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2016 CONTRADE MALVASIA/CHARDONNAY PUGLIA
We continue to be thrilled with the emerging quality and value coming out of the Puglia region of Italy, with new-found producers reaching our shores seemingly every month. This producer from the 'heel' part of the country works primarily with small growers to create simple but regionally distinctive wines featuring native varietals, sometimes with a bit of a modern bump for practicality or effect. You can be certain you will see the accompanying red wine in a future Select Six as well. Most people know the Malvasia grape due to its success making sweeter or late harvest wines, and may expect this to be in that realm. And those 'most people' would be wrong. Beautiful aromas of fresh cut flowers and sunny Mediterranean white fruits, but with lots of clean flavors on the palate and no sighs of residual sugar. The Chardonnay used is unoaked and purely there to provide a bit of body to the palate, give the fruit a bit of pulp and texture. Huge amounts of fun in the bottle, perfect for parties and lightly spicy meals. Regular Price $10.99, $9.34/case 2015 BODEGAS ITURBIDE 'NOVEM' NAVARRA The world is chocked full of great value wines these days, unless you are a fan of the more eco-friendly or 'naturally made' wines. Those types of wines tend to be done in smaller batches and can take more labor and oversight to be successful, which always adds to the final costs. But as the style emerges as more than just a fad, more wines with an eye to that style are popping up at better and better prices.This example from Spain shows the warmth and oomph Tempranillo based wines are known for, but still uses the native yeasts that create the more savory tones natural wine drinkers identify with. Fleshy dark fruit and spice on the aromas, like many would expect from their Spanish reds, but also the weight and body on the palate which can be absent in the more natural wines. The Cabernet Sauvignon helps in that respect, as well as providing some needed tannic structure on the finish. The 'natural' wine element that shows throughout is the underlying savory notes that come from the native yeasts, hiding underneath all the flavor components but recognizable, and also cuts back on the overripe jellied fruits that can plague the larger production warm climate reds. Regular Price $11.99, $10.19/case 2016 LEXICON CHARDONNAY CALIFORNIA Usually we like to fill the Select Six with unique wines that the majority of people wouldn't gravitate towards, encouraging you to broaden your horizons. Every once in a while though we will go ahead and throw an easy softball pitch right down the middle that everyone can identify with. A classic Californian value Chardonnay with all the bells and whistles (buttery fruit and oak on a smooth full bodied texture) but nothing oversized to the point of being grotesque and obnoxious. No plastic surgery performed on this wine, just a happy Chardonnay the way nature intended. It's a great value for a group get-together or to have around the house, as it shows plenty more underlying character than usual at this price point, which will help keep it interesting bottle after bottle. Regular Price $11.99, $10.19/case 2014 COLLINE DEL SOLE AGLIANICO IRPINA As one of Italy's most ancient grape varieties (traced back to the earliest Greek populations), Aglianico is probably the least known of Italy's noble reds. Heavily featured in Campania as well as areas to the South and East of Naples, the grape has a long history producing robust wines both before and after Mount Vesuvius erupted, but has always lacked the tourist recognition like Chianti, Barolo/Barbaresco and others to the North. Taurasi and Vulture are the most famous versions using this grape, and you are seeing more and more importers bringing in the more everyday bottlings from all across Campania and Basilicata. Rugged, dark and chewy, the hearty tannins are somewhat similar to Cabernet Sauvignon, which is why a little extra time in the bottle helps this one soften out some. Some of the black fruits and cassis may appeal to Cab drinkers as well, but the spice and wild Italian herbs bring an untamed character to it as well. A tasty option for heartier cooler weather drinking, perfect for meats and dishes that have a lot of char and grill marks. Regular Price $13.99, $11.89/case 2016 BENITO SANTOS ALBARINO 'PEQUINO SANTOS' RIAS BAIXAS As mentioned in the Select Six write-up a few spots above, it's tricky to find wines with both an eco-friendly style that achieves it as a strong value. Here is one in the white wine world from one of the more reputable producers in the Gallician part of Spain. The Benito Santos winery possesses some of the oldest Albarino vines, and are unique to be planted on their own root stock, versus using American root stock like the majority of Europe has had to do since the late 1800s to combat the phylloxera blight. Through their care and attention those old vines have thrived, and that same attention is placed towards the vines in their more 'basic' bottling. Fermented on the native yeasts, the aromatic isn't as floral as some more mainstream Albarino can be, allowing more of the coastal and sea-influenced flavors to show through. Lots of seashells and ocean breezes in the glass here. The palate shows more white fruits than the aromas portray, and the mouthfeel is deliciously filling and satisfying thanks to minimal filtration and a long time on the lees. This can work with the more briny seafood dishes the same way a Muscadet works from France, but also has the body to hold up to even richer dishes, and does show enough generous fruit underneath that it can be featured on its own. Regular Price $14.99, $12.74/case 2015 DOMAINE DES HOMS "l'AMANDIER" CINSAULT COTEAUX DE PEYRIAC Some of you may recognize the name Domaine des Homs as we featured their Faugeres in the Select Six a few weeks back. The region in the Languedoc is a wild one, literally and figuratively, in that it is a region of relatively unknown (at the very least under-appreciated) potential in the midst of huge swaths of bulk wine production. The wines here also have a more rustic character to them even though they are using the same grapes as in a Cotes du Rhone, more meaty and untamed. This bottling features 100% Cinsault, usually a supporting grape to Grenache or Syrah and the like, but comes from an older patch of organic/biodynamic certified vines so the winery deemed it worthy to be featured. Bright ruby red color and unassuming looking at first, but the aromas are loaded with wild blueberries, raspberries, and curing meats, very sauvage and funky. The palate is a lot silkier than the funky aromas would have you expect, making the wild juicy fruit even more palatable and approachable. A fun wine many Rhone fans wouldn't think of at first but is well worth trying, especially with a hearty meal. Regular Price $15.99, $13.59/case These wines regularly sell for $79.94 For Select Six October they are $67.99 You Save $11.95! Select Six White (2 of each white) is $64.99 Select Six Red (2 of each red) is $70.99 Pick any three different bottles and get 10% off!
