W I N E

Transcription

W I N E

March/April 2001
ANNUAL
CHARDONNAY FEST
SATURDAY
JUNE 2nd, 2001
The CHARDONNAY phenomenon continues unabated, the choices expand almost exponentially, the
styles diversify explosively, leaving us beflummoxed and even confused. The line-up for this day's Festival
will be exclusively CHARDONNAY! Let's see what we can do today to expand your awareness of what is
currently good and available. New faces and old friends attract the discerning consumer each year to
this ONE-OF-A-KIND special event. You have the right to be judge and jury today (as well as a voter) to
pick your favorite wine -- TAKE IT!
Here is a tantalizing list of wineries that participated last year at the June Fest:
ACACIA
BEAULIEU
CAKEBREAD
COPPOLA
FRITZ
IRON HORSE
LAETITIA
OJAI
RODNEY STRONG
SIMI
TALLEY
ARCADIAN
BECKMEN
CAMBRIA
CUVAISON
GAINEY
KENDALL-JACKSON
MARIMAR TORRES
PINE RIDGE
SEQUOIA GROVE
STAG’S LEAP
TESTAROSSA
AU BON CLIMAT
BERINGER
CHALONE
DE LOACH
GALLO SONOMA
KYNSI
MARKHAM
RAYMOND
SEVEN PEAKS
STONESTREET
TREFETHEN
BABCOCK
BERNARDUS
CLOS DU VAL
FAR NIENTE
HITCHING POST
LA CREMA
MURPHY-GOODE
ROBERT MONDAVI
SILVERADO
STUHLMULLER
JOIN US AND YOU BE THE EXPERT
***Special Savings on many of these fine wines on this day only***
$35 PER PERSON (Payable In Advance)
Admission price pays for 20 tickets, each good for one taste
Attendance is limited! Sign up early…this event WILL SELL OUT!
EXPANDED TO TWO SESSIONS FOR OUR CUSTOMERS
choose either
SESSION ONE - NOON TO 2 PM
or
SESSION TWO - 2:30 PM TO 4:30 PM
To ensure a smoothly operating, humane and enjoyable tasting for all of you, we are limiting participation in each session
to 85 people. We are staging these Fests in two sessions, so as to accommodate the increasing demand we have for these
events. Payment will naturally confirm your reservation and you will be in-like-Flynn with the lucky many.
E-mail: [email protected]
2
How to Reach
The Wine House
WINE HOUSE SHIPPING POLICY
All customers must abide by certain stipulations as they relate
to the shipping of goods by The Wine House.
2311 Cotner Avenue • LA, CA 90064-1877
310/479-3731
1.
Wines may be sold and delivered only to persons at least 21
years of age. In placing an order, you represent yourself to be at
least 21 years old, and that the person receiving the delivered
wine will also be at least 21 years old, and you will pay for the
return shipping for failure to show proper ID.
2.
All wines are sold in California. The Wine House makes no
representations or intimates the right of any person to export or
import wine over international or state borders. The customer
is responsible for the shipment of wine. The title passes to the
customer in California.
3.
The Wine House is not liable for any damages to goods caused
by weather conditions and other "Acts of God" during transportation. Because weather conditions can change drastically
at any time, we assume no liability for damage caused by
changes in weather during transportation. "Acts of God" include
catastrophes such as, but not limited to: plane crashes, unforeseeable delays or accidents, destruction due to domestic and
international unrest (i.e. riots, war, public enemies) confiscation, quarantine or natural disaster.
Outside 818, 213, 310 area codes call:
800/626-WINE
Fax: 310/478-5609
Regular Hours:
Mon.-Sat. 10 to 7 except Fri. 10 to 9
& Sun. 11 to 6
G. William Knight, President
© 2001 Mark's International Wines, Inc. DBA The Wine House
http://www.winehouse.com/ E-mail: [email protected]
INDEX
Australia & New Zealand
"Around The Town"
Bordeaux
Rhone
Burgundy
Kosher/Loire
Italy
2311 Gourmet
Spain/Champagne
Classes
Friday Nights
Winery Of The Month
TGIC Imports
March Madness
Futures
Beer
Pinot Noir
Chardonnay
Zinfandel
Cabernet
Misc. Domestic
Meritage/Dom. Rhone
Merlot
Old & Rare
Spirits
Cigars/Zin MiniFest
Wine Clubs
Accessories
WINE HOUSE PRICING POLICY
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We reserve the right to correct or change prices at
any time and to limit quantities. Please confirm current pricing with
a salesperson. Errors and supplier price changes occur without
notice. Every attempt is made to avoid erroneous pricing and vintage
changes.
WINE HOUSE TELEPHONE DIRECTORY
Adrian Drumea
Bill Knight
Chip Hammack
Coffield Appiah
Darryl Mitchell
Glen Knight
Iris Dinu
James Yobski
Jamie Koren
JB Severin
Jill Sangermano
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210
217
228
224
219
205
234
216
227
225
Jim Gwyn
Jim Knight
Kirk Walker
Lance Montalto
Mark Estrin
Nancy Knight
Order Department
Peter Price
Sales
213
212
218
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207
270
211
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DEPARTMENTS
Accounts Rec
Accounts Pay
Buyers
Beer
Cigars
Grapevine Gourmet
Spirits
Wine
3
225
205
219
233
233
216
219/212
Manager
Order Desk
Sales (General)
Shipping & Receiving
President
Wine Clubs
227
270
260
224
210
207/212
http://www.winehouse.com/
AUSTRALIA/NEW ZEALAND
1999 Madfish Western Australian Shiraz
(#7273) $14.99
1998 Rosemount Balmoral Syrah (#4941) $41.99
Rosemount stepped up to bat on this one…and slammed it out of
the park. This classic Aussie Shiraz, made by winemaker of the
year Philip Shaw, is another star from the already exemplary 1998
vintage. Out of the bottle, rich plum and blueberry fruits abound,
but be patient and give this monster some time to fully open up -you will be well-rewarded! More berries explode on the palate,
along with vanilla and hints of spice. Lance
The Madfish negociant blends (there’s an unwooded "virgin"
Chard, too) are assembled by a young American, Ted Schrauth.
Mr. Schrauth has done a marvelous job with this ’99 Shiraz. Dark
in color, and possessed of lots of smoky, peppery, black cherry
fruit, this wine should do well as an everyday table red over the
next year or two. Buy it by the case for maximum pleasure. M.E.
Red
#1973 1999
#12229 1995
#1948 1998
#900369 1999
#900368 1999
#4294 1998
#906
1998
#34565 1997
1999 Cairnbrae Sauvignon Blanc "The Stones"
(#74586) $11.99
This bright Sauvignon Blanc is from the famous Marlborough area
of New Zealand. The name of the wine (The Stones) reflects the
character of the soil in which the vines grow. This particular soil is
quite beneficial for the production of Sauvignon Blanc, since it
helps with the drainage of water. The wine is especially pleasant,
with grapefruit, lemongrass and gooseberry notes, as well as
flavors of white grapefruit, green apple and pear, accompanied by
a smooth texture. The finish is creamy and smooth, with a persistent aftertaste. James
#15451 1998
#15452 1998
#6566 1999
#51465 1996
#900381 1999
#40105 1998
#4727 1998
#956237 1999
#909
1998
#956232 1999
#402
1998
#56583 1997
#956233 1999
#1792 1997
#1629 1997
#2428 1997
#57891 1997
#8787 1999
#2702 1998
#24467 1999
#56578 1997
#549
1999
#367
1999
#481
1996
White
#5351 1999 Allan Scott Riesling
#74586 1999 Cairnbrae Sauvignon Blanc
#7475 1999 Frankland Estate "Isolation Ridge"
Chardonnay
#900384 2000 Fox Creek Sauvignon Blanc
#1620 1999 Isabel Sauvignon Blanc
#34569 1997 Scotchmans Hill Chardonnay
#3794 1998 Seresin Chardonnay
#5171 1999 Seresin Sauvignon Blanc
#85392 1999 Shaw & Smith Sauvignon Blanc
1998 M. Brown Shiraz (#4023) $18.99
The bothers Brown, Mike and Martin, eagerly announce the
release of their 1998 Barossa Valley Shiraz. This superb example
of the unique Australian style of Shiraz reflects the enviable
reputation of the Barossa Valley, Australia’s richest winemaking
region. A prime example of Barossa-style Shiraz, this wine rises
from the glass, rich and full-bodied, offering concentrated fruit
flavors softened just so by small oak maturation. Yummy!
1995 Arthurs Creek Estate Yarra Valley Cabernet
Sauvignon (#12229) $34.99
A unique opportunity afforded to us recently at a Bon Appetit
Tasting Panel event showed what a gem we have on our shelves.
As you can imagine, managing 7,000 or so labels in the Wine
House inventory is a daunting task, so the idea of rediscovery is
a welcomed event. By far, this was one of the finest wines presented among the 50 or so wines being tasted. Its saturated color
creates an effect of crushed plum juice ensconced in a thoroughly
integrated web of vanilla. Powerfully built to last and with showmanship reminiscent of Muhammad Ali, this wine exhibits the
richest plum flavors, the deepest flavor of currant and a mid-palate
earthiness that impressed all in the room that afternoon. Scott T
1999 Torbreck "The Steading" Barossa Valley
(#956242) $42.95
We don’t "do" scores in the Wine House. We think it encourages
less-than-adventurous shopping. We think scores inhibit and limit
the experience of drinking fine wine. That having been said, if we
were to assign a number to "The Steading," a gloriously creamy,
jammy, voluptuous, well-balanced Chateau Neuf-like blend of
Grenache, Mourvedre and Syrah, it would be…well, it would be
high. Grab it if you can find it! There’s barely enough to go
around. M.E.
A.D.W. Sheeraz
$23.99
Arthurs Creek Cabernet Sauvignon
$34.99
Barletta Bros. Grenache/Shiraz
$23.99
Burge Family Draycott Shiraz
$34.95
Burge Family Olive Hill
$42.95
Charles Melton Grenache
$26.99
Craig Lee Shiraz
$32.99
D'Arenberg "Coppermine Road"
Cabernet Sauvignon
$44.99
D'Arenberg Dead Arm Shiraz
$47.99
D'Arenberg Iron Stone
$47.99
Deakins Shiraz
$8.89
Elderton CSM
$31.99
Fox Creek JSM
$34.95
Glenguin Cabernet/Shiraz
$12.99
Greg Norman Cabernet/Merlot
$14.99
Henry's Drive Reserve Shiraz
$54.95
Hewitson L'Oizeau Shiraz
$25.99
Henry's Drive Cabernet Sauvignon
$25.99
Kay Brothers Cabernet Sauvignon
$41.99
Palatine
$34.99
Cape D'Estaing "Kangaroo Island" Shiraz $49.95
Penfolds 389 Cabernet/ Shiraz
$21.79
Penfolds Bin 128
$19.99
Penfolds Kalimna Bin 28 Shiraz
$19.49
Penfolds RWT Shiraz
$57.99
Peter Lehmann Clancy's
$21.99
Pikes Cabernet
$18.99
Pikes SGM
$18.99
Thalgara Reserve Shiraz
$39.99
The Hattrick
$46.99
Torbreck "Woodcutter Red"
$22.99
Trevor Jones, Cabernet/Merlot
$33.99
4
$12.89
$11.99
$17.99
$17.95
$16.99
$22.89
$19.99
$17.99
$14.99
AROUND THE TOWN
This is a new feature for us. The name is borrowed roughly from "New Yorker" magazine. We thought we'd start a page in the
newsletter to let you know what our talented staff is up to when they're not selling wine, working on the newsletter or finding new
exciting wines to present to our customers. Hope you enjoy it.
Shafer Vineyards taking off to next level. Doug and Winemaker
Elias Fernandez have nailed it -- I look forward to tasting future
vintages from Shafer Hillside Select. In my Oregon Pinot class, the
1999 Torii Mor Pinot Noir (#6686) $21.99 stood out as the best
buy of the class, a gorgeous wine at a great price, a no-brainer. As
we go to print, I will be up in Napa for the Premiere Napa Valley
Auction and tasting, the last weekend in February. This will be a
great chance to talk to the winemakers and try the 1999 vintage. I'll
give you a heads up in the next newsletter.
Chip Hammack
I guess you could say I was on the "towns" last month, very far
away towns, as in Nimes and Avignon. They're both beautiful
little cities in the south of France. I was there because I was on a
wine tour put together by the importer, Robert Kacher. My host for
the trip was the local broker for Kacher wines, Diane Harder. I visited many of the excellent Kacher estates in the Costieres de
Nimes; Chateau Campuget, Mas Carlot and Chateau De
Valcombe, just to name a few, and southern Rhone; Santa Duc in
Gigondas, Gramenon in Cotes Du Rhone and Andre Brunel in
Chateauneuf de Pape, to name a few more. I tasted some of the
best wine values in the world and some of the most profound
wines, as well. Brunel's 1998 Centennaire Chateauneuf du Pape
made from 100-year-old vines has to be tasted to be believed. It's
like drinking a Dal Forno Amarone made in southern Rhone. It
was a great trip and like to thank my hosts, Diane Harder and
Robert Kacher for the education.
Jim Knight
On February 11th, I drove up the wet Highway 101 to Shell Beach
for the 1st Annual World of Pinot Noir tasting. This event was
put together by Brian "King of Pinot Noir" Talley. Brian pulled
together producers from Burgundy, Oregon and California into one
beautiful spot just south of San Luis Obispo. I arrived at the Cliffs
Resort and Hotel on Friday evening for the "big dinner" and it was
incredible. There were 250 people there and about 500 bottles of
Pinot Noir. We tasted current, old and soon-to-be released Pinots
from some of the greatest producers of Pinot Noir in the world.
There was Domaine Leroy, Talley, Flowers, Witness Tree, Au Bon
Climat, Hartford Court and Patz & Hall, to name a few on everyone's table. Everytime you turned your head, there was another
bottle of wine from another great producer in front of you to taste.
It was a beautiful sight to see. The night charged on and became a
wonderful bonding experience for everyone. Lots of Pinot Noir
and lots of laughs were had. The next day, I woke up very slowly
and headed downstairs to taste a little Domaine Leroy and grab a
bite to eat to help raise that cloud from over my head. Then it was
off to the final tasting, located right on the coast of Shell Beach, to
meet and greet the producers whose wares we tasted the night
before. The day couldn't have been any more beautiful, with clear
blue skies and a little offshore breeze. Yes, Pinot Noir from
California does age, and the 1999 vintage looks like a very good
one. Cheers to all my friends in the Central Coast who made for a
real good time! You know who you are.
Last, there's a great new restaurant called Zax that I ate at last
month. It's the old Woodside Café in Brentwood and it's under new
ownership with a new chef. Check it out, it's great!
Lance Montalto
It was a classic California afternoon as Coffield and I strolled out
on the terrace and stared over the pool of the Beverly Hills Hotel
with a glass of Banfi Pinot Grigio in one hand and a plate of crisp,
golden crab cakes in the other. Now, I know it may sound as though
I am gloating , and perhaps I am a bit, but man I love my job.
Coffield and I were privileged to attend a Banfi component tasting,
Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Sangiovese, for the 1999 Summus,
one of the house's flagship wines. Following the 1999, we then
preceded to the 1998 and 1997 Super Tuscans, which were as
scrumptious as all those wine journals had pronounced. These are
definitely Supers to have, so be on the lookout. Once the seminar
came to an end, we were off to the big room to delight ourselves
in more of Banfi's fine wines, starting with the 1995 Brunello, then
on to the1993 Brunello Riserva, followed by more Summus and
finishing with the Excelsus, another brilliant Super Tuscan. Now
that I possess more information about the house of Banfi than any
of you care to hear about, I will leave you with this, Outstanding
Wines, on an otherwise average Wine House day. L.M.
J.B. Severin
On Sunday, January 21st, I attended a private tasting of 18 vintages
of Chateau Lynch Bages. Tasting
highlights included the 1961
from both 750 ml and Magnum
(Mag was exquisite and holding
well, with the fruit a bit more
fresh than the 750ml), the 1957
(what a surprise! Superb color,
solid on the palate, with subtle tobacco notes and excellent length
-- along with Cheval Blanc, the only good wines from this tough
vintage), the 1989 (huge, powerful wine full of plums and black
currants, with a long, interesting life ahead) and a spectacular
magnum of 1950 Pichon Longueville, Baron (definitely an
insider's vintage) sent from the cellar of Lynch Bages owner JeanMichel Cazes. It was an incredible day of wine. Yeah, I know it's a
tough job, but if someone has to do it, it might as well be me!
Glen Knight
The first two months of 2001 have just flown by. One of the
special events I went to was the vertical tasting of 10 Shafer
Hillside Select Cabernet Sauvignon vintages. Doug Shafer is the
man, he walked us through the tasting as he explained each vintage
with exceptional detail. I must say he was very humble, when it
came to explaining winemaking decisions during the tougher
vintages. As for the wines, 1985 and 1987 are ready now, but could
last another 3-5 years. For those who have some 1989 left, drink
the wine soon -- it's on its last legs. 1990, 1991 and 1992 are three
vintages that showed very well and could still use 7-12 more years.
The highlights were the last four vintages: 1993, 1994, 1995 and
1996. These wines really show the care and hard work that has
5
BORDEAUX
Milion has been carefully nurtured to its current lauded state by
Lafite managers. Because the grapes come from a cooler part of
the plateau, the winemaker achieves a supple, finessed Cabernet
that has the taste signature of a hypothetical "baby" Lafite. Born in
a ripe vintage, the ’95 possesses less mineral notes than the '94 and
achieves the well-balanced qualities of the '93. At six years of age,
it is very attractive, even seductive, but given a few more years,
more secondary aromas (for those who like them) will present
themselves. Scott T
1999 Chateau Grand Champs Bordeaux (#25448) $7.99
Bright, fresh and floral hints of citrus comprise the nose of this
wine. Concentrated citrus flavors dominate, with light touches
of pear. These blend with elements of fresh grass and a subtle
mineral nuance in the finish. Crisp acidity adds to the clean finish.
Here's a gorgeous wine to pair with light salads and fish.
1998 Chateau Cotte des Rambaux Bordeaux
(#25449) $9.99
Looking for a great party wine and you're tired of the myriad of
"coastal appellation" wines? This is the one for you! Let's start
with a blend of 50% Cab and 40% Merlot, topped off with 5% Cab
Franc and 5% Malbec just to make it interesting. This wine is
soft and round, with flavors of ripe cherries and a touch of oak.
It finishes with a bit of earth and would be great either with a selection of cheese and fruit or to accompany a hearty meal. S.R.
1989 Suduiraut, Sauternes (#910015) $52.95
Wow! A 1989 Sauternes for less than $55? We knew this was
a deal when we picked it up earlier this month...and that it is!
This wine is drinking beautifully right now, showing great color,
dried apricot notes, thick texture and luscious flavors. Because it is
highly extracted, this wine will last for another 5-8 years, so get
one for now and one for a couple of years down the road. James
1996 La Croix Bonis Saint Estephe Bordeaux
(#933445) $14.99
Red
#955001 1995
#7398 1990
#925000 1998
#844560 1996
#567
1998
#5673 1998
#12399 1997
#900098 1996
#9905 1996
#940008 1996
#930021 1995
#912000 1998
#20203 1996
#900305 1998
#20204 1996
#850024 1982
#987451 1998
#20208 1996
#931910 1998
#911453 1998
#897500 1995
#913555 1998
#35560 1996
#900133 1995
#900123 1995
#900241 1996
#45789 1996
#20210 1996
#900561 1996
#900379 1995
#20211 1996
#910007 1998
#6470 1996
#935676 1998
White
#940035 1995
#48779 1997
This wine is a rich blood-red in color, echoed by aromas of black
currants, winter plums, bell pepper and mild, earthy terroir. It's
smooth, medium-bodied and possesses a mild acidity contrasting
flavors of red currants, soft wood and simple herbs in a clean
finish. Very drinkable now, this wine would partner well with
slow-roasted Cornish hens in a honey glaze. Peter
1995 Gartieux, Pauillac (#941635) $24.95
Are you kidding me? A Pauillac from a great vintage for less than
$25? There must be a catch, right? Yes, there is...in fact, there are
500, because that's the total number of cases of this wine made in
1995. This little-known wine is the made by the folks at Pichon
Lalande (FYI, the 1996 Pichon Lalande sells for $105 [#950015])
– the Gartieux is made from 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35%
Merlot, 12% Cabernet Franc and 8% Petite Verdot. The wine is
dark-red in color, has a lovely nose combining black fruit and
cedar notes, great texture and flavors. It is a full-bodied, powerpacked, layered and multidimensional wine, with an excellent
aftertaste and finish. At this price, don't miss out! James
1997 Monbousquet, St. Emilion (#908774) $39.99
This chateau was the embodiment of the term “sleeper” to most
Bordeaux aficionados. However, with statements like: “this may
be the most exotic and sexiest wine being produced in St. Emilion”
by a certain “expert” on Bordeaux, the vale on this winery has been
removed. This vintage is your chance to “discover” this wine with
many others. The wine is one of the superstars of the vintage with
flamboyant and explosive aromas of vanilla, cherry jam, licorice
and cedar, deep, rich concentration, and outstanding length. You
will have to fight temptation to deny yourself the pleasure of this
wine young, but if you can wait, it should be at its peak in two
years. James
1995 Chateau Duhart-Milon Pauillac (#900118) $38.99
In some circles, this is known as the "other" Lafite property.
