Monthly Archives: February 2010

Wine of the Week 02/21 – 02/27

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Domaine Mathieu Chateauneuf du Pape 2001 $14.95
Overview: The 2001 Chateauneuf du Pape exhibits classic kirsch liqueur and licorice aromas in a sexy, round, medium to full-bodied style with no hard edges. Plump and plush, it will provide pleasure over the next 8-10 years.

Domaine Mathieu is one of the few producers that use all 13 grape varieties for their wines with the philosophy of Grenache and Cinsault for sweetness, warmth and mellowness. Mourvèdre, Syrah, Muscardin and Camarèse for robustness, maturity, colour and a thirst-quenching taste. Counoise and Picpoul for vinosity, charm and a special bouquet. Clairette and Bourboulenc for finesse, fire and brilliance.
88 Points – Robert Parker

Grapes: Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre, Cinsault, Muscardin, Cournoise, Clairette, Bourboulenc, Picpoul, Roussanne, Terret Noir, Picardan, Vaccarese
Region: Rhone Valley – France

Paul Dolan Chardonnay 2007 $9.95
Overview: Old vine Chardonnay? The vineyards that provided grapes for this wine were planted in the early 1970s, with low-yielding older varietal clones. A cool-site vineyard north of Lake Mendocino, and a warmer-site vineyard near the Russian River in Hopland, combined to make this elegant wine. Pear and winter citrus fruit character is complemented by creamy vanilla spice.

Grapes: 100% Chardonnay
Region: Mendocino County – California

Wine of the Week 02/14 – 02/20

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Buzzard Tree Petite Sirah 2005 $13.95

Overview: An enticing wine with brambly notes of blackberry raspberry, and spicy overtones of pepper and cinnamon. Medium-bodied, it has intense black-fruit flavors and a creamy, chocolaty finish. Serve with spicy red meat entrees such as rack of lamb or steak au poivre. Enjoy now or cellar age until 2012.

Grapes: 83% Petite Sirah, 17% Mourvedre
Region: Paso Robles – California

Alta Vista Premium Torrontes 2006 $10.95

Overview: This Premium Torrontes comes from Alta Vista’s winery in the northern Argentinean region of Salta. The region of Cafayate in Salta is particularly famous for its unique microclimate, high altitude and excellent soil drainage and is confirmed as the best place in the world to grow Torrontes. Alta Vista was one of the first to invest in Torrontes vineyards in this now famous area.

After a brief maceration on the skins, Alta Vista Premium Torrontes is fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks and does not undergo malolactic fermentation or oak aging. With a bright yellow color and delicate floral aromas, the wine is fresh and lively with excellent balance and vibrant acidity.

GRAPES: 100% Torrontes

REGION: Salta – Argentina

Wine of the Week 02/7 – 02/13

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Trattoria Busa Alla Torre Da Lele 2008 $7.95

Overview: A Venetian favorite! It is crisp and dry, rich and spicy with hints of peach and honey…perfect with salads, pasta, chicken and fish! Musaragno is an organic wine estate near Venice, Italy.

Grapes: 100% Pinot Grigio
Region: Lison Pramaggiore – Italy

Reserve Grand Veneur Cotes Du Rhone 2008 $11.95

Overview: Purple-tinged garnet color. Aromas of fresh berries (wild raspberry, blackcurrant, blackberry) and spices. The palate is full-flavored, with silky-smooth tannins. The finish offers notes of licorice and pepper.

Grapes: 80% Grenache, 20% Syrah
Region: Rhone Valley, Bordeaux – France