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2016 MOKOROA/PURIRI HILLS SAUVIGNON BLANC MARLBOROUGH
You don't often find wineries in New Zealand with close ties to Virginia, but Puriri Hills founder Judy Fowler is a past graduate of the University of Virginia. Since the winery was started in 1996 in the hills East of Aukland, their reputation for high quality Bordeaux variety blends has grown dramatically, routinely considered among the best red wines from the North Island. For diversity they have recently added this value oriented Sauvignon Blanc to their portfolio using high quality fruit sourced from Marlborough. The wine shows a different hand than usually applied to the ubiquitous grape, brighter and more vibrant gooseberry fruit and a fine line of acidity to give the palate a lot more complexity. What's even better is that, even as a small hand crafted wine, it's priced similar to many of the large scale producers from the region. A rare score from halfway around the world for us on the East Coast! Regular Price $15.99, $13.29/case 2011 BODEGA CARLOS SERRES RIOJA RESERVA Few wineries in the Rioja region have as long and decorated a history as Bodega Carlos Serres. Established in 1896 in the town of Haro, the Bodega is one of the few wineries over 100 years old in the region to still be family owned. The wines are built with a very traditional mindset, and up and down the lineup represent spectacular values. Their Reserva spends two years in barrel and three years in bottle before release, providing a matured and already elegant wine that still has plenty of live remaining. Bright red fruit with a touch of dusty spice on the nose that continue on the palate with very silky tannins and lots of length to the finish that hints a tart cranberries. Most of the Rioja houses of this pedigree and caliber can only be found at the next price points up, so traditionalists have a real gem on their hands. Regular Price $16.99, $14.44/case 2016 PULLUS HALOZAN WHITE 1 LITER (SLOVENIA) Slovenia actually has a fairly long history of making quality wine, especially the region along the border of Italy, but was cut off from the Friulian culture after World War II. Their traditional wines are built to be very light, clean and naturally fermented with little industrialized influences, and wines like this represent the most pleasure for the dollar for those that enjoy the style. Made from primarily a blend of Welschriesling and Furmint with a smattering of other grapes in the mix, the pale straw color and low abv on the label (12%) may at first indicate a thin or mild wine. The first aromas are no weak sauce however, with lots of apple and green grapes, a touch of orange flowers from the Muscat in the blend, and a hint of the 'natural yeast salinity. The palate is equally fresh and bright, surprisingly filling in the mouth with lots of grapeskin tannin and crisp apple tones on the finish to leave your mouth refreshed and quickly wanting another sip. This is a wine that will become a must-have in your fridge for impromptu mid-week meals and enjoying with friends. Regular Price $14.99, $12.74/case 2016 BONNY DOON 'CLOS DE GILROY' GRENACHE CENTRAL COAST Founder Randall Grahm is one of the iconic figures in recent Californian wine making history, growing to prominence during the 80s and 90s as one of the early producers of Rhone variety wines as well as capturing the irreverent counter-culture of the era. For example, the full name of this wine is 'The Wine Formerly Known As Clos de Gilroy', as the fruit is now sourced from vineyards across Monterrey and the name is just an homage to the city. The fruit for the Grenache comes from lots not considered intense enough for their Chateauneuf-du-Pape styled top wine called Le Cigare Volant. 'Clos, but no Cigare'. Get it? (cue rimshot) Bright and sunny cherry and peppery red fruits on the nose,sappy and surprisingly weighty on the palate with just a touch of dark berry from a generous amount of Syrah that provides some extra depth and oomph. Even after more than 30 years Bonny Doon is still on top of their game. Regular Price $19.99, $16.99/case 2015 SCARPETTA ' FRICO' BIANCO VENEZIA A fresh vintage of a favorite from the last year, with a new twist as well. The Scarpetta brand was created by a sommelier/chef partnership at the acclaimed Frasca Restaurant in Colorado (by way of The French Laundry). The wines are sourced to compliment their culinary vision while representing their favorite growing areas. The previous rendition of this bottling was a Chardonnay and Pinot Grigio, but this vintage swaps out Pinot Grigio with Friuliano. Long time Italian wine drinker remember the grape as Tocai Friuliano, but the name was officially shortened to avoid confusion. What isn't shortened is the flavor and unique aromatic the grape provides, with prettier white fruits than your standard Pinot Grigio and lots of zest and texture on the palate. A refreshing everyday wine for the dinner table that is massively more interesting than your standard fare at this price point. Regular Price $11.99, $10.19/case 2015 ANCIENT PEAKS MERLOT PASO ROBLES The entire Santa Margarita Ranch property is owned by the Ancient Peaks Winery, which they use to provide a surprisingly diverse selection of high quality value wines. The microclimate is one of the coolest for average temperature in Paso Robles, and also contains an impressive diversity of soil types for such a small area. This unique 'terroir' allows the winery to plant grapes in a wide array of conditions, bringing more flavors and subtle shading to their wines. Their Merlot is rich and impressive for its price point thanks to the warm Paso Robles environment, but goes to the next level with lots of complex dark fruit and background cocoa and cinnamon spice tones, as well as more substance on the finish. This is a Merlot that can actually stand up to richer dishes about as well as an equally priced Cabernet Sauvignon, and like the other wines in the Ancient Peaks lineup it over-delivers for the dollar mark. Regular Price $18.99, $16.14/case These wines regularly sell for $98.94 For Select Six September they are $84.99 You Save $13.95! Select Six White (2 of each white) is $74.99 Select Six Red (2 of each red) is $94.99 Pick any three different bottles and get 10% off! 2013 LAURENT COGNARD & Co. POUILLY-LOCHE 'AUX BARRES'
Every once in a while great deals land in your lap, even from an area like Burgundy where small volumes and tricky weather makes the deals few and far between. An 'end of vintage' discount brings us this wine from a well regarded producer in the most famous end of the Macon well under the $20. If anything this wine is drinking better than the newer vintages arriving soon, but needs to be out of the warehouse to avoid confusion. Big win for you the customer! Round and full white fruit aromas with custard-y rich notes, but very lively on the palate with most all the oak notes absorbed with the bit of extra time in the bottle and lots of citrus zest coming through. Polished enough to be enjoyed on its own, but at its best with creamy seafood dishes and scallops. Regular Price $17.99, $15.29/case 2013 VINA TARAPACA CABERNET SAUVIGNON GRAN RESERVA In the face of all the unusual and unique wines we love to feature in the Select Six and get people excited about, it pays to have a wine every once in a while that's easy for everyone to get behind. A really good Cabernet Sauvignon will deliver the goods every time. Chilean versions tend have more of a Bordeaux influence, providing more elegance and drier structure than the fruit forward New World style, but this seems to borrow a little from both worlds. On the nose the fruit hits a riper, darker side with lots of plum and currant fruit that are very open and approachable with hints of barrel and tobacco in the background. The palate hits with more of the Bordeaux structure in silky yet persistent tannin that give lots of dry savory flavors and earthy spice that deserve some hearty meat dishes to take on. Perhaps not the first choice for a Cab to sip on by itself, but a real winner to have at the dinner table. Regular Price $17.99, $15.29/case 2016 QUINTA DE CHOCAPALHA ARINTO LISBOA A new vintage for a favorite from last Fall. Most of the wine drinking population have not come across the Arinto grape, at least not knowingly. It's fairly widely planted in Portugal but usually appears in the background of blends like Vinho Verde due to its high natural acidity and lemony flavor profile. In the Southern end of Portugal towards Lisbon the temperatures are warmer, which helps lower the acidity and brings out more of the warmer fruits, but even then it is rare to find one that is particularly compelling. This producer deserves special attention as their use of older vines helps bring necessary richness to the palate that the wines usually lack. Zesty citrus and refreshingly tingly melon and pear aromas and flavors abound, extremely clean and zippy on the