Located right next to the famous First Growth, Duhart-Milon is a
classified 4th growth in its own right. Purchased in 1962, Duhart-
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Ausone
Bel Air Marquis Aligre - Margaux
Chateau Cros Figeac
Chateau Margaux
Chateau Moine Lalande
Chateau St. Georges
Chateau St. Georges (375 ml)
Cheval Blanc
Citran
Clos de L'Oratoire
Clos du Marquis
Clos Fourtet
Cos D'Estournel (375 ml)
De Fieuzal
Ducru-Beaucaillou (375 ml)
Gloria (375 ml)
Grand Corbin-Despagne
Grand Puy Lacoste (375 ml)
La Conseillante
La Moulin
Lafite
Larmande
L'Eglise Clinet
Leoville Las Cases
L'Evangile
L'Evangile
Magdelaine
Margaux (375 ml)
Mouton Rothschild
Mouton Rothschild
Mouton Rothschild (375 ml)
Sociando Mallet
Vieux Chateau Certan
Vieux Chateau Chauvin
Guiraud
Lynch Bages
$274.99
$45.99
$24.89
$284.99
$15.99
$21.99
$10.99
$229.99
$20.89
$33.99
$32.99
$45.95
$51.99
$29.99
$66.99
$49.99
$19.99
$36.99
$97.99
$56.99
$239.99
$31.39
$159.99
$179.99
$199.99
$109.99
$64.99
$159.99
$184.99
$229.95
$189.99
$27.99
$124.99
$32.89
$34.95
$28.99
RHONE
wine magazine placed the wine high in their top 100 wines of the
year. The Millière is just as good, if not better, in a more classic
Chateauneuf du Pape sense. This wine vanished from the floor so
fast we didn't have time to make it a staff favorite. Well, here's your
chance to get back in the game. These wines will not last long, so
don't walk, run, or better yet, call your order in to the store and
pick the wine up at your convenience. Also, don't forget about
our great Chateauneuf du Pape tasting on March 14th, when
we will be tasting the very best 1998s...blind (now that's
scary!).
1999 Domaine Andre Brunel Cotes Du Rhone
"Cuvee Sommelongue" (#5397) $10.99
Andre Brunel's "Les Cailloux" is one of the most highly regarded
Chateau Neuf du Papes. His CDR follows that ripe, rich, fruitforward style in the '99 vintage. Look for a Southern Rhone nose
of Provencal herbs (rosemary, thyme, lavender), pepper, spice and
a big cherry/plum palate impression. Delicious! M.E.
1998 Domaine De La Renjarde Cotes Du Rhone
Villages (#4802) $8.99
By now, the public wants to know how in the world the folks in the
Southern Rhone manage to craft such tasty wines for such low
prices. The answer is really very simple –- the wines are a "little
bit of this and a little bit of that" blends of Grenache, Cinsault,
Syrah, Carignan and Mourvedre. They are aged in cement or stainless steel tanks, not expensive oak. The flavors and aromas are
therefore pure and fruit-driven -- plum, cherry, raspberry, pepper.
The aim is to create a wine that requires nothing from the consumer but the desire for pleasure. What do you require? M.E.
Rhone Red
#14418 1998
#7995 1997
#945004 1998
#945010 1997
#40043 1997
#900100 1998
#65479 1999
#6283 1999
#6123 1999
#954611 1998
#954612 1998
1999 Domaine La Garrique, Cuvee Romaine,
Cotes du Rhone (#5200) $8.99
This wine invites you to glimpse the darker side of the Cotes du
Rhone. The nose is welcoming, with dark berry fruit, spicy wood
and a glimmer of "something else"...but what? To look at this
purplish wine, you would think it would stain your teeth for a
week. What lurks in those purple depths are big, dark fruit flavors
integrated with a spicy, almost smoky wood. Structured with
tannins that will not overwhelm you, it has a lingering/teasing
finish that makes you beg for more. K.W.
#5338 1998
#3269 1998
#34590 1998
#900436 1998
#900426 1998
1998 Domaine Sorin Côtes de Provence Cuvée
Tradition (#8833) $11.99
#900206 1998
#5200 1999
This wine is all about fun in the sun! The vineyards are located just
hours from some of the world's most renowned beaches, which has
us thinking that a summer internship might be just what we need
to shake off the winter blues. Open the bottle and marvel at a color
very uncommon at this price. Taste it! It smacks of fruit flavors
closely aligned to those wines from world-famous Bandol. You'll
discover earthy, leafy, leathery (in the best sense of the word) flavors married to currant and kirsch that will overwhelm your palate.
To be certain of its "novice" appeal, we poured several glasses for
friends in Utah on a recent snowboarding trip. It blew them away!
They never experienced such a wine before!! Get some before we
expose our Best Bargains class attendees to it! Scott T
#7426
#7430
1998
1998
#5270 1998
#7463 1997
#7479 1997
#5558 1998
#24121 1998
#824913 1989
#819445 1990
#1754 1997
#7386 1998
#45754 1998
#4604 1993
Rhone White
#7133 1997
#8853 1997
#45569 1999
#2226 1997
#16331 1999
#6299 1997
#8773 1999
One more time
1998 Chateau de la Gardine, Chateauneuf du Pape
(#16746) $29.99
1998 Domaine de la Millière, Chateauneuf du Pape
"Vieilles Vignes" (#8168) $29.99
Are we good, or what? While everyone else is long gone on most
1998 Chateauneuf du Papes (all the really good stuff), we snagged
two great ones. We told you how good the Gardine was and made
it a staff favorite, only to have it disappear once a certain popular
7
Brusset, Cairanne
$11.99
Chapoutier Cornas
$25.00
Chapoutier Cote-Rotie Les Becasses
$55.39
Chapoutier Hermitage "Le Pavillon"
$256.89
Chapoutier Hermitage Sizeranne
$59.99
Chateau Maucoil Chateauneuf du Pape $38.99
Chateau St. Andre, Cotes du Rhone
$8.99
Chave Cotes du Rhone Mon Coeur
$19.99
Chave Saint-Joseph "Offerus"
$25.99
Cuvee du Vatican Chateauneuf du Pape $27.99
Cuvee du Vatican Chateauneuf du Pape
Reserve Sixtine
$37.99
Cuvee Louis Belle Crozes-Hermitage
$19.99
Delas Freras Cotes-du-Ventoux
$5.99
Domaine de l'Oratoire Saint-Martin,
Cotes du Rhone-Cairanne
$15.99
Domaine des Relagnes, CdP
"La Cuvee Vigneronne"
$26.99
Domaine des Relagnes,
Chateauneuf du Pape
$24.99
Domaine du Trapadis Rasteau "Harys" $33.29
Domaine La Garrique, Cotes du Rhone
"Cuvee Romaine"
$8.99
Domaine Monpertuis, Chateauneuf du Pape $24.99
Domaine Monpertuis, Chateauneuf du Pape
"Tradition"
$44.99
Entrefeaux, Crozes Hermitage
$13.99
Fonsalette "Syrah" Limited
$39.99
Fonsalette, Cotes du Rhone
$31.99
Gallet Cote-Rotie
$40.99
Jaboulet Chateauneuf du Pape Les Cedres $35.99
Jaboulet Hermitage La Chapelle
$189.99
$259.99
$69.95
Le Clos du Caillou Cotes du Rhone
$28.99
Les Closiers Chateauneuf du Pape
$19.99
Levet Cote-Rotie
$25.99
Chapoutier Hermitage "Chante Alouette"
Chapoutier St. Joseph "Les Granits"
Guigal Cotes du Rhone
J.L. Chave Hermitage
Mas de Daumas Gassac
Rayas Chateauneuf du Pape
Vieux Mas des Papes Chateauneuf du Pape
$42.99
$85.59
$9.39
$92.89
$29.99
$69.99
$20.99
BURGUNDY
1998 Michel Morey-Conffinet (ChassagneMontrachet) "Caillerets" (#912350) $37.99
Red Burgundy
#6138 1999
#6137 1999
#1449 1998
#1454 1998
#1451 1998
#7439 1998
#7440 1998
#13990 1996
Arlaud, Clos du la Roche
$79.99
Arlaud, Morey-St. Denis "Les Ruchots" $54.99
Arnoux, Clos Vougeot
$87.99
Arnoux, Echezeaux
$84.99
Arnoux, Nuits St. Georges "Poisets"
$41.99
Barthod, Chambolle-Musigny "Les Cras" $54.99
Barthod, Chambolle-Musigny "Les Fuees"$57.99
Chantal Lescure, Nuits-St. Georges
"Les Damodes"
$26.99
#619
1998 Charlopin-Parizot, Clos Vougeot
$69.99
#628
1998 Charlopin-Parizot, Gevrey-Chambertin
"La Justice"
$29.99
#5546 1998 Clos Lambrays, Clos des Lambrays
$69.99
#7218 1998 Comte Armand, Pommard
"Clos des Epenaux"
$69.99
#900424 1998 Comte Armand, Volnay "Fremiets"
$54.99
#8306 1997 Comte Vogue, Bonnes-Mares
$145.99
#26383 1997 Comte Vogue, Musigny
$194.99
#1288 1998 Domaine Bizot, Echezeaux
$64.99
#1282 1998 Domaine Bizot, Vosne-Romanee "Les Reas"$44.99
#2743 1998 Domaine Jacques Prieur, Musigny
$114.99
#6464 1998 Drouhin, Beaune "Clos des Mouches"
$48.99
#6475 1998 Drouhin, Griottes-Chambertin
$95.99
#7561 1999 Esmonin, Chambertin
$64.99
#7641 1999 Esmonin, Charmes-Chambertin
$52.99
#7577 1999 Esmonin, Gevrey-Chambertin
"Estournelles Saint-Jacques"
$39.99
#7568 1999 Esmonin, Ruchottes-Chambertin
$49.99
#1815 1998 Heresztyn, Gevrey-Chambertin
"Vieilles Vignes"
$28.99
#25637 1998 J.F. Mugnier, Chambolle-Musigny
$44.99
#1458 1997 J.F. Mugnier, Chambolle-Musigny
"Les Amoureuses"
$79.99
#924503 1998 Jadot, Gevrey-Chambertin
"Estournelles Saint Jacques"
$60.99
#949
1997 Joseph Voillot, Volnay "Champans"
$39.99
#6490 1998 Lafarge, Volnay
$38.99
#4805 1997 Leroy, Bourgogne
$17.99
#917511 1998 Mommessin, Clos de Tart
$89.99
White Burgundy
#45557 1997 Albert Pic, Chablis "Grenouilles"
$49.99
#900036 1998 Anglada-Deleger, Chassagne-Montrachet
"Blanchot Dessus"
$41.99
#10121 1998 Brocard, Les Clos
$34.99
#28765 1998 Drouhin, Chablis "Domaine de Vaudon" $15.99
#63214 1999 Drouhin, Chassagne-Montrachet
"Marquis de Laguiche"
$54.99
#65467 1999 Jean-Marc Boillot, Montagne Premier Cru$17.99
#65456 1999 Jean-Marc Boillot, Puligny-Montrachet
"Champ-Canet"
$57.99
#65470 1999 Jean-Marc Boillot, Puligny-Montrachet
"Champ-Gains"
$51.99
#6774 1998 Laroche, Chablis "Blanchots Reserve
de l'Obedience"
$119.99
#6737 1998 Laroche, Chablis "Les Clos"
$85.99
#6736 1998 Laroche, Chablis "Les Fourchaumes"
$39.99
#243
1999 Verget, Chablis
$17.99
#3354 1999 Verget, Chablis "Fourchaume"
$33.99
#231
1999 Verget, St. Veran
$12.99
#828
1999 Verget, St. Veran "Terroirs De Davaye" $16.99
I visited this domaine last September when I worked in Burgundy.
Michel is an excellent winemaker and the Coffinet family are great
producers of grapes from Chassagne. Upon entering Michel's
cellars, I was instantly awestruck by the massive underground
architecture. The label does not do justice to the walls and archways made out of limestone bricks nearly 2000 years ago. Oh, the
wine? Well, elegant and smooth sums it up. The nose smells of
minerals, white fruits and a kiss of butterscotch. On the palate, the
wine shows class and finesse, with notes of minerals and butterscotch on the aftertaste. This wine is drinking well now, but will
get better with either an hour of aeration or two years of bottle
aging. James
Here's your first chance to taste the hot 1999s!!
1999 Domaine Arlaud, Bourgogne "Roncevie"
(#6134) $18.99
1999 Jean Pillot, Bourgogne (#7425) $14.99
These are great wines at really nice prices that make exploring the
new (and critically acclaimed) vintage a real pleasure. These are
the first of the 1999 Bourgogne Rouge that we've brought into the
store...and they are sure to please your pocketbook, palate and
curiosity when it comes to the much-talked-about 1999 Burgundy
vintage. The Arlaud's Roncevie is from the famous village of
Gevrey-Chambertin, and Pillot's Bourgogne is mostly declassified
Chassagne-Montrachet. The origin of these wines helps explain
their taste and structure. Arlaud's Roncevie is a little darker and
heavier, with notes and flavors of black cherries and vanilla.
Pillot's, being mostly from Chassagne, is lighter, more fragrant and
tastes of Bing cherries and red raspberries. James
1998 Domaine de l'Arlot Nuit St. George
"Clos des Forets" (#66548) $51.99
Domaine de l'Arlot was founded in 1987 by the same people who
own Chateau Pichon-Longueville (Baron), along with two
Monopoles, the splendid "Clos des Forets St George" and the
walled vineyard of "Clos de l'Arlot." This wine comes from 30year-old vines of Clos des Forets, which typically produces elegant, complex and powerful red Burgundies. And this one more
than fits the bill. Silky tannins caress ripe red fruit, balanced by a
seductive earthiness and notes of mocha and tobacco. Fine
Burgundy at a fine price! S.R.
1998 Barthod, Chambolle-Musigny "Les Cras"
(#7439) $54.99
This is a new producer for us here at the Wine House, and we are
all pretty excited about these wines. We ordered a trio of super
Premier Cru Chambolle-Musigny from Barthod. The Les Cras vineyard is situated on the same limestone base as the Grand Cru vineyard of Bonnes-Mares. This explains some of the wine's breeding,
as it is a bigger style of Chambolle-Musigny. The wine has beautiful color and notes of red raspberry, cherry and fresh-brewed green
tea. The flavor profile hits hard, with robust raspberry, cherry, cola
and vanilla. The wine finishes with fine, dusty tannins that provide
a backbone for aging over the next four-to-eight years. James
8
KOSHER
LOIRE
Kosher Wines For Your Passover Seder
The Best Kosher Wines Are Now At The Wine House
1998 Marc Deschamps Pouilly Fume Cuvee des
Porcheronnes (#4608) $15.99
Dread not Concord grape syrup in the Seder cup, because the Wine
House offers one of the largest selections of fine wines that are
Kosher, as well. With fine wine awareness sweeping the land, a
demand for drier, high-quality wines for the holiday table has
naturally followed. The new offerings of Kosher wines depart from
the traditional Concords (and Boeings) of this airborne world
towards today's Cabernets, etc... and not only from Israel, but from
California, France and Italy, too. Current releases go some distance
in dispelling the notion that these wines are inferior in quality to
their non-Kosher counterparts. In fact, in accordance with strict
standards imposed by Kosher law, the overall quality of these
wines is very high, indeed.
This wine is like a sexy girl, bright and juicy, with a complex play
of aromas and flavors. She runs the gamut of possibilities, thanks
to notes of citrus, lemon, grapefruit, fresh grass, smoke, almonds
and morning dew. An element of mineral stone belies her power
and taut structure, yet she is smooth, with an elegant finish.
The Cotat wines are back!
1999 Pascal Cotat, Sancerre "La Grande Côte"
(#5947) $34.99
1999 Pascal Cotat, Sancerre "La Grande Côte Cuvée
Spéciale" (#5959) $39.99
Okay, for those of you who know the "Cotat" Sancerre wines, here
is the scoop on Pascal. Pascal is the brother of François and the son
of the famous Paul Cotat. Pascal has his vines and set out on his
own. For those of you who don't care about Cotat but want a great
Sancerre, let me tell you -- these wines are spectacular and limited. They combine the chalky limestone terroir of Sancerre with
grapefruit and gooseberry flavors. The Cuvée Spéciale is picked a
little later than the regular offering and, therefore, provides more
texture and thickness on the palate. Both of these wines are built
for the long haul and are capable of aging 3-5 years.
Cutting to the chase, though, what do these wines taste like? Well,
like other wines, there's a wide spectrum of flavors and aromas.
Wines such as 1997 Herzog Cabernet Sauvignon, Warnecke
Vineyard, Special Edition (#10138) $47.99 (very limited) have a
justly deserved reputation as "world class" wines, while the
simpler vin du pays of southern France or their counterparts from
Italy, California, Israel or Australia are great values and taste
fantastic. We carry L.A.'s finest and largest selection of Kosher
wines, including (but not limited to) such names as Herzog and
Weinstock (California), Abarbenal, Fortant and Domaine Bunan
(France), and Gamla, Golan and Katzarin (Israel). And that's not to
mention Kosher spirits, sake and beer!
1998 Ballard, Sancerre Rouge (#3576) $17.99
Looking for something different? Well, you must admit, you don't
often think of Sancerre for red wine -- but it does make an excellent
example of Pinot Noir. In this part of France, Pinot Noir has a long
growing season and the terroir helps produce a lighter-colored,
medium-to-light-bodied wine (similar to the best dry French rosés,
only darker and more flavorful). However, don't let the color or
body fool you -- the wine has intense flavors of wild strawberries
and fresh-crushed red raspberries.
Sancerre
#2510 1999 Domaine de Sarry
$16.99
#6821 1998 Fournier "Grande Cuvee"
$14.89
#3565 1999 Jean-Paul Ballard
$13.89
#5352 1999 Pascal Cotat "Les Monts Damne's"
$29.95
Pouilly Fumé
#32553 1998 Blanchet "Cuvée Silex"
$15.99
#5666 1998 Chateau de Tracy
$26.99
#4608 1998 Deschamps
$15.99
#17426 1998 Ladoucette
$24.89
Savennieres
#76578 1997 Chateau d'Epire
$18.99
#6337 1996 Chateau Soucherie "Clos des Perrieres" $21.99
#24591 1997 Soulez "Clos du Papillon" Moelleux
$21.99
#50066 1997 Soulez "Roche Aux Moines"
$21.99
Vouvray
#1204 1999 Domaine de Vaufuget
$8.99
#6328 1996 Foreau Moelleux
$36.99
#7911 1998 Foreau Sec
$19.99
#7541 1998 Monmousseau
$9.99
Chinon
#8832 1999 Joguet "Jeunes Vignes"
$14.99
#8316 1998 Joguet "Les Varennes"
$23.49
#4651 1998 Ormeaux
$9.99
Three Of Our Favorites:
1998 Weinstock Cellars Contour (#5408) $9.49
Many of us here at Wine House Central feel the prize for most
overlooked (but highly deserving) varietal should go not to our
favorite, Riesling, but rather to Chenin Blanc. Some of the best
examples are among the most racy and stylish wines around. The
finest source for this grape in California may well be Clarksberg,
the origin of this most tasty of dry Chenins. Fermented and aged in
stainless steel to maintain its crisp fruit character, the wine features
a flowery citrus aroma and lush palate.
1998 De Montage Bordeaux (#4427) $13.99
Any delicious $14 Bordeaux is something to get excited about...and
this one is really great! The 1998 vintage enjoys a well-deserved
reputation for the success of Merlot-based wines, and this
negociant wine from the greater Bordeaux area is a super example.
Soft, lush and bursting with black currant flavors, it is just what
you want from a red wine to accompany a festive gathering of
friends and family. Highly recommended.
1997 Herzog Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley,
Special Reserve (#10107) $27.99
The 1997 vintage has produced already legendary Cabs from many
of California's vineyards. Add to the list this 1997 Special Reserve.
It's one fantastic Cab that, regardless of its status, belongs in any
serious collector's cellar. Harvested from two 30-plus-year-old
vineyards, the wine has spent 18 months in new American oak. The
resulting wine has rich, complex aromas of cherry, cranberry and
blackberry; deep color and soft, rich tannins, along with balancing
notes of toasty oak and a long, satisfying finish. Very limited.
Many of our Kosher selections will be available to sample in
our tasting room on the following dates: Sunday, March 25,
1-4 p.m. and Wednesday, April 4, 4-7 p.m.
