wines evaluated last month: 278 • rejected: 242 • approved ... · world and they make wines of...

Wines evaluated last month: 278 • Rejected: 242 • Approved: 36 • Selected: 12 MARCH 2015

am gearing up. Gettingready. Thinking throughthe process. In fact, I amso far ahead of the

curve on this that I am going toorder Euros now…last year, itcost $1.42 to buy a Euro, today,I can buy that same Euro for$1.13! That is almost 30% in our favor! In May Sandra and I leave for France to test my French and buy somewine….Seriously, at $1.13 thefood and wine prices will bevery close to prices in theUS…so the trick is now…findthe non-tourist restaurants…because last year…the bestmeal we had in 21 days was inBudapest Hungary!

Paul KalemkiarianOwner/Cellarmaster

I

What’s What’s NewNew This Month? This Month?What’s What’s NewNew This Month? This Month?ast night we had dinner with a great group of Frenchwine purveyors. They were in from a small southerntown named Carcassone. This is a second generationfamily run business and you have enjoyed a few of

their wines in the past few months. The conversation was spirited as one might imagine with three Frenchman, butwhen it came to talking business, everyone buckled down.You see, they share the same respect and responsibility tomake and sell fine wine as we do to bring you the same. Aresponsibility they share to the consumer (for both you andme) to bring great value to the dinner table.

A group of 129 Southern France wine growers are representedby this family owned winery and the winery creates regional and varietal designated wines from these varioussources. They have an incredibly large following around theworld and they make wines of incredible value. The discussionturned toward “branded” wines versus “great valued” wines.In other words, you can spend big money on a “branded”Cabernet from Napa Valley and show off the label (which certainly has its place in the wine world), or find an equallyimpressive Cabernet for one third the price from a winery inthe Central Coast. And when I say “equally impressive”, Imean just that, a wine that has all the structure and characterthat its more expensive “branded” wine does. And thisdichotomy is exactly why Wine of the Month Club and thisFrench wine company exist; for them to make, and for me to find these great values. Don’t get me wrong, there is certainly a time and place for “branded” wines to be set onthe table…if only to show that you spent big bucks for thatoccasion, but for the most part….you can get great wines formuch less money through sources like these great folks…by the way…we had Italian food!

L

MARCH

2015

2

What’s new 2Classic Series: Cline Zinfandel 3Classic Series: Oak Grove Viognier 4Classic Series: Oak Grove Merlot 5Classic Series: Pennywise Chardonnay 6Classic Series Earlier Selections 7Cellar Notes 8Vintners Series: Kimmel Merlot 9Vintners Series: Trumpeter Chardonnay 10Vintners Series: Spanish Eye Tempranillo 11Vintners Series: Thornton Viognier 12Vintners Series Earlier Selections 13

Facebook 14Limited Series: Playmaker Shiraz 15Limited Series: La Tour de Penedesse GSM 16Limited Series: Ksara Rose 17Limited Series: Three Knights Chardonnay 18Limited Series Earlier Selections 19For Members Only 20Gifts & More 21Recipe: Salmon and Scallops in Cream 22Recipe: Rosemary Chicken 22Tasting Notes 23The Cork Board 24

I N S I D E T H E T A S T I N G R O O M T H I S M O N T H

1 - 8 0 0 - 9 4 9 - 9 4 6 3 • w w w . W i n e o f t h e M o n t h C l u b . c o m

CLASSIC SER

IESMARCH

2015C L A S S I C

3


ITEM #: C0315R1DC

Retail Price: $15.98/each

Member Price: $10.98/each

Reorder Price: $7.99/each

50% Discount

Zinfandel(ZIN fan dell)

2013

ClineSonoma, California

Color:Dark purple

Nose:Earth, licorice and

black cherry

Palate:Ripe berry and plum

Finish:Concentrated, with soft tannins and

plumy fruit

Alcohol:14%

Drink now through 2016

WOMC RATING95 Points

NEW!NEW! View This Tasting VideoView This Tasting Video

Press across the street fromCline Cellars, a stunningreproduction of the Jacuzzifamily home in Italy.

Jacuzzi Family Vineyards specializes in Italian varietalsl i ke Montepu l c i ano,Sangiovese, and Arneis. TheOlive Press is an internation-ally acclaimed producer ofextra virgin olive oils andbalsamic vinegar. Passionateabout history, the Clines alsoown and operate DillonBeach Resort in northernCalifornia, the Mizpah Hotel

in Tonopah,Nevada, andVilla Laura inthe Tuscan hillsof Italy. In addition, thebusy coupleworks on aranch and vine-yard in the RedBluff area of

northern California.

It’s always a treat to featurewines from a producer youknow and respect. Fred Clineis one of those guys. He’svery down to Earth and as a result highly respected.He also has made some ofthe best wines in Californiaat down to Earth prices. I should know, I’ve tasted literally hundreds of themand they never, ever disappoint. This Zinfandel isno exception. It features flavors of dark berry, blackcherry, strawberry, spicenotes, and vanilla with alasting finish. Pairs well withcharcuterie, gumbo, orgrilled steak especially when expanded with aCognac and black peppercorncream sauce.

red Cline developedhis love for farmingand winemaking from

his maternal grandfather,Valeriano Jacuzzi (of pumpand spa fame). On Jacuzzi’sOakley California farm, Fred helped him produceZinfandel, Mourvedre, andCarignane for personal con-sumption. After graduatingfrom U.C. Davis with adegree in AgriculturalScience and Management,Fred and his wife Nancy,founded Cline Cellars nearOakley California. They preserved andrestored manyof the ancientvine sites origi-nally plantedby Italian andP o r t u g u e s eimmigrants. In1991, the Clinesrelocated thewinery to a350-acre estate in Sonoma’sCarneros region.

It was here that the Clinespioneered planting Rhone-style varieties such as Syrah,Viognier, Marsanne andRoussanne. The experimentwas an enormous success! In2004, the Wine Spectator’sannual Editor’s Picks issuenamed Cline Cellars one ofthe 50 Great Producers EveryWine Lover Should Know.

