and a wine surplus. Made from specially selected vineyards from the Western Cape region. After the grapes are crushed, the must is fermented with selected yeast. Once fermentation is complete, the wine is racked, fined, filtered, stabilised and bottled. A very pale straw appearance with excellent varietal expressions. Very intense aromas, which range from country hay, floral, tropical fruit and apricots to spice. Plenty of ripe fruit flavors. Fresh and lingering A good option is fish of any kind as is grilled chicken, cheese soufflé, seafood pasta.
2 - Flying Fish Merlot 2004 $15 Washington State
We sell a lot of this wine. It is a great value and people have noticed. Small parcels of grapes were selected from several vineyards throughout the Columbia Valley. By blending grapes from different vineyards, the winemaking team created a well-balanced, fruit expressive wine, with a little oak that demonstrates the outstanding quality of Merlot available from the Columbia Valley. Each vineyard in the final blend contributes important aspects to the finished wine. This is a great everyday wine for the table.
3 - Spellbound Petite Sirah 2005 $15
Once one of the most widely planted grapes in California, PetiteSirah is known for deep color, luscious mouthfeel and wild berry fragrances. This definitely exemplifies the irresistible characteristics that are Petite Sirah. The purple color catches you immediately and your eyes begin to taste. Aromas of violet and rose jump out of the glass. Flavors of fresh berries along with mocha and coffee dance on your palate. A broad structure with integrated, delicate tannins, create a great mouthfeel and an unmistakable desire for the next sip.
4 - Beckman Cuvee Le Bec 2004 $18 - California only 3250 cases produced Rated: 88 - Robert Parker
Now is the perfect time to enjoy Beckman's Cuvee le Bec. This delicious red blend was awarded 88 points by Robert Parker. An excellent value, this medium-bodied red (35% Grenache, 30% Syrah, 20% Mourvedre, and 15% Counoise) reveals a lightly spicy bouquet with abundant amounts of currant and cherry fruit and no hard edges. A Mediterranean-style version of a Cotes du Rhone. Good deep medium red. Spicy dark raspberry, and chocolate on the nose. Light to medium in weight, with good life to its red fruit flavors. Finishes slightly dry.
Thanks for all of the emails, phone calls, and comments - we appreciate your interest and support.
Please Join us this Friday.
It is fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Thames River Wine & Spirits - 860-443-9463
Thames River Greenery - 860-443-6817
Brie & Bleu - 860-437-2474
IMPORT - 860-443-6817
www.thamesriver.com
We hope all of your Oscar wishes came true - we have a great line up for Friday night. The wines are listed below these items of interest.
• Lets begin by saying - thank you. To everyone that attended The Spottswoode wine dinner. It was sublime.
A real connoisseurs delight. The food was stellar, thanks to everyone at Brie & Bleu - Pat Connair, Jim Lalumier. It was a classic steak house style menu - a la Smith & Wollensky. The filet mignon was buttery smooth and tender enough to cut with the edge of a fork. The wines were presented by Mr. Eoin Connors and our own Jim Morrison - and if anyone can find a better match than the steaks, side dishes, and the jaw dropping wines that were poured - give us a call.
And lets put something to rest - right now.
A few days ago a customer came into the store and said: "My wife and I would love to attend one of your dinners - but we really don't know that much about wine - and we thought we might feel out of place - everyone that goes is probably an expert."
Stop the music - that is exactly why we have these dinners - and that customer, the one that is interested but unsure - is our guest of honor.
ALL of our dinners are completely unpretentious - there are food and wine lovers of all kinds at the table. Beginners and experts alike are right at home.
Don't for a minute think that this is a bunch of snooty old farts, swirling wine around in a glass and saying things like - "I say, this is an amusing little number", "Bold, yet not too assertive on the attack." or "I get hints of toast, fennel, and just a nuance of raisin."
We are your friends - we're not like the others - we would would never put you through that.
We want to share the experience with as many people as possible - and it is also the reason we open so many pricey, hard to find wines - like the Spottswoode for example. Where else will you get the opportunity to try "hundred dollar" wine without a hassle?
So if you have been thinking about joining us for dinner - but were not sure it was right for you, give it a try. It is truly one of the best values and best kept secrets in the area. It's time - You deserve to be the guest of honor.
• The rumors are true - we are sending Jim Morrison into the field to get the hard facts. Jim will be crawling around on his hands and knees in the dusty bodegas and damp cellars of Spain and Portugal. He is taking little more than his passport and a crumpled brown paper lunch bag filled with cheese and a small notebook. In Portugal he will be the guest of Mr. Dominick Symington - the Symington family headquarters are in Oporto, the family produces Graham's, Dow's, Smith-Woodhouse and Warre Ports, as well as Quinta do Vesuvio, a Port that is estate bottled.
Check it out: http://www.symington.com/index.asp
I thought it might be nice to have a little "de-briefing" when he gets back next week - but when he starts to tell us how hard he was working - we will all know the truth - we have seen the website!
• One more thing to mention before we get to the list for Friday night -
Our friends at the River Walk in Mystic - 860-536-5220are having a special evening hosted by Eoin Conners.
On Tuesday the 27th at 5:30 p.m. they will tasting three very interesting wines.
1 - Villane Rully 1999 - $24 - this is a very serious Burgundy and not easy to locate.
2 - Inama Du Lot Soave 2002 - $26 - Stephano Inama the celebrated italian winemaker will be in OUR store on Wednesday morning the 28th.
He will be taping an episode of WineRadio - anyone wishing to have bottles signed or the chance to meet him is welcome to join us @ 10 a.m.
3 - Clos De Los Siete 2005 - $16 - from famed wine maker Michel Rolland
Try these wines at the River Walk - the cost is $10 - call them for more information.
