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AS THE LUCK OF THE IRISH WOULD HAVE IT YOUR NOT ONLY IN FOR GOOD LUCK IF YOU SHOP WITH US BUT THE GREATEST TASTING WINES AT INCREDIABLE SAVINGS!! IN SOME WAYS NO LUCK REQUIRED, JUST SHOP HERE AND SAVE!!
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BEAT THIS, I DARE YOU!
THE MOST ASKED FOR CHAMPAGNE!
STILL THE LOWEST PRICE!
2000
Moet & Chandon
Cuvee Dom Perignon
Champagne
"Starts out round and plush, then the structure takes over. Light peach and berry flavors prevail as this plays out on the lingering finish. Give it a little time to integrate, but this should develop well. Best from 2009 through 2024." (WS)
Wine Spectator: 91 pts.
"The 2000 Brut Dom Perignon is a gorgeous, seductive wine that floats on the palate with remarkable grace. Toasty aromas meld into freshly cut flowers, apricots and pears, with sweet notes of mint and licorice that linger on the long finish. This perfumed, inviting Dom Perignon is elegance personified, and in this vintage the wine fully merits its lofty reputation. According to winemaker Vincent Chaperone there is only one disgorgement date for the first release of Dom Perignon, and the 2000 was disgorged over a period of weeks in March and April, 2007, 2007. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2018. Moet & Chandon is one of Champagne’s giants when it comes to the sheer number of bottles that emerge from its cellars each year. The house’s top wine, Dom Perignon, is quite possibly the most iconic wine in Champagne, and perhaps the world. Production numbers are always kept close to the vest, but that notwithstanding, it is impossible to ignore the exceptional quality that the best vintages offer. At its best Dom Perignon is also an extremely ageworthy wine. In recent years Chef de Caves Richard Geoffroy has instituted a program of re-releasing newly disgorged wines under the OEnotheque program. Younger vintages see a second release (also known as second plenitude), while some of the older, classic vintages from the 1970s are on their third release (also known as third plenitude). While the OEnotheques, particularly the third releases, can be very pricey, at their finest they offer an extraordinary,otherworldly drinking experience matched by few wines in the world. Although Moet & Chandon doesn't disclose disgorgement dates, Geoffroy is considering adding that information in the near future. An article covering a number older vintages of Dom Perignon will appear soon on www.erobertparker.com" (WA)
Wine Advocate: 94 pts.
"($170) Pale gold with a fine bead. Gently smoky aromas of lemon, pear, bay, buttered toast and lees. Round, lightly sweet orange and pear flavors are underscored by smoky minerals and given bite by refreshingly bitter lemon pith. Finishes with a lingering smokiness. This is drinking very well right now and offers classic DP toastiness." (IWC)
International Wine Cellar: 92 pts.
"Very few brand names say more about the good life than Dom Perignon, the luxury name from the Moet et Chandon house in Epernay. It is the widest selling tete de cuvee Champagne in the world, and for good reason. It never disappoints. Here, in its latest version, it offers the classic DP blend of sweet citrus, chalk, light toast, insistent streams of small bubbles and a long, crisp, bright flavor profile and finish. And as good as it is now, it will be better in five years."
(CG)
Connoisseurs' Guide: 92 pts.
"Playing off the ripe 2000 vintage, this bottling of Dom Pérignon has intriguing layers of fruit complexity, from mature golden apple to lemon and greener tones of lima and wax beans. The flavors are clean and lasting, transformed into the glistening minerality of limestone. Firm and harmonious, this should develop for a decade or longer." (W&S)
Wine & Spirits: 94 pts.
only $119.95 |
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A SUPER STAR!
2007
Quinta do Vallado
Touriga Nacional
Douro
"Dense and concentrated flavors of wild plum, meat, kirsch and tobacco leaf fill this powerful red, with fine-grained tannins on the exuberantly fruity yet balanced finish. Mineral notes linger with plenty of chocolate overtones. Drink now through 2016. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 1,125 cases made."
(WS)
Wine Spectator: 94 pts.
The grapes come from Estate Vineyards planted in 1994 and were vinified in the new Quinta do Vallado red winery in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats, each holding a maximum of four tons of grapes, with manual remontage. After malolactic fermentation took place (in the original stainless steel tanks), the wine was racked in November 2007 to 225 litre French Allier Oak barriques.
(Winery Notes)
only $49.95 |
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WHAT A DEAL!!