9
ITALY
1999 Cantine Botromagno "Gravina" (#12558) $7.99
1999 La Spinetta, Barbera d'Asti, Ca' Di Pian
(#900354) $15.99
This is an exciting value from one of Italy's most southern regions,
Puglia, otherwise known as the heel of the boot. The nose is
perfumed, like a subtle Viognier, in addition to having a mid-body
mouthfeel. Freshness exudes from the glass in the way of apricots
and hints of flowers. This rich, lush dry white will pair beautifully
with anything in a cream sauce and is wonderful to sip on its own.
This wine illustrates why the Rivetti brothers are a force to be
reckoned with. Their entire portfolio is amazing, but the quality of
this Barbera really stands out. The nose is a delightful mix of berry
fruit and oak spice. On the palate, the rich berry flavors are
balanced with moderate tannins and oak spice. The acidic backbone brings it all together, and makes it a great wine for food. If
you love to drink big, rich wines, but do not like the way they tend
to mix with most cuisine, try this wine. K.W.
1998 Jermann Friuli Venezia Giulia Chardonnay
(#7096) $17.99
As delicious as ever, the wines of Silvio Jermann always please
the palate. Considered by many to be Italy's finest white wine
producer, Jermann's deft skill in producing clean, mildly oaked
wines has won fans around the globe. The current vintage shows a
very complementary side of the grape -- not overripe, but more
restrained -- not laden with vanilla flavors, as that would overwhelm the fruit. Welcoming in flavor, the wine boasts a clean
approach that complements cuisine, rather than over-complicates a
chef's intentions. The world has enough over-oaked, over-ripe
styles -- try a fresh approach to an old varietal.
1999 Sandrone Dolcetto D'Alba (#900409) $18.99
Historically known for vigorous, broad-shouldered wines,
Sandrone is a revolutionary of sorts in the minds of many
Italophiles. In the early 1990s, he curtailed the full-throttle
approach in favor of an earlier-drinking style (hardly) with some of
his wines. That said, we recommend a waiting period for optimum
drinking (4-7 months). If Alba is the home of power Dolcettos,
then this is the granddaddy of them all! It has everything -- intense
fruit and potent structure, leaning on the heavy side -- meanwhile,
licorice, niçoises olives, currant/plum and vanilla tease the nose
and titillate the palate. Then there's a lonnnnnnng finish, with a grip
akin to that of a lumberjack's! Not for the timid! Scott T
1998 Tenuta Villa Nova Pinot Grigio (#4638) $9.99
This is great party wine! Fresh and very fruity, with a definite hint
of green melon and citrus, this is a versatile wine that would be
great at the cocktail hour, yet has enough lively acidity to go with
food. Finishes with a touch of earthiness that makes for a great
quaff. S.R.
1997 Fattoria di Petroio, Chianti Classico Riserva
(#35003) $33.99
I know you have heard 1997 is a fantastic vintage for Italy -- the
wines are big, ripe and fruity, with lower levels of acid. This
Riserva is atypical of the vintage, since it is more tannic and
austere, like wines from other classic, traditional vintages. Don't
let that scare you off. It still has plenty of rich, round fruit to
balance the tannins and acids. What you get from this wine is a
traditional-style Chianti that will go great with liver and fava beans
long after the other 1997s have passed their prime. K.W.
1998 Rendola Toscanna Rosso (Sangiovese)
(#3180) $9.99
Aromas and flavors are redolent of red cherry skins, tobacco,
tea leaf and bright strawberries. This wine is softly sweet and
medium-bodied in texture, and due to a dose of oak, it finishes
with a fair length. Here's a remarkably food-friendly wine that
would round-out a host of meals, from pasta to grilled meats. Peter
1998 Podere Poggo Scalette "Il Carbonaione"
(#3747) $52.99
1998 Morgante Nero D'Avola (#10013) $9.99
Sicily is on fire...figuratively, of course! What I am trying to say is
the region is producing some of the best everyday drinking reds
making their way to the good old U.S.A. Ricardo Cotarella of
Vitiano Falesco is the consulting winemaker for Morgante...and it
is evident. This unfined, unfiltered red has notes of spice and
cherry with an overall rich bouquet. The palate is Mediterranean
mid-bodied, and offers plenty on the ripe fruit side of things. A
gem not to be missed! L.M.
I had my first taste of Il Carbonaione with the 1996 vintage and
could not have been any more impressed by this Super Tuscan. The
1998 is all that, plus much, much more! This opulently rich
Sangiovese is dense and dark in color, with a nose that offers layers
of black fruit and floral hints, along with notes of spice. The palate
is lush and the tannins are fine, just fine! New French oak adds
layers of complexity, along with toast and a depth of structure that
will allow this harmonious wine to drink now or age beautifully.
1997 Pelissero Dolcetto D'Alba
"Munfrina" (#3440) $13.99
1998 Promis Pieve Santa Restituta (#4726) $34.99
A "Pieve" is a church parish. The church parish of Santa Restituta
stands on this property in Brunello Di Montalcino. Angelo Gaja is
the man behind the wine, which is mainly Sangiovese, with a bit
of Merlot for added complexity and softness. That makes it, in the
parlance of the press, a "Super Tuscan." It is deep in color and as
well-structured as the wonderful ’98 vintage would suggest,
although it is approachable now. Pair with osso buco, veal chops or
Cacio di Roma, a sheep's milk cheese made outside Rome.
Wonderful juice! Mark
"Dolce" means sweet in Italian, so one is
led to believe that Dolcetti will be light
and sweet. In fact, most modern versions
of this wine tend to have as much body as
some Barberas, and the flavors tend
towards a mouthwatering bittersweet
tang. This one has a chocolate-covered cherry note and a hint of
wild plum. Dolcetto is a marvelous food wine, too!
10
ITALY
1997 Fattoria del Cerro, Vino Nobile di
Montepulciano (#8028) $17.99
Supers
One of the most overlooked wines from Tuscany is Vino Nobile.
In the right hands, it can create truly world-class wines. The winemaker, Lorenzo Landi, is considered one of the very best. This
wine's nose could rival a Barolo in complexity; with aromas of
ripe plum and berries, tobacco, chocolate, vanilla and a hint of
lavender. No one could deny that this wine is elegant on the palate,
with a velvety texture balanced by plum, chocolate and oak
nuances. The tannins are soft and seem to melt right into the lasting finish. This is a steal! K.W.
#8289
1997 Biondi Santi Sassoalloro
#8855
1999 Falesco "Vitiano"
$8.99
#3865
1998 Falesco Montiano
$36.99
#2858
1997 Felsina "Fontalloro"
$64.99
#3715
1998 Sporteletti 'Villa Fidela"
$46.69
1995 Fattoria del Cerro Vino Nobile di Montalciano
"Vigneto Antica Chiusina" (#8017) $39.99
#9891
1993 Sergio Zenato Amarone
$47.99
#6603
1995 Allegrini Amarone
$44.49
#32019 1997 Terrabianca "Ceppate"
$26.99
$55.99
North
If the title of this wine did not deter you from reading on, I applaud
your knowledge...or patience. Vigneto Antica Chiusina is an
outstanding single vineyard Vino Nobile that is sure to delight avid
fans of Italian reds. This wine is rich and full-bodied, with a nose
that is a bit smoky, coupled with cherries, ripe fruit and toast. The
mouthfeel is lush and concentrated, yet there is still an offering of
classic Italian structure, in the way of acid, that holds this baby
together. A wonderful value for a wine of elegance -- this is truly
a cellar-worthy bottle. L.M.
1999 Elvio Pertinace Barbaresco "Vigneto
Marcarini" (#3448) $39.99
This is one of three single-vineyard Barbarescos from Pertinace
that we at the Wine House flipped for, and that is impressive, when
you consider how breathtaking the 1997 is and all the Barbarescos
we tasted through. If you are familiar with either the vintage or the
region, you already know this wine is a great value, but don't
underestimate it because of price -- it delivers! This is classic
Barbaresco, with notes of tar, leather and roses underlined by
red fruit. Lush and full-bodied, it is drinking well now and is also
age-worthy. L.M.
#11442 1997 Allegrini La Grola Valpolicella
$15.99
#7786
1996 Boasso Barolo "Gabutti"
$40.99
#4702
1997 Bricco de Uccellone Barbera
$54.99
#5981
1997 Ceretto Barbaresco "Faset"
$57.99
#5931
1997 Ceretto Barbaresco "Asili"
$83.99
#34581 1997 Corregia "Rocce D'Ampsej"
$44.99
#7933
$25.99
1997 Beni di Batasiolo Barbaresco
#67582 1995 I. Castei Amarone
$41.99
#2862
1996 Manzone "Le Gramolere"
$44.99
#2861
1996 Mauro Molino Vigna Gancia Barolo
$42.99
#17866 1997 Aldo Conterno "Il Favot" Nebbiolo
$52.99
#24018 1997 Nino Negri 5 Sfursat
$41.99
#900326 1998 Parusso Bricco Rovella Nebbiolo
$29.95
#3448
1996 Pertinace "Vigneto Marcarini" Barbaresco$39.99
#30042 1996 Fontanabianca Barbaresco Suri Burdin
Best Buy
$49.99
Chianti & Brunello
#1492
1995 Antinori "Pian delle Vigne" Brunello
$51.99
#83491 1995 Renato Ratti "Rocche" Barolo
$44.99
#640
1995 Argiano Brunello
$42.99
#83492 1996 Renato Ratti "Rocche" Barolo
$46.99
#8196
1997 Castello Della Paneratta "Torre a Destra"
Chianti Classico
$29.99
#7244
1996 Luigi Einaudi Barolo
$42.99
#74562 1997 Tommasi Valpolicella
$11.99
#1996
1996 Veglio Barolo "Castelletto"
$44.99
#8025
1996 Tenuta San Leonardo
$44.99
#31003 1997 Castello di Ama Chianti
#3503
$29.99
1998 Ciacci Piccolomini Rosso di Montalcino $21.99
#12116 1997 Monsanto Chianti Riserva
$17.99
#1401
1998 Felsina Chianti
$19.99
#3286
1997 Le Cinciole "Petresco" Riserva Chianti
$27.99
#940020 1995 Livio Sassetti "Pertimali" Brunello
$48.99
#75447 1997 Montevertine Res. Chianti
$39.99
#20083 1995 Poggio Antico Brunello
$53.99
#2427
$41.99
1997 Poliziano Vino Nobile "Asinone"
Whites
#8987
11
1998 Pra Soave
$9.99
#21577 1998 Jermann Vintage Tunina
$39.99
#541
$16.99
1998 Livio Felluga Pinot Grigio
#926976 1998 Teruzzi & Puthod "Terre di Tufi"
$14.99
#20228 1999 Venica & Venica "Ronco Della Mele"
Sauvignon Blanc
$24.99
BOUNDING INTO THE
NEW YEAR?
By Mark Estrin
The same importer who brings in the
Nunez also offers Yema Gran Reserva
Sherry Vinegar (#5073) $100. The stocks
for this vinegar date from 1923. Yema
draws on the barrels very sparingly, a small
amount every year. Eventually, it will be
gone. And what do you get for all this rarity, except for a
stupendous price tag? You get a substance which stands alone in
its class -- rich, refined, smooth as silk, a truly subtle, ethereal
essence in a world which has precious little ethereal or subtle
left in it. How do you use it? You put a few drops on fish,
vegetables or meat. Or you may sip it in tiny glasses as an aperitif. Amazing stuff!!
I LEFT MY HEART IN SAN FRANCISCO
Well, not really. Actually, I left nothing behind in San Francisco,
having attended the Fancy Food Show there at the end of
January. Leaving nothing behind is rare for me. Hotel or motel
personnel could stage entire swap meets using the sunglasses,
shirts, underwear and books I've forgotten or lost in their
establishments. One time, I left behind a sport jacket and a pair
of shoes. I was on my honeymoon, so I was even more distracted than usual.
San Franciscans like to brag about the beauty of their city's
downtown. The fact is that downtown San Francisco is both
beautiful and awful, cool and crass. The buildings are gorgeous.
The food is great. You can amble the streets at night and there are
folks walking all around you. You have to be careful lest you
bump into them, though; they are all dressed in shades of black
and gray and difficult to see in the semi-darkness. From block to
block, the scene can shift dramatically -- chic boutiques and
restaurants on one street, then turn the corner and life is suddenly very hard and the homeless are huddled in doorways. I stayed
at a quaint hotel that had plenty of old San Francisco charm and
a desk clerk sporting a ring in his nose. He addressed me as
"dude."
We've added two new bacons in 2311,
both from Jansal Valley. The New
Hampshire Cob Smoked (#5041)
$10.99 and the Pepper Crusted
(#5058) $10. bacon are flat-out
delicious. No finesse here, just sweet, succulent pork begging to
accompany your breakfast or your BLT. They are just barely
salted. Must-buys for bacon fanatics!
Do you like Oven-Roasted Tomatoes in Olive Oil? (#5023)
$19./lb? Of course you do! Who doesn't? These are both red and
yellow. They are grown in Italy. Once you try them, you will be
addicted, just like the entire Wine House staff is. We will make
every effort not to eat them all before you get your share. We are,
however, weak-willed when it comes to something this terrific.
I didn't buy a lot at the show. You have to be disciplined and have
a very clear agenda when you attend these functions, moving
quickly down the rows. There was no one item that seemed to
obsess the vendors. The French were conspicuous by their
absence. The Italians were, as usual, well-represented, although
typically they seemed bored, preferring to sit in their booths and
talk to each other in Italian. The Spanish mounted quite a
campaign. The Germans had a large contingent. They were
earnest and eager, unlike the Italians, but no one was clamoring
for their wares.
I went absolutely nuts for the Fondo Di
Toscana Fig Puree (#5066) $17.99. This
ambrosia is made from handpicked
Calabrian figs which are pressed, filtered
and then adulterated with a bit of sugar.
Believe me, adulterated is the right word
here. This is, uh, an adult puree. Pour it on fruit or yogurt or ice
cream. I grilled a pork loin, added a soupcon of chicken stock to
the puree and napped the sliced loin with it. Roasted chicken
would welcome this, as would grilled sea bass. Drink it with
something red and fruity, or a big, oaky Sauvignon Blanc.
I did find a few gems, though, including an astonishing line of
herb-infused olive oil from an Umbrian Contessa. The oils
smelled as if you had just rubbed fresh rosemary or oregano
between your palms. The Contessa also had two sauces she'd
created from olives and herbs on her estate that were fabulous.
She said they included a secret ingredient, but would not tell me
what it was. And I can't tell you what these products are called,
because I can't get them at this time. I'm trying to find an
American importer for her. If I do, you'll hear about it, believe
me!
It goes without saying that no packaged scone can
possibly compete with a homemade one. Well, it
went without saying. Iveta (E-veta) Gourmet
produces a scone mix that will change the way you
live. Look, I make my own (I could write a doctoral
thesis on scone making) and I can't do this well. We
have Apricot, Blueberry and Cherry. All you have
to do is add one cup of cream. No, don't even
consider the alternatives. Cream. Not milk, not
yogurt...cream. Okay, so we're talking about a few
extra calories. Make the scones. Make a pot of tea. Open a jar of
jam. Luxuriate. (#7245) $5.59.
I did bring back the Nunez De Prado (#5081)
$29.99 olive oil from Spain. This oil is regarded by
many aficionados as the best olive oil in the world.
Completely handcrafted (in fact, it is not pressed at
all, but rather like free run wine, it seeps out from
the press before pressure is applied) and unfiltered,
it boasts hints of green apple, almonds and dried
Seville oranges. The acidity is an extraordinary 0.1%!
12
Finally, there are three fruit spreads -- Red Cherry Strawbery,
Blackberry Currant Ginger and Mango Apricot (#4883)
$6.99. Look, I've already gushed more than a man can gush in a
newsletter, so I'll tone it down in the interest of good taste. These
were awesome -- buy them!
There were several booths I visited four and five times because
the product was so unusually fine: the one belonging to the mysterious Italian Contessa, Iveta's, one where a Chinese gentleman
whose family owned tea gardens on Mainland China and Taiwan
held court (these fabulous teas will arrive in the spring -- look
for the next newsletter) and Wild Thymes Farm.
GRAND CRU PEANUTBUTTER –
COMFORT FOOD FOR TOUGH TIMES
Wild Thymes Farm is owned by a mother and her two daughters. Their condiments are enough to send a raving condimaniac
like yours truly over the edge.
During these times of economic downturn, when billions are now worth
only tens of millions and we are
suffering the indignities of relative
poverty, one turns to comfort foods.
And what is the ultimate comfort
food? Why, peanut butter of course!
And in an effort to make you as
comfortable as possible, we searched
high and low to sample and taste – so what did we find? We
found what we think is the grand cru peanut butter of Los
Angeles, although we had to venture far from these climes to
locate Gabriela (#5014) $2.49. Gabriela is made in Canada
(where it is legendary and seldom seen, rather like Big Foot) by
people who are more comfortable speaking French than English.
But great peanut butter speaks all languages. This one contains
peanuts...and nothing else. It comes in creamy and chunky.
There are four chutneys -- Plum Currant Ginger, Apricot
Cranberry Walnut, Grilled Corn Roasted Pepper and
Mango Papaya. Tasting each one caused my eyebrows to raise
in amazement. All chutneys (#4870) $6.99.
I'd been reluctant to bring in another mustard until I tasted their
selection -- Chili Pepper Garlic, Dill Horseradish, Peppery
Pecorino, Rosemary Garlic and Sesame Ginger Scallion
demonstrate an uncanny ability to mix and match flavors and
textures. And, of course, the basis for all these is an obvious
passion for pure ingredients. All mustards (#4874) $5.29.
There are two salad dressings that continue the above theme.
Parmesan Walnut Caesar and Roasted Apple Shallot (#4882)
$5.99 had me yearning for things green and leafy on the spot.
There just aren't any salad dressings better than these!
ALS ASSOCIATION
Greater Los Angeles Chapter
Lou Gehrig’s Disease
In Support of Patient Services and Research
&
MENDOCINO WINEGROWERS ALLIANCE
Real Farmers . . . Real Wine
On California’s Redwood Coast
Present
The Wines of Mendocino County
Thursday, March 29, 2001
5:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Skirball Cultural Center
Los Angeles
Wine Tasting and Museum Tour
Private Viewing of Museum Exhibit
Judy Chicago, Resolutions:
"A Stitch In Time"
TICKETS - $45 PER PERSON
Sponsorship Opportunities Available
For Information Contact: Tammy Ennis, Event Coordinator,
at the Chapter Office
(818) 865 – 8067 E-Mail: [email protected]
13
SPAIN
CHAMPAGNE
Vina Alarba Catatayud (#2842) $4.89
1995 Iron Horse Sonoma Classic Vintage Brut Green
Valley (#900096) $18.99
This wine is a contradiction. Made from old-vine Granacha
(Grenache) at high altitude, it sells for less than five dollars!? If it
were made anywhere else, you would be paying for the age of the
vines. It really delivers its old vine characteristics -- dark ruby in
color, juicy cherry and berry flavors, dusty tannins and acidity that
keep it all in place. This is really good wine, but don't take my
word for it, try it yourself. K.W.
Green Valley is located in the southwest corner of Sonoma. This
location is an ideal climate for the Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Iron
Horse consistently produces one of the best sparkling wines in
California. The palate is creamy and rich which is why this wine
often gets accolades and awards.
1989 Jepson Late Disgorged Blanc de Blanc
(#30031) $24.99
1998 Finca Casa Castillo Jumilla Monastrell
(#5415) $7.89
Located in the Mendocino County whose cool climate is grand for
Chardonnay. This wine is a limited single vineyard release with a
lot of care put into its production. This wine is 100% Chardonnay
and aged on its yeast for 10 years. The result is a deep rich flavour
with notes of spice, nuts and a yeasty finish.
Monastrell (or as it is better known, Mourvedre) is blended with a
little Cabernet Sauvignon to produce a moderately full-bodied red.
The nose is an intriguing menage of black and Bing cherries,
evergreen, mint and roasted stone. Slightly presumptuous tannins
meld with moderately sweet and thick flavors for a full, mouthcoating finish. Peter
Bisol Prosecco Di Valdobbiadene Crede (#9772) $13.99
One of my coworkers refers to this style of wine as adult soda pop.
If you have ever tried one I'm sure you understand the reference.
1997 Castell Del Remei Gotim Bru (#7800) $8.99
This is an affirmation, at least to me, that the wines from Spain can
be fantastic, value-driven gems. This blend of Tempranillo,
Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot is delicious. Complex (to say the
least), it features a wonderful mix of juicy cherry and black currant
fruit, chocolate and spice. This is a big, dense, chewy wine that can
be consumed over the next few years, but why would you want to
wait? K.W.
You will find this Prosecco is rich, fresh, floral and fruity. The
palate is teeming with apples and pears. A great wine to drink
before meals or to just wind out the end of the day.