As the Cline family grew(they now have seven children), so did the ClineCellars. The couple purchasedland in the Sonoma Coastappellation where theyplanted Pinot Noir,Chardonnay and other classicCalifornia varietals. In 2007,they opened Jacuzzi FamilyVineyards and The Olive

F

Featured in theCALIFORNIA WINE SERIES

C L A S S I C

ITEM #: C0315W1DC




50% Discount

Viognier(VEE own yay)

2013

Oak GroveCalifornia

Color:GoldenNose:

White peach, honeysuckle

Palate:Asian pear, herbs

and lycheeFinish:

Clean and crispAlcohol:13%




CLASSIC SER

IES

MARCH

201

5

4


As she explains, the terracesthere are so steep and diffi-cult to maintain that theseacres were all that remainedin the appellation. By 2011,however, Condrieu plantingshad risen to 400 acres and the variety was knownand often grown virtuallythroughout the world ofwine. Part of this renaissanceis due in part to experimen-tal winemakers in Californiawho were so seduced byViognier’s perfume and

exotic spicec om p o n e n t .Today ove r2,000 acres ofViognier arep lan ted inCalifornia whichsays a lot aboutits resilienceand charm.

After all that, all we have to say is welcome backViognier. We’ve always beena fan of this wine and now more than ever.Winemakers complain bitterly about how difficult itis to grow with its thin skinand close clusters making itsusceptible to mold andmildew. Its finicky side resurfaces once again in thewinery when it tends to turn color at the slightestcontact with air. But like theerrant child, it’s still dear totheir hearts and therefore itis still made. Here’s a classicwith the entire nuance delivered flawlessly to match with a crab and avocado salad.

ak Grove Vineyardswas founded in1999 by one of our

favorite winemakers, JeffreyDye. Jeff subscribes to thebelief that all the best winesstart by being made in thevineyard, with a proficientwine growing team. Thewinemaking staff takes greatpride in searching out thef inest grapes f romCalifornia’s cool appellations.Those regions includeMonterey County, ArroyoSeco, and PasoRobles.

Viognier is thea r i s t o c r a t i cwhite grown inthe NorthernRhone Valley ofFrance. It’s adifficult grapeto grow andwine to make, but many per-severe because the rewardsare too great not to. Thewine can be outstanding asthis offering proves by providing the subtle lycheeand honeysuckle flavors thatmake wine lovers gasp.

As Jancis Robinson explainsin her incredible book, Vines,Grapes and Wines, the mostinteresting thing aboutViognier is that it was almostdriven into extinction. Asrecently as 1986 there wereall of 80 acres planted in theentire world! By the mid-1980s almost all of the officially planted Viognier inthe world was planted in theRhône Valley, most of it inthe Condrieu appellation on the right bank of thenorthern Rhône.

O

C L A S S I C

ITEM #: C0315R2DC




50% Discount

Merlot(MARE low)

2013

Oak GroveCalifornia

Color:Deep magenta

Nose:Currant, cherry

and cocoa

Palate:Very clean cranberry

and soft tannins

Finish:Long and luscious

with cherry and vanilla

Alcohol:13%




CLASSIC SER

IESMARCH

2015

5


grapes in California due to its popularity. CabernetSauvignon still reins as theking of red wine, but Merlot,the thinner skinned redgrape that also originatesBordeaux is still highlyprized. It is in fact said to bea descendant of Cab Franc.Dry in style with a mediumto full-bodied palate presence, Merlot can carry abit more alcohol than youraverage red wine grape withlevels topping out at 15%though many California

producers trystaying under13%.

The tann instructure inMerlot leans al i t t le softer and is one reason why this particular grapemakes a terrific

blending partner with thetighter tannic lines ofCabernet Sauvignon.Bordeaux, Italy, Australia,Washington State, Californiaand Chile are all producingsolid Merlot wine at anattractive spread of pricepoints. The classic Merlotgrape originated from theBordeaux region of France inSt. Emilion, Pomerol andFronsac along the right bankof the Gironde River. It typically produces a soft,medium-bodied red winewith juicy dark fruit flavors.

Here’s a perfect examplethat won’t break the budget.Medium bodied with beautiful fruit and earthcomponents that would be agreat match with short ribsor pork tenderloin.

good portion of thegrapes for this wine come from

Monterey County which is agrape growing area ofCalifornia that is both gorgeous and unique.Picturesque in its naturalbeauty, it’s an undulating,natural phenomenon thatbegins with the ruggedPacific coastline to the westand segues to fertile valleys framed by ascending mountain ranges to the east. These lush valleys are known for perfect grapegrowing condi-tions. Abundantsunshine byd a y ; c o o l ,ocean fog byn igh t ; andancient alluvialsoils give thisregion a repu-tation for producing world-class wines. These alluvialsoils are finely layered, very deep, and primarily recognized for creatingexceptionally inexhaustible,grape growing conditions.With farmers who are finely attuned to thisregion’s potential, grapesgrown here have a deliciousflavor profile.

This wine comes from super-star winemaker, Jeff Dye, ofArroyo Seco Vineyards inMonterey. It’s hard not tofeature these wines as theyare released due to the factthat they stand head andshoulders above the competition in every way.

It’s not easy to get a Merlotin the bottle that tastes likethis at his price. Merlot is one of the most expensive

A

C L A S S I C

ITEM #: C0315W2DC




59% Discount

Chardonnay(SHAR doe nay)

2012

PennywiseNapa, California

Color:Bright gold

Nose:Green apple and spice

Palate:Apple and pear with

a hint of spice

Finish:Meyer lemon, apple

and vanilla

Alcohol:13.5%




CLASSIC SER

IES

MARCH

201

5

6


made history when hebecame the first vintner inCalifornia to put varietalwines into 1.5-liter bottles.

But August's health wasdeclining, and so was thewinery's. In 1977, threeyears before he died, Augustobserved, "We don't want tobecome so large that welose control of quality." Yet that is exactly what happened. By the mid-1980s, with jug wines out

o f s t y l e ,Sebastiani wasstruggling. Thenext 10 yearswould see thewinery gothrough a difficult phaseof reinventionand rediscov-ery. Now, at the

dawn of the 21st century,that phase is paying off.