2007
Michael & David Phillips
7 Deadly Zins
Zinfandel
Lodi
"The 2007 7 Deadly Zins is a knock-out bargain. Aged completely in American oak, it is loaded with berry fruit, pepper, spice, and earth characteristics. This rich, full-bodied, opulent, luscious Zinfandel can be drunk now and over the next several years." (WA)
Wine Advocate: 90 pts.
A sinful blend indeed! Our flagship Zinfandel was devised by the two Phillips brothers in their search for a blended Zin so captivating that no one could refuse. With consistency in mind, the brothers decided to blend the fruit of Lodi’s finest growers to fill the bottles of Michael~David’s new-fangled wine. In the end, Seven vineyards were chosen for their superiority. Now, how do you label a wine so unique in style? Looking to their past, the two Phillips brothers quickly related the Seven Sins from their Catholic school upbringing to the seven Old Vine Zinfandels blended in their wine.
Lustful Flavors:
Notes of sweet plums and pepper dominate the nose, while flavors of blueberry, raspberry, cinnamon, and black pepper pack the palate from start to finish. The silky-smooth tannins hold the wine together and deliver a soft, fruit driven experience.
Gluttonous Pairings:
Our 7 Deadly pairs sinfully well with BBQ’d Salmon, prime rib or grilled veggies. Get crazy with delectable dark chocolate desserts!
Awards:
QRW - The Wine Magazine
5 Star Zinfandel, Best of the Best California Zinfandels, Best Value
(Winery Notes)
only $11.95 |
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DRINKING BETTER THEN EVER!
2005
Guigal
Chateauneuf-du-Pape
Rhone Valley
"A dark, slightly chewy style, with braised beef, fig paste and currant notes laced with coffee and aged tobacco. There's a dash of roasted chestnut on the muscular finish. This is a solid, brawny version. Grenache, Mourvèdre, Syrah and others. Drink now through 2015. 14,165 cases made." (WS)
Wine Spectator: 89 pts.
"The 2005 Chateauneuf du Pape is a must buy. It boasts a deep plum/ruby color as well as a rich bouquet of blackberries, kirsch, spice box, pepper, grilled herbs, and meat juices. With supple tannins, full body, and beautiful texture and depth, it should drink nicely for 10-15 years." (WA)
Wine Advocate: 93 pts.
"($55) Deep red. Complex aromas of dried red berries, garrigue, Asian spices and rose. Spicy red fruit flavors are firmed by fine-grained tannins and complemented by notes of succulent herbs and smoky spices. Well-structured but not hard, finishing with very good clarity, sappiness and lingering florality." (IWC)
International Wine Cellar: 90 pts.
only $39.95 |
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WHAT A DEAL!!
2006
Joseph Phelps
Chardonnay
Freestone Vineyard
Fog Dog
Sonoma Coast
"My favorite of these whites is the 2006 Chardonnay Freestone Vineyard Fog Dog. (I learned that Fog Dog is an expression used when there is a slight break in a fog bank, and clear skies can be seen.) This beautiful Chardonnay offers white peach, honeysuckle, and citrus characteristics nicely framed by acidity as well as noteworthy minerality. This fresh, lively, medium to full-bodied 2006 can be enjoyed over the next 2-3 years. The Freestone Vineyard, a 100-acre, cool climate site planted on the Sonoma Coast by Joseph Phelps, is finally coming into production, offering consumers a bevy of different Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs. There are three Chardonnay offerings, all of which emphasize the minerality and citrusy characteristics of this varietal with little intrusive oak, despite the fact that they are barrel-fermented and aged primarily in new French oak. The Cabernet Sauvignon program consists of three wines, the Cabernet Sauvignon, their famous proprietary red wine called Insignia, and their single vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon from the western hillsides of Oakville, called Backus. The regular Cabernet is a solidly made, reliable effort usually comprised of about 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Merlot, Petit Verdot, and occasionally Malbec. The single vineyard offering comes from Oakville’s Backus Vineyard. There are typically 1,500-2,500 cases produced from this biodynamically farmed vineyard." (WA)
Wine Advocate: 93 pts.
"Joseph Phelps, of Napa Valley fame, has been working this cool-climate vineyard for years. Now it’s paying off, in this acidic Chardonnay with a tang of the sea. Rich in Meyer lemon, lime, guava and spice flavors, its coating of smoky oak adds exotic levels of buttered toast and crème brûlée. Fascinating and tremendous." (WE)
Wine Enthusiast: 95 pts.
only $23.95 |
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STILL A GREAT PRICE AND WELL WORTH IT!
