Sparkling Wine

• Sparkling wine has long been a part of everyday French life: as an aperitif, a wine with food, a wine for celebrations, a wine that encompasses the French ‘joie de vivre’ in every glass, this non-vintage brut Bordeaux sparkler is a reflection of this French way of life. 40% Colombard, 40% Sauvignon Blanc, 20% Chardonnay. Pale straw in color, fresh, fruity and floral on the nose. The palate is full with delicate apple and pear fruit flavors complemented by smooth, velvety bubbles. This wine is perfect served as an aperitif or with salads, fish, white meats and fruit desserts.

White Wines

• The grape was created by Hermann Müller from the Swiss canton of Thurgau in 1882, with the intention of combining the intensity and complexity of the Riesling grape with the early ripening characteristics of the Silvaner grape. Although the resulting grape did not entirely attain these two qualities, it nonetheless became widely planted across many of the German wine-producing regions. This biodynamic 2007 Willamette Valley Müller-Thurgau is a pale gold color with green tints, aromas of grapefruit, flowers and fresh herbs with hints of anise. The wine offers fresh citrus flavor with intriguing subtle notes of lavender, tarragon and wildflowers. The finish is slightly sweet with fresh citrus and herbal notes.
  
  
• This producer is Australia's oldest family-owned winery. Starting with the first commercial planted vines in 1980, they have pioneered the growing and making of Viognier in Australia. Bright straw with green tinges, this 2008 Viognier has aromas that typify this exotic variety, namely jasmine, white peach and honeysuckle. These aromas are mirrored in the palate that displays richness and texture from wild fermentation and lees aging. With a clean, persistent finish, complemented by some exotic spices, this wine will reward if served with spicy chicken dishes.

Red Wines

• The everyday drinking wine of the Piemontese, this is a young, fresh, lively Barbara having a persistent, attractive bouquet with black cherries and a bit of spice on the palate. It has few tannins, which is typical of the Barbera varietal, and a medium finish. Delightfully approachable, this 2007 vintage pairs great with medium to strong cheeses, barbecue and game.
  
  
• Mysterious, fragrant and intense blends from remote vineyards in the Yakima and Columbia Valleys of Washington State, this 2006 vintage is 65% Merlot, 19% Cabernet Franc, 9% Malbec, and 6% Sangiovese. An inky-dark purple hue and a vibrant nose of plum, cherry and cassis. The palate is filled with plums and grilled meats, with hints of smoke and black mission fig. The sturdy tannins along with classic Washington State acidity stretch into the long and elegant finish.
  
  
• The climate at Mendoza's altitudes is characterized by warm days and cool nights. This allows the grapes to mature slowly toward perfect ripeness, providing deep color, intense aromas and rich flavors. This 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon from the Lujan de Cuyo district is a faithful example of the varietal, with a deep, ruby red color, aromas of red and black fruit, cherries, and spicy notes. Round, concentrated, with a sweet tannin texture, it has a long and harmonious finish in the mouth.

 

Appetizer of the Week: Olives, Nuts & Cheese Plate - $8

 

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!