Bruno Paillard Premiere Cuvee (#24603) $30.99
This cuvee represents 75% of the sales for this house. Being that it is
a house style, consistency is critical. Bruno Paillard understands this
and maintains higher standards than many other houses. They use
only the first pressing of the grapes for purity, and mature the wine
longer than the legal minimum. What you end up with is a sensual
glass of ripe citrus and tropical fruit with a long, fulfilling finish.
1994 Miguel Merino Rioja Reserva (#7997) $26.99
Ya gotta love the Spanish! 1994 was one of Spain's finest vintages,
and Spanish winemakers are renowned for holding their babies
back to age, and that's what we have in this delicious Reserva. This
beautiful wine has a deep-red color with a hint of purple. The
toasty, vanilla and deep-black fruit aromas lead into concentrated
flavors that reveal the aging in American oak casks. Here's a lovely Rioja produced in a modern style with just enough tannins to add
some grip and structure. Age-worthy, yet also drinking well now.
Rioja
#6163 1991
#7746 1991
#900328 1991
#7140 1996
#1541 1995
#20178 1989
#4776 1996
#4778 1997
#900377 1996
Del Duero
#65461 1997
#20189 1997
#1472 1996
#1473 1994
#1877 1996
Misc. Spanish
#1799 1998
#65460 1997
#9854 1991
#2024 1999
Campo Viejo Reserve
CUNE Imperial
Faustino I Reserva
Roda I Reserva
La Rioja Alta Alberdi
La Rioja Alta Reserva 904
Muga Res.
Remelluri Res.
Torre Muga
$21.99
$32.99
$29.99
$52.99
$13.99
$36.99
$14.99
$19.99
$52.95
Emilio Moro
Mauro Tinto
Pesquera Reserva Ribera Del Duero
Pesquera Grand Reserva Ribera Del Duero
Pesquera Ribera Del Duero
$21.99
$27.99
$44.99
$93.99
$26.69
Protocolo Best Buy
San Roman
Torre Oria Gran Riserva
Vega Sindoa El Chapparel
$4.39
$27.99
$13.49
$8.99
#911921 NV
#3387 NV
#5723 NV
#902892 NV
#900295 NV
#2264 NV
#915326 NV
#917105 NV
#909253 NV
#65475 NV
#909119 NV
#912405 NV
#916925 NV
#999058 NV
#920335 NV
#60018 NV
#903891 NV
#934501 NV
#917583 NV
#900128 1981
#4357 1995
#6225 1995
#5820 1990
#900177 1985
#923177 1995
#269887 1990
#900654 1993
14
Billecart-Salmon Rose
$49.99
Cattier Brut
$25.99
Comte Audoin de Dampierre
"Cuvee des Ambassadeurs"
$25.99
Krug Grand Cuvee
$109.99
Laurent Perrier LP Brut
$24.89
Laurent Perrier Rose
$49.99
Moet Chandon Brut Imperial
$26.99
Moet Chandon White Star
$24.99
Mumm Cordon Rouge
$22.99
Mumm de Cramant
$47.99
Mumm Xtra Dry
$22.49
Perrier Jouet Brut
$23.99
Piper Heidsieck Brut
$22.99
Piper Heidsieck Jean Paul Gaultier
$89.99
Pommery Brut
$28.99
Pommery Brut Rose
$39.99
Roederer Brut Premier
$29.99
Ruinart
$29.99
Taittinger La Francaise
$25.99
Bollinger R.D.
$179.95
Comte Audoin de Dampierre, Brut Rose $39.99
Comte Audoin de Dampierre, Family Reserve $84.99
Comte Audoin de Dampierre, Grand Vintage$49.99
Joseph Perrier Cuvee Josephine 1.5L
$175.00
Perrier Jouet Two-Glass Gift Set
$99.99
Pol Roger Winston Churchill
$142.49
Taittinger Comtes de Champagne
$138.89
THE WINE HOUSE CLASSES
Use the symbols at right to help you choose
classes that will be interesting and rewarding for
you.
You are welcome to attend any class, but the
coding will help in identifying those classes where
prior knowledge is fundamental to a full
appreciation of the content of the class.
Please feel free to call the instructor for
further specifics on course content.
We provide glasses, tasting sheets and cheese
with rolls. Except in the case of food
classes, you are encouraged to eat a light meal
before attending.
Unlike the "Open House" format of our
Friday Nights At The Wine Bar and The Fests &
Mini-Fests, The Wine House classes are
designed to let you take advantage of the
extensive wealth of knowledge and information
gleaned by our staff of instructors through a
combined 75 years as wine industry
professionals.
While these classes are designed to be more
educational than our other events, we never
forget that the key to a good wine tasting is
FUN!
NOTE:
Classes begin at 7:30 PM unless otherwise
indicated, and most end at 9:30 PM.
Class level of difficulty
❍ Beginner ❑ Intermediate
❏
IN SEARCH OF THE HOLY GRAIL -- 1998 CHATEAUNEUF DU PAPE,
Wednesday, March 14 (#7194) $60.
❍ AN INTRODUCTION TO THE WINES OF FRANCE,
Three Consecutive Mondays: March 19, 26 and April 2 (#7174) $100.
❍ DISCOVERING SPAIN, Wednesday, March 21 (#6209) $35.
❏
INTERMEDIATE BORDEAUX,
Two Consecutive Tuesdays, March 27 and April 3 (#657) $130.
❏
THE UNTOUCHABLES,
Wednesday March 28 (#4575) $75.
❏
WINE AND JUNK FOOD, Thursday, March 29 (#50501) $35.
❍ BABES IN KIWILAND: THE WINES OF NEW ZEALAND,
Thursday, April 5 (#3555) $35.
❍ VINI DI ITALIA,
Three Consecutive Mondays, April 9, 16 and 23 (#5407) $100.
❍ BASICS OF RHONE, Tuesday, April 10 (#250) $40.
❍ THE BASICS OF BUBBLY, Tuesday, April 17 (#6333) $42.
❍ ABSOLUTE BEGINNING WINE APPRECIATION,
Tuesday, April 24 (#6435) $28.
Please refrain from wearing perfume or
cologne when attending tasting events.
❍ BEST OF CURRENT SPANISH WINES,
Wednesday, April 25 (#1657) $38.
We provide guarded parking for all classes in
our rooftop parking area, so please park in our
upstairs lot.
❍ ABSOLUTE BEGINNING WINE APPRECIATION,
Advance Enrollment is Required! Please call
310.479.3731 to make reservations.
Outside Los Angeles County, call
800.626.WINE
❍ OUR ULTIMATE BEGINNERS AND INTERMEDIATES CLASS IN
FOUR PARTS, Four Mondays, April 30, May 7, 14 and 21 (#9525) $120.
❏
BEST OF OUR CURRENT ITALIAN RED WINES,
Tuesday, May 1 (#1071) $45.
❏
THE AMAZING WINES OF THE ALSACE,
Wednesday, May 2 (#9520) $35.
❍ BEST OF THE CURRENT PINOT NOIRS,
Tuesday, May 8 (#518) $38.
❍ CALIFORNIA CHARDONNAYS: THE CREAM OF THE CROP,
Thursday, May 10 (#7627) $40.
❍ DISCOVERING FRANCE, Tuesday, May 15 (#9625) $35.
❍ DESSERT WINES, Wednesday, May 16 (#6971) $38.
Mark Your Calendar
See Pages 33 & 34 For Our NEW Mini-Fests and
Friday Night Tastings Schedules!
❍ RED WINES UNDER $12, Thursday, May 17 (#3019) $28.
REFUNDS FOR CANCELLATIONS 48 HOURS
PRIOR TO THE EVENT ONLY!
15
❏ In Search of the Holy Grail -- 1998 Chateauneuf
❏ The Untouchables,
du Pape, Wednesday, March 14 (#7194) $60.
Wednesday March 28 (#4575) $75.
You've heard about them, read about them, seen the big scores from
the pundits, maybe even been lucky enough to buy some. So now
we'll do what you're supposed to do with wine -- TASTE it! Tonight,
you'll learn about the special village called Chateauneuf du Pape.
We'll cover the types of grapes used to make its wine and the unique
terroir of the region, the quality of recent vintages and the identifying characteristics of some of the very best producers. And, rest
assured, we'll do some serious tasting. In fact, we'll sample 11
different highly acclaimed 1998s that are no longer available
(Beaucastel, Vieux Donjon, Mordoree "Reine des Bois" and Vieux
Télégraphe, to name a few). We'll taste the wines blind, so we can
assess them as a class and compare our "scores" with the supposed
experts. So, if you've bought some 1998 Chateauneuf and want to
see how it stacks up, or if you just want to learn about the area and
taste the very best examples produced in a great vintage, please join
host James Yobski for tonight's festivities.
Viticultural Enigmas? Wines in the Mist? Call them what you want,
they are those vinos that you hear and read so much about, but
rarely see for sale in retail stores (unless the prices have been jacked
up to ridiculous heights)! Maybe they scored 95+ points in some
publication and by the time you found out about them, they were
impossible to locate. Or it could be a fabulous wine that the total
production is only a few hundred cases (or a few dozen!). Tonight,
you still won't be able to buy them, but you can at least taste
them!!!! We always get burned when we give you the tasting list two
months ahead of time, so call for more info as the end of March
nears...but sign up early and be warned -- he or she who hesitates
will once again be left to fend for themselves in the shadowy world
of highly allocated wines. Tonight's head cryptographer will be Jim
"Don't Even Ask!" Knight.
❏ Wine And Junk Food,
Thursday, March 29 (#50501) $35.
❍ An Introduction To The Wines Of France,
Yes, it is almost April Fool's Day, so it must be time to explore those
classic gourmet combinations such as double fudge brownies and
Zinfandel, popcorn and Chardonnay, and other serious wines with
less-serious foods. The last time we presented this class, it was a
sellout, so don't worry -- you are not the only one ignoring all those
years of good eating habits that Mom tried to drill in! Junkmeister
Glen “What do you mean Cheerios aren’t a food group? Knight
will MC this fascinating, irreverent tasting.
Three Consecutive Mondays: March 19, 26 and
April 2 (#7174) $100.
Many people consider wine and France to be synonymous with each
other, and with good reason...the wines of France are often those
against which all others are judged. Our three-part series will cover
region by region the best that France has to offer. The first session
will be a general introduction, then we will cover the wines of
Champagne, Alsace and the Rhone. The second Monday covers
Bordeaux and the South. The final meeting is devoted to the Loire
and Burgundy. This class will teach you to understand the labels,
flavors and regions of France. Your host is Jamie Koren.
❍ Babes In Kiwiland: The Wines Of New Zealand,
Enjoy a guided tour of the wine world's last frontier -- New Zealand
-- with the Wine House's own international traveler and adventurist,
Jim "Because It Was There" Gwyn. From Auckland to
Queenstown, from sensual Sauvignons to petulant Pinots, Jim has
"been there and tasted that!" Now you can share in the secrets of this
remarkable wine-producing region and maybe enjoy a little Cloudy
Bay, as well. Sign on now.
❍ Discovering Spain,
Wednesday, March 21 (#6209) $35.
Join us this evening for the first session of the "real" new millennium's "Discovering..." series. These classes introduce you to areas
or types of wine about which you may be curious, yet feel a bit
intimidated to pursue on your own. We will give a basic overview of
the subject matter that will equip you to comfortably discuss, obtain
and enjoy the products of the topic. In the Wine House tradition, we'll
taste astonishingly good wines, while giving you interesting, fun
information! Tonight's class will introduce you to the wines of Spain.
In the last few years, Spain has gained a reputation for producing an
array of exceptional, yet reasonably priced wines. We'll start at the
very beginning in terms of geography and varietals, and proceed by
tasting wines from several regions. Join us for a lot of fun!
❍ Vini di Italia, Three Consecutive Mondays,
April 9, 16 and 23 (#5407) $100.
After deciding that ruling the then-"civilized" world was far more
trouble than it was worth, the people of ancient Italy decided to turn
their considerable talents to the art of living well...and as wine
drinkers, aren't we lucky? Italian wines are now some of the finest
anywhere, great wines and often great values. Our three-part series
will cover all you need to know: reds, whites, food/wine matches and
wine labels, as well as the newest trends in wines and winemaking.
Your instructor Jamie "the Lucanus of Cotner" Koren will cover
the whole of Italy, from the Alpine north to the boot tip of the south.
❏ Intermediate Bordeaux, Two Consecutive
Tuesdays, March 27 and April 3 (#657) $130.
Many of you have participated in our Basics of Bordeaux classes
and have requested that we structure a class that goes past the introductory level. Here it is!! Instructor James Yobski (yes, the same
James Yobski who teaches UCLA's acclaimed Vintage Wine
Courses) will taste you through two evenings of great Bordeaux.
The first will concentrate on the wines of the Left Bank, with
the Right Bank covered on the second evening. We'll focus on the
various appellations and their producers while comparing older and
younger vintages. Each class will also include a discussion of
acquisition strategies (futures, retail, auction, etc.). With the 2000
vintage generating a great deal of interest among Bordeaux
aficionados, don't miss this opportunity to get a more complete
understanding of this great wine-producing region.
❍ Basics Of Rhone, Tuesday, April 10 (#250) $40.
If you think that Gigondas is a Polish dance or Cornas is a car that
Ford makes, have we got a class for you! Tonight, you'll discover
the subtleties of Hermitage and the story behind Chateauneuf-duPape. In a tasting geared for rock-bottom beginners, we'll taste
wines made from grapes you probably didn't even know existed.
Starting from the very beginning, we'll bring you to a solid working
knowledge of this fascinating area by tasting wines ranging from
inexpensive Cote du Rhone to magnificent Cote Rotie. If you're
not familiar with this part of France, join host James Yobski for
this eye-opening examination that will have you booking plane
reservations to Lyon by the end of the evening!
16
❍ The Basics Of Bubbly,
class is an absolute must for all Italian wine devotees, with host
Lance Montalto guiding you through some of the world's most
amazing wine in tonight's examination of the cream of the crop
from our Italian section.
It's no surprise that sparkling wines and Champagnes are often the
means by which people are introduced to the world of wine.
Unfortunately, the introduction is often by way of some bad, sweet,
cheap product they were forced to swig at a wedding or a birthday
party. Tonight, we will make a proper introduction to these interesting and easy-to-drink liquids. We'll explore everything from
Spanish Cavas to Dom Perignon. Join host JB Severin and find out
what all the celebrating is about!
❏ The Amazing Wines Of The Alsace,
Wednesday, May 2 (#9520) $35.
Is it a touch of Germany in France or vice versa? Anyway you look
at it, this will be an evening of sublime entertainment as we enjoy
Pinot Blancs, Rieslings and some amazing Gewürztraminers from
some of the region's best producers. Alsace wines are some of the
best food wines on the planet, so don't miss this opportunity to learn
about and be enticed by these most alluring of wines! Your host is
Chip Hammack.
❍ Absolute Beginning Wine Appreciation,
This is the ultimate class to introduce absolute beginners to the
wine-tasting game. You'll find none finer in all of L.A. Take your
first steps into the rich world of wine with this entertaining and
informative class. We'll cover all the pertinent fundamental aspects
of wine in terms easily understood by the novice or anyone interested in brushing up on the basics of wine. Your host is JB Severin.
If you're booked tonight, join us on Thursday, April 26th, for a
repeat of this class.
❍ Best Of The Current Pinot Noirs,
Tuesday, May 8 (#518) $38.
No other grape transfers into wine the essence of the soil and
climate from whence it came quite like Pinot Noir. From the bottom
of Ventura County to the top of the state of Oregon, tonight will
encompass the very best of what is currently available in the
always-interesting and ever-changing world of domestic Pinot Noir.
Join us for this guided tour through the idiosyncrasies of this incredible varietal. It promises to be a most delightful evening.
❍ Best Of Current Spanish Wines,
Wednesday, April 25 (#1657) $38.
From the Rioja to the Penedes, the high quality of both Spain's red
and white wines is causing us to devote an ever-increasing amount
of sales space to these phenomenal products. We'll taste wines made
in the rustic traditional styles, as well as those from the "New Wave"
of state-of-the-art bodegas. If you are searching for interesting
wines that don't break the bank (and one or two that might!), this is
the place to start. Join us for a lot of fun! Your host for this class is
Chip Hammack.
❍ California Chardonnays: The Cream Of The
Crop, Thursday, May 10 (#7627) $40.
Whether it's big & buttery, lush & tropical or crisp & citrus-y that
lights up your Chardonnay palate, tonight we will undoubtedly find
a fit for you. We'll taste releases from Santa Barbara, Carneros,
Napa, Sonoma and wherever else the Golden State has produced
a "winner". Get ready for an explosion of apples, pears, mango,
vanilla, butterscotch and who knows what else in this excellent
tasting. We will enjoy wines in a variety of price ranges, so that you
can experience some expensive, hard-to-find products, as well as a
few that are amazingly tasty, while being cost-effective. Join host
Jim Gwyn for an entertaining evening.
❍ Absolute Beginning Wine Appreciation,
This is the ultimate class to introduce absolute beginners to the
wine-tasting game. You'll find none finer in all of L.A. Take your
first steps into the rich world of wine with this entertaining and
informative class. We'll cover all the pertinent fundamental aspects
of wine in terms easily understood by the novice or anyone interested in brushing up on the basics of wine. Your host is JB Severin.
This is a repeated version of the Tuesday, April 24th class.
❍ Discovering France, Tuesday, May 15 (#9625) $35.
Join us this evening for a wonderful edition of our "Discovering..."
series. Tonight's class will introduce you to the wines of France.
To many connoisseurs, France is the "Mecca" of great wine. We'll
start at the very beginning in terms of geography and varietals, then
proceed by tasting wines from several regions, including Bordeaux,
Burgundy, Loire, Alsace and the Rhone Valley. Join us for a lot of
fun! Your host for this class is JB Severin.
❍ Our Ultimate Beginners And Intermediates Class
In Four Parts, Four Mondays, April 30, May 7, 14
and 21 (#9525) $120.
This could be the only wine course you'll ever need to take. This
class is designed for the beginner and for those seeking to flex their
olfactory muscles and/or expand their wine knowledge. Some of the
many topics to be covered include sensory evaluation, types of
wines and grapes, and the great wines of the world, ordering wine
in a restaurant and food/wine matching. Once you have completed
this series, you will be able to order and enjoy wine with complete
confidence and a thorough understanding of the basics. Your
instructors will be Jamie Koren and JB Severin. For maximum
enjoyment of this class, we recommend rock-bottom beginners take
our Absolute Beginning Wine Appreciation classes on either
Tuesday, April 24 or Thursday, April 26.
❍ Dessert Wines, Wednesday, May 16 (#6971) $38.
❏ Best Of Our Current Italian Red Wines,
❍ Red Wines Under $12, Thursday, May 17 (#3019) $28.
There is really no other liquid on the planet that is comparable to a
well-constructed dessert wine. As nearly as we can tell, these must
have been the kinds of wines the Greek gods referred to as
ambrosia. From world-famous Sauternes to Alsatian Vendage
Tardives, Italian Vin Santos to our very own high-quality domestic
Muscats, we'll travel the globe seeking the delectably SWEET!
Host Chip Hammack will separate the wheat from the chaff...the
drivel from the nectar...by showing us those traits that set high-quality sweet wines apart from the hideous, counterfeit junk that sullies
its reputation and offends people throughout the world. If you think
you don't like sweet wine, it's because you never tasted it like this!
Tuesday, May 1 (#1071) $45.
No illusions this evening -- we'll be looking for high-quality
CHEAP red wines. We don't care if they are Cabs, Merlots, Pinots,
blends, American, French, Korean or Ubangy. If they're good
(another key word for tonight) and cheap, we'll taste them. Join us!
The new vintages are arriving!! Barolos, Barbarescos, Super
Chiantis and other premium optimum examples of Italian winemaking will delight the senses of tonight's lucky participants. This
17
FRIDAY NIGHTS
AT THE WINE BAR
From 6 p.m. To 8:45 p.m. $15 per person
Come one, come all...enjoy the excitement of Friday Nights at the Wine Bar. This joyous gathering offers a unique opportunity for you
to sample wines from every corner of the globe, as well as get acquainted with people from every corner of Southern California. It's a
great way to kick off the weekend, surrounded by friends, food and wine.
On Friday Nights at the Wine Bar, you can sample fine wines from around the world and partake in the lively proceedings for a
nominal fee of only $15 per person (or adjusted for a particular event). We provide a generous selection of warm and cold appetizers
to accompany our wine list on these evenings. We guarantee you won't find a happier "social" atmosphere anywhere in the city. Here's
a preview of coming events:
Note: Due to the extraordinary popularity of these events our facility usually reaches its maximum capacity. When this happens, we
must wait for people to leave before we can let others in. So remember that all participation is on a first-come, first-served basis and
there are no reservations.