2008
La Vieille Ferme Rouge
Cotes du Ventoux
"A strong effort, the 2008 La Vieille Ferme Cotes du Ventoux red exhibits excellent ripeness as well as plenty of cherry fruit intermixed with hints of dusty, earthy, peppery notes. Round and delicious, it, too, should be drunk during it’s first year of life. One of the great estates of the Rhone Valley, Chateau Beaucastel has been run by several generations of the Perrin family, beginning with the late Jacques Perrin (who died in 1978), then the brothers Jean-Pierre and Francois, and now their sons Thomas, Marc, Pierre, and Mathieu. Beaucastel has nearly 200 acres in vine in Chateauneuf du Pape, and they have branched out with an impressive operation under the Perrin et Fils label, purchasing grapes and acquiring land (in Vinsobres and Gigondas, for example). Their goal is to become the most recognized name for high quality wines in the southern Rhone. As shrewd consumers know, one of the best values in under $10 a bottle wine is La Vieille Ferme. The Perrin et Fils cuvees include wines made from purchased grapes as well as their new acquisitions in Vinsobres, Gigondas (25 acres), and the Cotes du Rhone village of Cairanne (35 acres). The Perrins enjoyed tremendous success with their 2008 red wines, largely because yields ranged between 18 hectoliters per hectare for Beaucastel, to only 20 hectoliters per hectare for Coudoulet. The mildew that affected everyone was the culprit. The entire family acknowledged there was an extraordinary triage and culling out of the grapes at the sorting tables."
(WA)
Wine Advocate: 87 pts.
only $5.99 |
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2006
Covey Run
Semillon Ice Wine Reserve 375 ml
Yakima Valley
"The medium gold-colored, fragrant 2006 Semillon Ice Wine Reserve offers up aromas of candied peach and pineapple, Viscous and very sweet on the palate, it is intensely flavored, well-balanced, and lengthy. (WA)
Wine Advocate: 91 pts.
Winemaking: Imagine a cool, crisp winter night. Fresh snow is on the ground and the grapes are frozen on the vines. That’s when these grapes are harvested. Pressed while still frozen, the grapes grudgingly yield a rich, concentrated juice that is fermented both in-tank and in new barrels.
Wine Description: Our Covey Run Semillon Ice wine shows intense aromas of ripe mango and pineapple, with floral notes of honeysuckle, and honey. These aromas are balanced with zippy acid (think lemon vanilla cream sandwich cookies) and a long, lingering finish.Winemaker Notes: The Covey Run Reserve wines are an expression of winemaker Kate Michaud’s passion for Washington State’s best-loved wines – Chardonnay, Merlot and Ice Wine. Handcrafted from the best of the best grapes from top vineyard sites in Washington’s famed Columbia and Yakima valleys, these limited-production wines are rich and elegant with great intensity of flavor.
(Winery Notes)
375ml.....only $19.95 |
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NEW KILLER LOW
PRICE!!
NV
Veuve Clicquot
Brut
Yellow Label
Champagne
"A nice crisp structure focuses the graphite, honey and citrus flavors. This is rich, but remains smooth and elegant, with a lingering aftertaste of honey and pastry. Drink now." (WS)
Wine Spectator: 90 pts.
"The NV Brut offers up attractive notes of smoke, tar, rich ripe pears and flowers in a medium to full-bodied style. There is a good measure of persistence, although the wine could use a little more polish on the finish. This is Lot 14009913, disgorged between December, 2007 and January, 2008. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2010. Veuve Cliquot Ponsardin is one of Champagne’s best known brands thanks to the success of its “yellow label” non-vintage wine and the tete de cuvee La Grand Dame." (WA)
Wine Advocate: 87 pts.
"$50; Lot 14009913) Yellow-gold. Musky pear and peach skin aromas, plus a hint of spun sugar. Juicy if uncomplicated peach and melon flavors provide good palate coverage and are firmed by a note of bitter lemon pith. Finishes on a sweet note, with good grip and an echo of pear skin." (IWC)
International Wine Cellar: 87 pts.
Clicquot's signature brut non-vintage is loved the world over for its crisp, full flavors, consistent quality and celebratory yellow label. This classically-styled, dry Champagne is a blend of two-thirds black grapes (Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier) for body, balanced with one-third Chardonnay for elegance. It has a fine persistent sparkle and golden Champagne color. Its complex nose of apple, citrus and caramel is followed by full flavors with elegance, crispness and a slightly spicy finish.
(Winery Notes)
only $36.95 |
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YET
ANOTHER LAWC "FIND" FOR VALUE AND COST/QUALITY!