palate, almost bracingly so. A little bit outside the box, but that's where we like to be, and ideal to pair with seafood or citrus influenced poultry dishes. Regular Price $12.99, $11.04/case 2016 LAURENT MIQUEL PERE et FILS CINSAULT-SYRAH ROSE The refreshing character and elegant salmon color that has become the hallmarks for Provencal Rose is predominantly thanks to the Cinsault grape. When used in red wines the grape is more of a 'filler' used to create high volume wine or soften hearty edges, and generally shows off a more rustic edge than wines from Grenache or Syrah.But when treated properly with the intention of making quality Rose the acidity sparkles on the palate and the rustic edges disappear to show fresh strawberries and subtle savory edges. This bottling comes from a well regarded producer in the Languedoc, but the character and flavors are right out of the vineyards between Marseille and Nice. Pure clean aromas of fresh strawberries, nice weight on the palate for the price, and refreshingly crisp through the finish is more than you can expect from a Rose at this price, and should be a mainstay in most people's fridge through the end of the Summer if not beyond. Regular Price $9.99, $8.49/case 2015 DOMAINE PLOUZEAU SAUVIGNON TOURAINE In our opinion you can never have too many really good values in the store at a time, especially from a place like the Loire. Even for a grape as established and 'normal' as Sauvignon Blanc can find endless nuances pulled from the unique diversity of soils and at the hands of adventurous winemakers. The Plouzeau family is based in Chinon, better known for red wine production, but excels with Sauvignon Blanc as well. The soil types here are different than the main part of Touraine north of Tours, which brings a unique flavor palate to the wine along with their use of native yeast strains. Bright citrus and grapefruit aromas with a hint of savory tones from the native yeasts, the slightest pinprick of CO2 on the palate gives the citrus flavors extra intensity when first opened but softens as it opens up and shows off more softness with notes of mint and white fruits. This is a far more complex and entertaining wine than you usually expect to find from Touraine, and especially at this price. Regular Price $14.99, $12.74/case 2014 SAN MARZANO MALVASIA NERA 'FALO' Puglia represents the 'heel' part of the Italian boot, and has 4 millenia of wine growing history as it was among the first areas settled by the Greeks. Modern civilization (the last 600 years counts as 'modern' here) has not been favorable as they are cut off from the interior of Italy by the Apennines mountains and much of the cultural prosperity of cities like Florence, Rome, and Naples since the Renaissance. Many factors over the last few decades has seen growth and improvement in the Puglian wine industry, and those that are paying attention are finding many things to be excited about. The region is warmer than most of Italy, and the wines have a much spicier and forward character to them, so those that find most Italian reds too austere now have wines to explore. Several months ago we featured the 'baby brother' of this wine in the Select Six, the more famous Primitivo grape. Malvasia Nera is usually featured in blends, but this shows off the grape's deep dark blackberry and sweet cherry fruit, as well as surprisingly good acidity and structure which brings out the dark spice and oak tannins on the finish. An excellent wine for those that usually find the traditional Italian staples too earthy or acidic, and a delicious wine to match with grilled food or BBQ. Regular Price $17.99, $15.29/case These wines regularly sell for $91.94 For Select Six August they are $78.99 You Save $12.95! Select Six White (2 of each white) is $78.99 Select Six Red (2 of each red) is $78.99 Pick any three different bottles and get 10% off! 2016 DR. HEYDEN OPPENHEIMER RIESLING KABINETT 'DRY-STYLE'
Often in the world of wines, vintages are determined to be 'great' base on how well the most prized and/or highest end wines turn out. 2015 was outstanding in Germany, and deservedly so, with a large number of wines in the Spatlese and Auslese levels of ripeness that are hard to pass up. It is a vintage that will live for decades in many drinker's cellars. 2016 will likely be viewed as a very good vintage, but most of the quality comes from the Kabinett level, and the great charm comes from the more immediately approachable wines like this one versus the aging wines. Where the label says 'dry style', it would more traditionally be labeled as 'halbtrocken', or half-dry, but it honestly drinks closer to a true Trocken. Pure clean white fruits on the nose and palate with no signs of cloying sweetness, and a vibrant acidity on the palate that gives the flavor great energy. Do not let the low price point fool you, this is a small estate grown bottling with lots of individuality in it's flavor. Regular Price $13.99, $11.89/case 2016 TRE SECOLI BRACHETTO d'ACQUI Brachetto d'Acqui is the dark grape sibling of Moscato d'Asti, made in the same style and with a similar level of sweetness. Many out there would think this is too sweet of a wine for them hearing it's similarity to a Moscato. But if you get is as a Select Six, it's a wine that deserves you to go out of your way and find a reason to enjoy it. The juicy cherry and blackberry fruit are given a cocoa powder tannin from the grape skins that provide just a touch of dryness to the finish, and the light carbonation give the flavors that freshness you get when biting into the fruit itself. The low alcohol make it IDEAL for brunch with fresh fruits (cherries, blueberries, etc more-so than citrus or tropical fruits) and absolutely anything with a chocolate ingredient. Do not write this off as a sugary wine! It's a great wine that just happens to have sweetness. Regular Price $13.99, $11.89/case 2014 CHATEAU d'EPIRE SAVENNIERES Savennieres is one of the more exclusive addresses in the Loire, with fewer than 30 producers working the roughly 400 acres of vines along the northwest back of the river. Among these precious few are names like Nicolas Joly and Domaine Baumard, considered among the most influential wine names in modern French viticulture. Their style of dry Chenin Blanc is more intensive than those from Vouvray, and tend to shy away from the honeyed tones. It is rare to have the opportunity to present one at a price that fits into the Select Six, so we hope people grab on with both hands! Chateau d'Epire among the few estates to have enough volume to construct a 'value' Savennieres bottling, which will introduce you to all the tiny appellation's unique character. Cool coastal aromas and citrus skin on the nose that get richer and more melon influenced as the wine opens up, with a fuller and more powerful flavor than the aromas would have you expect. Lots of acidity behind the fruit on the palate that gives the wine an exceptionally long and complex finish, helping it stand up to a broad array of rich seafood and poultry dishes. Regular Price $19.99, $16.99/case 2014 CHATEAU PERAYNE BORDEAUX SUPERIEURE With more and more information coming out about the devastating frost that hit Bordeaux and much of Europe in 2017 (large portions of the region with at least 50% loss of crops), it's a good time for Bordeaux drinkers to plan ahead by looking backwards at the strong recent vintages. Not only will there be much less to choose from of decent quality when they come out, but the damage was such that 2018 will most likely be a very limited crop size as well (people with perennial flowering plants know how pruning them at the wrong time drastically reduces the number of flowers the next season. Same concept). All the more reason to explore the bounty of high quality the 2014 and 2015 vintages provided. 