With rich aromas of toastyvanilla, sugar cookie, andapplesauce, this Chardonnayis a delight to the senses. Onthe palate, tropical fruitscombine with a roasted nutcharacter from French oakbarrels. A fruity, medium-body balanced by a brightacidity transition to a lingering mouthfeel.

This Chardonnay would pairwonderfully with an herb-crusted halibut, chicken, orpork loin paired with a zestyzucchini and mushroom side dish. Any tropical orpan-Asian cuisine would pair well too: pot stickerswith a soy vinaigrette orgrilled shrimp with a pineapple salsa on a warmsummer’s night.

ennywise comes fromour friends at TheOther Guys wine

Company owned by noneother than descendents ofthe great August Sebastiani.Siblings, Mia & AugustSebastiani are determined to make wines that will continue their family’s reputation for quality wine-making for generations tocome. They are building theircompany one handshake at a time, just like their ancestors andstepping backto the earlydays when allwine compa-n ies were family ownedand operated.

The Sebastianifamily has beencalled the First Family ofSonoma wine. For 100 years,their saga has been compelling, even in anindustry dominated by colorful characters. In 1904,August's father, Samuelelaunched the winery inSonoma, after having emigrated from Tuscany. "Ibought myself a 500-gallonwine tank and started fromthere," August once recalled.

Over the decades, the winery followed the usualpath: shipping grapes backeast during Prohibition, andmaking bulk wine for others.After Samuele's death in1944, August and Sylvia took over.

During the decades he ranthe winery, August built itinto a powerhouse, with production hitting 500,000cases annually. In 1975, he

P

CLASSIC SER

IESEarlier CLASSIC SERIES favorites at REORDER prices!

7

Reg Reorder CaseItem # Wine Name Retail Price Price Price


C0115R1IA – Malbec, 2014 Gaucho $17.99 $7.99 $95.88“Lots of blackberry mixed with leather and earth”

C0115R2DC – Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013. $14.99 $6.99 $83.88Riven Rock “Cherry with hints of mint and spice”

*Featured in the California Wine Series

C0115W1DC – Sauvignon Blanc, 2013. MSH $16.99 $7.99 $95.88“Fresh herbs and lime”

C0115W2DC – Chenin Viognier, Robert Pepi $15.99 $6.99 $83.88“Fresh melon, pear and spice”

C0215R1DC – Cabernet Sauvignon, 2012. $18.99 $7.99 $95.88Gravelly Ford “Concentrated, tannic with plummy fruit”


C0215R2DC – Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013. $15.99 $7.99 $95.88Red Tree “Concentrated, rich with a touch of anise”


C0215W1IC – Pinot Gris, 2013. Rai $17.99 $6.99 $83.88“Long and crisp with peach and lime”

C0215W2DC – Chardonnay, 2012. $18.99 $6.99 $83.88Silver Buckle “Apple and vanilla”

C0315R1DC – Zinfandel, 2013. Cline $15.99 $7.99 $95.88“Concentrated, with soft tannins and plumy fruit”


C0315R2DC – Merlot, 2013. Oak Grove $15.99 $7.99 $95.88“Long and luscious with cherry and vanilla”

C0315W1IC – Viognier, 2013. Oak Grove $13.99 $6.99 $83.88“Clean and crisp”

C0315W2DC – Chardonnay, 2012. Pennywise $16.99 $6.99 $83.88“Meyer lemon, apple and vanilla”

8

CELLAR NOTES

Cellar Notes: A report on how previous selections are faring with age.Obtained from actual tastings of wines under optimal conditions.

Classic Series:

March 2013:Cabernet Sauvignon, 2011. Los Andes. Still going strong.Pinot Grigio, 2012. Viamora. Best now.Cabernet Sauvignon, 2011. Ark. Best now.Chenin Blanc, 2010. Man Vintners. Perfect now.

March 2014:Red Wine Blend, 2011. Bandana. Still going strong.Pinot Grigio, 2012. Forenzo. Ready.Cabernet/Merlot, 2011. Echelon. Still great.Riesling, 2011. Stone Fruit. Drink or hold.

Vintners Series:

March 2013:Merlot, 2011. Vina Sutil. Going strong.Torrontes, 2010. Zuccardi. At its best.Grenache/Syrah, 2010. Tete Du Rhone. Another year or two.Sauvignon Blanc, 2010. Helderberg. At its best.

March 2014:Pinot Noir, 2010. Echelon. Drink in a year or two.Chardonnay/Muscat, 2011. Kumbaya. Still great.Cabernet Sauvignon, 2009. La Merika. Drink or hold.Chenin Sauvignon, 2010. Graham Beck. Drink or hold.

Limited Series:

March 2013:Syrah, 2007. Lost Canyon. At its best.Roots Red, 2008. Jus Soli. Still great.Verdejo, 2011. Baluarte. Drink up.Pinot Blanc, 2011. Konzelman. At its best.

March 2014:

Pinot Noir, 2008. Ancient Oaks. Drink in next year.Tempranillo, 2011. Storks Tower. Another 2-3 years.Chardonnay, 2010. Prodigal. ReadyPinot Gris, 2011. Man O War. Drink up.

VINTN

ERS SER

IESV I N T N E R S M

ARCH 2015

9


In college he decided theagriculture field was his calling and received adegree in agronomy andthen went on to Chico Statefor a degree in plant, soil science and botany. After college he worked as anentomologist for a largefarming company in thenorthern Sacramento Valleyand then a large consortiumfarming 500 acres of walnutsnear Chico.

Kimmel 2012 Four BlocksC o l l e c t i o nR e d e s s e n c ewas producedfrom premiumgrapes grownin H i l l s i deVineyard ontheir ranch inPotter Valley,California. Afterpick ing and fermentation,

selected varietals were aged in French oak barrelsfor added complexity and full flavor. The blend is 85% Merlot, 5% CabernetSauvignon, 5% CabernetFranc, 3% Malbec, 2% PetiteVerdot.