2006
Trinitas
Petite Sirah
Old Vine
Lodi
The Wine
Our 2006 Petite Sirah displays aromatics of huckleberry, chocolate, cocoa,
green tea, and white pepper. The palate is full and rich with mouth-watering
tannin.
The Winemaking
A pre-fermentation cold soak with traditional pump-over cap management preserved
the unique fruit qualities of this wine. After malolactic occurred in neutral
wood, an addition of 15% new American oak and 15% new French oak was used
to enhance the spice flavor components and to frame the fruit with added
structure in the mid-palate. During 14 months of aging, this wine was racked
once and only lightly filtered before bottling.
The Vineyard
The Hwy 88 Ranch on the southeast side of Lodi is the source of grapes for
our Old Vine Petite Sirah. The vineyard consists of multiple soil types
ranging from sandy loam to clay. Comprised mostly of Hamford sandy loam
and Greenfield sandy loam, the vineyards soil profile changes radically
from north to south. Only about 25% of the south side is San Joaquin loam
ending in a small corner of Capay clay. Full of eutypa dieback (dead arm
disease) and weeds, this is the strangest looking vineyard we produce wine
from. However with vine over 50 years old, this vineyard produces some of
the highest quality Petite Sirah in California, proving the old adage you
can never judge a book by its cover.
only $11.95 |
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2006
Santa Ema
Amplus
Carignan Old Vines
Peumo, Cachapoal Valley, Chile
"Ripe and vivid, with a pure beam of blackberry fruit laced with blueberry,
spice and pepper notes. The long, polished finish has nice buried minerality.
Drink now through 2011. 1,200 cases made." (WS)
Wine Spectator: 90 pts.
The word ‘Amplus’ comes from Latin for important, sophisticated, distinguished,
and honorable. This line represents the union of tradition and distinction of
its Italian ancestors with the innovation of new times. These are modern wines
with tremendous complexity and elegance, with whites that feature all the potential
of the new Leyda Valley and reds with the tradition of Peumo in the Cachapoal
Valley. Amplus Carignan comes from carefully tended 100-year-old Carignan vines
in Peumo.
Color: Deep, violet-ruby-red.
Aroma: Intense fruity aromas of cherries, raspberries, and blackberries complimented
by rich notes of dark chocolate, nutmeg, and roasted coffee beans.
Palate: Well-structured and full of character with an abundance of creamy tannins,
bright and refreshing acidity, and plenty of fresh fruit on its delightfully
long, elegant finish.
Pairing Suggestion: Perfectly pairs with waygu, pork, lamb and game meat. Delicious
if drink with seasoned dishes and ripe cheeses.
(Winery Notes)
only $19.95 |
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WINERY
PRICE $24.95, GET THE PICTURE?
2006
San Simeon
Chardonnay
Monterey
WHAT A FIND: A
$25 Chardonnay for $8.99! REMEMBER WINDBREAK 2006?
WELL, THE NEXT COMING OF! ALL: (Sarmento Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands,
Loma Vista Vineyard, Arroyo Seco) Limited inventory, subject to immediate
disappearance!- Steve B.
(Our Notes)
YES, THERE IS GOOD CALIFORNIA CHARDONNAY FOR UNDER $9 2006 SAN SIMEON
MONTEREY CHARDONNAY
This is the second or third time I have recommended San Simeon Chardonnay
from various vintages. Again, I am pleased to recommend the 2006 vintage
of this wine, especially at Los Angeles Wine Companies, close out discount
price of $8.99, as compared to other prices listed on the internet ranging
from $13.99 to $18.99. The San Simeon Chardonnay is a directly appealing
not complex white that still exhibits unmistakable varietal character with
its flavors and aromas of creamy butterscotch, peaches, green apples, pears
and traces of fresh herbs. Furthermore, it does not suffer the fate of many
a California Chardonnay, in that it has sufficient crisp acidity to keep
the wine interesting. The wine is now at its height and will continue so
until around 2012/2013. At its discounted price of $8.99, the wine is easily
comparable to California Chardonnays selling for double and even triples
this wines low price.
RATING: 87/88
PRICE: $8.99, ****bargain
WHERE: Los Angeles Wine Co.
(Martin's Guide to Wine Bargains)
San Simeon Chardonnay is a rich, mouth-filling wine with ripe tropical
fruit flavors with complements of citrus and pear. The nose reveals bright
fruit and oak toast with hints of vanilla and spice. Mineral notes express
the rocky terroir of the vineyards. This structured and well-balanced wine
shows a lengthy finish with potential to age.