This Week At Brie & Bleu
Dinner Specials:
Friday March 2 - Fire grilled Salmon w/ Cilantro Aioli lemon Sauce
A great wine choice would be: David Bruce Sonoma Coast pinot Noir $32
The wine is so smooth that it coats the mouth like fine melted chocolate - it's a very good example of California Pinot Noir.
Saturday March 3 - Garlic grilled Chicken w/ chile peppers
Wine: Kofererhof Kerner $25 - This is a delicious white that will open your eyes to a small region of Italy. Perfect with this chicken dish.
Cheese of the week: Saint Andre at $12/lb.
The featured cheese at Brie & Blue the week is Saint Andre at $12/lb. Saint-André cheese is a high (75%) milk-fat ("triple crème") cow's milk French cheese with a soft buttery texture in a powdery white bloomy skin of mold, like an intense version of Brie. Extra heavy cream is added to the cheese during manufacture. A traditional wheel of Saint-André is smaller and shaped higher than the familiar flat wheel of Brie. Saint-André is so fat it can make a white wine taste sour and metallic: a crust of baguette and a light beer or simply a slice of pear are often suggested as better complements. Any cracker used should be utterly bland.
Enjoy,
Colleen
Wine Tasting Please Join Us -
Friday March 2nd - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - KWV Steen 2005 $11 - South Africa - Chenin Blanc
KWV was established as a private wine co-operative in 1918 to stabilise the South African wine industry after several outbreaks of phylloxera vastatrix and a wine surplus. Made from specially selected vineyards from the Western Cape region. After the grapes are crushed, the must is fermented with selected yeast. Once fermentation is complete, the wine is racked, fined, filtered, stabilised and bottled. A very pale straw appearance with excellent varietal expressions. Very intense aromas, which range from country hay, floral, tropical fruit and apricots to spice. Plenty of ripe fruit flavors. Fresh and lingering A good option is fish of any kind as is grilled chicken, cheese soufflé, seafood pasta.
2 - Flying Fish Merlot 2004 $15 Washington State
We sell a lot of this wine. It is a great value and people have noticed. Small parcels of grapes were selected from several vineyards throughout the Columbia Valley. By blending grapes from different vineyards, the winemaking team created a well-balanced, fruit expressive wine, with a little oak that demonstrates the outstanding quality of Merlot available from the Columbia Valley. Each vineyard in the final blend contributes important aspects to the finished wine. This is a great everyday wine for the table.
3 - Spellbound Petite Sirah 2005 $15
Once one of the most widely planted grapes in California, PetiteSirah is known for deep color, luscious mouthfeel and wild berry fragrances. This definitely exemplifies the irresistible characteristics that are Petite Sirah. The purple color catches you immediately and your eyes begin to taste. Aromas of violet and rose jump out of the glass. Flavors of fresh berries along with mocha and coffee dance on your palate. A broad structure with integrated, delicate tannins, create a great mouthfeel and an unmistakable desire for the next sip.
4 - Beckman Cuvee Le Bec 2004 $18 - California only 3250 cases produced Rated: 88 - Robert Parker
Now is the perfect time to enjoy Beckman's Cuvee le Bec. This delicious red blend was awarded 88 points by Robert Parker. An excellent value, this medium-bodied red (35% Grenache, 30% Syrah, 20% Mourvedre, and 15% Counoise) reveals a lightly spicy bouquet with abundant amounts of currant and cherry fruit and no hard edges. A Mediterranean-style version of a Cotes du Rhone. Good deep medium red. Spicy dark raspberry, and chocolate on the nose. Light to medium in weight, with good life to its red fruit flavors. Finishes slightly dry.
Thanks for all of the emails, phone calls, and comments - we appreciate your interest and support.
Please Join us this Friday.
It is fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
Monday, February 19, 2007
DRC, Domaine de la Romanee-Conti, El Pundito" Rioja 2003, Scarborough, Santa Ema, El nido Clio
Greetings from 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
This is an abbreviated "Presidents Day" edition of the weekly newsletter.
We have great wines for Friday they are listed just below a couple of updates and items of interest.
• First a big note of thanks to Grace Magazine for including us in a great feature article about New London.
And to Karen C.L. Anderson for all of the kind words in the story.
If you did not get to see it here is the link: http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/daypubco/ss/058687/
• Thanks to everyone that came out last Friday night - The Clio from Spain was king.
• Speaking of Spanish wines we still have four seats left for our Spanish Wine Dinner on Thursday March 22nd - 6 p.m.
Featuring the new Power House names of Spanish Wine.
And each will be paired with a classic savory dish from Spain - just look at this line up of wine:
Alto Moncayo - $40
El nido Clio - $45 ( rated 96 points by Robert Parker two years in a row! )
El Puntido - $55
AND Termanthia - $190 ( from 140 year old vines.)
Of course it would not be one of our dinners without a few surprises.
Please reserve early - 860-443-9463
• For some of you these three little letters "DRC" make you weak at the knees.
They stand for Domaine de la Romanee-Conti
This is home to some of the most coveted and talked about wines in the world.
Names like: Grand Echezeaux, Romanee-St-Vivant, and Montrachet.
We have these wines in stock - take a peek: http://thamesriver.com/wine/instock.html
Wines like this are not easy to find - they are doled out carefully to prestigious wine shops that are located in fancy zip codes.
But because of the buzz that you are creating around us - we are finding that we are able to procure these types of wines.
Because of you spreading the word - our phone calls are returned promptly from suppliers.
When we first started and would make inquiries about special products for customers the response was something like:
"Hey, wait a minute, I want to put you on speakerphone so everyone here can enjoy this."