Redessence opens with afragrant burst of blackberryand red currant bouquet withjust a hint of anise. On thepalate, this wine is a fruitforward bomb. The flavor ofblackberry spiced cherry andripe blueberry coat thepalate with a savory port likefinish. There is a mediumbodied, very nicely balanced,and smooth red blend a lasting expression of ourMendocino climate, soil, andfarming practices. It’s a natural with braised chickenin 40 cloves of garlic.

he winery wasfounded by Ed andLillian Kimmel in

Sonoma California almost 50years ago, where their threeboys, Jim, Gary and Dennisexperienced life on eightrural acres raising chickens,sheep and cows and growingfresh vegetables.

Headed by matriarch LillianKimmel, all generations ofthe Kimmel Family havejoined in their winemakingadventure. Most often, you'll find Jimin SouthernCalifornia, intro-ducing his wineto notab le che f s and s o mm e l i e r sthen headsb a c k t oMendocino tot a s t e a n d perfect theupcoming vintage.

Closer to the ranch, Garytravels throughout Sonomaand Mendocino counties, following up on the latestshipment of barrels or corks,checking in with Mark at the Vineyard. Nieces andnephews have joined in thesales effort as well as guidedtheir usage of green farmingpractices at the ranch.

Winemaker, Bruce Regalia,was born into an Italian family and learned about thesenses of taste and smell atan early age. With his grand-parents from Genoa andCalabria, the family wasbrought up in the Italian tradition that everyone wasunderfed and Sundays were made to eat and drink.This was Bruce's indoctrina-tion into the world of foodand wine.

T

ITEM #: V0315R1DC




35% Discount

Merlot(MARE low)

2012

Kimmel Mendocino County,

California

Color:Deep purple

Nose:Currant, black cherry

and chocolate

Palate:Very clean cranberry

and soft tannins

Finish:Long and foreboding

with cherry and vanilla

Alcohol:14.1%

Drink nowthrough 2017



Featured in theCALIFORNIA WINE SERIES

VINTN

ERS SERIES

V I N T N E R SMARCH 2015

10


deep colour and smooth, ripe tannins.

The grapes are sourced from13 year old vineyards inTupungato, 1100 metersabove sea level, Mendoza.The vines are trained usingthe vertical shoot positioningsystem and irrigated by dripirrigation where the soils inthe area are mostly sandy.Yield is very low whichallows each cluster of grapes to receive the maxi-

mum amount ofnutrients from thesoil. Grapes arehand-harvestedand then 30% arebarrel fermentedwhich takes placesfor seven monthsin 50% newFrench oak and50% in second andthird year Frenchoak. 30% of thewine goes through

malolactic fermentation.

All this care and precision ishow the finest Chardonnaysin the world are crafted. A little bit of this, a little bit ofthat. Like a recipe, it’s howyou build complexity andlayers of flavor. Aromas ofrich tropical fruit lead intoflavors of citrus fruits pineapple followed by arefreshingly crisp finish withhints of vanilla which are justthe beginning. The long andslow finish deposits flecks of apple, spice, vanilla and lime zest in a whirlwindof sensations. This is a must with steamed clamsbathed in white wine, garlicand chorizo.

utini Wines, makersof Trumpter, is one ofthe oldest and most

celebrated wineries inArgentina. Its origins dateback to the late 19th centurywhen Italian immigrantFelipe Rutini planted his firstvines at what remains thesite of the present-day winery in Maipú, in theprovince of Mendoza. TheRutini winery was founded in1885, and has since thenbeen consistently commend-ed for the out-standing qualityand character ofits wines.

Ru t in i W ines currently ownsestates in five different areas o f Mendoz a ,including Maipú,Rivadavia, LaConsulta, Altamiraand Tupungato,with a total of 255 hectaresunder vine. This diversesource of vineyard sitesallows them to cultivateeach individual grape variety in the area that offers the best suited growing conditions. Of particular value is the source of old vines in thehighly coveted region of LaConsulta, where manybelieve the best Malbecgrapes in Mendoza are beinggrown today. Here theirvines reach ages of 65 years. The concentratedyields produced by thesevines, combined with the high altitude, cool air and intense sunshine in this region, create grapeswith rich fruit character,

R

ITEM #: V0315W1IA




48% Discount

Chardonnay(Shar doe NAY)

2011

TrumpeterMendoza, Argentina

Color:Very pale

Nose:Fresh apple

Palate:Slight with a hint

of spice

Finish:Apple and vanilla

Alcohol:13.5%




VINTN

ERS SER

IESV I N T N E R S M

ARCH 2015

11


lighter character belies itscolor with nerve, verve andpenetrating flavors.

Galicia is known in Spain as the "land of the 1000rivers". Those rivers cross theentire region from themountainous inland to thecoast. The coast itself offersgreat contrasts, from thesmooth beaches of AsMariñas to the dangerouscliffs of Costa de la Muerte

or the "coastof death".

The climate of Galicia ist e m p e r e d ,and is soespecially inwinter, withm i n i m a l temperaturesof about 50

deg rees . Du r ing the summer season, maximumtemperatures are around 80degrees. The first cultureswhich left their tracks inGalicia were Celtic andRoman. But it is their winehistory that brings us to theirwine. Grapes have beengrown here for over 1,000years so they have a bit ofexperience on their side andit certainly shows.

Our selection is made exclusively of Tempranillo.An unctuous wine with apleasant fullness thatlingers on the palate withripe black fruit and licoricenotes with hints of minerals.This wine is medium-bodied,complex and perfect with a foil for filet mignon or pork tenderloin.

ision Brands is a family businessfounded by two

cousins that are committedto bringing to the USA, thetradition of working withgrapes of Galicia for morethan 200 years. This yearthey launched their veryown brand with a delicious anew line of wines calledSpanish Eye that has an eyetoward quality, drinkabilityand price.

Some of thefinest andl o n g e s t lasting redwines in thewor ld a remade fromTempran i l lowhich is thebackbone ofmost Riojablends. It also produces different styles of winesfrom light, easy-drinkingwines that are picked fromyounger vines that are oak-aged, concentrated andcomplex wines to older vineswith a characteristically velvet finish.