(Winery Notes)
only $8.99 |
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2008
J. J. Prum
Wehlener Sonnenuhr
Riesling Kabinett
Mosel-Saar-Ruwer
"Though elegant and filigreed, this white is also fleshy and succulent as
2008 kabinette go, with peach, slate and lime notes. A hint of fresh herbs adds
depth and the finish is long and smoky. Best from 2012 through 2023." (WS)
Wine Spectator: 92 pts.
"($39) Succulent aromas of cherry, apple blossom and sweet herbs. Firm apricot
pit fruit, but with a refreshing acid bounce framing the palate. The elegant
finish features persistent slatey minerality. My candidate for the kabinett
of the vintage." (IWC)
International Wine Cellar: 92 pts.
only $29.95 |
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2007
Qupe Cellars
Syrah
Central Coast
"($17) Deep red. Red and dark berry aromas are brightened by cracked pepper and black tea. Light-bodied red raspberry and cherry flavors are pleasantly bitter, with good back-end snap. I'm not sure that I'd guess this to be syrah (there's a pinot-like delicacy to it) but it's pleasantly clean and brisk." (IWC)
International Wine Cellar : 87 pts.
"Nicely defined blackberry fruit sits at the center of this slightly lighter look at Syrah, and, while never a wine of great size and swagger, it exhibits a nice bit of varietal spice and its tannins and acids are in careful balance. It tightens up a touch at the finish but seems certain to unwind with only a few years of age. GOOD VALUE Limited production and/or limited geographic distribution.Medium Red. Balanced, good depth, medium tannin. Beef and lamb.Drinkable now. Further bottle aging can improve this wine. GOOD VALUE @ $17.00" (CG)
Connoisseurs' Guide: 87 pts.
This wine is 98% Syrah and 2% Grenache from both Santa Barbara County (67%) and San Luis Obispo County (33%). The breakdown of appellations is Santa Ynez Valley (SYV) 33%, Santa Barbara County (SBC - not in an AVA) 30%, Santa Maria Valley (SMV) 4%, Paso Robles (PR) 32%, and Edna valley (EV) 1% (first crop off our new Sawyer Lindquist Vineyard). The vineyards used, in order of percentage with their AVA, are (and only real wines geeks should read the rest of this sentence): French Camp (PR); Mesa Verde (SYV); Los Alamos (SBC); Chabot (SBC); Carriage (PR); Vogelzang (SYV); Bien Nacido (SMV); Alisos (SBC); Windmill (SYV); Colson Canyon (SBC); Demetria (SYV); Nielson (SMV); and Purisima Mountain (SYV)… that's 17 different vineyards from 5 different AVA's The wine is essentially a blend of cool-climate Santa Barbara grapes and warm-climate Paso Robles grapes. The cool-climate fruit gives spice, acidity and balanced alcohol while the warm-climate fruit give softness, roundness, ripeness and more up-front fruit flavors and aromas. 2007 was a fairly cool vintage, in general. The first grapes in this wine to ripen were from French Camp on September 5th, the last were grenache from the Sawyer Lindquist Vineyard on November 5th… that's two full months apart for anyone keeping track! All of the lots were fermented separately, and aged separately, at first, in mostly neutral French oak barrels (the percent of new barrels would be less than 3%). The majority of the blend was made at the first racking in March; the final blend was made before bottling in August 2008. 20,500 cases of 750ml and 3000 cases of 375ml were produced.
(Winery Notes)
375ml.....only $4.99 |
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LAST CALL FOR THIS IMMENSE BARGAIN!!
2007
Henry's Drive
Pillar Box Red
Padthaway
"The 2007 Pillar Box Red, a blend of 65% Shiraz, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 10% Merlot. Purple-colored, it exhibits an expressive nose of spice box, earth notes, blueberry, and black currant. Ripe, sweet, and layered, this nicely rendered red has exceptional balance and length for its humble price. James Halliday says of Padthaway, “?It is on the way to nowhere. If you can pass through Coonawarra without noticing very much, you can pass through Padthaway without noticing anything at all.” Be that as it may, this is where the Longbottoms added grape growing to their other farming interests and began Henry’s Drive Vignerons. It quickly became clear that high quality grapes could be grown in Padthaway (they became the foundation of the Marquis-Philips line) and, subsequently, The Henry’s Drive, Parson’s Flat, and Pillar Box labels have gained significant traction in the USA market over the last ten years thanks to their superb price to quality ratio."
(WA)
Wine Advocate: 90 pts.