MARCH 16TH – THE WIDE, WIDE WINE WORLD OF FREDERICK WILDMAN
Importer Frederick Wildman & Sons has blessed us with a wide array of wonderful wines from all four corners of the globe, and area
manager Deborah Ellis is here to pour some of their best. With their potent portfolio of luscious labels (from Alsace, Burgundy,
Champagne and the Rhone in France plus other producers in Argentina, Italy and Portugal), we can expect a wide world of fun...and wine!
MARCH 23RD – COZY UP TO THE CHALONE WINE GROUP
If you're not completely copacetic with the Chalone Wine Group, try on names like Acacia, Carmenet, Canoe Ridge, Echelon, Edna
Valley, and Sageland for size. And don't forget their namesake, Chalone, either. Regional Manager David Green will explain it all while
he uncorks some of the group's greatest "gems" this Friday night. Don't be coy, Roy...make a new plan, Stan...cozy up to Chalone!
MARCH 30TH – CLOSED FOR SETUP OF SPECIAL APRIL FOOL’S DAY SALE
(SEE THE BACK PAGE)
APRIL 6TH – SPANISH SPLENDOR MEETS CALIFORNIA COOL
Arriba! Our host tonight is that suave señor, Antonio Martinez, who in addition to his own Spirits of the World portfolio of fine Spanish
wines, also represents Pelligrini Family Vineyards, which includes the likes of California's own Cloverdale Ranch and Olivet Lane
wineries. From "The Rain in Spain" to "California Dreaming", it promises to be a fun-filled event con mucho gusto.
APRIL 13TH – THE WORLD ACCORDING TO T.G.I.C. IMPORTS
One side, Garp! It's movie time and the lead actor is Kirsten Croll of T.G.I.C. Imports, who will be pouring an astonishing assemblage
of wines from Europe and South America. Tonight's playbill features Argentine Malbec and Syrah, Chilean Cabernet, Chardonnay and
Merlot; plus a couple of Spanish delights from Rueda and Ribera del Duero. No smoking in the outer lobby!
APRIL 20TH – ITALY: SOMEWHERE OVER THE WINEBOW
Take heed, music lovers...Winebow Imports is "way up high" in the land of Italian wines. At least that's what Anna Bui (their local
"Wizard of Oz") has to say about it. On this festive occasion, she has promised to uncork some of the "gems" of the Winebow collection of biancos and rossos for discerning devotees of vino Italiano. Toto, we're definitely not in Kansas anymore!
APRIL 27TH – "I HEARD IT THROUGH THE GRAPEVINE!"
With apologies to Marvin Gaye, there really is a Grapevine Wine Company and they do represent some of the top labels in California
wine. Let's toss in Babcock, Hitching Post, Miner and Morgan, to name a few. On this fine April evening, Grapevine's woman-abouttown, Carrie Bossingham, is lifting the lid on some of their choicest reds and white. Don't forget, you heard it here first.
MAY 4TH – THE EXTRA-ORDINARY WINES OF JORGE ORDOÑEZ
Jorge Ordoñez is the reigning toreador (read: importer) of Spanish wines...and that's no bull! He covers the country's bodegas
like Spanish moss. Tonight, his "L.A. Ambassador," Tom Hunter of Associated Wines, will be on hand to pour some of Jorge's most
intriguing selections from Rioja, Ribera del Duero, Navarra and elsewhere. Join the crowd and shout "Ole!"
18
WINERY OF THE MONTH
T.G.I.C. IMPORTERS
Alex Guarachi, president of T.G.I.C. Importers, long had a vision
-- to bring the finest wines from his native Chile to the United
States. Born and raised in Santiago, Guarachi grew up with an
appreciation for the fine wines of his homeland. He was lured
away in 1978 by several American universities offering him full
scholarships for his skills in soccer. Though his college soccer
career was a success, his first love was still wine. In 1984, the
young entrepreneur pooled his finances and managed to purchase
his first container of Chilean wine...and T.G.I.C. Importers was
officially open for business. With undaunted enthusiasm and a lifelong love of his product, Guarachi has more than fulfilled his
vision, as T.G.I.C. now ranks among the top importers and wholesalers of Chilean wines in all of California. Not one to rest on his
laurels and with a decided eye to the future, Guarachi has also
added some of the finest producers from Argentina, Italy, New
Zealand and Spain to his portfolio.
1998 Montes Alpha Curico Valley Merlot
(#4801) $14.89
Dark and brooding, this wine displays pure
blackberry and cassis aromas and flavors,
with good complexity, concentration and
structure. Watch out for the long, satisfying
finish and smoky aftertaste.
1998 Montes Alpha Curico
Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
(#46756) $14.89
This rich, ripe red marries concentrated flavors with voluptuous
texture. It delivers plum, prune, dark
chocolate and cola flavors with ripe,
full tannins and a clean, sweet finish.
From Argentina: Don Juan Carlos Graffigna, Italian immigrant,
began his humble winemaking activity in 1869 in the Argentine
province of San Juan. Today, Bodegas Y Viñedos Santiago
Graffigna S.A. occupies a prominent place within the Argentine
winemaking industry and has become one of the emblems
proudly shown by the Province of San Juan. The company owns
two modern wineries and vineyards located very close to the
Andes Mountains, one in San Juan and the other in Mendoza.
1999 Montes Alpha Apalta Valley
Syrah (#65668) $15.99
This vintage is Montes' first Syrah. The
scarcest of their Alpha line, it has intense
ruby-red color and a great aroma, with
floral, tobacco and leathery notes accompanied by a strong, full-bodied palate. Soft, mature tannins lead
into a finish with a long, satisfying aftertaste.
1998 Graffigna Tulum Valley Malbec
(#21141) $6.99
From Spain: Grupo Avelino Vegas, S.A. was established in 1950
to offer a wide variety of wines from the most prestigious DOC
areas of Spain. Aromatic whites from Rueda and deep reds from
Ribera del Duero were the first wines to indicate the company's
personality. Among their wineries, Bodegas Cerrosal is a pioneer
in making Rueda whites such as Verdejo, while Bodegas
Fuentespina lies in the heart of the Ribera del Duero DOC, the
home of Spain's finest Tinto Fino red wines.
This Malbec shows a jammy raspberry and
plum profile in a clean, round, modern style. It
finishes with a good juicy grip. Drink now.
1998 Graffigna Tulum Valley Syrah (#21140) $7.99
With good burly black cherry and plum fruit, this Argentine red is
a distinctive Syrah...a solid partner for barbecue at an invite-yourfriends price.
1999 Cerrosol Rueda Verdejo (#21139) $8.99
From Chile: Montes was started in 1988 by four partners who
firmly believed there was a niche for Chilean premium wines.
Full-bodied, of great concentration and purity, dry, they are
true representatives of the top quality Chile can offer. Montes
"Alpha" was the first of the Chilean super-premium wines...the
groundbreaker. Initially, only a Cabernet version was offered.
Very concentrated, unique, elegant and sophisticated, it shows the
levels of excellence that Chile can achieve. In the past few years,
Chardonnay, Merlot and Syrah have joined the original Montes
Alpha Cabernet Sauvignon with great success.
This wine showcases delicate hay
color with a clean, subtle aroma
reminiscent of mint and pineapple.
Slightly herbaceous, but with great
substance and extract, the wine is
fresh and pleasant in the mouth, with
outstanding balance.
1997 Fuentespina Ribera del
Duero Crianza
(#4922) $14.99
1999 Montes Alpha Curico Valley
Chardonnay (#65667) $13.89
Made from 100% Tinto Fino
(Tempranillo), this dark cherry red
Crianza has aromas of forest fruits,
licorice, tobacco, milk chocolate,
spices and balsamics. Tasty, aromatic, well-structured and persistent, the wine's finish is complex and marked by its wood.
This one clicks on all cylinders. Mild in
the nose, with peach and banana aromas, it
dances on the palate with lemon, butter,
more peach and a slight melony note. One
of Chile's best efforts with white wine.
19
#901007
#7391
1998
KENDALL JACKSON
1998
PEPI SAUVIGNON
MERLOT VR
BLANC
$10.99
$8.99
Sug. Retail
$17.00
Sug. Retail
$12.00
#911001
#987667
#6921
#4634
1997
KENDALL JACKSON
1996
GEYSER PEAK
1998
ALDERBROOK
1999
1998
MEZZA CORONA
CAB. SAUV. VR
SHIRAZ RESERVE
CHARDONNAY
PINOT GRIGIO
RIOIO
$10.99
Sug. Retail
$17.00
$16.99
$7.99
$5.99
Sug. Retail
$38.00
Sug. Retail
$13.00
#932654
#32488
#6520
750ML
KNOB
750ML
EL TESORO
750ML
EL TESORO
CREEK
ANEJO
SILVER
$18.99
$34.99
Sug. Retail
$8.00
$28.99
Sug. Retail
$23.00
Sug. Retail
$43.00
#999233
#11267
#6593
750ML
VOX
750ML
CHINACO
750ML
CHINACO
VODKA
ANEJO
REPOSADO
$21.99
$39.99
Sug. Retail
$34.00
$34.99
Sug. Retail
$29.00
$23.00
Sug. Retail
$50.00
Sug. Retail
$43.00
#3457
#906185
#909252
#922233
750ML
CHINACO
750ML
REMY
750ML
JACK
1.75ML
JOHNNIE WALKER
SILVER
MARTIN VSOP
DANIELS
BLACK
$33.59
$30.99
$13.69
$46.99
Sug. Retail
$39.00
Sug. Retail
$37.00
Sug. Retail
$17.00
Sug. Retail
$60.00
#905032
#916516
#45624
#907334
1.75ML
DEWAR’S
750ML
BAILEY’S
1997
TEOFILO
1997
VALLEY OF THE MOON
WHITE LABEL
IRISH CREAM
REYES
CUVEE LUNA
$25.89
$14.19
$21.99
$12.99
Sug. Retail
$31.00
Sug. Retail
$18.00
Sug. Retail
$28.00
Sug. Retail
$18.00
#987544
#11371
#909338
#944781
1999
DROUHIN LAFORET
1997
CLOS DU VAL
1997
BV COASTAL
1998
STERLING
CHARDONNAY
CABERNET SAUVIGNON
CABERNET SAUVIGNON
CABERNET SAUVIGNON
$6.99
Sug. Retail
$10.00
$21.99
$7.29
Sug. Retail
$25.00
Sug. Retail
$9.00
20
$15.99
Sug. Retail
$19.00
#900397
1998
RODNEY STRONG
CABERNET SAUVIGNON
$10.99
Sug. Retail
$13.00
#968000
#2425
#925433
#96650
#96660
1998
GRGICH HILLS
1998
ST FRANCIS
1998
CHALONE
1999
EDNA VALLEY
ZINFANDEL
ZINFANDEL OLD VINES
CHARDONNAY
CHARDONNAY
HARDOANAY
$16.99
$16.49
$18.99
$10.99
Sug. Retail
$21.00
Sug. Retail
$20.00
Sug. Retail
$23.00
Sug. Retail
$14.00
#155485
#921111
#926638
#49002
1998
MARKHAM
1999
SANFORD
NV
CHANDON
CAHRDONNAY
HARDONNAY
CHARDONNAY
BRUT
1997
FAR NIENTE
““D
DOLCE”
$12.99
$12.99
$11.29
Sug. Retail
$16.00
Sug. Retail
$16.00
Sug. Retail
$15.00
#906056
#17372
#900120
1998
CLOS DU BOIS
1998
CAMBRIA
MERLOT
PINOT NOIR
NV
ROEDERER
ESTATE BRUT
$11.99
$17.49
$54.99
Sug. Retail
$70.00
$15.99
Sug. Retail
$15.00
Sug. Retail
$22.00
Sug. Retail
$19.00
#912705
#900408
#12424
#4460
750ML
GRAND
2000
ROSEMOUNT
1995
L’TAIN
MARNIER
SHIRAZ
HERMITAGE
1996
L’TAIN
CROZES-HERMITAGE
$26.99
$7.99
$16.99
$9.99
Sug. Retail
$34.00
Sug. Retail
$10.00
Sug. Retail
$26.00
Sug. Retail
$14.00
#63214
#3865
#910007
#4762
1999
199L
DDROUHIN
ROUHIN CHASSAGNE-
1998
FALESCO
1998
MONTRACHET “LAGUICHE”
MONTIANO
1995
CHIANTI CLASSICO
RES. MONTEGROSSI
$54.99
SOCIANDOMALLET
$36.99
$27.99
$24.99
Sug. Retail
$70.00
Sug. Retail
$50.00
Sug. Retail
$34.00
Sug. Retail
$33.00
#24612
#923336
#912405
#917583
1998
AU BON
1999
CARTLIDGE & BROWN
LIMAT H
HILDEGARD
ILDGARD
CCLIMAT
CHARDONNAY
NV
PERRIER JOUET
BRUT
NV
TAITTINGER
BRUT
$24.99
Sug. Retail
$33.00
$6.99
$23.99
Sug. Retail
$9.00
Sug. Retail
$28.00
21
$25.99
Sug. Retail
$31.00
‘99 BORDEAUX FUTURES
(#900221)
AUSONE
$164.99
Ausone for me was the most complex Right Bank Bordeaux I
tasted. Full of plum, red currant and spice, the smorgasbord of
flavors gives it plenty of layers. This is one Chateau that's on a roll!
(#900222)
PALMER
$61.99
The '99 Palmer has that telltale floral nose and a bunch of cassis
blasting forth on the palate. Once again, I believe Palmer to be the
best wine to come out of the appellation besides Chateau Margaux.
(#900245)
CANON LA GAFFELIERE
$44.99
*I tasted all three of Canon La Gaffeliere's wines at the Chateau
with the owner Comte Stephan von Neipperg. All three -- Canon La
Gaffeliere, Clos De L'Oratoire and La Mondotte -- were excellent.
The only reason we didn't purchase any La Mondotte was the price.
But Canon La Gaffeliere and Clos De L'Oratoire represent incredible values. Loaded with soft, ripe, plumy fruit, they are absolute
crowd-pleasers!
(#900244)
PAVIE
$97.99
This wine is so rich and thick on the palate, you could almost
mistake it for an Australian Shiraz. But then the suaveness of the
black cherry fruit lets you know that you're drinking one of St.
Emilion's great estates. To own this wine is to own one of the wines
of the vintage.
(#900257)
PAVILLON ROUGE
$26.99
nd
Margaux's 2 wine is another little gem in a long line of wonderful
Pavillon Rouges. This wine's soft black currant fruit makes it a
crime not to drink. Put this wine on your dinner table in about five
years and your guests will do back flips, it's so darn good!
(#900255)
CARRAUDES DE LAFITE
$25.99
Lafite's second label is superb. Lafite was my favorite First Growth
when I tasted it, and Carraudes had all of the same characteristics,
but is not quite as concentrated. That means you can drink this baby
Lafite over the next 5–10 years and it's a quarter of the price of the
Grand Vin. What a deal!
(#900256)
PICHON BARON
$35.99
Pichon Baron has been on a real hot streak lately. This is an almost
fat wine, with its sumptuous blackberry richness. A hint of licorice
gives it an added layer of complexity. Drink it 5-7 years after its
release and you'll be a happy camper.
(#900259)
CLERC MILON
$27.99
Another little charmer, tasted at Mouton with Mouton and
D'Armailhac...all three wines showed well. They were all marked
by a forward, sweet Cabernet quality that made them very enjoyable. Clerc Milon had a round silkiness to it that made it particularly good. Put this in the incredible buy category, as well.
(#900226)
VIEUX CHATEAU CERTAN
$69.99
Like L'Evangile, VCC is making some of the best Pomerol around.
Classy floral and cassis aromas and flavors sing to the taster. This
wine is just a hedonistic pleasure to drink. You won't be able to keep
your hands off this one!
(#900254)
D'ISSAN
$18.99
This wine is a downright sleeper! A hint of mint and anise show up
in its lovely bouquet. Pretty and lush, with plenty of sweet ripe
cassis to it, d'Issan shines in '99. For $18.99, I can't think of a
better wine out there.
CALIFORNIA FUTURES
(#900242)
L'EVANGILE
$108.99
'98 and '99 L'Evangile were the best wines I tasted back-to-back at
any of the Chateau I visited. The '99 is a stunner. Deep black fruits
define this thickly textured beauty. Like a lot of very fine Pomerols,
there's a roasted meat quality that I find unique to this appellation.
One for the cellar!
1998 Montelena Estate Cabernet Sauvignon (#974445) $67.99
(2nd Tranche Offer)
Est. Arrival September 2001
We have been allocated some more 1998 Cabernet Sauvignon at a
little higher price, but do realize that this price will be substantially
lower then the release price in March 2002. The Wine House Staff
finally had a chance to taste the 1998 and we found out that
the Montelena Estate has the grape sources to make great wine
from any vintage. To us, the 1998 was much more approachable
then the 1997 and was full-bodied, rich and extremely complex,
with tons of fruit on the nose and palate. At this price, it will be one
of the best Cabernets to be released in 2001. P.S. The Wine House
will not be offering futures on the 1999 vintage. The 1999 vintage
was a very short vintage for Chateau Montelena, so instead of
allocating one bottle per person, we will wait until the release date
in September 2002.
(#900251)
LEOVILLE POYFERRE
$24.99
The wines of St. Julien were the most consistent that I tasted.
The Poyferre exhibits the elegance that the appellation has to offer.
High-toned cherry and cassis flavors pump through the palate
of this wine. It's a 2nd Growth Bordeaux for 25 bucks, are you
kidding me?
(#900247)
LYNCH BAGES
$32.99
This wonderful estate produced another little beauty in '99. Typical
cedar and black currant run through the nose and palate. There's a
good level of concentration to the wine. And the price makes it one
of the best wine values around. Buy it!
Terms and Conditions: All Futures payments are due and payable in full at the time the order is placed (including sales tax, if applicable). Quantities are limited.
If we cannot fill your order, your payment will be promptly refunded to you or we will attempt to find the same wine at market price, which will probably be at a
higher price. Should any increases in Federal, State or Local taxes go into effect prior to delivery, the actual cost of such an increase will be added to the cost of the
wine, payable on receipt of the wine. Thirty days after notification of your wines' arrival, if not picked up, they will be subject to a storage charge of $10 per case per
month. It is your responsibility to notify the Order Desk (310-479-3731 ext. 270) of address changes. We are not responsible for unclaimed wine damaged by Acts of
God 15 days (or more) after you have been notified of the wine's arrival.
22
BEER
KONA BREWING HISTORY
Pale Ales & Others
#19632 22oz Alley Cat Amber Ale
#4137 6pk Eye of the Hawk
#14925 6pk Pete’s Wicked Ale
#13001 6pk Pikes Pale Ale
#7232 6pk Napa Red Ale
#7230 6pk Napa Wheat Ale
#34444 6pk Red Seal Ale
#2474 6pk Red Tail Ale
#5877 6pk Samuel Adams Spring Ale
#5526 6pk Sierra Nevada BIG FOOT
#7222 6pk Slo Brewing Old Highland Ale
#7220 6pk Slo Brewing Extra Pale Ale
#1698 6pk Steelhead Pale Ale
#4923 22oz. Yellow Tail Pale Ale
Imports
#5836 17oz. All Brau Weizenbock
#5837 17oz. All Brau St. Magnus
#34453 250ml Belzebuth
#4853 6pk Carlsberg
#6704 11oz. Chang Malt
#48899 17oz. Conniston Blue Bitter
#2803 6pk Coopers Sparkling Ale
#20179 6pk Coopers Pale Ale
#19639 500ml Czechvar (also in 6pks)
#6082 11oz. De Konnick Belgium Ale
#34456 11oz. Duchesse De Bourg.
#34458 330ml Helleketelbier
#34454 330ml Karthuizer
#40060 12oz King Fisher
#2327 6pk Kronenbourg
#65478 500ml Macgregor Ale
#494
330ml Rochefort Trappiste Ale
#4768 330ml Westvelteren No. 12
#34457 330ml Zatte Bie
Kona Brewing Co. was founded in 1994 by Cameron Healy
and Spoon Khalsa. They both had a great love for the island,
especially the Kona Coast, and they decided to start this awesome
brewery. So with a lot of hard work and dedication to their dream,
the first bottling was Feb. 14th, 1995. They released the Golden
Ale & Fire Rock, and to their surprise, it was a hit. Then in 1997,
a man named Matlson Davis from Oregon came down to KailuaKona to lend a hand, because he shared the same passion for crafted beers. After he was made general manager, the company
continued to grow rapidly, sales doubled in 1997, '98 and '99. Now
they are the biggest micro-brewery in Hawaii. Kona is committed
to producing the best quality ales and lagers for us to enjoy. So get
down to the Wine House and taste the Kona experience.
PACIFIC GOLDEN ALE 6-PK. (#7226)
+TAX+CRV $6.99
After your long day of paper-pushing, truck driving or
giving orders, you need a well-rounded, handcrafted,
fresh Hawaiian Ale. This product is medium-hopped
and full-bodied. A very drinkable beer when you're
just sittin' back watching the Lakers! All hail the
Golden Ale!