Tempranillo is found in different areas of Spain.Besides being ubiquitous inso many areas, it is alsowithout question one of theworld’s finest varietals.Tempranillo has ability toage far beyond its expecta-tions. It is not normally a big,intense wine so it would benatural to assume that itsaging potential is limited butnothing could be furtherfrom the truth. Like similarage worthy grapes, PinotNoir and Nebbiolo, its

V

ITEM #: V0315R2IS




32% Discount

Tempranillo(Temp rah NEEYO)

2013

Spanish EyeGalicia, Spain

Color:Deep magenta

Nose:Spice, blackberry

and cedar

Palate:Very clean grapey and cherry with soft tannins

Finish:Long and forebodingwith a berry and vanilla swash

Alcohol:13%




VINTN

ERS SERIES

V I N T N E R SMARCH 2015

12


Gardens, Gift Shop, andChampagne Lounge.

Thornton Winery’s CaféChampagne restaurant is aFour Star Award-WinningGourmet establishment featuring ContemporaryFusion Cuisine. The winery isthe perfect venue for thewidely popular, ChampagneJazz concert series, scheduledfrom April through October.Nat ional ly renowned,Contemporary Jazz artistsperform in the winery’s

intimate, out-door setting. It has becomethe showplacewine ry i nTemecula.

Viognier is sortof an odd duckhere. There isvery little of itplanted, yet

after tasting this beauty, onehas to wonder why? Its origins are in the NorthernRhone appellation of France.Up until about 30 years agoViognier was on its last leafand ready to become extinct.A few small producers in thelegendary Condrieu regionrevived it and it has beenflourishing ever since. In theearly 80s a few enterprisingCalifornia winemakersattained very successfulresults with this finicky grapeand are now producing, asthis Thornton will attest,superb offerings.

Our selection is a TemeculaValley Viognier. It is an excellent example of thispopular Rhone-style varietal.A flowery, perfume-like nosetempts you to indulge in therich honeysuckle flavors andcrisp acidity. Perfect withspicy Asian, Thai food oreven pizza.

rom the beginning,Thornton Winery hasutilized skills that has

perfected the blending ofMéthode Champenoisesparkling wine and has thenapplied these to the newpremium varietal still winesof 1993. The result: moreawards and medals. Over theyears, some very unique premium varietal wines havebeen added to the productline. These varietals emulateclassic wine styles of theMediterranean and Rhôneregions.

Thornton wasfounded byJohn McBrideThornton whowa s b o r n and raised in Long Beach,California. Hereceived a B.A.from PomonaCollege and an M.B.A. fromHarvard Business School.Commissioned in the U.S.Navy Reserve, he served twoyears aboard a destroyerpicket ship off of Korea andthe Formosa patrol where hisfinal rank was lieutenant.Thornton Winery favors pro-ducing wine that is excitingfor its freshness, burstingwith flavor and showcasingthe distinct characteristics of the varietals that areincluded in the blend. Theyuse whole cluster pressing,extensive blending, barrelaging, and different vinifica-tion techniques.

Thornton Winery’s old worldcharm and grace are mostapparent when visiting thewinery in Temecula. Thewinery, an elegant French-style chateau overlookingthe graceful vineyards of theTemecula Valley, highlightsCafé Champagne, a breath-taking Fountain Terrace, Herb

F

ITEM #: V0315W2DC




54% Discount

Viognier(VEE own yay)

2013

Thornton Temecula, California

Color:Golden

Nose:White Asian pear,herbs and lychee

Palate:Peach, honeysuckle

Finish:Clean and crisp

Alcohol:14%




Earlier VINTNERS SERIES favorites at REORDER prices!


VINTN

ERS SER

IES

V0115R1IF – Cabernet Syrah, 2013. $19.99 $12.99 $155.88Duc De Belmonde “Hints of earth, leather and spice”

V0115R2DC – Petite Sirah, 2011. Red Tree $19.99 $12.99 $155.88“Leather and earth mixed with lots of berries”


V0115W1DC – Chardonnay, 2012. Kimmel $19.99 $11.99 $143.88“Rich pineapple with a hint of spice”

V0115W2IR – Sauvignon Blanc, 2011. $18.99 $11.99 $143.88Graham Beck “Floral with hints of honeysuckle”

V0215R1IF – Malbec, 2013. Accoutre $19.99 $12.99 $155.88“Concentrated, tannic with blackberry fruit”

V0215R2II – Sangiovese, 2011. Palazzo $21.99 $12.99 $155.88“Very clean with hints spice and earth”

V0215W1IZ – Riesling, 2010. Villa Maria $18.99 $11.99 $143.88“Crisp and clean with a peach jam component”

V0215W2IS – Verdejo, 2014. Spanish Eye $18.99 $11.99 $143.88“Crisp and clean with a white peach component”

V0315R1DC – Merlot, 2012. Kimmel $19.99 $12.99 $155.88“Long and foreboding with cherry and vanilla”


V0315R2IS – Tempranillo, 2013. Spanish Eye $18.99 $12.99 $155.88“Long and foreboding with a berry and vanilla swash”

V0315W1IA – Chardonnay, 2011. Trumpeter $22.99 $11.99 $143.88“Apple and vanilla”

V0315W2DC – Viognier, 2013. Thornton $25.99 $11.99 $143.88“Clean and crisp”

1 - 8 0 0 - 9 4 9 - 9 4 6 3 • w w w . W i n e o f t h e M o n t h C l u b . c o m13


www.facebook

.com/WineoftheMon

thClub

79,513*people like this

14

FACEBOOK PAGE

J O I N T H E C O N V E R S AT I O N

*At the time of press.

LIMITED

SERIES

MARCH 2015

L I M I T E D

15


Larionov carries conviction in his genes. "The Russiansoul is different from theAmerican soul," he says. Hispaternal grandfather, IvanLarionov, survived 14 yearsin a gulag in Siberia for hisoutspokenness. In 1937, KGBagents hauled him away fora dissident act, while hiswife, Paulina, and their fivesons slept. They struggled to keep from starving. AfterStalin died in 1953, thegrandfather was finally

a b l e t oreturn home.