Thanks for getting us noticed - we really do appreciate it.
THIS WEEK - Dinner Specials at Brie & Bleu
Friday Night - February 23 - Smoked Rib-Eye and Goat Cheese Empanadas
We are recommending a couple of options
From Abita Brewing in New Orleans "Abita Restoration Ale" - $8 or a nice Rioja - We have several excellent choices in all price points.
Saturday Night - February 24 - Corned Beef & Cabbage Stew - try this with Babcock Fathom - $24, a Bordeaux blend from California or
Otter Creek Stove Pipe Porter - $8, an absolutely delicious beer that will compliment this perfectly.
Brie & Bleu - The featured cheese of the week at $17/lb is Gubbeen Cheese from Ireland. Gubbeen has been enjoyed across Ireland, Europe and America, and has won some of the key cheese awards both in Ireland and England. Gubbeen is vegetarian, semi-soft, table cheese. The terracotta brine-washed rind has fine, white and pale blue moulds. The taste of this dense, full-bodied cheese is rich and savory. It is excellent with burnt onions and grilled cheese. For an additional 10% off the cheese pari with a nice Chardonnay purchased at Thames River Wine and Spirits.
Cheers, Colleen.
Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday February 23 - 6-9 p.m.No Charge
1 - Scarborough Chardonnay 2002 - $18 - Hunter Valley Australia
Since 1987, the Scarborough wine label has emerged as a leading example of Australian Chardonnay. Owners Ian and Merralea Scarborough maintain a strong profile with their consumers, coordinating their own distribution and marketing direct from the vineyard. The Scarborough philosophy is to provide the discerning wine consumer with wine of international standing, classic character and style. Chardonnay is the Scarborough flagship wine. It may be time for you to re-visit Chardonnay - Lots of folks burned out on the over oaked Chard's that were coming out of California - give this one a try you might rediscover the subtle flavors that Charonnay can deliver.
2- Santa Ema Reserve Merlot 2004 $12 Maipo valley Chile.
Pedro Pavone Voglino in 1917 emigrated from the famous winemaking region of Piamonte, Italy, to the Maipo Valley in Chile.
Following his family's traditions Mr. Pavone planted carefully chosen european vine varieties, Cabernet sauvignon, Merlot and Sauvignon blanc, those grapes were sold to well established Chilean wineries for over 20 years. Until he decided, along with his son Felix Pavone Arbea to create the now prestigious Viña Santa Ema. Since its begining the company has been focused on the production of high quality wines. This wine is a delicious ruby red color. Unique and unmistakable, in this wine you will find the red fruits (plum and blackberry) mixed with chocolate and toasted coffe notes.
In the mouth, the tannins are mature, with a good structure, balance and roundness. The amount of finesse that is in this bottle, for just twelve dollars, is amazing. Please try it on Friday night.
3- Dominio De Tares "Baltos" 2004 $16 Mencia from Bierzo Spain.
Wine Spectator magazine says "one of Spain’s 'Best Buys." 'Wine Spectator Rating 90 points Ranked 67th in the Wine Spectator Top 100.
"Mencía" - Few grape varieties better express the terroir of a region than this. The “mineral” grape par excellence, until recently it was erroneously disdained for having poor ageing potential and lacking color. Nothing could be further from the truth. Now enjoying unparalleled popularity, its combination of fruity mineral characteristics, in harmony with the contribution of new French and American oak, have shot the Mencía grape into the limelight as a star in its own right. Mencía wines stand out on the international stage among other Spanish grape types for their elegance and individuality, along with the world’s very best. This is a great food wine with an easy going price - give it a try.
4- Vinedos de Paganos "El Pundito" Rioja 2003 $55
This is the third vintage of this wine that we have carried, always impressive. Massive fruit, licorice and texture of heavy velvet. So thick it's almost syrupy, this red never loses its balance. Dense and thick, with blackberry, currant, mineral, dark chocolate and espresso flavors that build on each other through the long finish--yet it remains graceful and brings you back for another sip - and another, and another.... This alone is worth the trip downtown on Friday night.
We hope to see you this weekend - please say hello if you stop in - we love to hear your feedback.
Please join us - It is 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
This is an abbreviated "Presidents Day" edition of the weekly newsletter.
We have great wines for Friday they are listed just below a couple of updates and items of interest.
• First a big note of thanks to Grace Magazine for including us in a great feature article about New London.
And to Karen C.L. Anderson for all of the kind words in the story.
If you did not get to see it here is the link: http://adserver1.harvestadsdepot.com/daypubco/ss/058687/
• Thanks to everyone that came out last Friday night - The Clio from Spain was king.
• Speaking of Spanish wines we still have four seats left for our Spanish Wine Dinner on Thursday March 22nd - 6 p.m.
Featuring the new Power House names of Spanish Wine.
And each will be paired with a classic savory dish from Spain - just look at this line up of wine:
Alto Moncayo - $40
El nido Clio - $45 ( rated 96 points by Robert Parker two years in a row! )
El Puntido - $55
AND Termanthia - $190 ( from 140 year old vines.)
Of course it would not be one of our dinners without a few surprises.
Please reserve early - 860-443-9463
• For some of you these three little letters "DRC" make you weak at the knees.
They stand for Domaine de la Romanee-Conti
This is home to some of the most coveted and talked about wines in the world.
Names like: Grand Echezeaux, Romanee-St-Vivant, and Montrachet.
We have these wines in stock - take a peek: http://thamesriver.com/wine/instock.html
Wines like this are not easy to find - they are doled out carefully to prestigious wine shops that are located in fancy zip codes.
But because of the buzz that you are creating around us - we are finding that we are able to procure these types of wines.
Because of you spreading the word - our phone calls are returned promptly from suppliers.