65% Shiraz, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot
Under the guidance of well known Australian consulting winemaker, Chris Ringland, the Henry’s Drive Winemaking team are responsible for this forth vintage of Pillar Box Red, named after the once-ubiquitous red postal boxes that used to dot the Australian landscape. The majority of the fruit for this wine was sourced from the Estate’s Padthaway vineyards, with a small amount coming from local growers. The vines are in various types of soil, including red loam, black loam and deep sand over limestone. The wine is matured using 85% French and 15% American oak for three to four months.
(Winery Notes)
only $8.99 |
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2006
Louis M. Martini
Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley
"A strong line-up of Napa
offerings from Louis M. Martini includes a superb bargain, the 2006 Cabernet
Sauvignon, a 7,000-case blend of 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, and
the rest Syrah and Petit Verdot. Its deep ruby/plum color is accompanied
by sweet blue and red fruits intertwined with hints of loamy soil, licorice,
and subtle background oak. With good flavor as well as silky tannins, this
well-balanced, concentrated 2006 should be even better over the next 10-15
years. It is a big-time sleeper of the vintage." (WA)
Wine Advocate: 90 pts.
The Louis M. Martini Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon exhibits a deep
garnet color with intense aromas of ripe cherry, cassis, and pipe tobacco.
Concentrated flavors of ripe plums, and dark bing cherries marry perfectly
with the oak nuances. This is a well structured wine that is balanced with
firm, velvety tannins which culminate in a long, elegant finish with hints
of tobacco, dried herbs and fruit. This wine is ready to enjoy now or can
be aged for 3-5 years. The 2006 Louis M. Martini Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
delivers the highest quality from premium Napa Valley vineyards. The wine
grapes were picked in the early morning hours to keep the fruit as cool
as possible prior to fermentation. The grapes were then destemmed, but not
crushed, leaving over 90% whole berries in the stainless steel upright fermenters.
Once the must was inoculated with the Prise De Mousse yeast strain, it fermented
in temperatures controlled between 76°F - 85°F and received extended skin
contact for up to 21 days for maximum extraction. After primary fermentation
was completed, the wine underwent secondary, or malolactic, fermentation.
The wine was racked every three to four months, and pad and sterile filtered
prior to bottling.
(Winery Notes)
only $17.95 |
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2005
Chateau Caronne Ste. Gemme
Haut-Medoc
"Offers raisin and dried fruit, with very ripe fruit aromas and coffee and oak undertones. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a long finish. This is pumped up, but I like the flamboyant character. Best after 2011. 20,000 cases made." (WS)
Wine Spectator: 91 pts.
"Space limitations did not allow complete tasting notes for this Cru Bourgeois, but 2005 is the finest vintage for these wines since 1982. The range of scores for these wines should give readers an idea of just how consistent this vintage is at this level. Given the style of the vintage, most of these wines should be accessible young yet evolve for a decade or more because of their concentration and tannic structure." (WA)
Wine Advocate: 88-90 pts.
"Considerable depth of flavor here, with complex ripe tannins, topping the dense black fruits. There’s spice from the wood, some stalky tannins from the fruit, and an edge of youth that will need 3–4 years to show its potential." (WE)
Wine Enthusiast: 90 pt.
LEFT BANK ’05 BORDEAUX WINNER FOR $23.95
2005 CHATEAU CARONNE STE. GEMME, Appl. HAUT-MEDOC CRU BOURGEOIS
As time moves on the wines, from the fabulous vintage of 2005, not only become scarcer but those still for sale are steadily inching up in price. Therefore, it’s a pleasure to find a most pleasant, delicate ’05 Bordeaux from a top appellation that is still available (all-be-it, in small quantities) for under $24 while on special at L. A. Wine Co. Chateau Caronne Ste. Gemme lies in the central Haut-Medoc, in the commune of St. Laurent, which is about two miles inland from the Gironde River and not that far from Chateau Margaux. The vineyard covers about 110 acres, producing in the neighborhood of 20,000 cases a year from a cepage of 63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot and a 2% dab of Petit Verdot. Aging occurs for about 15 months is small barrels of which about a fifth are new each year. The wines of this Chateau are known for producing stylish, light to medium bodied wines with flavors and aromas of cherries (from the Cabernet), currants and blueberries, with strong hints of herbs like bay leaf and pleasant traces of wild-mushrooms and wet leather. And all of these attributes are certainly present in this 2005, which may be the best wine the Chateau ever produced. Chateau Caronne Ste. Gemme lies in an isolated area of St. Laurent, surrounding a distinguished Chateau with a great stone terrace. The name derives from St. James Spring (“Caronne” comes from the Latin where it means a small natural spring – and Ste. Gemme is a local corruption of St. James or St. Jaime). And I know you were just dying for this fascinating trivia, which you can blame on the History major that writes this Guide.