His profes-sional hockeydays may beover, but IgorL a r i o n ov ' swines arestill winning

big. He and his businesspartner, Mike Davis, andwinemaker Jock Harvey areproud to bring you this outstanding Shiraz.

From a coastal vineyard area just south of Adelaide,this plush Shiraz is all thatAussie Shiraz should be. It isfruit forward and boisterouswith notes of mulberry, boysenberry, blueberry,prune, black raisin, grilledfruits, Fig Newton, chocolatepudding, maple syrup,spearmint , eucalyptus, violet, meatloaf and tobacco.It is rich, port-like almost,with an intense fruitinessand a soft, mellow structure.The finish is long and full ofdark berry flavors. This wineis a perfect complement fora grilled steak.

his is as Classic asAustralian Shiraz canget. The full, fruity

notes and complex layersshould come as no surprise.Winemaker, Jock Harvey,comes from six generationsof Aussie grape growers. Not to mention the McLarenVale appellation, with itsalmost Mediterranean climate which is ideal for the varietal’s cultivation.

Although the company hasp a r t n e r e dwith otherwinemakersas well, JockHarvey isresponsiblef o r t h e creation ofthe 2008Playmaker, "Slapshot" Shiraz.Harvey hails from six generations of Australianwinemakers, which is evidenced by the classicAustralian Shiraz appeal.

Former hockey great, IgorLarionov, showcases hisselect wines with the sameinspirational skill and talentthat landed him in the IIHFHall of Fame. At 43, Igor wasthe oldest player in the NHLand in his 14th and final season in professional hockey was a center with theNew Jersey Devils. Sinceretiring in 2004, Larionov has kept busy producingCalifornian and Australianwines. He is also a hero to many former Soviets.Combining a passion forentrepreneurship and wine,Playmaker was born.

T

ITEM #: L0315R1IU




39% Discount

Shiraz(She RAZ)

2008

PlaymakerMcLaren Vale, Australia

Color:Deep magenta

Nose:Blackberry, black cherry, earth and chocolate

Palate:Blackberry with

hints of earth, leatherand spice

Finish:Very berry with

cherry and vanilla

Alcohol:14.5%




LIMITED

SER

IES

L I M I T E DMARCH 2015


ITEM #: L0315R2IF




40% Discount

GSM(GSM)

2012

La Tour dePenedeseFaugeres, France

Color:Dark purple

Nose:Earth, blackberry

and spice

Palate:Leather and earthmixed with lots

of berries

Finish:Concentrated, tannicwith blackberry fruit

Alcohol:14%




Merlot and Carignan and inthe presence of two extinctvolcanoes. The RoyalConvent of Cassan, situatedbetween the two volcanoes,is one of the principal architectural sites of theLanguedoc. Its rich historystarts at the time ofCharlemagne in the 12th and13th centuries.

Alexandre Fouque was looking for an exceptionaldomain, and finally chose a

domain richand diversifiedboth in termsof the soil andthe micro-climates. It isthis diversityof soils, theire x p o s i t i o n and the micro-climates. It isalso this diver-s i t y wh i chleads to the

harvest of the reds taking placein the month of October,almost a month earlier thanother appellations in France.The complexity and finesseof the Crus de la TourPenedesse are as a result ofthese cool micro-climates aswell as the extraordinarybalance between the alcoholand acids.

Our selection is so namedafter the grapes that makeup the blend, Grenache,Syrah and Mourvedre. Theseare the typical grapes in theCotes du Rhone, particularlythe great Chateauneuf du Pape. The blend is a classic and is the reason for the intense berry, cassisand spice flavors that would do well with braisedlamb shoulder with oreganoand mint.

lexandre Fourque isthe proud owner ofthe Domaine La Tour

de Penedesses in theLanguedoc region of France.The Domaine is located in alarge forest of scrublands,oaks and olive trees. Thiscombination results in anextreme variety of aromasstemming from theMediterranean shrubs whichsurround the clearings ofvines, rosemary, thyme, wildmint and lavender.

The vines ofDomain de laTour Penedessesare situatedwith in ani m m e n s e forest of scrub-land and oaktrees. As aresult there is an extremeva r ie ty o f aromas stemming from theMediterranean shrubs whichsurround the clearings ofvines including rosemary,thyme, wild mint, strawberrytrees and lavender.

The Fouque Family acquiredthe domain of approximately100 acres in early 2000. It had been worked on as a vineyard for several generations. The acquisitionof this domain coincidedwith the installation of ayoung agricultural engineerwho also envisages develop-ing the olive growing activitywhich already exists andwhich was one of the desiresof the Fouque family.

The vineyards, more than80% situated on the slopes,are rich in varietals such asGrenache, Syrah, Mourvedre,

A

LIMITED

SERIES

MARCH 2015

L I M I T E D

17


ITEM #: L0315R3IL




32% Discount

Rose(Ro ZAY)

2013

KsaraBakka Valley, Lebanon

Color:Pale Pink

Nose:Cherry blossom

Palate:White peach

Finish:Clean, crisp and citrusy

Alcohol:13.5%




spreading the culture of thewine throughout Europe. Alater phenomenon was thespread of viniculture by thePhoenicians to the centraland western Mediterraneanin the first millennium B.C. In fact, in June 1999, a teamof oceanographers andarchaeologists discoveredtwo ancient Phoenician ship-wrecks in the MediterraneanSea off the coast of Lebanon.The ships were the oldestever found in the deep sea

and the scientistsbelieved theships were lost ina violent stormwhile travellingfrom Phoenicia(now Lebanon)to Egypt o rCa r thage inabout 750 B.C.laden with acargo of wine

stored in ceramic amphorae.

It is generally accepted thatthe Phoenicians began making and exporting theirown wine around 3000 B.C.The ships that went down offthe coast of Lebanon werepart of a remarkable tradingf leet that ru led theMediterranean at the heightof Phoenician commercialdominance between 900and 330 B.C. Wine was oneof their most important commodities. It is a proudheritage that is carried ontoday at Château Ksara!