LONG BOARD LAGER 6-PK. (#7227)
+TAX+CRV $6.99
Before you head out to the beach and pull out your long
board, go to the fridge, pop the top and ride the pipeline
of a smooth, refreshing beer. It has some malty sweetness that balances the hop aroma, which has a light,
spicy note. All these flavors come from being coldtemperature-aged for one month in order to preserve its
long-lasting flavor. It is the ultimate thirst-quencher!
FIRE ROCK PALE ALE 6-PK.
(#7228) +TAX+CRV $6.99
Who said Hawaii was good only for pretty women,
sandy beaches and an occasional volcanic eruption?
And speaking of eruptions, your mouth will explode
with this boulder of an ale. This pale ale is full-bodied
and has a deep copper color, with crisp, pronounced
hop flavors. It is made with Mt. Hood and Cascade
hops that make this beer so flavorful. "ENJOY THE
FIRE"!
Porters & Stouts
#900470 6pk Anchor Steam Porter
#4244 6pk Anderson Valley Oatmeal Stout
#15201 6pk Bert Grant’s Imperial Stout
#2283 4pk Old Rasputin Imperial Stout
#2549 6pk Portland Brewing Hay Stack Porter
#900445 6pk Sierra Nevada Porter
#900450 6pk Sierra Nevada Stout
#4214 6pk Steelhead Stout
#24007 6pk Victory Storm King Stout
$2.99
$7.59
$6.49
$6.99
$6.49
$6.49
$6.49
$6.59
$6.49
$8.29
$5.99
$5.99
$6.79
$2.99
$1.99
$1.99
$2.99
$7.99
$1.29
$4.59
$8.99
$8.99
$2.19
$1.69
$2.99
$2.99
$2.99
$1.49
$6.49
$3.79
$7.49
$8.29
$2.99
NEW ITEMS
#5142 6pk Great White
Affligem
#33001 12oz Blond
#13003 750ml Dobbel
#13005 750ml Tripel
Boonville
#19636 22oz Belk's ESB
#19633 22oz Boont Amber
#19634 22oz Deep Enders Dark
#19637 22oz Poleeko Gold
Hair of the Dog
#4967 12oz Adam
#4969 12oz Fred
#4976 12oz Golden Rose
Rogue
#5138 64oz Buckwheat Ale
$7.29
$6.29
$7.99
$5.99
$6.49
$5.99
$5.99
$7.49
$9.99
23
$6.99
$1.59
$5.99
$6.59
$2.99
$2.89
$2.89
$2.99
$2.89
$3.19
$2.89
$8.99
PINOT NOIR
aromas and flavors. Not its namesake, it means nothing to me as a
consumer. I rave over the oral texture -- it speaks of extreme
restraint in the vineyard. You can actually taste the results of the
decision to use only two tons/acre (how do you make a living?) of
harvested fruit, meaning only the best bunches were chosen. I'd
serve this alongside Burgundy's finest Grand Crus. Bring on that
$90 Chateau So-and-so and you'll see what I already know -- it
will more than hold its own. Scott T
1999 Costa De Oro Santa Maria Valley, Gold Coast
Vineyard (#7012) $17.99
The '99 vintage may turn out to be quite wonderful for the Central
Coast. This wine is Costa De Oro's strongest Pinot presentation
yet, with a ton of exuberant ripe strawberry fruit and a deft touch
of oak to reign in the enthusiasm. It has enough body and texture
to stand up to beef, although it might find grilled salmon a perfect
partner. Egos are in line here, too. And it is priced to sell! M.E.
#24002
#5703
#5361
#7295
#17372
#45447
#50299
#4480
#7012
#7270
#26565
#7657
#4566
#4356
#50297
#1741
#6995
#6998
#1854
#4716
#8460
#7350
#1265
#3174
#4409
#2107
#7887
#15402
#45119
#3296
#34691
#1851
#7206
#2947
#6686
#44445
#4109
#44448
#44447
#21002
#21003
1999 Edna Valley San Luis Obispo (#65409) $18.99
The word "welded" comes to mind when one is asked to describe
the flavors and nose of this wine. It is a well-knitted collage of red
and black cherries, ripe raspberry, spice, vanilla, cinnamon and
leathery wood. Long and silky through the finish in a mediumbodied format, it should harmonize with a wide variety of fare.
Peter
1997 Franus-Havens Carneros, Beau Terroir
Vineyard (#1741) $22.99
Here's a collaboration of two old allies -Peter Franus and Mike Havens -- who
normally are not known to be in the Pinot
Noir mainstream. But this one might
change their minds...and ours. It's lush
and spicy, with rich Carneros fruit from
the Beau Terroir Vineyard. Lots of black cherry in the nose and
on the palate. Give it a try with roast pork or veal, even grilled
chicken. Jim G.
1999 Melville Santa Maria Valley (#1265) $23.99
This lovely wine was crafted for Melville by Brewer and Clifton,
two very talented young vintners with an eponymous label. It is the
exact opposite of what they do for themselves, however. The B-C
wines aim for Burgundian verisimilitude. This Pinot is rather like
a rich, strawberry-laden fruit bomb from the Beaujolais Cru,
Fleurie. In any case, it's flat-out delicious. The Melville should pair
up with virtually any food, but if you'd prefer, you can simply gulp
it with great pleasure. M.E.
1998 Solitude Carneros, Sangiacomo Vineyard
(#34691) $19.99
1998 was a very good year for Carneros Pinot and this is an
outstanding example. Produced using traditional Burgundian
techniques (including whole-cluster fermentation), this wine is
packed with flavors of ripe pomegranate and Bing cherry. Hints of
cinnamon and nutmeg add a wonderful complexity to this wine.
The nose is tremendous -- Carneros terroir leaps from the glass.
This is a steal at $19.99! S.R.
1999 Torii Mor Yamhill County "Amelia Rose
Cuvée" (#44447) $45.99
If you haven't heard, Oregon is knee-deep in two lauded back-toback vintages, the ’99 being perhaps finer than the well-received
’98. Not since ’94 has the public been exposed to such ripe flavors.
I appreciate this wine for its purity of cranberry/pomegranate-like
24
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Acacia Carneros
Benton Lane Oregon
Blackjack San Luis Obispo
Byron Santa Maria Valley
Cambria Julia's Vineyard
Camelot California
Cameron Willamette Reserve
Carneros Creek Carneros
Costa d'Oro Santa Maria Valley
David Bruce Central Coast
De Loach Estate Russian River OFS
Domaine Serene Evenstad Reserve
Echelon Central Coast
Edmeades Anderson Valley
Evesham Wood Cuvee J
Franus-Havens Carneros
Ici/La-Bas Mendocino
Ici/La-Bas Oregon
Illahe Hills Oregon Reserve
Laetitia Arroyo Grande Valley
Kenwood Russian River Valley
Marimar Torres Estate Russian River
Melville Santa Maria Valley
Morgan Monterey
Pepperwood Grove California
Rex Hill Willamette Valley
Rodney Strong Russian River Valley
Saintsbury Carneros
Sanford Sanford&Bendict
Secret House Willamette Valley
Solitude Sangiacomo Vineyard
Stangeland Estate Reserve
Steele Carneros
Testarossa Sleppy Hollow Vineyard
Torii Mor Oregon
Torii Mor Reserve
Torii Mor Seven Springs Vineyard
Torii Mor Olson Vineyard
Torii Mor Amelia Rose Cuvee'
Willakenzie Estate Pierre Leon
Witness Tree Willamette Valley
$23.99
$14.99
$21.99
$18.29
$17.49
$8.99
$27.99
$15.69
$17.99
$18.99
$31.99
$39.99
$11.99
$15.99
$25.99
$22.99
$34.99
$34.99
$25.99
$19.99
$12.99
$28.69
$23.99
$18.99
$6.99
$20.99
$14.29
$20.99
$36.99
$18.99
$19.99
$32.99
$19.99
$35.99
$21.99
$35.99
$47.99
$48.99
$45.99
$31.99
$19.99
CHARDONNAY
1998 Bernardus Monterey County (#1542) $17.99
I have to admit some prejudice here, as I've always been a fan
of Bernardus since tasting their wines in 1994. They are always
true to the varietal and particular place the grapes come from,
which is often their backyard in the Carmel Valley area. I have
rarely, if ever, been let down by wines from here...and this is another excellent release from a "difficult" vintage. Lots of ripe fruit,
vanilla, butter and a smooth finish. You can't ask for more! James
#65347 1997 Arcadian Bien Nacido Vineyard
$29.99
#32237 1998 Au Bon Climat Alban Vineyard
$32.89
#24611 1998 Au Bon Climat Sanford & Benedict
$34.99
#7653
1999 Babcock Santa Barbara County
$15.49
#6117
1999 Belvedere Russian River
$17.99
#35697 1998 Camelot California
$8.99
1999 Clos du Val Carneros (#26590) $18.99
#5659
1998 Chappellet Napa Valley Estate
$29.99
Clos du Val has been making quality red wines in the Stag's Leap
District since the early 1970s. They are now gaining respect
for their Chardonnays from the Carneros region. This wine is
intensely flavored, with a beautifully perfumed nose that hints of
tropical fruits, carnations and spice. Elegant and well-balanced,
this wine would function as an excellent aperitif, but also has
enough crisp acidity to pair with food. S.R.
#1247
1999 Coppola Diamond Series
$13.89
1999 Echelon Central Coast (#6014) $8.99
What a great buy! This soft, lush ripe fruit-flavored wine with
hints of subtle oak is very pleasing. It is also extremely adaptable
at the dinner table. This wine loves crab, lobster, most fish,
chicken, cream and mustard sauces...and will even stand up to rare
beef. Jim K.
1999 Joseph Phelps Los Carneros (#19496) $22.99
The 1999 vintage is being touted as one of the best of the 1990s.
This wine has great concentration of fruit and a phenomenal acidic
backbone. It's elegant and creamy, with forward flavors of lemon
and tropical fruit. Coffield
1998 Logan Monterey County, Sleepy Hollow
Vineyard (#45766) $15.99
Logan is one of my personal "go to" Chards
in the store. That means if someone wants a
round, rich, slightly oaky/buttery wine, and
he/she prefers to spend around 15 bucks, I
put Logan in the cart. The Robert Talbott
family owns the label, along with their more
publicized and expensive eponymous brand.
Very, very well made in every vintage and a
stunning bargain at the price. M.E.
1998 Paul Hobbs Sonoma Mountain, Richard Dinner
Vineyard (#4077) $42.99
Paul Hobbs has a fine resumé, having worked with Opus (early
1980s) and as winemaker at Simi (1985-1991) before starting out
on his own, using space at Knunde and purchasing grapes from
some of best sources in northern California. The Richard Dinner
Vineyard is a perfect example; situated on Sonoma Mountain and
facing north to extend the growing season, the vineyard's terroir
adds an extra dimension to this Chardonnay. Hobbs spared no
expense with this wine, using only the best, new French oak
barrels to produce a profound Chardonnay with that elusive extra
layer of flavors you expect in a great wine. James
25
#71272 1997 Cosentino Napa Valley
$13.89
#2971
1999 David Arthur Reserve
$34.99
#6014
1999 Echelon Central Coast
$8.99
#4060
1999 Forman Napa Valley
$27.99
#5725
1999 Franciscan Napa Valley
$14.99
#1191
1997 Fritz Russian River "Dutton"
$17.99
#10095 1999 Groth Napa Valley
$18.99
#6940
$34.99
1998 Ici/La-Bas Mendocino County
#55385 1998 Jepson Mendocino County
$12.99
#2322
$24.99
1997 Kynsi Sanford & Benedict
#45766 1998 Logan Sleepy Hollow Vineyard
$15.99
#45312 1998 MacRostie Carneros
$15.99
#68878 1998 Marimar Torres Russian River
$21.99
#155485 1998 Markham Napa Valley
$12.99
#1264
1999 Melville Santa Rita Hills
$19.99
#3620
1999 Miner Central Coast
$17.99
#30051 1999 Neyers Napa Valley
$26.49
#1892
$13.99
1998 Olivet Lane Russian River
#14421 1999 Qupe Bien Nacido
$16.99
#3818
1999 Saddleback Napa Valley
$18.99
#7873
1999 Saintsbury Carneros
$16.99
#6116
1998 Schug Sonoma Valley
$13.99
#5224
1998 Seavey Napa Valley
$15.99
#16437 1999 Stags Leap Napa Valley
$18.99
#6036
$19.89
1998 Steele California
#20064 1997 Steltzner Napa Valley
$15.99
#7558
1998 Talbott Sleepy Hollow
$39.99
#5850
1999 Talley Arroyo Edna Valley
$17.99
#1225
1998 Titus Vineyards Sonoma Valley
$19.99
#3246
1998 Trefethen Napa Valley
$20.69
#8958
1998 Villa Mt. Eden Monterey
$8.79
#76759 1999 Zaca Mesa Santa Barbara County
$12.39
ZINFANDEL
1999 Beaulieu Vineyard Napa Valley (#901554) $8.99
The 1999 Zinfandels that are starting to show up have intense fruit
concentration and color not seen in the last few years. This wine is
a rich, ripe mouthful of blackberry, boysenberry jam and black
pepper. It can be aged over the next 3-4 years. Coffield
1998 Blockheadia Ringnosii California (#3997) $14.99
1999 Bishop's Peak Paso Robles
$11.99
#3997
1999 Blockheadia California
$14.99
#6266
1999 Brown Napa Valley
$27.99
#3545
1999 Bonny Doon Cardinal Zin
$17.99
#901554 1999 BV Napa Valley
To those of you who have had this wine in the past, this is just what
you have come to expect...and for those of you who have never
tried it, now is the time. Never disappointing, this wine displays
vast red cherry fruit and plenty of that briary quality that makes
these wines so zinful. This is not a monster of a Zinfandel -- its
lighter claret style has this wine rocking and rolling right now.
Grab a bottle -- or six -- before it disappears. K.W.
#693
1997 Clayton Lodi
#12104 1998 Cline California
1999 Bogle California "Old Vine" (#5018) $9.49
Recently, California has been blasted with rain and snow, so with
the snarled traffic, there is no better time to curl up in front of a
roaring fire. All one needs is the perfect fireplace wine, but look
no further. The aroma and flavors of this wine abound with blackberry, brambly berry, clove and white pepper in a round finish. So
whether you're lounging after a day skiing or just avoiding the
freeway rush, this is your wine. Peter
1999 Bonny Doon California "Cardinal Zin"
(#3545) $17.99
Here is a wine that is not to be missed or overlooked. How can
you? This is Bonny Doon! Born of beastly old vines from the Godforsaken (?) Sacramento Delta. Vinified strictly to imbibe and
over-indulge your senses. Are you prepared? Can you handle the
intense berry fruit and wild spicy flavors? If so, get this while the
getting is good. Like all good Zins, you can never get enough...and
there never is enough around. K.W.
1997 Haywood Sonoma Valley "Rocky Terrace",
Los Chamizal Vineyard (#4764) $31.99
It seems to me that Zin preferences have changed towards softer
styles in the last seven years or so. I yearn for the days of big,
jammy, tannic monsters. The kind where mid-palate extraction is
thick and discernable. Back off the spice, as it seemed alcoholoriented, and deliver up some blackberries, black currant, kirsch
and plum-like flavors, my mouth would plead. Rocky Terrace is
just such a wine. It ages well, too -- 4-6 years in the cellar seems to
do right, by my taste. As it is in short supply and given to only the
best accounts, don't wait too long to have this experience. Scott T
1999 Seghesio Sonoma Valley "Home Ranch"
(#6220) $23.99
More widely available to us than the previously mentioned Rocky
Terrace, Seghesio is another of my favorite Zin producers. The
success of these two estates is thanks to the "old" age of their
vines. Home Ranch is a mouthful of tannins -- you'll see it in the
saturated color and taste it on the finish. Boysenberry, blackberry
and fruit preserve flavors mesh well with vigorous, yet integrated,
oak notes. For you old school fans, the style still lives! Scott T
#3941
26
$8.99
$17.99
$8.89
#24655 1998 David Coffaro Dry Creek
$22.99
#6156
1997 Davis Bynum Old Vines
$18.99
#612
1998 Dry Creek Sonoma County
$17.29
#13464 1998 Easton Amador County
$7.99
#27464 1997 Edmeades Mendocino
$14.99
#23567 1998 Favorito Sonoma Valley
$15.99
#1594
1998 Fife Old Vine Napa Valley
$19.99
#7702
1998 Frog's Leap Napa Valley
$17.99
#6459
1999 Green & Red California
$15.99
#968000 1998 Grgich Hills
$16.99
#4088
1997 Hop Kiln Sonoma County
$16.29
#4937
1999 Howell Mountain
$24.99
#89994 1997 Kendall Jackson Vintners Reserve
$11.99
#5979
1997 La Crema Sonoma County
$16.99
#2692
1997 Meeker Dry Creek Valley
$17.29
#7204
1998 Newlan Napa Valley
$16.99
#6638
1996 Pagor California
$11.49
#2945
1998 Perry Creek "ZIN MAN"
$11.99
#904141 1998 Rancho Zabaco Sonoma County
$7.99
#1761
1999 Ravenswood Vintner's Blend
$8.59
#8895
1998 Ravenswood Sonoma County
$13.99
#6222
1998 Rodney Strong Knotty Vines
$14.49
#44556 1998 Rosenblum Annette's Reserve
$21.99
#44563 1999 Rosenblum Oakly
$11.99
#45589 1998 Rosenblum Rock Pile
$16.99
#5261
1996 Sausal Private Reserve Alexander Valley $15.89
#3237
1999 Seghesio Sonoma County
$12.99
#6220
1999 Seghesio Home Ranch
$23.99
#495
1998 Sparrow Lane Napa Valley
$12.99
#2425
1998 St. Francis Old Vines
$16.49
#3823
1998 Venge Scout's Honor
$27.99
CABERNET
1997 Buena Vista Carneros (#7922) $12.99
#6278
The 1997 vintage was a huge harvest, featuring outstanding allaround quality. This wine is yet another one with intensity and ageability. Big, ripe fruit flavors of blackberry are joined by roasted
coffee notes. Aromas of cigar box, pomegranate and boysenberry
lead into a finish that is long and rich. Coffield
1997 Guenoc Napa Valley "Beckstoffer Reserve"
(#7940) $32.99
1998 Andrew Will Washington State
#78890 1998 Barnwood Santa Barbara County
$14.89
#3828
$16.49
1998 Beckman Santa Barbara County
#53691 1997 Beringer Knights Valley
$22.99
#948876 1996 Beringer Reserve Napa Valley
$89.59
#15999 1998 Blackstone California
If you have missed out on the great 1997s, here is perhaps one
of the last chances to grab one of the "highly rated" gems from
this vintage. The wine flaunts a big, bountiful aroma of red
currants, crushed berries, roses and toasty vanilla. These aromas
are also present in the flavor profile, along with some spicy pepper
and a smidge of blueberry. The finish is long and evolving. Perfect
with a filet encrusted with pepper, rosemary, and aged goat's
cheese. Peter
1998 Joseph Phelps Napa Valley (#4429) $37.99
From Phelps' unique Bacchus Vineyard and Insignia to its Napa
Valley Cabernet, this winery's signature has always been one of
provocatively structured, chocolat-y, cassis-driven wines. Having
spent the last few years chasing the latest hyped wonder out of that
northerly "Disneyvineland" called Napa, don't you think it's time
you reacquaint yourself with one of the pillars of this business?
While the price doesn't exactly lend itself to everyday drinking, its
quality certainly says, "Take me to dinner." Scott T.
$39.99
$9.79
#16867 1998 Boeger El Dorado
$12.99
#4622
1998 Carmenet Dynamite North Coast
$15.99
#6929
1998 Cloverdale Ranch Alexander Valley
$16.49
#6153
1997 Del Bondio Rutherford
$35.99
#4925
1997 Foley Santa Ynez Valley
$21.99
#7143
1997 Franciscan Napa Valley
$19.99
#1527
1997 Frazier Napa Valley
$39.99
#6079
1996 Gallo Sonoma Frei Vineyard
$24.99
#37857 1998 Geyser Peak Sonoma County
$13.79
#4441
$20.89
1998 Gundlach Bundschu Sonoma County
#52113 1998 Husch Mendocino
$14.99
#3825
$17.99
1997 Kunde Sonoma Valley
#50040 1997 Leaping Lizard Napa Valley
$12.99
#7341
1998 Liberty School California
$15.99
1998 Merryvale Napa Valley (#953) $19.99
#6351
1997 Liparita Napa Valley
$41.99
This wine is chock full of black fruit flavors, cherry, plum and
hints of mint. Supple, round tannins make this a wine that is delicious to drink young. A few years of cellaring will only make a
good thing better. Coffield
#7360
1995 Mazzocco Sonoma County
$14.49
#953
1998 Merryvale Napa Valley
$19.99
1998 Pezzi King Dry Creek Valley (#6169) $26.99
The Rowe family purchased the
old William Wheeler property in
Dry Creek, and with a heavy
investment in vineyard management, they have begun to make
some terrific wines from this
plot of land. This 1998 Cab is an
excellent example of the progress
they've made. A rich and supple
texture supports flavors of red
cherries and toasty oak. Only 750
cases of this estate-bottled wine
were produced, so get it while
you can. S.R.