RATING: 90/91
PRICE: $23.95, ***bargain
WHERE: Los Angeles Wine Co.
(Martin's Guide to Wine Bargains)
only $23.95 |
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Ratings Pedigree:
2007: Stephen Tanzer - 90
2007: Wine Advocate - 89
2006: Wine Advocate - 91
Compare To: $15.95
2007
Ninety + Cellars
Garnacha Crianza
Lot #8
Carinena
Story: Garnacha is a grape native to Spain; this wine is from a region of
Spain with a wine-making tradition that dates back to the times of the Roman
Empire. This wine is estate grown and has been aged 6 months in French oak which
allows it the Crianza designation. This lot is one of the best deals we have
found and a personal favorite we are happy to share!
Taste: A complete wine, with aromas of forest fruit shrouded in chocolate, vanilla,
milk, coffee, nuts and wood spice. The wine has a broad palate of earthy blue
fruits and integrated oak; well put together, ripe and nicely open with a lingering
spicy finish.
(Winery Notes)
only $7.99 |
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2009
Wine Enthusiast Top 100: #1
2006
Cambria
Pinot Noir
Julia's Vineyard
Santa Maria Valley
"This is the best Pinot Noir at this price on the market. Easily. It’s picture-perfect
cool climate, absolutely dry and silky, with complex flavors of cherries, Mandarin
orange, cola, pomegranates, licorice and cinnamon spice, made even richer by
smoky oak. Just lovely, and gets even better as it breathes in the glass." (WE)
Wine Enthusiast: 93 pts.
375ml....only $9.95 |
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2009
Wine Spectator Top 100: #41
2007
Kumeu River
Chardonnay
Estate
Kumeu
"Bright, tangy and elegant, this vibrant wine has grapefruit and pineapple flavors
at the fore, picking up apple and spice as the finish lingers effortlessly.
Drink now through 2017. 7,000 cases imported." (WS)
Wine Spectator: 92 pts.
"The 2007 Estate Chardonnay has a wonderful nose that has you instantly
hooked, capturing the essence of a Somersault with hints of roasted almonds
and smoke. The palate is very well balanced, very clean on the entry but building
nicely to a weighty, honeyed middle with touches of almond, hazelnut, lemon
and spice. With great persistency on the finish, this Chardonnay offers a.....Michael
Brajkovich MW produced a brilliant array of 2007s. The cooler growing season
meant that they harvested one week earlier than 2006 with lower yields and sugar
levels, high acidity levels but with greater expression of mineralilty. If you
have never tried these wines, then it is time you see for yourself what New
Zealand is capable of. All his Chardonnays can be drunk immediately but do resist
temptation and save some bottles to drink over 5-6 years (or more) as they can
age beautifully. Just don’t ask Michael if he could bottle your allocation under
cork!" (WA)
Wine Advocate: 91 pts.
only $27.95 |
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2007
Louis Latour
Corton-Charlemagne
Grand Cru
Cote de Beaune
"A toasty, expressive and highly complex nose of pain grillé, green fruit
and dried rose petal leads to rich, full, well-muscled and impressively intense
full-bodied flavors that possess plenty of dry extract that really coats the
mouth on the long and serious finish. This is very Corton-Charlemagne in character
and one that should reward mid-term cellaring." (BH)
Burghound: 93 pts.
only $69.95 |
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2005
B Cellars
Blend 25
Napa Valley
"The inky/ruby/purple-hued 2005 Blend 25 (61% Cabernet Sauvignon and 39%
Syrah) offers a big, sweet nose of blackberries, chocolate, coffee beans, and
plums. Full-bodied with excellent fruit, low acidity, and a broad, savory mouthfeel,
it should provide plenty of pleasure during its exuberant youth. This relatively
new producer’s debut vintage was 2003, but these are the first wines I have
tasted from B Cellars. Proprietors Jim Borsack and Duffy Keys have hired Kirk
Venge as their consulting winemaker, and the wines are clearly made in a fruit-forward
style that should satisfy consumers and restaurants looking for immediate drinkability.