A great rosé can literallycomplement any dish. Frommeat and potatoes to oysters to a ham sandwich,rosé wines are as vestal as it gets.

ver the past decadeChateau Ksara inLebanon, has seen

new grape varieties thathave been introduced in theBakka valley and has bliss-fully nurtured this evolution.Ksara has also seen develop-ments in technique such asvines cultivation on wiresand the attentive applicationof advanced science byFrench oenologists whowatch over the vinification,fermentation and decantingprocesses.

All of Kara’s vine-yards are locatedin the central andwestern BakkaValley. At anaverage altitudeof 3,000 feet, the Beak enjoysdry summers andhas the addedbonus of its own naturalwater table, courtesy of themelting snow that runs offthe slopes of the Lebanonand Anti-Lebanon mountainranges.

The soil ranges from chalk,to clay and chalk, to clay andlime, but it is always stony.The Bakka enjoy, in somecases very dry and very hotsummers. The slope oneither side of the valley andthe valley itself create aunique micro-climate inwhich the cool nights compensate for the hot summer days.

If the French and Italiansthink they have wine history,they need to study history!The early Lebanese cultures,probably going back to 7000B.C, were instrumental in

O

LIMITED

SER

IES

L I M I T E DMARCH 2015


quality begins with vineyarddevelopment and continuesto grow into areas such aspremium bulk wine contracts,research and development,brand development, brandmarketing and national distribution. Bronco WineCompany is vert ical ly integrated, from the vine-yard to the table, focused on crafting wines for theAmerican table.

A legend passed down fromantiquity tells a story of ThreeKnights. It is of two brothers

and the i rcousin. Thesethree knightscrusaded forthe peop lea g a i n s t insurmountableodds, fightingin battle afterbatt le. Theunion of theThree Knights

came to dominate the lands of the grapes, thus cultivating rich, flavorfulwines from the KnightsValley and the Russian RiverValley in Sonoma County. In the end, only the legendsof the Knights' heroic deeds exist, but their legacylives on in Three KnightsVineyards.

We have featured severalwines from this organizationand there seems to be a similarity that runs througheach and every one of them.They are superb! Balanceand structure are all in there.Judicious oak and alcohollevels make for an outstand-ing offering just begging forseared scallops in an orangeand brown butter sauce.

hree Knights comesout of the Broncoportfolio of wines

headed by the FranziaFamily. Founded in 1973 byFred T., Joseph S. and JohnFranzia, Bronco Wine Companyis a family-owned winerycommitted to growing, producing and selling thefinest quality wines of thehighest value. Bronco WineCompany’s diverse family of brands is sold in over 90 countries worldwide in addition to being distributedthroughout the United States.

Of course, it’snot hard tobelieve thatFred and hisbrothers couldnot have had arather sweep-ing introductionto wine. Theiruncles wereEarnest and Julio Gallo. Yes,those Gallos! When you growup and are in the realm ofthat kind of enormity, it’shard not to follow. And follow they did, becoming apowerhouse of their own on basically the same principles. Give people whatthey want at a price they canafford and you will sell yourproduct. Yet, it is as simpleas it seems to be elusive inthe world of wine.

Bronco Wine Company hasbecome a major vintagevarietal wine source to theCalifornia wine industry andis currently recognized as thefifth largest winery and thelargest vineyard owner inthe United States. Thoughquite large, their quest for

T

ITEM #: L0315W4DC




40% Discount

Chardonnay(Shar doe NAY)

2012

Three KnightsSonoma County,

California

Color:Bright yellow

Nose:Pippin apple and spice

Palate:Pear with a hint

of spice

Finish:Meyer lemon, apple

and vanilla

Alcohol:13.5%




LIMITED

SERIES

19

Earlier LIMITED SERIES favorites at REORDER prices!


L0115R1II – Ripasso, 2009. Villa Sonia $25.99 $16.99 $203.88“Full, but not overbearing”

L0115R2IA – Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013. $25.99 $15.99 $191.88Alpataco “Cherry with hints of earth and cocoa”

L0115W2IF – Vouvray, 2012. Châteauvieux $22.99 $16.99 $203.88“Pear, quince, citrus”

L0115W3DC – Convivio, 2013. Field Stone $22.99 $15.99 $191.88“Caramel with hints of earth and spice”

L0215R1IF – Bordeaux, 2010. Grand Verdus $28.99 $16.99 $203.88“Soft tannins, giving way to a touch of fruit”

L0215R2IA – Pinot Noir, 2013. Alpataco $25.99 $15.99 $191.88“Lovely spice with touches of mint”

L0215W3IR – Sauvignon Blanc, 2014. $22.99 $16.99 $203.88Villiera “Clean, crisp and citrusy”

L0215W4IZ – Sauvignon Blanc, 2013. $23.99 $15.99 $191.88Yorkshire “Tart and herbal”

L0315R1IU – Shiraz, 2008. Playmaker $27.99 $16.99 $203.88“Very berry with cherry and vanilla”

L0315R2IF – GSM, 2012. $24.99 $14.99 $191.88La Tour de Penedesse “Concentrated, tannic with blackberry fruit”

L0315R3IL – Rose, 2013. Ksara $24.99 $16.99 $203.88“Clean, crisp and citrusy”

L0315W4DC – Chardonnay, 2012. $24.99 $14.99 $191.88Three Knights “Meyer lemon, apple and vanilla”


F O R M E M B E R S O N L YF O R M E M B E R S O N L Y

QA. There are several factors which affect the character, personality and quality of any wine.

Some of these are the climate, the soil type, the age of the vines, the type of wine, theaspect of the vineyards, the amount of rainfall, the number of sunshine hours, wind,pests, trellising and pruning, and last, but far from least, is the winemaker and his orher artistry and skills. Each grape varietal—and there are over 100 different ones madeinto wine—grows best in its own place where these mentioned factors help the grapeto ripen fully with balance and flavor. As you can see, more than weather makes wine.That said, the weather can make or break a vintage in certain regions such as Italy,when there is too much rain and the grapes never have time to ripen, or when theheat burns the delicate skins of Pinot Noir in Burgundy. Making wine is mostly nature’smiracle. There is a French saying which translates roughly to, “The character of a wineis determined by its terroir, its place and home, its personality by its vintage and itsquality to its influence of man.”