2015 is a bigger, juicier vintage that gets a lot of press, but 2014 is quietly exciting especially for those that like a more structured and traditional Bordeaux like this. Half Merlot with the balance primarily Cabernet Franc with a chunk of Cabernet Sauvignon, this could be described as 'sneaky delicious'. Immediate classic Bordeaux aromas of dark berry and currants, with the Cab Franc component coming through as it opens with more red flowers and tartness. The palate has polish on the first sip, but the Cab Sauv element brings nice structure that stays present even as the wine opens up and the fruit gets richer on the palate. Starting to show plenty of enjoyment in its youth, this will do well in the cellar for those looking for a selection of great values to pop again and again over the next decade. Regular Price $14.99, $12.74/case 2012 FONTANASSA GAVI This marks the return of a favorite winery we haven't had in the store for a while. Many frequent customers will recognize the artistic style on the label from the Gavi we carried from Fontanassa before, called Ca' Adua. This bottling is from a more mature vineyard, and is built to be a little more intense and 'serious' than Gavi is usually created. You don't often taste a Gavi built to not just survive but actually thrive with several years or more in the bottle, but this bottling has a track record of doing well for over a decade past vintage. Lots of zesty orange citrus and white fruits on the nose, and loads of energy on the palate despite being 5 years past the vintage. Extended time on the lees before bottling picked up a lot of complexity and body that gives the flavor more of a richer melon and pithy fruit than usual. Often Gavi is more simplistic a wine, but this will hold up well to complex dishes and surprise even the most particular of wine drinkers. Regular Price $15.99, $13.59/case 2015 ALPHONSE DOLLY PINOT NOIR 'LES DOIGTS d'OR' Sancerre is best known by far for the production of Sauvignon Blanc over Pinot Noir, so much so that many would be surprised that as much as 20% of the region is planted to Pinot Noir (thinking that number would seem quite high). In truth, the second most compelling wine from Sancerre is usually the Rose based on Pinot Noir more-so than the reds. So to find a full blooded Pinot Noir from Sancerre that is not only quite good but an excellent value is stunning, especially as most consumers continue to fight the battle of finding Bourgogne styled Pinots without spending Bourgogne prices. Blended with some fruit from just outside the appellation keeps this wine from being called a Sancerre Rouge, but the minerality behind the fruit is indication of where it's from. A nice dark color for a Pinot Noir and it shows off nice darker cherry tones and red fruits on the nose. The chalky minerality give the palate a bit of a stronger tannin feel at first but evolves into something softer and quite elegant, keeping the dark fruits on the nose polished and pleasing on the palate. Fans of the French style of Pinot Noir should be all over giving this a try. Regular Price $16.99, $14.44/case These wines regularly sell for $95.94 For Select Six July they are $81.99 You Save $13. 95! Select Six White (2 of each white) is $84.99 Select Six Red (2 of each red) is $78.99 Pick any three different bottles and get 10% off! 2016 S.A.R.L. DeLAILLE SAUVIGNON BLANC 'UNIQUE' VAL DE LOIRE
While Sancerre and Pouilly-Fume will always represent the top end of Sauvignon Blanc expression in the Loire, there are endless and ever-emerging sources for great values up and down the river and back again. The region of Cheverny sits at the Northeastern end of Touraine, long known as a prestigious sport hunting area but also unique in that their AOC wines are a blend of Sauvignon Blanc and tank aged Chardonnay. Domaine du Salvard has been a prominent estate in Cheverny since the late 1800s (also one of importer Kermit Lynch's first wineries), but they use their family name for the wines that fall outside the Cheverny designations. This Sauvignon Blanc is 'Unique' in that it is in fact 100% Sauvignon Blanc. Always a vibrant and mineral driven wine with lots of green zest and a cool, almost minty aromatic, this is a wine of great energy at every level. What more, it is a value that stands out from others around it year after year, distinct and individual without carrying a price tag to match. Regular Price $15.99, $13.59/case 2015 CASTILLO MONJARDIN GARNACHA 'LA CATENA' NAVARRA All too often wines of a certain price point will tend to run together and develop a certain amount of same-ness. This especially happens with value oriented wines, where the act of growing the grapes cheaply doesn't allow them to develop as much nuance. There has been an explosion of inexpensive Garnacha lapels from Spain over the last few decades, most of which are quite tasty for the price but tend to stay in the very juicy, jammy and up-front fruit realm without much acidity and a sweeter finish. This is a welcome break in the pattern, bringing a much more savory flavor spectrum into the mix. Still shows an enjoyable ripe red fruit character on the nose, but stays away from the candied fruits with drier red and black cherry tones, hints of spicy strawberry as well as earthy tones. On the palate there are hints of the drier fruits found in classic Rioja which borders the Navarra region, but not quite as much of the tartness as well as a softer more polished finish. This is a heck of a value for those that tend to like wines that lean more towards the the 'Old School' profiles. Regular Price $8.99, $7.64/case 2015 PORTUGAL RAMOS LOUREIRO VINHO VERDE Vinho Verde (the wine) is a popular warm weather staple for many wine drinkers, an inexpensive white you keep a bottle or two of in the fridge for instant refreshment and little necessary thought. IN recent years Vinho Verde (the region) has become a bit over-identified with their most basic wine and started flexing its muscles to show the world the full spectrum of what they can create. This is a small step up from the most basic wine, featuring a single grape variety (Loureiro) and dropping a fair bit of the tingly carbonation, but still represents an excellent value.Loads of apple an pear aromas from the first pour, round on the palate with a lemon/lime acidity that pops more intensely when the wine is right out of the fridge. Still extremely easy to drink like the classic versions, but even more memorable. Regular Price $9.99, $8.49/case 2016 CHATEAU FAMEY MALBEC ROSE Pretty much every wine growing region in Europe, France for certain, has historically made rose as part of their yearly production. Few have become as well known in the world as those from Provence, but they have always been part of the landscape. This offering from Cahors should come as no surprise to anyone then, as the famous Malbec based 'Black Wines' regain their popularity. Don't think of the Malbec style that has developed in Argentina as a more New World type wine, this is straight out of the dry and intensive Old School that has more in common with Bordeaux. A pretty cherry juice color that sometime indicates a more fruit forward type rose, but lots of strawberry leaf and cherry skin on the nose show a much drier side. The palate is more towards the cherry fruit but has a surprising snap of acidity that keeps it refreshing, and provides a nicely full mouthfeel that usually found at this price. A fun and surprising warm weather wine to keep 2 or 3 of in the fridge at all times for easy consumption. Regular Price $9.99, $8.49/case 2015 CHAMISAL VINEYARDS STAINLESS CHARDONNAY CENTRAL COAST Many people consider 'unoaked Chardonnay' a four letter word. It's understandable in many way, as the fruit used in a lot of unoaked wines was the lowest quality that wouldn't hold up to any time in barrel. Over the years the quality of grape growing has improved, providing better and better raw material for the wineries, and the ability to raise the level of their unoaked wine game has improved as well. Examples like this will still see some of the malolactic fermentation which provides the buttery tones and soften some of the acidity, but the natural richness of the fruit doesn't need to be bolstered by aging it in oak. Round melon and white fruits abound here, with just a touch of apple and citrus on the palate to cut through on the palate and provide some freshness. This doesn't need the oak, you won't miss it at all, and it will be a perfect everyday food and cocktail option. Regular Price $14.99, $12.74/case 2014 DOMAINE DE REUILLY PINOT NOIR In the last Select Six we featured the Sauvignon Blanc from this Loire producer. The white wines from the Reuilly region are hard to find to begin with, which means Pinot Noir is a particularly rare bird indeed. We could say it's very similar to a Sancerre Rouge, but even those are hard to find, so that comparison isn't much help. Let's say it has a lot of similarity to a good basic Bourgogne but with a touch of minerality running through it from the limestone soils. And thanks to the benefit of an 'end of vintage' special deal, the quality far outreaches the price point, something you almost never hear for actual Burgundy. Polished red fruit and dried cherry aromas that don't smell as dark as the color would suggest, and silky on the palate with just a suggestion of the minerality bringing extra stone fruit dryness to the finish. Minimal filtration definitely adds texture a lighter wine can sorely miss, which helps this show well above the expectation of the price and the appellation. Regular Price $15.99, $13.59/case These wines regularly sell for $75.94 For Select Six June they are $64.99 You Save $10. 95! Select Six White (2 of each white) is $68.99 Select Six Red (2 of each red) is $60.99 Pick any three different bottles and get 10% off! 2015 MONTESOLE FALANGHINA DEL SANNIO
