Card Available At City News
Greetings from New London,
There is a lot going on around here - New events, special guests, updated calendar - plenty to talk about and review.
But first I have to talk about the Friday tasting. Our own Jim Morrison works hard each week to bring you exciting choices that simply cannot be found on every Tom, Dick, or Eddie's package store shelves.
This week he has focused on the wine of Portugal. And in keeping with our promise of providing exceptional value in all our offerings - you will be amazed at the bang for the dollar that these wines provide.
By the way, Jim doesn't just throw a dart at a map to come up with an idea - in this particular case he went behind the lines - deep into Portuguese territory to meet the wine makers and get the real story.
That is why I want to urge you to watch the interview he did for our WineRadio show with Dominic Symington - arguably the biggest, most influential name in the Portuguese wine business. Jim sat in Mr. Symington's private study and talked with the icon about his famous family, and the wine that we are pouring this Friday night. I hope you can join us. Watch The Interview HERE
New Events & Reminders:
Before I tell you about new additions to the calendar let me remind you about the big weekend coming up. This Saturday - January 31 - is the 30th opening of the Hygenic Art Show. It starts at 8 p.m.
Activity for children starts at 11 a.m.
The town will be busy and there are many things to do and see all day Saturday - for example:
From 1-4 p.m. at City News Round up the kids in the neighborhood herd them into the SUV and bring them down to meet the authors of The Cat That Lost It's meOW.
Susan Epstein, Antoinette Ledzian, and Illustrator Richard Ledzian will be on hand to meet, greet, sign, and talk about their new book.
<<>>
SPECIAL EVENT: He's Back.
Wednesday February 11 - 6 p.m.
Dinner with Eitenne Hugel
We have been very fortunate to attract the biggest most famous names in the wine business. Eitenne is one of the most dynamic and personable guests we have ever hosted. His family has been making wine since 1639.
If you are familiar with our dinners you know they are intimate affairs and can not be compared to anything else. You will eat, drink, and hob-nob on a one-to-one basis with a wine making legend.
Menu:
Chicken Dim Sum
Shrimp with Ginger Butter
Korean Shortrib Kebab
Rack of Lamb with Hoisin ~ Orange Glaze
over Rice Noodles with Edamame and Scallion
Coconut Flan with Caramel Sauce
Wine List:
Hugel Gentil
Hugel Pinot Blanc Hugel Gewurztraminer
Hugel Grains Noble
$65 plus tax and service.
<<>>
coming soon:
2/25 German Wine Tasting with Konrad Hahn proprietor of Von Schlenintz
3/2 Austrian Wine Dinner with Markus Huber of Huber Vineyards
5/15 Sake Dinner with Chad Beverlin of Vine Connections
Dave's Fave
The Monday Tasting 1.26.09
Vina Arboleda Carmenere 2007 $18
This elegant Chilean red has won over enthusiasts with Old-World nuance and deftly managed oak. The Carmenere grape is an ancient transplant from the Medoc region of Bordeaux. Vinekeeps in Chile preserved the varietal inadvertently, believing it to be Merlot! You can imagine the confusion. Of course, after the French phylloxerra outbreak of 1867, nary a vine remained in France, which led historians to - STOP!
So how does it taste?! Me, I love it. I had it with steak last weekend and it was bangin!
This reminds me of a story, Miles Davis told to his bassist Marcus Miller: "Have you ever read a review which actually sounded like the music? No way. Music is its own language. You have to hear it."
Same reason we like to pour for you in person. Close your eyes, disregard the label, the scores - Is the wine to your taste? Please drop in and find out! Order Now
1 - J Ramos "Loios" Vinho Alentejano 2007 $9
Loios is a wine produced in the Alentejo region, located in the south of Portugal . Its name originates from the title given in the 15th century to the members of the ancient Priest Congregation of St. John Evangelist, known simply as Loios.
Loios monks have always had a deep connection to the history of Alentejo, especially to its wines. Thus, this wine has been named after them and is made from traditional grape varieties of the region.
A blend of Rabo de Ovelha and Roupeiro, the wine is fermented in stainless steel tanks. This is a young, fresh wine which highlights the delicate, yet instantly approachable nature of these grapes. Pale yellow in color, lime and mineral aromas show through on the nose.