When we first started and would make inquiries about special products for customers the response was something like:
"Hey, wait a minute, I want to put you on speakerphone so everyone here can enjoy this."
Thanks for getting us noticed - we really do appreciate it.
THIS WEEK - Dinner Specials at Brie & Bleu
Friday Night - February 23 - Smoked Rib-Eye and Goat Cheese Empanadas
We are recommending a couple of options
From Abita Brewing in New Orleans "Abita Restoration Ale" - $8 or a nice Rioja - We have several excellent choices in all price points.
Saturday Night - February 24 - Corned Beef & Cabbage Stew - try this with Babcock Fathom - $24, a Bordeaux blend from California or
Otter Creek Stove Pipe Porter - $8, an absolutely delicious beer that will compliment this perfectly.
Brie & Bleu - The featured cheese of the week at $17/lb is Gubbeen Cheese from Ireland. Gubbeen has been enjoyed across Ireland, Europe and America, and has won some of the key cheese awards both in Ireland and England. Gubbeen is vegetarian, semi-soft, table cheese. The terracotta brine-washed rind has fine, white and pale blue moulds. The taste of this dense, full-bodied cheese is rich and savory. It is excellent with burnt onions and grilled cheese. For an additional 10% off the cheese pari with a nice Chardonnay purchased at Thames River Wine and Spirits.
Cheers, Colleen.
Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday February 23 - 6-9 p.m.No Charge
1 - Scarborough Chardonnay 2002 - $18 - Hunter Valley Australia
Since 1987, the Scarborough wine label has emerged as a leading example of Australian Chardonnay. Owners Ian and Merralea Scarborough maintain a strong profile with their consumers, coordinating their own distribution and marketing direct from the vineyard. The Scarborough philosophy is to provide the discerning wine consumer with wine of international standing, classic character and style. Chardonnay is the Scarborough flagship wine. It may be time for you to re-visit Chardonnay - Lots of folks burned out on the over oaked Chard's that were coming out of California - give this one a try you might rediscover the subtle flavors that Charonnay can deliver.
2- Santa Ema Reserve Merlot 2004 $12 Maipo valley Chile.
Pedro Pavone Voglino in 1917 emigrated from the famous winemaking region of Piamonte, Italy, to the Maipo Valley in Chile.
Following his family's traditions Mr. Pavone planted carefully chosen european vine varieties, Cabernet sauvignon, Merlot and Sauvignon blanc, those grapes were sold to well established Chilean wineries for over 20 years. Until he decided, along with his son Felix Pavone Arbea to create the now prestigious Viña Santa Ema. Since its begining the company has been focused on the production of high quality wines. This wine is a delicious ruby red color. Unique and unmistakable, in this wine you will find the red fruits (plum and blackberry) mixed with chocolate and toasted coffe notes.
In the mouth, the tannins are mature, with a good structure, balance and roundness. The amount of finesse that is in this bottle, for just twelve dollars, is amazing. Please try it on Friday night.
3- Dominio De Tares "Baltos" 2004 $16 Mencia from Bierzo Spain.
Wine Spectator magazine says "one of Spain’s 'Best Buys." 'Wine Spectator Rating 90 points Ranked 67th in the Wine Spectator Top 100.
"Mencía" - Few grape varieties better express the terroir of a region than this. The “mineral” grape par excellence, until recently it was erroneously disdained for having poor ageing potential and lacking color. Nothing could be further from the truth. Now enjoying unparalleled popularity, its combination of fruity mineral characteristics, in harmony with the contribution of new French and American oak, have shot the Mencía grape into the limelight as a star in its own right. Mencía wines stand out on the international stage among other Spanish grape types for their elegance and individuality, along with the world’s very best. This is a great food wine with an easy going price - give it a try.
4- Vinedos de Paganos "El Pundito" Rioja 2003 $55
This is the third vintage of this wine that we have carried, always impressive. Massive fruit, licorice and texture of heavy velvet. So thick it's almost syrupy, this red never loses its balance. Dense and thick, with blackberry, currant, mineral, dark chocolate and espresso flavors that build on each other through the long finish--yet it remains graceful and brings you back for another sip - and another, and another.... This alone is worth the trip downtown on Friday night.
We hope to see you this weekend - please say hello if you stop in - we love to hear your feedback.
Please join us - It is fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA
Sunday, February 11, 2007
El nido Clio 2004, Casa Castillo, Barons de Rothschild,
Greetings and Happy Valentine's Day 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 lineup of wine awaits you on Friday night.
The list is just below these important items of interest.
• The Spottswoode Wine Dinner is Sold Out - Thank you.
• Spanish Wine Dinner March 22nd 6 p.m. $75
This dinner will feature the new powerhouse names of Spanish wine:
Alto Moncayo - Clio - El Pundito - AND
Termanthia, made from 140 year old Tinto de Toro vines and affordably priced at just $190.
• South African Wine Dinner - Thursday March 29 - 6 p.m. - $50 plus tax and service.
Food & Wine of South Africa. Featuring the wines from Boekenhoutkloof and Fairview.
Wine served with each course - I wonder what we will have with the Wild Ostrich?
• It's all the rage - Friday February 16 - Brie & Bleu Dinner Special will be:
Lamb Cassoulet with winter vegetables and sweet potatoes
Our own Jim Morrison has selected three great wines for your consideration - something for every pocketbook, and each one a nice choice for the dinner special.
Chateau Aney Bordeaux 2003 $24
Domaine de la Solitude Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2004 $30
Abeja Cabernet Sauvignon 2003 $44
If you are new to this - it works like this: You visit the wine-store and select a bottle of wine. Then you BYOB next door to Brie & Bleu. We set you up with glasses, buckets, corkscrews - whatever you need. Then you have a great evening of food and conversation - No fuss, no muss, no messy mop up.