Campania is one of the great areas in Italy for those looking for something a little different. The city of Naples has a history and culture that rivals the other great cities, and the wines found here are equally unique and profound. The white varieties in particular- Greco, Fiano, and Falanghina- show off the regional character and are gradually emerging to take a place alongside the wines of the North in public perception. Falanghina tends to be the lightest in body of the three, parallel in some ways to a Sauvignon Blanc in that it has some grassy notes, but so much else as well. Fresh citrus and mineral on the nose, with some peach and grassy notes showing as it opens. On the palate the high mountain growing area of Sannio becomes evident with brisk vibrant acidity on the palate that pulls out more of the stone fruit flavors, whereas lower vineyards closer to the sea produce softer more tropical flavors. This is a great warm weather wine to pair with zesty Mediterranean seafood full of oils, citrus, and sun dried vegetables. Regular Price $17.99, $15.29/case 2014 McPHERSON WINE CO. PINOT NOIR VICTORIA Another lesson on the under-rated quality found in the cooler forgotten corners of Australia, particularly the Victorian Peninsula. With all the high volume brands (also known as 'critter labels') that inundated the market, a large part of the Australian diversity vanished as those wines became the image of what they were able to provide. The mountains near Melbourne and the southern extension towards Tazmania have a relatively cool and even climate that parallel some of the coastal areas of California than the 'Red Center' far too many people think of when Australia comes to mind. Ripe and silky Pinot fruit, no candied character or hot elements at all on the nose, with a hint of dark spice in the background. On the palate there is a hint of savory and cool acidity backing the fruit that could even remind some of Oregon or North Coast California, providing a nice needed hint of tart cherry on the finish. A tasty value at it's everyday price; an absolute steal at the 'end of availability' price we are offering now! Regular Price $12.99, $11.04/case 2015 HERENCIA ALTES GARNATXA BLANCA TERRA ALTA (Wine Advocate 89points) The availability for great red wine values from pretty much every corner of Spain is undeniable. White wines can be a bit more erratic, with the exception of the cooler Galician region along the northwest coast. Plantings at the higher elevations are beginning to evolve as a much needed source, and the values are starting to roll in. Terra Alta is right on the Southern edge of Catalonia, but the combination of high altitude and coastal proximity brings a much appreciated cooling influence to the vineyards. Relatively old vines planted in low nutrient soils allow the vines to naturally limit their yields and intensifies the flavors, resulting in a fresh tasting white that absolutely over-delivers for the price.Lightly honeyed white fruit aromas with a touch of refreshing citrus peel, impressively weighty and mouth-filling for the price thanks to being aged on the lees for a few months, as well as an equally surprising minerality and citrus skin texture to the finish. Refreshing without any austerity, juicy without any sweetness, this could very well be one of the most broadly crowd pleasing wines around for the price. Regular Price $10.99, $9.34/case 2015 AGRINA PORTUGUISER FRUSKA GORA One of the more unique red wines you will come across in Wine Warehouse, and a delicious step outside many people's comfort zone.Fruska Gora is a mountainous region in Serbia and also considered one of their premium wine growing territories. The Portuguiser grape doesn't have anything to do with Portugal (aside from centuries old stories of its supposed origin) and is well established across Eastern European countries. Fans of the Hungarian creation Egri Bikaver or 'Bull's Blood' have had this as it acts as the base variety in the blend.In recent times there has been a lot more movement away from the massive co-operative corporations and back to family run wineries, and this is the first of what we anticipate to be many great values. Though it is designated as 'semi-dry' on the label, there is virtually no detectable sweetness due to the grapes dark plummy fruit and cool dark tannins. If anything the residual sugar give a touch of body and softens any earthy astringency that could have existed. Plump and flavorful, lower in alcohol than most, and very easy to enjoy even with a slight chill in the warmer weather, this is great as a pizza or red sauce wine, or with midweek burgers on the grill. Regular Price $12.99, $11.04/case 2015 DOMAINE DE REUILLY REUILLY BLANC Sancerre and Pouilly-Fume have long been the most desirable destinations on the Loire for Sauvignon Blanc fans. Further off the Loire itself near the city of Bourges, Reuilly is often referred to as 'the poor man's Sancerre' because the quality of wine produced regularly outdistances its meager reputation. After the phylloxera epidemic in the late 1800s decimated the vineyards, hard financial times and World War I left the vineyards here largely unplanted and returned to pastured or new growth forests. The family vineyards at the estate around which the town was named were among the first new plantings in 1935 and they remain among the most important estates in the AOC.While not quite as teeth-cuttingly minerally as Sancerre, the vibrant white fruit and chalky aromas are very much a parallel. A definite level of intensity up from the enjoyable but mostly straightforward Touraine Sauvignon Blancs, this bridges the gap with both refined character and a budget friendly price point. Regular Price $16.99, $14.44/case 2014 DOMAINE LES GENESTAS COTES DU RHONE VILLAGES SIGNARGUES A surprisingly high quality Cotes du Rhone from a co-operative, but considering it is one of the most unique co-ops in France it makes sense. Les Vignerons D’ Estézargues is the only co-op that allows all its growers to make their own bottlings from their best sites, as well as practice natural wine making using all native yeasts for their wines. The concept is similar to the 'custom crush' facilities in California that allow for the creation of boutique brands, but essentially unheard of in France. This example has been very successful here in America for several vintages, providing a savory, slightly rustic background to the dark red fruits thanks to the native yeasts and bit of Carignan in the blend. For those that don't want a fruit bomb as their wine, but do still want a bit of intensity, this is a great all purpose everyday wine. Regular Price $16.99, $14.44/case These wines regularly sell for $86.94 For Select Six May they are $74.99 You Save $11. 95! Select Six White (2 of each white) is $76.99 Select Six Red (2 of each red) is $72.99 Pick any three different bottles and get 10% off! 2016 MAS DE CADENET ROSE COTES DE PROVENCE SAINTE VICTOIRE
Always one of the first signs of Spring, like the early flowers and the end of NCAA Basketball, the newest vintages of dry Roses are arriving from our favorite European wineries. They are the first looks at the quality of the previous vintage, and bring visions of warmer, light-hearted days ahead. While these dry wines are made throughout most of Europe, Provence is perhaps the most iconic and a huge part of their posh Mediterranean lifestyle. This house is well thought of around here as it is brought in by a local importer, which helps us bring it in at a terrific price. Classic pale salmon pink color in the glass, the aromas are full of strawberry leaves and cherry skins with hints of watermelon. The palate is vibrant and refreshing, very white wine in texture and feel with an almost citrus note to the fruit, and only a hint of the red fruit character coming through on the finish with a touch of savory zip. Perfect for light salads, fruit trays, and back porch sipping. Regular Price $16.99, $14.44/case 2015 DOMAINE BRUNET PINOT NOIR PAYS d'OC Burgundy drinkers have a quandary. Pinot Noir from the region is a taste unlike Pinot from almost anywhere else in the world, a balancing act of higher toned red fruits and acidity that can only be hinted at slightly by some producers in other parts of the globe. But the region is relatively small, production tend to be in very limited amounts, which helps to make Burgundy among the more expensive wines on average. It makes it extremely difficult to find an inexpensive option that is still capable of scratching the itch that only Burgundy can seem to reach. Which is why we were THRILLED to find this option from Limoux in the Languedoc. More noted for its sparkling wines, this surprisingly cool corner provides freshness and acidity inexpensive Pinot so regularly lacks, and the light savory red fruits do a quality imitation of a Burgundy. While it won't make you forget about your favorite Bourgogne Rouge, being able to have 2-3 bottles of this for the same price will make it much easier to satisfy that itch. Regular Price $10.99, $9.34/case 2015 SELECTION DES COGNETTES MUSCADET SEVRE et MAINE Another favorite wine of ours for warmer weather (any time of year is good, of course, but ESPECIALLY warmer weather) is Muscadet from