1997 Ridge Coast Range (#7909) $17.99
This Bordeaux-style blend is lovely now, but can be enjoyed over
the next three years. The palate is soft and approachable...and the
price is definitely affordable. This is a 1997 vintage Cabernet
Sauvignon from one of the best wine producers. A must-have
wine! Jim K.
27
#54644 1996 Meeker Dry Creek Valley
$16.89
#23301 1997 Mount Veeder Napa Valley
$29.89
#7414
$18.99
1998 Murphy-Goode Alexander Valley
#40029 1998 Newlan Napa Valley
$18.99
#2377
1997 Pas de Trois Napa Valley
$24.99
#1202
1997 Perry Creek El Dorado
$13.99
#4383
1998 Quintana North Coast
$15.99
#3306
1998 Ravenswood Napa Valley
$16.99
#7909
1997 Ridge Coast Range
$17.99
#65670 1997 Rodney Strong Alex. Crown
$23.99
#5698
$24.99
1997 Rosenblum Cellars Napa Valley
#21026 1998 Sagelands Columbia Valley
$12.99
#11694 1998 St. Supery Napa Valley
$17.99
#25667 1998 Steltzner Stag's Leap District
$27.99
#3279
$16.99
1997 Topanga Vineyards Napa Valley
#12563 1997 Trentadue Dry Creek Valley
$18.99
#12034 1998 Turnbull Napa Valley
$25.99
#2181
$29.99
1998 Whitehall Lane Napa Valley
MISC. DOMESTICS
1999 King Estate Oregon Pinot Gris (#7844) $12.49
1998 Palmina Santa Ynez Valley Nebbiolo
(#4507) $29.99
The winemaker at King estate has outdone himself -- he is an
Artist and a Scientist. He has masterfully blended these grapes that
love the cooler Oregon weather. The Scientist started with stainless
steel fermentation, with only five percent of that completing
malolactic fermentation. The Artist then takes the wine and ages
most of it sur lee; small portions spend time in neutral French oak
and large oak ovals. All of this is combined into a brilliant, pale
wine, featuring aromas of peach, passion fruit and papaya, with
hints of honeysuckle and spice. On the palate, peach, pear and
apricot flavors are balanced by a crisp acidity, a rich, round mouthfeel and a lingering finish. K.W.
This wine has an impeccable pedigree. The fruit comes from
arguably one of the best vineyards in Santa Ynez, Stolpman
Vineyard. The winemaker is one of the best in that area, Steve
Clifton. With that going for it, the wine has one major setback, the
public misconception about Italian varietals grown in California.
While in most cases the public is right, there is a lot of wine that
is not real exciting, this one is. This is not Barolo, but why would
you want it to be? The nose hints of sweet cherry fruit and subtle
floral tones. Don't be caught off-guard by its light color -- this wine
packs a big punch of cherry fruit, tannin and acid. It will go the
distance – and as it does, you can watch it evolve and express more
of its noble heritage, leather and tobacco spice. K.W.
1998 Laetitia Arroyo Grande Valley Pinot Blanc
(#6263) $12.99
From Laetitia's own estate vineyard next to the ocean comes this
dandy little Pinot Blanc, one of California's least-understood white
varietals. Similar to Chardonnay but more Chablis-like in character,
this wine offers layers of melon, along with bright pineapple and
pear fruit. It's 75% barrel-fermented and aged for 10 months to
provide a long, lingering, smooth finish. Fabulous with fish! Jim G.
Sauvignon Blanc
#5136 1999 Aldana Mendocino County
#34311 1999 Benziger Sonoma Valley
#25411 1998 Beringer Napa Valley
#15565 1999 Brander Santa Ynez Valley
#55655 1999 Buttonwood Santa Ynez Valley
#23663 1999 Cakebread Napa Valley
#64824 1999 Cain Musque Ventana Vineyard
#69981 1999 Franus Stewart Vineyard
#17209 1999 Honig Napa Valley
#25446 1998 Napa Wine Co. Napa Valley
#7391 1998 Pepi Two-Heart Canopy
#4347 1999 Whitehall Lane Napa Valley
Riesling
#1168 1999 Gainey Central Coast
#3921 1999 Hogue Columbia Valley
#4260 1999 La Garza Umqua Valley
#12067 1999 Trefethen Napa Valley
Viognier
#18248 1999 Alban Central Coast
#24622 1998 Bettinelli Napa Valley
#29993 1999 Iron Horse Alexander Valley
#3433 1999 Kunin Santa Ynez Valley
Pinot Blanc/Gris
#3389 1998 Amity Willamette Valley Pinot Blanc
#24612 1998 Au Bon Climat Hildegard
#35558 1999 Au Bon Climat Pinot Blanc
#6155 1999 Cooper Mountain Oregon
#7844 1998 King Estate Oregon
Petite Sirah
#5716 1999 Bogle California
#4329 1998 David Bruce Central Coast
#6469 1997 Ramsay Napa Valley
#4307 1998 Rutherford Grove Napa Valley
1998 La Famiglia de Robert Mondavi California
Barbera (#7889) $17.99
From Mondavi's popular La Famiglia line of Italian varietals
springs this lively 94% Barbera, with small chunks of Zinfandel,
Charbono and Syrah included. Aromatic notes of Santa Rosa plum,
cranberry and rose lead to zesty flavors of plum, berry and cherry.
Smooth, rich and substantial...bring on the sausage pizza! Jim G.
1999 Mason Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc
(#4366) $13.99
Wow!! Is this stuff good! If you like fruitdriven, true-to-the-varietal Sauvignon
Blanc, this is the wine for you! From the
first whiff, you are hit with an array of fruit
and floral aromas that knock you off your
feet. Not only does the nose of this wine
excel, but the flavors explode on the
palate with grapefruit, orange rind and
lemongrass. This is simply one of the best
fruit-driven Sauvignon Blancs from
California I've had this year. James
1999 Murphy-Goode Alexander Valley Sauvignon,
"Il Duece" (#30814) $18.99
The "Deuce" is back! And better than ever! The cooler 1999
growing season is the secret to this fantastic wine. An equal blend
of Sauvignon Blanc and Sauvignon Musque...the Blanc contributes a pear, citrus quality that melds wonderfully with the
spice, orange and mango fruit of the Musque. The wine undergoes
100% barrel fermentation, 85% in new French oak barrels. Full
malolactic fermentation with 10 months resting on its lees adds
complexity and richness. All of that is whipped into shape with its
crisp acidity. Do not miss out on this wine! K.W.
28
$12.99
$9.89
$8.99
$9.69
$10.99
$17.99
$17.99
$15.99
$10.99
$17.89
$8.99
$13.99
$8.99
$6.99
$10.99
$13.99
$18.89
$16.89
$17.99
$24.99
$11.49
$24.99
$12.99
$13.59
$12.49
$8.99
$14.39
$16.99
$27.99
MERITAGE
DOM. RHONE
1997 La Rougette Napa Valley Cabernet Franc
(#4123) $17.99
1999 Beckmen Santa Barbara County Syrah
(#5665) $23.99
Another quality label from Bruce Scotland, the Cab Franc grapes
for this wine come from the illustrious Yount Mill Vineyard in
Napa Valley. Elegant and Bordelaise in character, this tasty morsel
exemplifies the aromatic qualities of Cabernet Franc, with cassis
fruit on the palate and supple, smoother tannins. Jim G.
You think you've had boutique wine before? That 200-case
Wysiwig Winery you were so proud about when you were blessed
with a bottle doesn't even compare in rarity with what I'm about to
tell you about. At 24 total cases (one barrel), this 50/50 blend of
Thompson and Stolpman Vineyards is by far our most unique
wine. YOU WILL NOT FIND IT ELSEWHERE! Deliciously ripe
and aromatic. More jammy and chewy than lean, spicy or leathery.
Medium-full in body and a tasty finish. Am I biased? Yeah. Will the
wine deliver? I stake my reputation on it. Scott T
1997 L'Ecosse Napa Valley Cabernet Franc "Cuvee
Hommage de Jeanne D'Arc" (#4097) $24.99
At nearly 16% alcohol, you might wonder what kind of statement
winemaker Bruce Scotland was trying to make here. Well, he made
an Aussie statement, or a "Cabernet Franc as monster Zin" statement. The wine is massive, with tons of everything, including
chocolate, red fruit, some indefinable Asian spice and alcohol. If
you're one of those people who feel that bigger is better, this is
your juice. Don't quite get the Jeanne d'Arc connection, frankly.
Although, you could have this behemoth with steaks burned on the
barbie. M.E.
1998 Echelon California Syrah (#54626) $11.99
If you are looking for a good Côtes du Rhône alternative from
California, this is it. It's even a similar price at $11.99. This wine
is a blend of 75% Syrah (from Monterey), 20% Grenache
(Sacramento Delta area) and 5% Petite Sirah. These varieties
are great together, making a wine of complexity that manages to
maintain excellent balance with a smooth finish. An excellent
alternative to Merlot and a great value. James
1999 Swanson Napa Valley "Alexis" Estate Red
(#12957) $39.99
1998 Lolonis Redwood Valley Petite Sirah,
"Orpheus" Private Reserve (#5639) $25.99
Swanson has been getting tremendous press recently for its great
Cabernets and Merlots, with ratings as high as many of the socalled "cult" wines. This is their proprietary flagship blend that is
mainly Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah, with small amounts of Cab
Franc and Merlot added for aromatics and balance. Grapes for this
wine came exclusively from Swanson's Schmidt Ranch in the
Mayacamas foothills, which produces a small crop of intensely flavored fruit featuring hints of black cherry, chocolate and sweet oak.
Snap up this beauty before the ratings hounds get their scores. S.R.
If you pay attention to the subtle seismic shifts on the surface of
the wine topography, you will have noticed that Petite Sirah is
making a bit of a comeback. This may be due to the interest in
Rhone varietals, or the fact that old vine fruit is vogue-ish
and Petite Sirah often comes from very old vineyards, or the
undeniable truth that with time, everything heats up and cools
down and heats up again. All these elements taken into account, we
are ultimately left with a dark, rich, spicy "under-worldly" wine
brimming with all kinds of exotic fruits and berries. A winter wine
for stews and red meats. M.E.
1998 Waterbrook Columbia Valley "Melange"
(#2923) $11.99
1999 Tensley Santa Barbara County "Cuvee Zoe"
(#7888) $17.99
Melange is a rather fancy French word for "mixture". Waterbrook,
best-known for its Columbia Valley Merlots, has put together a
lively blend of 72% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon and 8%
Cabernet Franc that meets this criteria...and then some. Rippling
with cassis and red berry fruit, it's also light on the pocketbook. Try
it with roast leg of lamb or beef stew. Jim G.
Meritage & Blends
#2401 1997 Bedford Thompson Cabernet Franc
$17.89
#5504 1998 Blackjack Ranch Harmonie
$31.99
#2332 1997 Camaraderie Grace
$24.99
#56634 NV Chateau Gayot Cuvee des Voleurs
$21.99
#965101 1996 Clos Du Bois Marlstone Alexander Valley$29.69
#76773 1998 Coppola Diamond Claret
$14.89
#4331 1997 Estancia Meritage
$24.49
#7373 1997 Ferrari Carano Siena
$24.99
#7443 1996 Ferrari Carano Tresor
$62.99
#65482 1997 Guenoc Meritage North Coast
$17.99
#4123 1997 La Rougette Cabernet Franc
$17.99
#3653 1998 Longoria Blues Cuvee Cabernet Franc
$22.99
#15688 1993 Malibu Vineyard
$31.99
#3540 1996 Robert Sinskey Claret
$43.99
#4498 1997 Robert Sinskey Vineyard Reserve
$39.99
#1644 1994 Rubissow-Sargent Les Trompettes
$25.99
#12121 1997 Spring Mountain Reserve
$79.99
Joey Tensley is a very small producer who is known for making
great Rhone varietal wines from the Central Coast. He proves this
again with his 1999 Cuvee Zoe. We are very proud to sell this wine!
We are also the only ones to sell this wine in Southern California.
This is a blend of Syrah and Grenache, with rich, jammy red fruits
that will blow you away like they did for us. Jim K.
Syrah
#765
1998 Barnwood Central Coast
#5665 1999 Beckman "Wine House Blend"
#5751 1998 Blackjack Ranch Santa Barbara County
#54626 1998 Echelon California
#7303 1998 Fess Parker Santa Barbara County
#987667 1996 Geyser Peak Reserve
#45112 1998 Havens Carneros
#2273 1997 Lafond Stolpman Vineyard
#13655 1999 Qupe Central Coast
#7934 1998 Robert Craig Paso Robles
#13478 1998 Swanson Napa Valley
#7888 1999 Tensley Cuvee Zoe
Others & Blends
#30813 1999 Andrew Murray Esperance
#349
1998 Beckman Cuvee Le Bec
#30223 1998 Bonny Doon Le Cigare Volant
#3992 1998 Venge Sangiovese Oakville
29
$18.99
$23.99
$31.99
$11.99
$16.99
$16.99
$24.99
$27.99
$13.89
$21.99
$35.99
$17.99
$20.89
$14.99
$26.99
$12.99
MERLOT
1999 Barnwood Santa Barbara
County (#8553) $14.89
#8553 1999
#4861 1999
#6405 1998
#3560 1997
#8547 1998
#45987 1997
#87655 1998
#5969 1998
#906056 1998
#2687 1997
#45732 1998
#1591 1998
#14466 1998
#6019 1999
#20746 1997
#3274 1998
#3629 1998
#7755 1997
#7042 1997
#5872 1998
#21111 1997
#901007 1998
#3868 1998
#3531 1998
#4253 1998
#57478 1997
#4746 1997
#4375 1998
#1631 1997
#1858 1998
#75573 1997
#13477 1997
#6538 1998
#5885 1997
#23669 1998
#3821 1998
#5076 1997
#3516 1997
#954450 1997
#8830 1998
#12310 1998
#6366 1998
#15691 1998
#7102 1997
#50010 1997
#6696 1998
#46542 1995
#6756 1998
Barnwood has always been a favorite
wine to sell in this store because of its
great price. This wine has a rich, brickred color with spicy clove and vanilla
aromas. Also, black cherry, currants and
tobacco flavors marry well with the rustic character of this well-crafted wine.
The finish is full and long – bonus, it is
drinking well now. Delicious! Jim K.
1998 Flora Springs Napa Valley (#13031) $17.99
Flora Springs was among the first wineries to explore Meritagestyle red wines with its "Trilogy," an elegant and complex
Bordeaux blend. They are also building a reputation for producing
supple and harmonious Merlots. This 1998 is medium-bodied and
still quite rich, with deep flavors of chocolate and blackberry that
are complemented by a healthy dose of Asian spice. If you are
looking for a great Merlot for under 20 bucks, this is the wine for
you. S.R.
1998 Groth Napa Valley (#7147) $36.99
Groth is always a producer you should watch out for. All of their
wines seem to stand out from the pack. This Merlot showcases a
palate that is supple and elegant, with notes of cedar and cherries. It
also has a fine balance, with firm tannins and a good length. Jim K.
1997 Hanna Alexander Valley (#7420) $19.99
With the explosion of Merlot plantings in California (7,000 acres
in 1991 to 77,000 in 1999), it's nice to see someone making good,
honest, "old" vine Merlot these days. The vines here are about 20
years old and produce grapes that have an extra dimension. The
resulting wines are truly profound and a quantum step up from
those that are merely ordinary. Extended aging in a combination of
new French and American oak (and being from the 1997 vintage)
only adds icing to the cake on this wine. Don't wait until you come
in – you'd better call ahead and reserve some of this today before
it's gone. James
1998 Niebaum-Coppola Napa Valley Estate
(#4924) $35.99
This is a high-end Merlot (Reserve bottling) from the great estate
of Francis Ford Coppola. They don't make a lot of this wine, so we
don't receive a lot. In short, grab some before it's gone. Here's a
Merlot that is firm and flavorful, with ripe currant and blackberry
flavors combined with a hint of game and oak. Jim K.
1997 St. Francis Sonoma Valley Reserve Merlot
(#27463) $39.99
This is a prime example of what a handcrafted wine can become. It
is still only an infant and it is already displaying a rich, complex
nose and palate. Concentrated wild cherry, black currant chocolate,
coffee and plums intertwine affably with toasty vanilla. Perfect for
roasted lamb...and the Keens Cheddar (#73412). Coffield
30
Barnwood Santa Barbara
BlackStone California
Bommarito Napa Valley
Camelot California
Chateau Julien Monterey
Chateau Souverain Alexander Valley
Chateau St. Jean Sonoma County
Chateau St. Michelle Columbia Valley
Clos Du Bois Sonoma County
Clos Du Val Napa Valley
Cloverdale Ranch Alexander Valley
Coppola Diamond Series
De Lorimier Alexander Valley
Echelon Central Coast
Ferrari Carano Sonoma Valley
Forman Napa Valley
Gainey Santa Ynez Valley
Geyser Peak Sonoma County
Grand Archer Sonoma County
Havens Napa Valley
Havens Napa Valley Reserve
Kendall Jackson Vintner's Reserve
Kenwood Sonoma County
Kunde Sonoma Valley
Leaping Lizard Napa Valley
Mill Creek Dry Creek Valley
Mondavi Unfiltered Carneros
Neyers Merlot Napa Valley
Phelps Napa Valley
Ravenswood Vintner's Blend Calif.
Ravenswood Sonoma County
Robert Sinskey Carneros
Rombauer Napa Valley
Rubissow-Sargent Napa Valley
Rutherford Hill Napa Valley
Saddleback Napa Valley
Selene Napa Valley
Selene Hyde Vineyard
Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars
Stag’s Leap Winery Napa Valley
St. Francis Napa Valley
St. Supery Napa Valley
Steltzner Napa Valley
Stonestreet Alexander Valley
Summers Knight's Valley
Sunstone Santa Barbara County
Waterbrook Columbia Valley
White Oak Napa Valley
$14.89
$9.79
$13.89
$8.99
$8.99
$15.29
$17.89
$14.89
$11.99
$24.89
$14.99
$14.99
$18.99
$9.99
$22.69
$34.99
$15.99
$13.79
$16.99
$19.99
$29.89
$10.99
$14.99
$15.99
$9.99
$13.99
$28.99
$28.99
$31.39
$9.89
$16.59
$21.99
$23.99
$21.99
$19.29
$31.99
$31.99
$27.99
$32.99
$27.99
$19.39
$15.99
$22.99
$19.99
$19.99
$16.49
$19.79
$17.99
OLD
OR RARE
A /O I
ND
R NTERESTING
As you can see from this astounding list, The Wine House receives an enormous array of old, exotic and hard-to-find wines. Come on in…you’ll
be amazed at what you see. We also can order specialty Armagnacs and Calvados from almost any vintage you would like. Please call us or visit
our web site, www.WineHouse.com for further information. *Due to rarity, some quantities are extremely limited.
NOTE: As we go to print, several exciting cellars are being appraised and, due to unconfirmed commitments, we cannot yet publish what promise
to be some fantastic wines for this department. Please inquire for further details regarding Old, Rare and/or Interesting Wines.