• Saturday Night February 17th 6 p.m. -
Brie & Bleu will be Closed for a Private Function.
To schedule your own private party just give us a call. 860-437-2474
Private Cellars at Juan Gill -
Home of the CLIO
• Every once and awhile the planets align themselves correctly, and someone else on the other side of the globe tips over a shaker of salt and forgets to toss a pinch over their shoulder - and good fortune shines upon us.
This my friends is one of those times.
I am very happy to announce that we have acquired a new shipment of the impossibly hard to find "Clio."
This amazing wine from Spain has been given, for the second year in a row, a 96 point rating from Robert Parker.
We actually have people from California calling us about this wine. That is how scarce it is.
This wine comes from Jumillia Spain. A dusty village about an hour and-a-half outside of Valencia.
(Home to the Americas Cup 2007 - http://www.americascup.com/en/ )
Some of you may recall that we went right to the source and met with the winemaker himself last season.
We actually stood in the bodegas eating the grapes right off of the old wooden wagons that brought them in from the fields. The grapes were warm and sweet. See the photos here: http://thamesriver.com/wine/photos.html
The grapes we were eating then will be part of the 2005 vintage.
At the time the winemaker remarked that they were the best grapes in 10 years!
Now, does this have anything to do with our access to this wine? Maybe.
I can assure you that no cash has been exchanged for the privilege.
No crisp bills have been pressed into the rough hands of the farmers - honestly.
They just dig us.
And they dig our customers. And they love the attention and interest that you show them when they visit the store.
That is why we have this wine and no one else does - thank you.
We have more than a fair share of this wine - but it will go quickly.
Place your orders as soon as possible to get your slice of the pie.
First Come, First Served.
Order online: http://thamesriver.com/wine/instock.html
This Week At Brie & Bleu -
The featured cheese of the week is Wensleydale with cranberries for $14/lb .
This cheese is a nice Valentines addition to share with the one you love paired with a nice bottle of Champagne purchased at Thames River Wine and Spirits for an additional 10% off the cheese. The only true Wensleydale cheese in the world comes from the milk drawn from cows that graze the sweet limestone pastures on farms in Upper Wensleydale, England. First made there during the Norman invasion, when French monks from the Roquefort region were brought over to practice their cheese-making skills. The Wensleydale pastures give the cheese the unique, refreshing flavor for which it is renowned. The cheese is a fresh, young cheese taken at only three weeks old. It has a clean, mild, slightly sweet flavor with a honeyed aftertaste. The superb texture of fresh Wensleydale is perfectly complemented by the addition of all natural cranberries of the finest quality. Wensleydale with Cranberries is an innovative blend of flavors and a superb visual experience. Suitable for vegetarians.
Happy Valentine's Day,
Colleen
Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday February 16th - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Barons de Rothschild (Lafite) Bordeaux Blanc 2005 $14
Many of you will recognize this legendary name from France. This is the white wine that they serve to guests at Château Lafite. It's their "house wine." Aromas of freshly mown grass with racy lime and passion fruit flavors. Round, soft and creamy too - this is white Bordeaux unlike any other. Your guests will be impressed with the name on the label, but you will have the added satisfaction of knowing just how little it cost. Try it as an aperitif, or with shrimp, maybe some cold roasted chicken - how very continental of you.
2 - Casa Castillo Crianza 2003 $11
This is one of our most popular wines. Bodegas Montecillo was founded by Celestino Navajas in 1874 in the town of Fuenmayor in Spain`s Rioja Alta region, the major and most traditional winemaking region in Spain. Thanks to the expertise that his son Alejandro acquired in France, the bodega was one of the first to adapt Bordeaux winemaking techniques to Spanish grapes, earning the reputation and prestige that it still enjoys today. Medium-bodied, rich and well-structured with a long finish. Excellent balance, big powerful and concentrated flavors with cherry and blackberry hints.
Ideal to accompany cheeses, especially creamy and medium-sharp. Don't be afraid to try it with fish too - such as salmon or tuna. Especially those prepared on the grill. You won't believe this for eleven dollars - please try it on Friday.
3 - Casa Castillo Las Gravas Jumilla 2001 $25
Take a look at the soil - or should I say rocks - where these grapes are grown you can get an idea of how rugged it is. Ripe and concentrated, this red is thick with plum, blackberry and coffee flavors. This vineyard is "just around the corner" from the fourth wine on our list for Friday. The folks that make this wine hosted an all day luncheon for us. And I mean just us - we ate, drank, and exchanged deeply personal information for hours. And the wine kept coming. Please try this wine on Friday.
4 - El nido Clio 2004 $45
The new vintage of Clio and the second consecutive 96 point rating from our friend Robert Parker.
In very high demand, and scarcely available - as mentioned previously.
We have enough to feature it on Friday night. Please try it - it is a great opportunity to try a special wine that is setting new standards.
Thanks for your support we appreciate it and we hope to see all of you this Friday.
Please Join Us. it is 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 lineup of wine awaits you on Friday night.
The list is just below these important items of interest.
• The Spottswoode Wine Dinner is Sold Out - Thank you.
• Spanish Wine Dinner March 22nd 6 p.m. $75
This dinner will feature the new powerhouse names of Spanish wine:
Alto Moncayo - Clio - El Pundito - AND
Termanthia, made from 140 year old Tinto de Toro vines and affordably priced at just $190.
• South African Wine Dinner - Thursday March 29 - 6 p.m. - $50 plus tax and service.
Food & Wine of South Africa. Featuring the wines from Boekenhoutkloof and Fairview.
Wine served with each course - I wonder what we will have with the Wild Ostrich?