the western area of the Loire near the city of Nantes. Made from the very light-bodied Melon de Bourgogne grape, these wines are rarely built to be overly 'serious', with the intent to be aged and contemplated for years on end. At their best the wines embrace their transparency, full of minerality and even a hint of salinity that seems like it would come from the ocean only a few dozen miles away. Better quality producers like this also make the wines 'sur lie', aged briefly in the tank on the grape pulp and fine lees to provide a bit of extra body. Clean and refreshing, with just a hint of white citrus aromas, vibrant white fruits and sea spray on the palate, this is ideal with oysters and other briny dishes with little adornment. Regular Price $14.99, $12.74/case 2015 AZ. AG. TENUTA SANT'ANTONIO CORVINA VENETO 'SCAIA The Corvina grape is one of the workhorse varieties around the city of Verona, providing a large portion of the character for the Valpolicella and Amarone wines. As a stand alone wine you don't see the name used that often, doesn't seem to have the flash and pizazz some of the other more 'known' grapes possess. The value they can deliver in a wine like this is quite impressive, and those that don't mind experimenting will have quite a gem. A deep garnet color in the glass, the aromas are surprisingly ripe and forward for an Italian red, full of warm black cherry, plums, and currants, even a touch of dark spice. The palate is juicy, but not to the point of a Primitivo or warmer climate red, keeping the fruit character dark and spicy instead of sweet, and plenty of silky smooth dark fruit on the finish. One of the most approachable and easy drinking inexpensive Italian reds we have come across, ideal for midweek pasta and red sauce meals or weekend cookouts. Regular Price $11.99, $10.19/case 2015 MULLER-GROSSMANN GRUNER VELTLINER This new Austrian arrival represents a rarity in the world of winemaking, teaming mother and daughter in the production of the family vineyards. Mother Helma has been in charge of winemaking here since 1986, with daughter Marlies on board with both production and marketing since 2009. The wines they provide from the Kremstal region deliver great character, and our first time trying this Gruner Veltliner was impressive. Lots of tart white fruit and stony citrus aromas, almost austere at first but building some peach and juicier apple tones as it opens up. The palate is fairly full but still vibrant for the price point, full of stone fruits and piercing, precise acidity that drives a lot of added complexity into the palate. This is a welcome addition to the Austrian selection. Regular Price $19.99, $16.99/case 2014 VINA TARAPACA TARAPACA '+PLUS' GRAN RESERVA RED A new estate (to our store, anyway, as they were established in 1874) with a lot of exciting wines to offer from the Maipo Valley in Chile. You will likely be seeing several other wines make appearances in future Select Six, as well as when you tour through the Chilean wines in the store, but we wanted to break them out with their most unique offering. The winery is constantly moving towards sustainable farming and organic practices, but their Tarapaca Plus is made only from organic vineyard sources. This unique blend of Syrah, Carmenere, and Cabernet Franc doesn't have any historical relationship to any blends from France, but in their hands it works from Chile. Lush, deep and plummy fruit aromas with a noticeable oak barrel presence, the mouthfeel is impressively rich and modern without a lot of heavy tannin, mostly dark and intensive currants and blackberries. The higher toned character of Carmenere and Cabernet Franc throw a bit of a tart note and hints of rusticity to the finish. A tasty red to add to the weekly rotation. Regular Price $17.99, $15.29/case These wines regularly sell for $92.94 For Select Six April they are $79.99 You Save $12. 95! Select Six White (2 of each white) is $87.99 Select Six Red (2 of each red) is $71.99 Pick any three different bottles and get 10% off! 2015 BASA-LORE GETARIAKO TXAKOLINA
A new vintage for this great value from the Basque region of Spain, one of the great undiscovered jewels of Europe with Bilbao and Santander as centers of fantastic culture and some of the finest restaurants in the world. The Txakolina wine regions supply this area with their signature wines that pair perfectly with the regional seafood and meat dishes. The wines are SO popular, in fact, that a large portion of it is drunk there and only a few producers are able to export much out. And if it's a good value, you can almost forget about it because every last drop is getting consumed at the bistros. This is the first example of an 'everyday' Txakolina that we've carried, made from the native Hondarribi Zuri grape. Pale yellow with a tiny bit of pinpoint carbonation similar to a Vinho Verde, the aromas are all tart limes, citrus and seawater, with a lip-smacking raciness on the palate and a clean light finish. French Muscadet has a lot of similarities, but the Txakoli seem to have more lime character. Works great with raw oysters or any fresh or oily seafood dishes. Regular Price $14.99, $12.74/case 2015 CHATEAU HAUT-LA PEREYRE BORDEAUX SUPERIEUR After several vintages in a row where Bordeaux as a whole couldn't hype a super-spectacular vintage across the region, 2015 has shaped up to be a return to that form. Prepare for some 'Vintage of the Decade/Century/Millenia' hyperbole to come from some more aggressive sources. The wines are extremely good, to be sure, but for most people looking to drink Bordeaux on an everyday basis the differences between very good to great vintages isn't that pronounced. What it DOES mean is there will be a lot of options, fewer failures, and lots to play with over the years. This is an exceptional petits Chateaux, a real house with a real family run winery and not just a label conjured up, and also features a higher percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon which is less common in the less expensive Bordeaux. Deep and dark in the glass, showing off the intense dark fruit and immediate intensity of the warm vintage, and immediately pleasing but also shows some dark layers as it opens up. The palate has lots of dark cassis fruit that Cab fans adore and some stick from the tannins, but is surprisingly easy to get into with only an hour or two decant. Worth cellaring especially for such a low tariff, but great for a weekday/weekend meal. Regular Price $16.99, $14.44/case NV SHEBANG! NORTH COAST WHITE CUVEE IV Morgan Twain-Peterson is one of the most exciting young winemakers working in America today, with his Bedrock label representing some of the finest expressions of old vine California wines available. A lifetime spent learning at the feet of his father, long time Ravenswood winemaker Joel Peterson, Morgan is tapped in to what makes these rare blocks of untouched winemaking history so special. Equally impressive to his lineup of single site wines are his value wines, called 'Shebang!' (as in 'the whole shebang'), which are non-vintage blends built from several older parcels scattered across the state. We've featured the red blend, a classic 'kitchen sink' Zinfandel blend, but we wanted to wait until the warmer Spring weather arrived to feature the more unique white. A blend of tank aged lots using old parcels of Riesling, Semillon, Albarino, and Muscadelle may at first seem potentially sweet, but in Morgan's hands there is virtually no residual sugar present. The use of native yeasts and aging the wines on their skins brings out loads of texture behind the perfume and white fruits, even some racy citrus in the background. If you don't give this a try for what you think it MIGHT taste like, you will be missing out on a real treat. Regular Price $15.99, $13.59/case 2015 SAN MARZANO PRIMITIVO SALENTO 'IL PUMO' Puglia represents the 'heel' part of the Italian boot, and has 4 millenia of wine growing history as it was among the first areas settled by the Greeks. Modern civilization (the last 600 years counts as 'modern' here) has not been favorable as they are cut off from the interior of Italy by the Apennines mountains and much of the cultural prosperity of cities like Florence, Rome, and Naples since the Renaissance. Many factors over the last few decades has seen growth and improvement in the Puglian wine industry, and those that are paying attention are finding many things to be excited about. The region is warmer than most of Italy, and the wines have a much spicier and forward character to them, so those that find most Italian reds too austere now have wines to explore. Zinfandel fans will want to take note as well since Primitivo is the parent to all those fantastic old vines found in California, and is the base for much of the wines here. Priced like many of the inexpensive Zinfandel 'labels' out there that muddy so many shelves with more artwork than wine quality, this delivers quality AND distinction as well