The palate demonstrates great acidity with notes of apples and other citrus fruits. A perfect aperitif wine, easily pairing with all dishes, especially antipasti and other lighter fare.Order Now
2 - Vale do Bomfim 2005 $14
One of my personal favorites, having had the opportunity to stay at the quinta or farm where this wine is produced.
This wine hails from the geologically delimited region of the upper Douro. That simply means that the region is determined not by political boundaries but by the geology that produces the soil that creates the wine. The soil is a mineral rich silt like clay with pieces of schist that have been deposited by the Douro river for millenia.
This is essentially unfortified Port, using the same port varietals such as Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriza, Touriga Nacional, and Tinta Barroca. The Symington family, of Warres and Grahams port, has been producing this wine for generations for their own consumption at the Port lodge, but have only recently begun exporting it to the American market.
Interestingly, when I first tasted the wine, I was overwhelmed by the strong floral notes of Cabernet Franc. I occurred to me that perhaps Touriga Franc was Portuguese for Cab Franc. Although Dominic Symington insists that the two grapes are different varietals, I am reminded of the saying; if it walks like Cab Franc and smells like Cab Franc - but I'll let you be the judge.
Either way it is exciting for us to find inexpensive wines of such high quality that come from a family with such a heritage of wine making, produced the same way they were 400 years ago when the Symingtons began winemaking in the Douro. Order Now
3 - Quinta da Garrida Dao Reserva 2004 $32
Quality wine production in this DOC had been stifled under the dictatorship of Salazar. Under his policy, growers were only allowed to sell their grapes to the regional cooperatives, whose practices typically blended good quality with bad. Few producers grew enough grapes to make their own wine and the regional reputation suffered.
Upon Portugal joining the European Union, these cooperative obligations were overturned and the region - like many areas in Portugal - is undergoing a quality renaissance. This small, hilly region is entirely enclosed by mountain ranges - the Serra de Lapa frame the region to the north; the Serra da Estrela to the east; the Caramulo and Buçaco ranges to the west; and the Lousã mountains to the south.
These formidable mountain ranges prevent much of the maritime influence and easterly continental winds from affecting this cool, mild climate. Though the allowed acreage for this DOC is about 386,000 ha, but only about 20,000 ha are planted with vines. Most of these are planted in rolling hills along the mountain foothills of these formidable mountains at altitudes of between 400 and 500 meters above sea level. Here, aspect is everything and vines that catch the most sunlight achieve better ripeness levels.
Except for small patches of red clay found near the village of Vila Nova de Tazem, the region is primarily made up of granite (which has also found its way into the local traditional architecture). The granite absorbs and reflects heat, helping to ripen the grapes. High quality reds are based on Touriga Nacional, Alfrocheiro and Tinta Roriz; the key white grape is Encruzado which when produced carefully - makes wines that are zesty, yet full-bodied enough to barrel ferment. The supply of both red and white wines is limited in supply, making this region one of rather high demand. Order Now
4 - Warres Otima Ten Year Tawny Port $24
Warre's has been leading the Port trade since it was established as the first British Port House in 1670. A pioneer of a great tradition with over 300 years of history, Warre's legacy is built on the superb quality of Warre's Vintage Ports and on an unwavering commitment to quality and successful innovation. These characteristics are reflected in wines Warre's Otima, an award-winning 10 Year-Old Tawny Port in chic, ultra-modern packaging.
Warre's has established itself as one of the most forward thinking Port producers, balancing its long tradition with total dedication to premium quality and successful innovation. Warre's launch of Otima 10 & 20 Year Old Tawny caused a revolution in Port that introduced a completely new concept to consumers, helping to rejuvenate Port's image in the main markets. Otima is now widely acknowledged as the most successful new development in the Port trade for over 25 years. The merit of Otima was to show Port's versatility as an all year round, anytime drink, appealing to both women and men, dispelling many of the myths attached to Port.
The clean, modern design was matched by an excellent wine that has been winning Gold and Silver medals at the world's leading blind tasting competitions year after year.Order Now
There is a lot going on around here - New events, special guests, updated calendar - plenty to talk about and review.
But first I have to talk about the Friday tasting. Our own Jim Morrison works hard each week to bring you exciting choices that simply cannot be found on every Tom, Dick, or Eddie's package store shelves.