Two of their flagship wines are their Blend 24 and Blend 25. The Blend 24 is
normally dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon, with some Merlot, followed by Sangiovese
and Petite Sirah. The Blend 25 is usually a two varietal blend of two-thirds
Cabernet Sauvignon and one-third Syrah. The third blend, the Blend 26, is 100%
Cabernet Sauvignon from three vineyard sites. Two-thirds come from the Stagecoach
Vineyard above the Silverado Trail, 23% from the To-Kalon Vineyard in Oakville,
and 11% from the Dr. Crane Vineyard in St. Helena." (WA)
Wine Advocate: 91 pts.
only $27.95 |
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2007
Clos de los Siete
by Michel Rolland
Mendoza
"Juicy raspberry and red currant
fruit is woven with slightly firm toast. Cocoa, raisin and licorice notes peek
in on the grippy finish. Malbec, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. Drink
now through 2010. 83,000 cases made." (WS)
Wine Spectator: 88 pts.
"The 2007 Clos de Los Siete, a wine made by the peripatetic Michel Rolland,
remains one of Argentina’s finest values. It is a blend of 48% Malbec, 28% Merlot,
12% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 12% Syrah. Dark ruby-colored, it offers up a fragrant
bouquet of mineral, violet, black cherry, and black currants. This leads to
a medium- to full-bodied wine with both elegance and stuffing. Ripe, intensely
flavored, and well-balanced, it will evolve for 1-2 years but can be enjoyed
now and over the next 6 years." (WA)
Wine Advocate: 90 pts.
"($20; 48% malbec, 28% merlot, and 12% each cabernet and syrah) Bright,
full ruby-red. Crushed black fruits, mocha, bitter chocolate, licorice and smoked
meat on the nose. Sweet, penetrating and firm-edged; aromatic in the mouth but
tightly wound today. I like this wine's balance of sweetness and acidity. The
tannins are firm but not quite hard. This energetic wine needs time to soften."
(IWC)
International Wine Cellar: 89+ pts.
"Notes of black fruits, hints of tobacco and sweet spice come together in
this blend of malbec, merlot, cabernet and syrah. It's juicy and round, the
muscular structure holding the fruit in check. An ideal match for game. Clos
de los Siete is Michel Rolland's project high up in Mendoza's Uco Valley." (W&S)
Wine & Spirits: 91 pts.
A collaborative project by seven producers under the banner of Michel Rolland,
this is a blend of composed of Malbec, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah.
Very dark in the glass, this is not a shy wine. The dominant feature here is
sweet, lush, dark fruits. The oak, which gives a spicy sheen, is very much in
the background. There's some structure here, with grippy tannins hiding under
the sweet fruit, and overall the wine is savory in character.
(Winery Notes)
only $13.95 |
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2008
Chateau Ste. Michelle-Dr. Loosen
Riesling Eroica
Columbia Valley
"This lively, refreshing wine has a delicately sweet edge to its pear and floral
flavors, lingering effectively on the focused finish. Drink now through 2013.
24,000 cases made." (WS)
Wine Spectator: 90 pts.
"The white wines begin with the 2008 Eroica Riesling, a collaboration between
Germany’s Ernst Loosen and Chateau Ste. Michelle. The grapes are sourced from
a number of sites and several AVAs. Because of the winery’s vast holdings, this
superb Riesling can be made in quantity (27,000 cases) while maintaining exceptional
quality. Light straw-colored, it has a lovely, captivating perfume of acacia,
honey, mineral, melon, and tropical aromas. Crisp, light- bodied (11.5% alcohol),
concentrated, and vibrant, this just off-dry (1.77% RS), Kabinett-styled Riesling
has the balance to evolve for several years and should drink well for a decade."
(WA)
Wine Advocate: 91 pts.
"($24) Very pale straw-yellow. Subtle aromas of citrus peel, ginger, quinine,
linden tea and fresh herbs. Intense stone fruit flavors are bright and tactile,
with a slight impression of residual sweetness leavened by vibrant acids. Tasty,
complex riesling with very good lift on the firm aftertaste." (IWC)
International Wine Cellar: 91 pts.
"A collaborative effort between Chateau Ste. Michelle and the Mosel's Ernst
Loosen, Eroica consistently ranks as one of the West Coast's finest Rieslings.
As this latest version so aptly demonstrates, it is also very much deserving
of patience. While it presently flirts with elements of Bartlett pears, peaches
and a hint of lime zest, it is still a firm, tightly wound youngster that needs
to unfold. Its exceptional balance ensures that any wait will be well worthwhile,
and, while we would enjoy it right now with a scallop or two, we plan on setting
some aside to be enjoyed as it fills out and opens up over the next several
years. GOOD VALUE" (CG)
Connoisseurs' Guide: 93 pts.
only $16.95 |
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