• It's all the rage - Friday February 16 - Brie & Bleu Dinner Special will be:
Lamb Cassoulet with winter vegetables and sweet potatoes
Our own Jim Morrison has selected three great wines for your consideration - something for every pocketbook, and each one a nice choice for the dinner special.
Chateau Aney Bordeaux 2003 $24
Domaine de la Solitude Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2004 $30
Abeja Cabernet Sauvignon 2003 $44
If you are new to this - it works like this: You visit the wine-store and select a bottle of wine. Then you BYOB next door to Brie & Bleu. We set you up with glasses, buckets, corkscrews - whatever you need. Then you have a great evening of food and conversation - No fuss, no muss, no messy mop up.
• Saturday Night February 17th 6 p.m. -
Brie & Bleu will be Closed for a Private Function.
To schedule your own private party just give us a call. 860-437-2474
Private Cellars at Juan Gill -
Home of the CLIO
• Every once and awhile the planets align themselves correctly, and someone else on the other side of the globe tips over a shaker of salt and forgets to toss a pinch over their shoulder - and good fortune shines upon us.
This my friends is one of those times.
I am very happy to announce that we have acquired a new shipment of the impossibly hard to find "Clio."
This amazing wine from Spain has been given, for the second year in a row, a 96 point rating from Robert Parker.
We actually have people from California calling us about this wine. That is how scarce it is.
This wine comes from Jumillia Spain. A dusty village about an hour and-a-half outside of Valencia.
(Home to the Americas Cup 2007 - http://www.americascup.com/en/ )
Some of you may recall that we went right to the source and met with the winemaker himself last season.
We actually stood in the bodegas eating the grapes right off of the old wooden wagons that brought them in from the fields. The grapes were warm and sweet. See the photos here: http://thamesriver.com/wine/photos.html
The grapes we were eating then will be part of the 2005 vintage.
At the time the winemaker remarked that they were the best grapes in 10 years!
Now, does this have anything to do with our access to this wine? Maybe.
I can assure you that no cash has been exchanged for the privilege.
No crisp bills have been pressed into the rough hands of the farmers - honestly.
They just dig us.
And they dig our customers. And they love the attention and interest that you show them when they visit the store.
That is why we have this wine and no one else does - thank you.
We have more than a fair share of this wine - but it will go quickly.
Place your orders as soon as possible to get your slice of the pie.
First Come, First Served.
Order online: http://thamesriver.com/wine/instock.html
This Week At Brie & Bleu -
The featured cheese of the week is Wensleydale with cranberries for $14/lb .
This cheese is a nice Valentines addition to share with the one you love paired with a nice bottle of Champagne purchased at Thames River Wine and Spirits for an additional 10% off the cheese. The only true Wensleydale cheese in the world comes from the milk drawn from cows that graze the sweet limestone pastures on farms in Upper Wensleydale, England. First made there during the Norman invasion, when French monks from the Roquefort region were brought over to practice their cheese-making skills. The Wensleydale pastures give the cheese the unique, refreshing flavor for which it is renowned. The cheese is a fresh, young cheese taken at only three weeks old. It has a clean, mild, slightly sweet flavor with a honeyed aftertaste. The superb texture of fresh Wensleydale is perfectly complemented by the addition of all natural cranberries of the finest quality. Wensleydale with Cranberries is an innovative blend of flavors and a superb visual experience. Suitable for vegetarians.
Happy Valentine's Day,
Colleen
Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday February 16th - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - Barons de Rothschild (Lafite) Bordeaux Blanc 2005 $14
Many of you will recognize this legendary name from France. This is the white wine that they serve to guests at Château Lafite. It's their "house wine." Aromas of freshly mown grass with racy lime and passion fruit flavors. Round, soft and creamy too - this is white Bordeaux unlike any other. Your guests will be impressed with the name on the label, but you will have the added satisfaction of knowing just how little it cost. Try it as an aperitif, or with shrimp, maybe some cold roasted chicken - how very continental of you.
2 - Casa Castillo Crianza 2003 $11
This is one of our most popular wines. Bodegas Montecillo was founded by Celestino Navajas in 1874 in the town of Fuenmayor in Spain`s Rioja Alta region, the major and most traditional winemaking region in Spain. Thanks to the expertise that his son Alejandro acquired in France, the bodega was one of the first to adapt Bordeaux winemaking techniques to Spanish grapes, earning the reputation and prestige that it still enjoys today. Medium-bodied, rich and well-structured with a long finish. Excellent balance, big powerful and concentrated flavors with cherry and blackberry hints.
Ideal to accompany cheeses, especially creamy and medium-sharp. Don't be afraid to try it with fish too - such as salmon or tuna. Especially those prepared on the grill. You won't believe this for eleven dollars - please try it on Friday.
3 - Casa Castillo Las Gravas Jumilla 2001 $25
Take a look at the soil - or should I say rocks - where these grapes are grown you can get an idea of how rugged it is. Ripe and concentrated, this red is thick with plum, blackberry and coffee flavors. This vineyard is "just around the corner" from the fourth wine on our list for Friday. The folks that make this wine hosted an all day luncheon for us. And I mean just us - we ate, drank, and exchanged deeply personal information for hours. And the wine kept coming. Please try this wine on Friday.
4 - El nido Clio 2004 $45
The new vintage of Clio and the second consecutive 96 point rating from our friend Robert Parker.
In very high demand, and scarcely available - as mentioned previously.
We have enough to feature it on Friday night. Please try it - it is a great opportunity to try a special wine that is setting new standards.
Thanks for your support we appreciate it and we hope to see all of you this Friday.