This week he has focused on the wine of Portugal. And in keeping with our promise of providing exceptional value in all our offerings - you will be amazed at the bang for the dollar that these wines provide.
By the way, Jim doesn't just throw a dart at a map to come up with an idea - in this particular case he went behind the lines - deep into Portuguese territory to meet the wine makers and get the real story.
That is why I want to urge you to watch the interview he did for our WineRadio show with Dominic Symington - arguably the biggest, most influential name in the Portuguese wine business. Jim sat in Mr. Symington's private study and talked with the icon about his famous family, and the wine that we are pouring this Friday night. I hope you can join us. Watch The Interview HERE
<<>>
New Events & Reminders:
Before I tell you about new additions to the calendar let me remind you about the big weekend coming up. This Saturday - January 31 - is the 30th opening of the Hygenic Art Show. It starts at 8 p.m.
Activity for children starts at 11 a.m.
The town will be busy and there are many things to do and see all day Saturday - for example:
From 1-4 p.m. at City News Round up the kids in the neighborhood herd them into the SUV and bring them down to meet the authors of The Cat That Lost It's meOW. Susan Epstein, Antoinette Ledzian, and Illustrator Richard Ledzian will be on hand to meet, greet, sign, and talk about their new book.
A great way for the younger crowd to participate.
<<>>
The support for our Food, Wine & Lifestyle of Tuscany event is fantastic - thank you. The menu and other details are in the snazzy side bar to the right. BUT if you want to attend you must reserve a space now. This is a great way to start your evening at the Hygienic.
The fun starts at 6 p.m.
TWO special guests will host
The Food, Wine, and Lifestyle of Tuscany.
Please Reserve Your Seats Early.
8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3
The Food, Wine, and Lifestyle of Tuscany.
Please Reserve Your Seats Early.
8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3
<<>>
SPECIAL EVENT: He's Back.
Wednesday February 11 - 6 p.m.
Dinner with Eitenne Hugel
We have been very fortunate to attract the biggest most famous names in the wine business. Eitenne is one of the most dynamic and personable guests we have ever hosted. His family has been making wine since 1639.
If you are familiar with our dinners you know they are intimate affairs and can not be compared to anything else. You will eat, drink, and hob-nob on a one-to-one basis with a wine making legend.
Seating is very limited - reserve now.
8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3
Having Dinner with Eitenne Hugel is an experience that will last a lifetime. Eitenne loves to serve his wine with Asian foods - here is the line up.8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3
Menu:
Chicken Dim Sum
Shrimp with Ginger Butter
Korean Shortrib Kebab
Rack of Lamb with Hoisin ~ Orange Glaze
over Rice Noodles with Edamame and Scallion
Coconut Flan with Caramel Sauce
Wine List:
Hugel Gentil
Hugel Pinot Blanc Hugel Gewurztraminer
Hugel Grains Noble
$65 plus tax and service.
<<>>
coming soon:
2/25 German Wine Tasting with Konrad Hahn proprietor of Von Schlenintz
3/2 Austrian Wine Dinner with Markus Huber of Huber Vineyards
5/15 Sake Dinner with Chad Beverlin of Vine Connections
Dave's Fave
The Monday Tasting 1.26.09
This elegant Chilean red has won over enthusiasts with Old-World nuance and deftly managed oak. The Carmenere grape is an ancient transplant from the Medoc region of Bordeaux. Vinekeeps in Chile preserved the varietal inadvertently, believing it to be Merlot! You can imagine the confusion. Of course, after the French phylloxerra outbreak of 1867, nary a vine remained in France, which led historians to - STOP!
So how does it taste?! Me, I love it. I had it with steak last weekend and it was bangin!
This reminds me of a story, Miles Davis told to his bassist Marcus Miller: "Have you ever read a review which actually sounded like the music? No way. Music is its own language. You have to hear it."
Same reason we like to pour for you in person. Close your eyes, disregard the label, the scores - Is the wine to your taste? Please drop in and find out! Order Now
A Special Salute To Portugal
The Friday Tasting - Please Join Us
Friday January 30 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
The Friday Tasting - Please Join Us
Friday January 30 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge
1 - J Ramos "Loios" Vinho Alentejano 2007 $9
Loios is a wine produced in the Alentejo region, located in the south of Portugal . Its name originates from the title given in the 15th century to the members of the ancient Priest Congregation of St. John Evangelist, known simply as Loios.
