Sparkling & White Wines

• In 1882, the winemaker decided to put the knowledge he had acquired in Reims to use in his own country of Hungary. He found an ideal place for the production of sparkling wine in Budafok. Here, just as in the home of sparkling wine, Champagne, cellars carved out of limestone ensured the steady temperature essential for making good quality sparkling wine, and for 125 years now, these sparkling wines have represented tradition and quality. Their flagship non-vintage brut sparkling wine is a wonderfully creamy blend produced in the traditional method. It has been bottle-fermented for 18 months and is made of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Riesling. The gently fruity yet harmonious blend makes it a perfect fit for any occasion.
  
  
• This is the oldest winemaking company in Attica, with a history dating to 1869 when they set up a small production unit for the making of brandy on Rigillis Street in Athens, Greece. It expanded at the turn of the last century with the creation of new production facilities for wine and ouzo at Kantza, Attica. Light pineapple, earthy mushroom, and mineral flavors make this 2006 wine an appealing match for oysters of all kinds.
  
  
• Rueda is located on the high Duero plateau in central Spain. This remote rural area is dotted with small vineyard plots, most of them around 2-3 hectares each. The altitude provides a dry, arid climate with temperatures that cool down dramatically in the evening, creating ideal conditions for growing white grapes. The cool temperatures help the grapes maintain their natural acidity so the wines they produce are crisp and fresh. This 2007 vintage is a blend of 50% Verdejo, which provides body, structure and aromas; and 50% Viura, which provides finesse and a touch of acidity. Absolutely no oak touches this wine. It is fermented and stored in temperature controlled stainless steel tanks to preserve the delicious fruit flavors and aromas. This wine is delicious on its own, and would gracefully accompany most seafood and poultry dishes.

Red Wines

• This 2006 Pinot Noir from Tasmania, Australia is deep in color, fruity, with a light savory aroma and plenty of berry fruit. The palate is medium-bodied, fresh and lively, making this Pinot very easy to drink. Try it with proscuitto or our artichoke special this week.
  
  
• The 2005 vintage from Castilla in Spain's Mesata region is made from the Tempranillo grape. It is bright ruby in color with smoky cherry and black raspberry on the nose. Clean and brisk, the wine features fresh red and dark berry flavors, no obvious tannins and good back-end minerality. It is extremely easy to drink, offering impressive depth and purity of fruit for the money, as is typical for this bottling. Pairs wonderfully with smoked meats and hearty cheeses.
  
  
• Rewind the tape 20 years and the winemaker's voice was being pounded into the eardrums of punk music fans throughout Australia. Now 20 plus years later, a different life is in full swing as creator of this 2006 Shiraz from Victoria's Adelaide Plains. A different life with the same 'my way’ approach. This wine stands on its own or with pizza!
  
  

Appetizer of the Week

Penne Pasta with Chicken & Artichoke Sauce - $7

 

For more specific information on these great wines, or to taste for yourself, stop by the Tasting Room at Wines by Jennifer this week. We look forward to seeing you!