Please Join Us. it is fun, informal and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA
Monday, February 05, 2007
Spottswoode, Pfizer Wine Club, Beer Dinner, Hugel Riesling, Pares Balta, Cantina del Pino Barbera D'alba, Chateau Pontac Monplaisir
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
Great wines for Friday night - they are listed just below these items of interest:
• A quick update - There are TWO seats left for The Spottswoode Wine Dinner.
If you missed the announcement last week here is a fast recap:
Thursday February 22nd - 6 p.m. Only 10 Seats Available -
$100 plus tax and service.
Spottswoode Vineyards and Tesseron Cognac Wine Dinner
A Classic Steak House Menu will feature:
Filet Mignon with black truffle butter, show stopping side dishes, and our own desserts.
THE WINE: Impossible to find - Coveted by collectors - we will be serving:
2003 Spottswoode Estate Cabernet - $155 - Wine Spectator - 94 points, Wine Advocate - 93 points, Tanzer - 94 points.
Tesseron Cognac lot 53 (1953) $145 100 points - Wine Enthusiast.
This will be a great night, full of fun and surprises, a night that will be remembered for years to come -
Perfect to share with someone special. Call now to reserve: 860-443-9463
• The feedback from posting the specials at Brie & Bleu in advance has been HUGE.
Here are this weeks specials AND our suggested pairing for the perfect wine to go with them:
Friday February 9 - Cornish Game Hen
The perfect wine: Domaine Ferret Tete de Cru Pouilly-fuisse 2002 $42
Saturday February 10 - Crab Cakes
The perfect wine: Joseph Drouhin Meursault-Perrieres 2004 $60
• Don't forget that we have Valentine's Day covered for you. One stop shopping & delivery - Flowers, wine, chocolate and more.
Call The Greenery to place your order - 860-443-6817 - or visit the website to get an idea or two. www.thamesriver.com
• ATTENTION PFIZER EMPLOYEES:
The 4th meeting of the Official Pfizer Wine Club is preparing to meet. If you are a Pfizer employee and you are interested in attending what have to be some of the best wine events in Connecticut, please contact our own Jim Morrison and he will be happy to give you details and assist in registration. 860-443-9463
• Not a Pfizer employee? Want to organize you own event?
We would be happy to work with you and show you how easy it can be. Small groups are welcome too.
There are no hidden fees involved - just happy, smiling faces and lots of wine.
• Our first Beer Dinner of 2007 is just around the corner:
Mardi Gras/Fat Thursday, February 15th:
Celebration Salad with Abita's Restoration Ale
Pecan Roasted Trout w/ Sweet Yams with Abita's Turbo Dog
Bourbon Chocolate Bread Pudding with Blue Grass Bourbon Barrel Stout
This is a feast worthy of Galatoire’s ( http://www.galatoires.com/index.html )
Please reserve early - seating is limited - $35 plus tax and service - 860-443-9463
Brie & Bleu
The featured cheese at Brie & Bleu this week is new to the shop. The cheese, Harlech is a horseradish and parsley cheddar cheese from Wales at $15/lb. This cow’s milk cheese is a creamy blend of mature cheddar, horseradish and parsley. This is a vegetarian friendly cheese without added coulorings or artificial flavors. Arguably named after Harlech Castle in Northern Wales or possible after the Welsch warriors from the middle ages, this cheese has a deliciously zesty taste. Pair with a nice Rioja from Thames River Wine and Spirits and receive an additional 10% off the cheese.
Enjoy,
Colleen
Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday February 9th - 6-9 p.m. - NO CHARGE
1 - Hugel Riesling 2004 $20 - http://www.hugel.com/
Hey everyone knows we love Hugel wines.
Some of you joined us for the private dinner with Etienne Hugel himself - the 12th generation - winemaker from Alsace.
Hundreds of you have watched and downloaded his interviews that we did on our show for WineRadio. ( www.wineradio.com )
If you have not had the opportunity to try this great wine please join us on Friday. Elegant and distinguished, it partners well with all the gastronomic specialities of Alsace, as well as seafood and grilled or poached fish. Etienne recommends spicy food too. It would be an amazing pair with some of the Cajun & Creole specialties that Brian Brother is dishing up at the New Raiders Roost restaurant- On the traffic circle at the end of Shaw and Howard Streets in New London, parking in the rear. You owe it to yourself to discover this great local eatery.
2 - Pares Balta Mas Elena 2003 $15
The surprise of their collection. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. It is surprisingly elegant, soft, and round with intense aromas. Its character and persistence are the stamp of a great wine. We had the great fortune to talk and taste with Patrico Brongo this past week at the store.
Take a look on our calendar page - just scroll down to the WineRadio section: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
3 - Cantina del Pino Barbera D'alba 2004 $22
Renato Vacca takes care of the wine-making at this small Piedmont estate, while his father works the vineyards. Their Barbera is forthright and full of flavor, a lovely package of dark red fruits with earth and gamey undertones. Not as slick as some of the superstars, but it packs as much, if not more, flavor. This is wine true to its origins – honest and absolutely satisfying. Please try it on Friday night.
4 - Chateau Pontac Monplaisir Bordeaux 2003 $25
The wine of Château Pontac Monplaisir presents a very deep red purple color. The nose is rich and fruity, developing aromas of red fruits and well ripe and cocoa. On the palate, the attack is clear, the new wood offers notes of vanilla, the structure of the wine is robust. The wine is fat, remarkably fine with harmonious tannins. Very good length and as they say: "finale suave." It is a great value at this price.
It has been a great week - lots of interesting visitors and exciting prospects for the near future. I can hardly wait for the year to unfold.
And all of it - is directly due to your continued support and remarkable interest. We continue to hear from all of our guests about the quality of our customers, and this comes from people that have seen it all. We are proud to be a part of it - thank you for making it so much fun.