as undeniable Italian personality. Spicy, warm red fruits on the nose but without any signs of heat or sweetness (it's still Italy after all, and they like their wines on the drier side), and a juicy texture on the palate that shies away from the melted jelly, even showing some underlying savory black fruit/black spice sides. An excellent red for pizza, red sauces, even barbecue. Regular Price $11.99, $10.19/case 2015 McPHERSON WINE CO. PINOT GRIS VICTORIA Another unique wine from Australia that will help change many people's attitudes on what the country is all about. The Victoria Peninsula extends South reaching across the Bass Straight towards Tasmania, and represents a fairly temperate climate. The wines from here are not the extra ripe and fruit heavy style that so much of the marketing and reputation have been built on, and in fact can be quite vibrant. Fans of the Oregon style of Pinot Gris will be very intrigued by wines like this, with its rich yet clean flavors that hint at Alsatian styles but without the sweetness. Fresh white peach and apple aromas with a light tropical tone underneath as it opens up, and a juicy mouthfilling texture that delivers flavors of freshly sliced white fruits all over the palate. A great pairing for seafood and poultry dishes that can handle a wine with some weight but don't need anything oaky, or Asian influenced dishes where you don't want anything sweet. Regular Price $15.99, $13.59/case 2011 DOMAINE LECCIA PATRIMONIA Corsica is a wild, relatively unknown island to much of the world away from Europe, somewhat remote and more difficult to get to than the more historic mainland. The wines have evolved more or less on their own, with several unique grape varieties that are starting to make a comeback in terms of recognition for their quality and distinct character. Nielluccio is their most noted red grape, and in the hands of the Leccia family who are among the most noted traditional winemaking family on the island, this hits great heights. Thanks to an end of vintage deal, this is a rare exceptional deal for this quality of wine as well. A wild aromatic of almost savory red fruit akin to a Northern Rhone Syrah at first, as well as dark earth and spice, but a surprising citrus zestiness as well, almost a bitter orange tone. The fruit on the palate is dark and herbal with a hint of the tart orange pushing through as well, and the acidity cuts across the palate to show there is plenty of life left here, finishing with just the start of softer maturing tannins to show some of the polished potential. It's a wild, unique ride that deserves some unique meat choices for accompaniment. Regular Price $19.99, $16.99/case These wines regularly sell for $95.94 For Select Six March they are $81.99 You Save $13. 95! Select Six White (2 of each white) is $79.99 Select Six Red (2 of each red) is $81.99 Pick any three different bottles and get 10% off! 2015 SEVILLE ESTATE CHARDONNAY YARRA VALLEY 'THE BARBER'
Australian wines have become pigeonholed into the image that they are all 'critter label' wines with huge fruit and little regional character. While most people recognize that, by the sheer size of the country, there HAS to be diversity, they still tend to associate all the wines under the same identity. In this Select Six we showcase not one but two wines that seek to break that identity. Yarra Valley is adjacent to Melbourne, and even though the city itself does get quite warm (those that watched the Australian Open tennis tournament will have an idea) the Valley has cooling influences from the nearby mountains, giving the region temperatures more parallel to Carneros or some of the coastal Californian growing areas, and like them features both Pinot Noir and Chardonnay quite favorably. Vibrant melon and white fruit aromas on the nose and palate that only features a little bit of oak barrel aging and buttery malolactic fermentation, allowing the natural richness of the juice to showcase the local character and complexity. Fans of the West Coast style of Chardonnay will certainly enjoy this, and at a great price to boot. Regular Price $16.99, $14.44/case 2014 MEINKLANG BURGENLANDRED RED Austrian wines are a favorite here, mostly the whites but with an increasing enjoyment of the reds as well. The more 'known' grape varieties are not as successful in their climate, so getting to know their red wine landscape requires tasting on their three most prevalent grapes; Blaufrankisch, St. Laurent, and the offspring of those two grapes called Zweigelt. Fortunately all three of those grapes are used here in this blend, so consider this one-stop shopping for your Austrian red wine education. Naturally dark and plummy fruit come out on the nose immediately, cool in character because of the climate but not lean at the three grapes get to their full ripeness easily. On the palate the texture is almost Pinot Noir-like in its silkiness, but the darker fruit still shows through giving the mouthfeel lots of richness that helps it hold up to relatively hearty dishes. A straightforward and easy drinking wine that doesn't set itself off as a fruit bomb but still has accessibility for most everyone to enjoy. Regular Price $13.99, $11.89/case NV ADRIANO ADAMI PROSECCO VALDOBBIADENE SUPERIORE BRUT 'BOSCO DI GICA' With Valentine's Day approaching this month, a proper sparkling wine deserves to make the list for the Select Six. In recent years the Prosecco name and image became a bit diluted and bastardized by allowing the name to be attached to far too many wines of lower quality and a much broader growing area. In recent years the standards have improved, and the name Prosecco on the label stands for a much better assurance in quality. Valdobbiadene is considered the Grand Cru of Prosecco, with Superiore being one of the highest quality designation. Beautiful peach and white fruit aromas and great effervescence that stays lively well after being poured, and a juicy fullness on the palate that shows off plenty of flavor. The wine is definitely a Brut, but the natural weight and quality of the juice at the Superiore level takes any astringency out of the palate and finish, to the point where the carbonation gives the wine a stronger sense of dryness than the juice itself. A great wine to pop with any celebration, capable of being paired with light foods or enjoyed solo. Regular Price $17.99, $15.29/case 2014 CANTINE VALPANE BARBERA DEL MONFERRATO 'ROSSO PIETRO' In the Piedmont most of the winemaking reputation centers on the vineyards around Alba and Asti, as the most famous wines are situated there. Monferrato is their less famous neighbor located near the city of Alessandria, a little more rural and remote, but also home to some of the most unknown and exciting values in the region. This small winery only does a few thousand cases total between six wines, but thanks to famed importer Kermit Lynch we get to see a nice chunk of that production come over at a great price. With all the aging done in steel or concrete tanks before bottling, this is all about the approachable side of Barbera, full of spicy dried red fruits and touches of wild game in the background. The texture is surprisingly full for the price point, giving the palate lots of natural intensity from minimal filtration or fining, but is also approachable without any aggressive tannins. A wine that isn't built for long term cellaring and contemplation (there's enough of those already), which is fine because this drinks so well it will rarely survive the night anyway. Regular Price $16.99, $14.44/case 2015 EDALO ZALEMA CONDADO DE HUELVA One of our most unique wines to be featured in our Select Six lineup over the last year, but white wine drinkers will immediately find plenty of familiar characters to make it a part of the everyday lineup. This wine hails from the coastal region of Andelusia in southern Spain, which most people know for making Sherry and other fortified wines. The Condado de Huelva was at one point all about fortified wines, but the world market has forced/encouraged them to explore winemaking of all styles. One would think the warm arid region would be the source of extremely high fruit/low acidity wines; we did too, before tasting for the first time. And we would be SO wrong. The local Zalema grape does an admirable job holding on to its acidity, especially when planted in some of the more sheltered and cool valleys that see some protection from the heat by cooling coastal breezes. Bright citrus with notes of orange zest and lemon peel on the nose, similar in some ways to some of the white Rhone varieties like Grenache Blanc. On the palate the texture is surprisingly vibrant and alive with Mediterranean citrus and a light brininess, but more than enough natural richness to give the fruit some flesh. All this and the wine measures in at under 13%abv which gives it that much more of a refreshing drinkability. Mix this in to match with lighter seafood dishes or for a change of pace in back