BORDEAUX
955001
900098
910026
910026
910032
355560
806104
900123
900241
806611
815509
897500
805898
809468
810335
950008
10611
844560
20210
821417
826243
900379
900403
24220
6470
1995
1996
1995
1995
1996
1996
1982
1995
1996
1975
1994
1995
1959
1961
1990
1995
1947
1996
1996
1970
1982
1995
1996
1966
1996
Ausone
Cheval Blanc
Haut Brion
Haut-Brion
Haut-Brion
L’Eglise-Clinet
L’Evangile
L’Evangile
L’Evangile
La Mission Haut Brion
La Mission Haut Brion
Lafite-Rothschild
Latour
Latour
Latour
Latour
Latour (damaged label)
Margaux
Margaux (375ml)
Mouton Rothschild
Mouton Rothschild
Mouton Rothschild
Mouton Rothschild
Palmer
Vieux Chateau Certan
20336
807754
977345
2162
955323
$299.99
$229.99
$208.95
$208.95
$194.95
$159.99
$249.99
$199.99
$109.99
$499.99
$84.99
$239.99
$1199.99
$1749.99
$469.99
$259.99
$499.99
$284.89
$159.99
$199.99
$524.99
$229.95
$159.99
$299.99
$124.99
1989
1971
1988
1995
1989
1990
1995
Suduiraut
Yquem
Yquem
Yquem
Yquem (375ml)
Yquem (375ml)
Yquem (375ml)
940013
900179
900179
800372
922225
930250
911233
844962
27986
45113
829002
907177
811558
844556
844783
856007
822997
800016
73446
920026
1991
1993
1995
1998
Araujo Eisele Vineyard
Miner Family, Oakville Reserve,
Auction Lot 92
890019 1985 Stag’s Leap Cask 23
$52.95
$324.99
$289.95
$224.99
$149.99
$149.99
$119.99
1963
1955
1963
1966
1997
1977
1992
Croft
Dow
Dow
Dow
Dow (Magnum)
Fonseca
Fonseca
NV
NV
1981
1984
1994
1994
1997
1979
1988
1998
1986
1985
1979
1979
1975
1987
1985
1996
1995
NV
MISCELLANEOUS (IMPORT)
2563
7746
1776
1958 Cossart Gordon Madeira Bual
$259.99
1991 Cune Rioja Imperial Gran Reserva
$32.99
1999 Dönnhoff Oberhäuser Brücke Riesling
Eiswein (375ml)
$109.99
906294 1991 Faustino Rioja Gran Reserva
$19.99
531
1993 Guigal Cote Rotie La Landonne
$169.99
6813
1998 Gunderlach Nach. Roth. TBA (375ml) $239.99
824913 1989 Jaboulet Hermitage La Chapelle
$189.99
819445 1990 Jaboulet Hermitage La Chapelle
$259.99
23005 1993 Quintarelli Recioto della Valpolicella
(375ml)
$109.99
13459 1997 Rene Renou Bonnezeaux "Anne" (375ml) $55.99
715
1989 Ruchottes-Chambertin, "Roumier"
$139.99
733
1991 Ruchottes-Chambertin, "Roumier"
$119.99
$299.99
$374.99
$349.99
$124.99
$424.99
PORT
909872
779
919150
900283
911233
906928
85663
$409.99
$99.99
$174.99
$99.99
$119.99
Billecart Salmon Rose (Dbl. Mag/3L) $349.95
Bollinger (Imperial/6L)
$431.99
Bollinger RD (Dbl. Mag/3L)
$549.99
Caymus Special Select CS (Magnum) $549.99
Domaine Carneros (Jeroboam/3L)
$199.95
Domaine Carneros (Methuselah/6L)
$399.95
Dow (Magnum)
$124.99
Ducru Beaucaillou (Imperial/6L)
$699.99
Faiveley NStG "Clos Maréchale"
$299.99
Havens Syrah (Magnum)
$56.99
Hess Collection CS Reserve (Magnum) $196.99
Joseph Perrier "Josephine" (Magnum) $175.99
La Mission Haut Brion (Imperial/6L) $999.99
Lafite Rothschild (Imperial/6L)
$1199.99
Lafite Rothschild (Dbl. Mag/3L)
$799.99
Livingston Moffet Vnyd. CS (Magnum) $139.99
Lynch Bages (Imperial/6L)
$1599.99
Pichon Lalande (Dbl. Mag/3L)
$649.99
Roda II Rioja (Magnum)
$69.99
Taittinger Brut Les Francais
(Salmanazar/9L)
$600.00
977345 1997 Taylor (Magnum)
$174.99
955323 1997 Warre’s (Magnum)
$119.99
CALIFORNIA CABERNET SAUVIGNON
877799
800440
813546
977778
Taylor
Taylor
Taylor (Magnum)
Taylor (375ml)
Warre’s (Magnum)
LARGE FORMAT BOTTLES
SAUTERNES
910015
851342
900212
935400
900061
900211
935401
1955
1992
1997
1994
1997
$179.99
$359.99
$244.99
$169.95
$124.99
$219.99
$139.99
31
SPIRITS
1979 Fine Bourgogne, Domaine de la Romanee Conti
(#4405) $179.99
#11261
#21146
#2100
#23765
#9832
From beyond the valley of the ultra-esoteric and ultra-rare...1979
Fine Bourgogne, Domaine de la Romanee Conti. In 1979, a rare
second crop was harvested and distilled by Domaine de la
Romanee-Conti, aged for 12 years and bottled as a unique Fine
Bourgogne. This is essentially brandy made from the vineyards of
DRC. Extremely rare and fine, the resulting spirit has a deep, rich
color, long, sweet bouquet (very much like a fine old Armagnac),
and tremendous layers of flavor on the palate. Very Limited.
Vox is imported from the Netherlands, a country with more
than 400 years of vodka-making experience. Vox is created from
meticulously selected grains of the highest quality, then distilled
five times. This exacting, time-honored process ensures an exceptionally smooth taste and texture, clean finish and vibrant clarity
by which all other vodkas could be judged. Vox is one of our
favorites and, with its handsome designer bottle, belongs in and on
any well-stocked bar.
Indeed, we seem to be a Martini-crazed bunch these days. Hardly
a day goes by without our being asked, "How do you make...?" You
fill in the blank. There is a bewildering variety of flavored Martinis
and Martini-like drinks out there. And the flavoring is what I'd like
to talk to you about. Hands-down, some of the best and most
inventive of creations are made with one of our favorites....Zone
Flavored Vodkas!
Knob Creek Small Batch Bourbon (#932654) $18.99
Hand-bottled at 100 proof and aged for nine years.
Small batch bourbons are handcrafted in limited amounts and then
carefully matured for exceptional quality and flavor.
Zone is an Italian vodka made in the town of Padova. The
difference between Zone and other flavored vodkas results from
two crucial factors: first, Zone is flavored with pure fruit, not some
concocted, glow-in-the-dark artificial chemical; second, Zone is
less alcoholic, coming in at 50 proof, rather than the more normal
80 or 100-proof. Reducing the alcohol and increasing the quality
and quantity of fruit is a stroke of brilliance.
Named for the childhood home of Abraham Lincoln, Knob Creek
embodies the bold flavor that has made Kentucky famous for
bourbon. Bottled at an honest 100 proof, Knob Creek is aged
for nine years in charred American white oak, which lends this
bourbon its maple sugar aroma, distinctive sweetness and rich,
full-bodied flavor.
Knob Creek is superior bourbon at a great price!!!
Tasting Notes (the things we do for our customers!)
El Tesoro de Don Felipe
Banana (#3245) $13.99
El Tesoro is among the most traditional of modern tequilas, and
unlike most other tequilas, is made 100% from estate-grown blue
agave. Handmade and personally supervised by Don Felipe
Camarenas and his son Carlos, the mature agave is slowly steamed
in brick ovens and crushed with a stone wheel. It is then fermented
in wood tanks and distilled to 80 proof; water is never added.
Tastes more like the best banana chips one can imagine. Sweet
banana flavor, intense, but not obnoxious.
Lemon (#1279) $13.99
Pungent and fresh. Smooth, with a pleasant, broad flavor, hints of
orange zest.
El Tesoro tequilas are ruggedly, powerful with earthy agave flavors
and aromas. The aged tequilas are blended from several different
batches of spirit, so that the oak remains an accent rather than an
overpowering component (unlike too many over-oaked tequilas,
Tesoro tastes like an agave spirit, not some lost Cognac). Rich,
viscous and complex. El Tesoro is not subtle, but it is intensely
representative of the finest tequilas of the Los Altos district.
Melon (#2303) $13.99
Stellar! Smells and tastes like a freshly cut honeydew or
cantaloupe. Very sexy stuff!
Peach (#9326) $13.99
Lush and penetrating. This one is great to drink straight over ice,
or for the ultimate Fuzzy Navel, try two shots of Peach with one
shot of orange juice.
El Tesoro Silver (#6520) $28.99
Brilliantly clear. Pungent and penetrating attack. Intense flavors
and very complex. Smoky with floral tones in the nose. Sweet,
thick and viscous in the mouth. White pepper and lemon flavors
mix with the agave. Very much in the spirit and tradition of a fine
eu du vie.
Tangerine (#9328) $13.99
The final flavor and a real head-turner! Very fresh, highly fragrant,
with a hint of warmth in the finish.
As we said: Drink it straight or in any number of mixed combos:
Zone Cosmos, Zone Margaritas, or the always popular Zone
Banana Split.
El Tesoro Anejo (#32488) $34.99
Aged for 2-3 years in American oak bourbon bottles in humidity
controlled cellars. Lovely yellow gold color. Macho agave intensity and suave complexity. Intense agave aromas redolent of earth,
smoke and spice. Butter, caramel, toast and vanilla flavors swirl
around the strong agave base. Slightly sweetish, with a mediumweight mouthfeel. The finish is warm, with long-lasting agave
flavors and hints of pepper and lemon.
For more recipes, check out www.zonevodka.com
Grey Goose L'Orange
Hampton Gin
Fournier Petite Cognac
Ferrand Ambre
El Tesoro Anejo
$21.49
$16.99
$46.99
$239.99
$139.99
Vox (#999233) $21.99
ALL THE WORLD IS A MARTINI IF YOU'RE IN
THE ZONE!!
#5910
#12402
#574
#10226
#32488
Ypioca Cachaca
Luksusowa Potato Vodka
Macallan 15-Year-Old
Macallan 25-Year-Old
Springbank 21-Year-Old
$28.99
$29.99
$29.99
$29.99
$34.99
32
CIGARS
IT’S B-A-C-K!
I was sitting outside a local boite
having lunch the other day when the
sweet smell of cigar smoke wafted
under my nascum. Now, it's not
unusual to find cigar smoke in the
air here, since there are several
individuals who will puff a stogie
after lunch in our hood. What was
unusual was the undeniably high quality of the smoke. If one can
compare smoke to cloth (and why can't one if one wants to?), then
there is plain old cotton on one end and silk on the other. This was
indeed silk, a rich, earthy drapery of it, in fact. It reminded me
of something Cuban. So, I rose from my seat and drifted in the
direction of the source. This is what I found -- a customer of ours
smoking a cigar he'd bought from us – a Don Tomas Dominican
Selection Churchill (#7182) $8.19.
THE ZECOND ANNUAL
ZINFANDEL MINI-FEST
SATURDAY
MARCH 24TH
1-4 P.M.
Considered to be the most "Californian" of wines
with the oldest heritage in the state, Zinfandel has
certainly had its ups and downs during the last two
decades (as witness the switch to White Zinfandel in
the 1980s). But now, the cycle has reversed itself and
good old-fashioned "Red" Zinfandel is one of the
fastest-growing sectors of the domestic varietal
market. What with the escalating prices of Cabs and
Merlots, old Zinfandel fanciers have "returned to the
fold" and new ones are catching on to this extremely
likeable wine.
I was delighted to see this. He said it was one of his favorite cigars
of late. He liked its medium body and rich, sweet taste. He was not
aware of its aromatic qualities, being too close to the source, as it
were. I told him that from afar, I was sure it was Cuban, say a Hoyo
de Monterey Double Corona, which is noted for its marvelous
bouquet. What gives it its distinctive character is a wrapper
developed by the people of Don Tomas just for this cigar. I will
smoke one this weekend and inhale its perfume. I might smoke the
Churchill, or the Belicoso (#7181) $9.29 or the elegant Panatela
(#7185) $4.79.
Speaking of Cuba -- we are about to take delivery on a series of
cigars with varying amounts of pre-embargo tobacco in their
blends. These are going to be very limited and very inexpensive.
The tobacco is of the highest quality. The distributor has not
finished printing all the labels, yet, so I hesitate to quote prices. But
they will be here (and only here) and you will be able to afford
them.
Taste for yourself some of the finest Zinfandel labels
we have to offer in a relaxed Saturday afternoon
setting in our large, comfortable tasting room. The
cost is only $20 per person and there will be 20 to 25
different wines to pick from. It's still too early to
provide a complete list of the Zins to be tasted, but
rest assured that they will be the best the store has in
stock. Based on last year's experience, we expect a
large turnout for this special Mini-Fest, so reservations are highly recommended. As in the case with
our other fests, 48 hours cancellation notice is
required.
A Small List From A Very Large Selection
#7181
Don Tomas Dominican Selection - Belicoso
$9.29
#7182
Don Tomas Dominican Selection - Churchill
$8.19
#7185
Don Tomas Dominican Selection - Panatela
$4.79
#668
Indian Tabac Box Presser Corona Grande
$6.79
#665
Indian Tabac Box Presser Maduro Tomahawk
$6.79
#695
Indian Tabac Box Presser Robusto
$5.99
#3884
Indian Tabac Cameroon Legend Perfecto
$6.79
#3883
Indian Tabac Cameroon Legend Perfecto
$6.39
#20135 La Aurora Preferidos #1
$15.75
$13.25
$10.50
#3655
Perdomo 2 Milenario Maduro
$8.59
#20236 Perdomo 2 Rhombus Maduro
$7.95
#35455 Perdomo 2 Torfecto Maduro
$8.99
#1374
$9.79
Sir Winston
SPECIAL SAVINGS ON MOST MINI-FEST
WINES THIS DAY ONLY
ADMISSION IS $20 FOR 15 TICKETS,
EACH GOOD FOR ONE TASTE
33
WINE CLUB 2001
EXPAND your wine horizons while saving time and money! No more mulling over unwieldy selections and unpredictable quality of wine
amassing the supermarket shelves. Treat yourself to the convenience, fun and benefits of membership in The Wine House Wine Club 2001.
ELCOME Certificate is sent with first wine shipment and personalized for Wine Club 2001 members. Custom Messages
W for Gift memberships are welcome!
description of your Wine Club wine, its origin, tasting notes, plus expert hints on wine and food pairing,
I N-depth
including special recipes for dishes to complement your wine!
FEES added! Wine House Wine Club enrollment fees are ALL-INCLUSIVE! Packed in protective wine shipN OpingHIDDEN
containers and UPS Ground, Wine Club selections are delivered directly to your home or office for ONE LOW PRICE!
OFFERS for all Wine Club 2001 members include discounts on extra bottles of your favorite Club wine
E XCLUSIVE
up to 60 days after shipment PLUS 10% discounts on ALL in-house Fests and special events hosted by The Wine House.
HOUSE
❏ WINE
SELECTION CLUB
❏ CALIFORNIA
PREMIUM CLUB
$35. MONTHLY
$45. MONTHLY
This value-priced Wine Club is ideal for anyone interested in
tasting a full gamut of quality red and white wines. If you love
learning about wine, appreciate the convenience and adventure of receiving a new red and white wine every month, The
Wine House Selection Club is for you! Ships around the 1st of
the month.
The California Wine Rush continues to amaze connoisseurs of
the vine, and our California Premium Club members remain
on the cutting edge. Each month, you’ll receive a stellar red
and white wine, with a focus on reserve bottlings, singlevineyard wines and provocative blends from California’s most
innovative wineries. Ships mid-month.
BILL TO:
SHIP TO:
Address:
Address:
City
State/Zip
Phone:
Fax/E-mail:
Gift Note?
❑
City
State/Zip
Phone:
❑
NO
Fax/E-mail:
YES, please!
Message:
Payment Plans
❑
❑
❑
START DATE:
END DATE:
Open-ended Monthly Program (One-month notice of cancellation required.)
12-Month Plan
VISA
❑
❑
6-Month Plan
❑
MASTERCARD
3-Month Plan
❑
AMERICAN EXPRESS
CC#
Exp.
Signature
Date
I hereby verify that I am 21 years of age or older as are the above recipients for all Wine Club shipments. I understand that The Wine House is not responsible for damage to wine occurring after Wine Club selections have
been shipped and that the Wine House can not ship to the following states: Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas and Utah.
34
ACCESSORIES
By Scott Torrence
WELCOME TO THE
BUYER'S CORNER
The promulgatory pulpit of the Accessory World...possibly beyond.
This is a guide to new and interesting items brought to you by our
various department buyers.
WINE LOVER'S COMPANION OR
FOOD LOVER'S COMPANION
#50350 EXTREME BORDEAUX/CABERNET
$17.99
#50352 EXTREME BURGUNDY/PINOT NOIR
$17.99
#50351 EXTREME CHARDONNAY
$17.99
#50353 EXTREME CHAMPAGNE
$17.99
#50354 EXTREME RIESLING
$17.99
*SUGGESTED RETAIL $24.99
Comprehensive definitions on...
By Ron Herbst and Sharon Tyler Herbst.
Two separate books that give the budding enthusiast and forgetful fan an extra edge as
it pertains to the retention of complex and abstract
terminology typically found in these two enthusiast-driven passions. Encyclopedic entries guide
the user through a plethora of alphabetically
arranged definitions that include pronunciations.
Typical entry:
piéce [pee-YESS] The French name for an oak barrel used in the
CÔTE D'OR, BEAUJOLAIS, and MACON regions of
Burgundy to age and store wine.
WINE STORAGE SOLUTIONS
TRANSTHERM'S MANOIR
WINE CELLAR
For use in the office or home den this 147* bottle free-standing storage unit of contemporary
design makes a sophisticated addition to any
living environment. (#900503) $2,500.00
Vital Statistics:
◆ Dimensions: 57.17"H x 26.77"W x 26.77"D, Weight: 159 lbs.
◆ *147 traditional "Bordeaux"-style bottles
◆ 11 sliding wood shelves holding 13 bottles each
◆ 1 shelf for Lg. Format, Champagne or irregular shapes
◆ Tinted Glass Door
◆ Adjustable Temperature, 1 Zone (precision +/- 2°). This cellar
replicates the conditions of a natural cellar, only one constant
temperature, regardless of outer temperature. Multi-zones can
be the result of under-powered units.
◆ Internal Thermometer & Hygrometer gauge
◆ Los Angeles customers can take direct delivery in 7-to-10 business days (approx.) from dealer’s stock. Please inquire about
areas outside Los Angeles City.
liaison [lee-ay-ZON; lee-AY-zon] In cooking, a liaison is a
thickening agent for soups, sauces and other mixtures. BEURRE
MANIÉ, ROUX, egg yolks or starches such as FLOUR, CORNSTARCH and ARROWROOT are among those agents used for
thickening. A liaison is sometimes also referred to as a binder.
Whether you're a professional serving food and/or wine or see
yourself as a mini-Martha Stewart, either book will refine the
knowledge base that you've currently mastered. Wine Lover's
(#50359) $14.99 or Food Lover’s (#50143) $14.99
EXTREME RIEDEL -- THE TASTE TEST
BAR TOYS
#55006 Party Of Four Cocktail Party Maker Shaker
18 glorious ounces
$22.99
#50161 Assorted Glass Swizzle Sticks
$6.99
#126
Frill Picks 50-pk.
$1.25
#50251 Sword Picks 40-pk.
$1.25
#616
Parasol Picks 20-pk.
$1.25
#50252 Pourer Chrome & Cork 2-pk.
$4.75
#50253 Pourer Clear Plastic 2-pk.
$3.99
BOTTLE TOYS
#50324 Wine Writer – Ink pen writes on bottles
$3.49
50325 Waiter's Corkscrew from Italy
Colors: Black, Metallic Red, Aluminum
$33.99
50287 Waiter's Corkscrew from Japan
Beautiful wood inlay – Ultra-lightweight
$84.99
#27404 Laguiole Picnic Corkscrew & Knife
$69.99
Various Le Creuset Screwpull
With or without foil cutter
$16.99 to $21.99
#16103 Rogar Champion Pewter
$119.99
#16111 Rogar Estate Bronze
$77.99
#16131 Rogar Table Stand
$28.99
Ol' Georg Riedel is at it again. If you thought the Sommelier handmade line was the pinnacle, you're still correct. Experiencing wines
from these stems has certainly been a revealing event. However,
near-perfect experiences always come at a price. But what if you
could have this experience for much less? Much, much less.
RIEDEL EXTREME is Georg's answer to this serious problem.
Late last year, a staff tasting conducted by our regional Riedel
representative proved this financial feat possible. We sat down
one Saturday morning to compare and contrast four wines in two
separate, four-stem lineups. I dubbed it the Vinum vs. Extreme
Challenge (catchy, right?). The Extreme line is a hybrid of the best
elements from the Vinum and Sommelier products. The shapes are
rather large, angular, wild and arresting to look at (the Extreme
part). Much more so than the classic smooth profile we've become
accustomed to in the Sommelier & Vinum lines. The results of our
experiment? Hands-down, the Extreme line wins! Mainly due to the
overall increase in surface area. This is not to diminish the usefulness of your Vinums, their performance outshines all other brands.
Rather, if you are looking to push the envelope of your wines, you
now have a reasonably priced tool to do it with.
35
THE JOKES ON US AGAIN!
APRIL FOOL’S
SPRING CLEANING SALE
WINE • LIQUOR
BEER • CHAMPAGNE
ACCESSORIES
MANY ITEMS AT COST
OR BELOW - SOME ITEMS
STARTING AT $3. -
$5. BUYS 10
TASTING TICKETS FOR
PRODUCTS THAT ARE
ON SALE
Saturday & Sunday All Day
March 31 and April 1, 2001
PRESRT. STD.
US POSTAGE
PAID
PERMIT #30391
LOS ANGELES, CA
The Wine House
2311 Cotner Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90064-1877
Address Correction Requested

W I N E

Transcription

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