“How does the weather affect wine from year to year?“~ R.M., Harrison, OH

QA. Wild grape vines have existed in America before the earliest explorers. Cortés, the

Spanish conqueror of Mexico, ordered grapes to be planted in the “New World” during the late 16th century. These vines were brought from Europe. In 1769, FatherJunipero Serra, a Franciscan friar, established Mission San Diego and planted grapesthere for sacramental and medicinal wines. The vitis vinifera grape became knownas the Mission grape . As the Franciscans moved north up the coast of what wouldbe California, they took cuttings from their vines and planted them at each newmission. Commercial wine production began in 1824, when Joseph Chapman set upa winery in the Los Angeles area. Later, a Frenchman, Jean Louis Vignes, importedvines from Europe to start a vineyard in Southern California. During the 1830s, hundreds of vine cuttings were brought from France to California. This was a boomfor the wine industry. Many Europeans who came to California for the gold rush stayed to grow grapes and make wine. Among these was a Hungarian, Count Agoston Haraszthy, who planted vines in Sonoma. He convinced the governor, John Downy, that winemaking was the future in California. The governor commissioned the count to visit Europe and obtain vine cuttings. Heshipped 100,000 cuttings to California. In 1874, the vine louse called Phylloxeraravaged the vines in California and Europe. The louse reached California fromEurope through infected cuttings. Hardy Native American rootstock was used to save the vineyards through grafting. By the end of the 19th century, the wine industry began to revive. Cut short again by Prohibition from 1919-1933,the industry again bounced back with new plantings and enthusiasm, especially in the 1970s. Today it is at its zenith in terms of production and, mostimportantly, quality winemaking.

“Could we have some history about the start of winemaking in California?“~ K.J., Costa Mesa, CA

Q&A

MEM

BER

S


21

V i s i t o u r w e b s i t e a t w w w . W i n e o f t h e M o n t h C l u b . c o m

f o r g i f t b a s k e t s , g i f t m e m b e r s h i p s a n d v a r i o u s

w i n e a s s o r t m e n t s .

Gifts & MoreGIFTS &

MORE

A. Classic Series Gift Membership The gift that makes everyone smile, this ISthe club that started it all—I mean reallystarted “wine to your door.” The founding feature of Wine of the Month Club is theClassic Series. First shipment arrives in ahandsome burgundy linen gift box and isaccompanied by a personalized gift card.

4 Months: $149 (plus applicable state taxes)6 Months: $223 (plus applicable state taxes)12 Months: $446 (plus applicable state taxes)

Shipping & handling included*

B. Vintners Series Gift MembershipThe most recent addition to our family atWine of the Month Club, the Vintners Seriesgives your gift recipient an opportunity toexperience wines in a price range thatoffers a wider variety of grapes and growing regions. First shipment arrives in ahandsome burgundy linen gift box and isaccompanied by a personalized gift card.



C. Limited Series Gift MembershipIf your gift recipient appreciates the delicate subtleties of a fine premium wine, the exceptional special occasion selections you’ll find in the Limited Series are bound to please. First shipment arrives in a handsome burgundy linen gift box and isaccompanied by a personalized gift card.



A

B

C

*Shipping included for shipments going to contiguous US states. Call for Alaska, Hawaii and/or other rural US territories.

Recipes

22

Ingredients:

4 whole skin-on chicken legs¼ cup black olives sliced or coarsely choppedKosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste½ cup flour, for dredging¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil1 cup white wine3 sprigs fresh rosemary 2 fresh bay leavesJuice of 1 lemon

Salmon and Scallops in CreamIngredients:

1½ cups Trumpeter Chardonnay1 large California bay leafKosher salt and freshly ground black pepper,

to taste2 stalks celery, cut into matchsticks1 medium carrot, cut into matchsticks1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced1 lb. boneless salmon, cut into 4 pieces8 large scallops¼ cup heavy cream6 tbsp. unsalted butter, cubed and chilledJuice of 1 lemon

Preparation:

Bring wine, bay leaf, salt, and 1½ cups water to a simmer in a 12" skillet over medium-high heat. Add the celery, carrots, and onions; cook until tender, 8–10 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer vegetables to a bowl. Season salmon andscallops with salt and pepper. Add to pan, cook, covered, until cooked through, 6–8minutes. Divide fish between plates; garnish with vegetables. Add cream, butter,juice, and salt and pepper to skillet. Cook until sauce is slightly reduced, about 3 minutes. Spoon sauce over fish. Serve with Trumpeter Chardonnay (Page 10)

Rosemary Chicken

Preparation:

- Tasting Journal -

Wine: _______________________ Color: _______________ Date ___________

Tasting Comments: ______________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________

Overall Rating: _______________(1-100)

Wine: _______________________ Color: _______________ Date ___________


_____________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________

Overall Rating: _______________(1-100)

Wine: _______________________ Color: _______________ Date ___________


_____________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________

Overall Rating: _______________(1-100)

Wine: _______________________ Color: _______________ Date ___________


_____________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________

Overall Rating: _______________(1-100)

23

TASTIN

G JO

URNAL

THE CORKBOARDTHE CORKBOARD


Membership in the Wine of the Month Club is open to anyone with an interest in andappreciation for superb wines...and excellent wine values. Membership is FREE.

Wine of the Month ClubP.O. Box 660220, Arcadia, CA 91066

Website: www.WineoftheMonthClub.comFacebook: www.facebook.com/WineoftheMonthClubTwitter: http://twitter.com/wineofthemonth

Newsletter written by: Ed Masciana, Wine Author

CALL: 1-800-949-9463 or [626] 303-1690EMAIL: [email protected]

wines evaluated last month: 278 • rejected: 242 • approved ... · world and they make wines of...

Documents