Loios monks have always had a deep connection to the history of Alentejo, especially to its wines. Thus, this wine has been named after them and is made from traditional grape varieties of the region.
A blend of Rabo de Ovelha and Roupeiro, the wine is fermented in stainless steel tanks. This is a young, fresh wine which highlights the delicate, yet instantly approachable nature of these grapes. Pale yellow in color, lime and mineral aromas show through on the nose.
The palate demonstrates great acidity with notes of apples and other citrus fruits. A perfect aperitif wine, easily pairing with all dishes, especially antipasti and other lighter fare.Order Now
2 - Vale do Bomfim 2005 $14
One of my personal favorites, having had the opportunity to stay at the quinta or farm where this wine is produced.
This wine hails from the geologically delimited region of the upper Douro. That simply means that the region is determined not by political boundaries but by the geology that produces the soil that creates the wine. The soil is a mineral rich silt like clay with pieces of schist that have been deposited by the Douro river for millenia.
This is essentially unfortified Port, using the same port varietals such as Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriza, Touriga Nacional, and Tinta Barroca. The Symington family, of Warres and Grahams port, has been producing this wine for generations for their own consumption at the Port lodge, but have only recently begun exporting it to the American market.
Interestingly, when I first tasted the wine, I was overwhelmed by the strong floral notes of Cabernet Franc. I occurred to me that perhaps Touriga Franc was Portuguese for Cab Franc. Although Dominic Symington insists that the two grapes are different varietals, I am reminded of the saying; if it walks like Cab Franc and smells like Cab Franc - but I'll let you be the judge.
3 - Quinta da Garrida Dao Reserva 2004 $32
Quality wine production in this DOC had been stifled under the dictatorship of Salazar. Under his policy, growers were only allowed to sell their grapes to the regional cooperatives, whose practices typically blended good quality with bad. Few producers grew enough grapes to make their own wine and the regional reputation suffered.
Upon Portugal joining the European Union, these cooperative obligations were overturned and the region - like many areas in Portugal - is undergoing a quality renaissance. This small, hilly region is entirely enclosed by mountain ranges - the Serra de Lapa frame the region to the north; the Serra da Estrela to the east; the Caramulo and Buçaco ranges to the west; and the Lousã mountains to the south.
Except for small patches of red clay found near the village of Vila Nova de Tazem, the region is primarily made up of granite (which has also found its way into the local traditional architecture). The granite absorbs and reflects heat, helping to ripen the grapes. High quality reds are based on Touriga Nacional, Alfrocheiro and Tinta Roriz; the key white grape is Encruzado which when produced carefully - makes wines that are zesty, yet full-bodied enough to barrel ferment. The supply of both red and white wines is limited in supply, making this region one of rather high demand. Order Now
4 - Warres Otima Ten Year Tawny Port $24
Warre's has been leading the Port trade since it was established as the first British Port House in 1670. A pioneer of a great tradition with over 300 years of history, Warre's legacy is built on the superb quality of Warre's Vintage Ports and on an unwavering commitment to quality and successful innovation. These characteristics are reflected in wines Warre's Otima, an award-winning 10 Year-Old Tawny Port in chic, ultra-modern packaging.Warre's has established itself as one of the most forward thinking Port producers, balancing its long tradition with total dedication to premium quality and successful innovation. Warre's launch of Otima 10 & 20 Year Old Tawny caused a revolution in Port that introduced a completely new concept to consumers, helping to rejuvenate Port's image in the main markets. Otima is now widely acknowledged as the most successful new development in the Port trade for over 25 years. The merit of Otima was to show Port's versatility as an all year round, anytime drink, appealing to both women and men, dispelling many of the myths attached to Port.
The clean, modern design was matched by an excellent wine that has been winning Gold and Silver medals at the world's leading blind tasting competitions year after year.
Thank you for all of the comments and suggestions this week - we need that input, and appreciate the time you take to participate.
You wanted more dinners - you got it.
More special guests - you got it.
Value, Value, Value - you got it.
Please join us. It's fun, informal and a great way to start your weekend.
AAA.