porch drinking when it gets warm again. Regular Price $13.99, $11.89/case 2014 McPHERSON WINE CO. SHIRAZ/MOURVEDRE VICTORIA The second part of our two wines in this Select Six to showcase the diversity of Australian wines, also from the region of Victoria, but this time on the Peninsula west of Melbourne and featuring the Rhone varieties the rest of Australia has become known for. As drinkers of Syrah/Shiraz from across the world will tell you, the climate where the grapes are grown can bring out vastly different characters and flavor profiles. The cooler sites make the wine less thick in texture and sweetness of fruit, while also bringing out a savory character that can get into an outright 'bacon fat' realm in extreme cases. Mourvedre goes through that as well, becoming more tannic and firm in texture in the cooler sites. On the Victoria Peninsula there is cooling influences from oceans on both sides, and the reds here tend to be much more Rhone-like than most people expect. Still rich and inky dark, but with more briary and savory fruit aromas out of the glass, and less sticky-sweet fruit on the palate. even the slight inclusion of Mourvedre brings out the earthy leather and peppery notes people rarely notice from Australian reds. A great value for grilled meats and hearty dishes of all kinds. Regular Price $15.99, $13.59/case These wines regularly sell for $95.94 For Select Six February they are $81.99 You Save $12. 95! Select Six White (2 of each white) is $80.99 Select Six Red (2 of each red) is $82.99 Pick any three different bottles and get 10% off! 2015 ESPELT GARNACHA BLANCA OLD VINES EMPORDA
For quite a few years Grenache/Garnacha from Spain has been one of the great sources of value wines in the world. Fans of the warm, spicy red fruit and juicy soft texture have had literally hundreds of brands to choose from without breaking over the $10-$15 mark. But what about the white wine drinker? Where's their killer value to gt all excited about? Red grapes tend to grow better in these warm dry climates, but there are small pockets where a wine like this can emerge. Formed from parcels of 50 and 100 year old vines, this Garnacha Blanca mirrors a lot of the white Cotes du Rhones that feature the same grape with its fresh white fruit and hints of citrus on the nose. The texture is round and mouthfilling thanks to the lees aging and some time in neutral oak barrels, but the higher altitudes for the vineyards also helps bring in some much needed acidity Spanish whites can often lack, helping to maintain the freshness and a hint of tingle on the finish. A lovely value to enjoy all year round, but especially notable as a cooler weather white that has good body without needing heavy oak or buttery characters. Regular Price $12.99, $11.04/case 2014 DOMAINE JEAN DAVID COTES DU RHONE Another new find from one of our many local importers that scour the world to bring great small wineries directly to Virginia. Also another example of just how diverse the wines from the Rhone can be from the blends of grapes and the carious sub-climates. This small-ish producer from the well regarded village of Seguret has been doing it all right since becoming one of the first certified Biodynamic estates in the late 80s. The reds are not Grenache heavy and fruit forward, which is why they may have skirted the hype of big press and 'scores'. Carignan and Counoise are featured prominently in their wines which brings out the more savory herbs and rustic tones, and in the capable hands of this winery the results are impressive. Deep ruby in the glass, with a nose full of dark currant and Provincial herbs. It smells like a farm in all the most positive and natural ways, and the grapes are just a small part of what's taking place. The palate is generous, and the use of stems during fermentation brings out even more of the savory natural flavors behind the dark fruit. This is a wine that definitely has a sense of place about it, and is a terrific value for finding out if you enjoy making that journey. Regular Price $16.99, $14.44/case 2015 CASALE DEL GIGLIO LAZIO BIANCO 'SATRICO' With the millennia of cultural history in and around Rome that makes it among the most important cities in the world, the wine production from Latium is surprisingly lackluster by comparison. A history of allowing high yields has resulted in a reputation of diluted, uninspiring wines that are best consumed locally. When Casale del Giglio was launched on a family property in 1985, the region of Aprila near the town of Latina was largely under-explored, more noted for its agriculture and archaeology. Not being bound by the dogma of a well established DOC's regulation, the estate experimented with dozens of varietals and blends to find what worked best in the new era, with quite a few surprising accomplishments. This white starts with the omnipresent Trebbiano grape and adds on equal parts of Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc to create a new and unique modern wine that still identifies as Italian. Fresh cut grass and dry citrus on the nose from the Sauv Blanc and Trebbiano, equally clean on the palate with the Chardonnay providing some extra body and generous texture to soften the more savory edges of the fruit. A nice match for light salads and seafood dishes when you find yourself thinking about the warmer months. Regular Price $13.99, $11.89/case 2014 ZORZAL PINOT NOIR TUPUNGATO VALLEY 'TERROIR UNICO' (Wine Advocate 90points) New vintage of perhaps the best underground Pinot Noir values in the store, because few people (ourselves included sometimes) think to go to the Argentina section for anything other than a Malbec. The Tupungato Valley is at the highest elevations of the larger Uco Valley in Mendoza, which helps to provide cooler evenings during the growing season than the valley floors. While Malbec is heavily planted here, Chardonnay has performed very well also (see Catena Zapata's newest Tupungato designated bottling) and Pinot Noir is starting to make inroads as well. By learning to moderate the direct sunlight that can get somewhat intense here and can damage the fragile Pinot Noir skins, there is terrific potential. Combining some of the richness found in New World styled Pinots with the raciness of the acidity, the darker fruits have both liveliness and weight on the palate, a trick that's very difficult to achieve in an inexpensive wine. For Pinot fans that rarely wander to this end of the store, this will be a real eye-opener. Regular Price $14.99, $12.74/case 2015 ELIZABETH SPENCER SAUVIGNON BLANC MENDOCINO In the 1980s Spencer Graham was an integral part of developing a relationship with many of the early Californias wineries to get distribution in Virginia. Many of the big names and 'cult wineries' of the day made it into our market because of his early efforts exploring Napa and Sonoma for great wine. Eventually that love of wine led to establishing his own label with his wife and moving to Rutherford in Napa, but the attachment to our area still remains as Virginia has always gotten very good representation of the Elizabeth Spencer wines. Sourced from certified organic vineyards in the cooler Mendocino region, this vibrant full-bodied Sauvignon Blanc is loaded with zesty lemon and melon fruit aromas on the nose and palate with a touch of the juicier white fruits coming through on the palate thanks to the richer texture. Only a small portion is aged in neutral oak barrels, allowing the freshness of the varietal and the growing area to shine through. Regular Price $18.99, $16.14/case 2013 CIACCI PICCOLOMINI TOSCANA ROSSO As much of the focus is placed on the most famous wines from Montalcino, people sometimes forget that people there need to have some everyday wines on hand to drink, not just the Brunellos. Ciacci Piccolomini has evolved into both a critical and commercial success with their top wines, including several highly regarded more experimental 'Rosso Toscana' bottlings involving Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and even Syrah. The fruit from those projects that aren't quite ready to go in barrel long enough for those wines get blended together along with some ever-present Sangiovese to make this delicious affordable treat. Plump dark fruit with a bit more darkness than you usually get from a Tuscan wine, but the dusty earth character and elegance of the region still shines through. An affordable pasta and red sauce kind of wine with lots of breeding and quality to show. Regular Price $13.99, $11.89/case These wines regularly sell for $91.94 For Select Six January they are $78.99 You Save $12. 95! Select Six White (2 of each white) is $78.99 Select Six Red (2 of each red) is $78.99 Pick any three different bottles and get 10% off! |
Seasonal Picks at a Great PriceEach month we pick six fantastic wines and give them to you at an even better price when purchased together CategoriesArchives
September 2018
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