Please join us. It is 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
Great wines for Friday night - they are listed just below these items of interest:
• A quick update - There are TWO seats left for The Spottswoode Wine Dinner.
If you missed the announcement last week here is a fast recap:
Thursday February 22nd - 6 p.m. Only 10 Seats Available -
$100 plus tax and service.
Spottswoode Vineyards and Tesseron Cognac Wine Dinner
A Classic Steak House Menu will feature:
Filet Mignon with black truffle butter, show stopping side dishes, and our own desserts.
THE WINE: Impossible to find - Coveted by collectors - we will be serving:
2003 Spottswoode Estate Cabernet - $155 - Wine Spectator - 94 points, Wine Advocate - 93 points, Tanzer - 94 points.
Tesseron Cognac lot 53 (1953) $145 100 points - Wine Enthusiast.
This will be a great night, full of fun and surprises, a night that will be remembered for years to come -
Perfect to share with someone special. Call now to reserve: 860-443-9463
• The feedback from posting the specials at Brie & Bleu in advance has been HUGE.
Here are this weeks specials AND our suggested pairing for the perfect wine to go with them:
Friday February 9 - Cornish Game Hen
The perfect wine: Domaine Ferret Tete de Cru Pouilly-fuisse 2002 $42
Saturday February 10 - Crab Cakes
The perfect wine: Joseph Drouhin Meursault-Perrieres 2004 $60
• Don't forget that we have Valentine's Day covered for you. One stop shopping & delivery - Flowers, wine, chocolate and more.
Call The Greenery to place your order - 860-443-6817 - or visit the website to get an idea or two. www.thamesriver.com
• ATTENTION PFIZER EMPLOYEES:
The 4th meeting of the Official Pfizer Wine Club is preparing to meet. If you are a Pfizer employee and you are interested in attending what have to be some of the best wine events in Connecticut, please contact our own Jim Morrison and he will be happy to give you details and assist in registration. 860-443-9463
• Not a Pfizer employee? Want to organize you own event?
We would be happy to work with you and show you how easy it can be. Small groups are welcome too.
There are no hidden fees involved - just happy, smiling faces and lots of wine.
• Our first Beer Dinner of 2007 is just around the corner:
Mardi Gras/Fat Thursday, February 15th:
Celebration Salad with Abita's Restoration Ale
Pecan Roasted Trout w/ Sweet Yams with Abita's Turbo Dog
Bourbon Chocolate Bread Pudding with Blue Grass Bourbon Barrel Stout
This is a feast worthy of Galatoire’s ( http://www.galatoires.com/index.html )
Please reserve early - seating is limited - $35 plus tax and service - 860-443-9463
Brie & Bleu
The featured cheese at Brie & Bleu this week is new to the shop. The cheese, Harlech is a horseradish and parsley cheddar cheese from Wales at $15/lb. This cow’s milk cheese is a creamy blend of mature cheddar, horseradish and parsley. This is a vegetarian friendly cheese without added coulorings or artificial flavors. Arguably named after Harlech Castle in Northern Wales or possible after the Welsch warriors from the middle ages, this cheese has a deliciously zesty taste. Pair with a nice Rioja from Thames River Wine and Spirits and receive an additional 10% off the cheese.
Enjoy,
Colleen
Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday February 9th - 6-9 p.m. - NO CHARGE
1 - Hugel Riesling 2004 $20 - http://www.hugel.com/
Hey everyone knows we love Hugel wines.
Some of you joined us for the private dinner with Etienne Hugel himself - the 12th generation - winemaker from Alsace.
Hundreds of you have watched and downloaded his interviews that we did on our show for WineRadio. ( www.wineradio.com )
If you have not had the opportunity to try this great wine please join us on Friday. Elegant and distinguished, it partners well with all the gastronomic specialities of Alsace, as well as seafood and grilled or poached fish. Etienne recommends spicy food too. It would be an amazing pair with some of the Cajun & Creole specialties that Brian Brother is dishing up at the New Raiders Roost restaurant- On the traffic circle at the end of Shaw and Howard Streets in New London, parking in the rear. You owe it to yourself to discover this great local eatery.
2 - Pares Balta Mas Elena 2003 $15
The surprise of their collection. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. It is surprisingly elegant, soft, and round with intense aromas. Its character and persistence are the stamp of a great wine. We had the great fortune to talk and taste with Patrico Brongo this past week at the store.
Take a look on our calendar page - just scroll down to the WineRadio section: http://thamesriver.com/wine/calendar.html
3 - Cantina del Pino Barbera D'alba 2004 $22
Renato Vacca takes care of the wine-making at this small Piedmont estate, while his father works the vineyards. Their Barbera is forthright and full of flavor, a lovely package of dark red fruits with earth and gamey undertones. Not as slick as some of the superstars, but it packs as much, if not more, flavor. This is wine true to its origins – honest and absolutely satisfying. Please try it on Friday night.
4 - Chateau Pontac Monplaisir Bordeaux 2003 $25
The wine of Château Pontac Monplaisir presents a very deep red purple color. The nose is rich and fruity, developing aromas of red fruits and well ripe and cocoa. On the palate, the attack is clear, the new wood offers notes of vanilla, the structure of the wine is robust. The wine is fat, remarkably fine with harmonious tannins. Very good length and as they say: "finale suave." It is a great value at this price.
It has been a great week - lots of interesting visitors and exciting prospects for the near future. I can hardly wait for the year to unfold.
And all of it - is directly due to your continued support and remarkable interest. We continue to hear from all of our guests about the quality of our customers, and this comes from people that have seen it all. We are proud to be a part of it - thank you for making it so much fun.
Please join us. It is fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
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