Friday Sips

A holiday tradition!! This is the 3rd library selection that we've offered of the Vieilles Vignes. Many of you have enjoyed the 2001 and 2005, this time we're going back to offer the delectable and soon to be legendary 2004 Vieilles Vignes from Galet-des-Papes, one of our favorite producers in this hallowed region.

It isn't too often that we are able to sample these before purchasing but today is an exception, we have some sample bottles for you all to look at. On to the wine…2004 was one of the big sleeper vintages of the past decade. The Vieilles Vignes cuvee is a blend of 60% Grenache, 30% Mourvedre and 10% Syrah from vines ranging from 60-100+ year old vines. Old vine magic aromas are omni-present and present complex, secondary aspects. Quasi Barolo/Bandol influences lie beneath the Grenache overlay of ardent strawberry, virtual Chinese 5-spice, truffle, white pepper and rhubarb. Complex scents of violet, pekoe and camphor also ride shotgun. In the mouth it is drinking exquisitely. Smoothly textured, impressive mid-palate presence and really fanning out on the energetic, spice-laden, drawn-out finish that seemingly lasts and lasts. Drink this with a myriad of food selections. Try with game meats like venison or elk but it will also do quite well with duck, a hearty daube de boeuf (a provencal stew) or soft-ripened cheeses.

**PRE-ARRIVAL OFFER CLOSES NEXT FRIDAY, DECEMBER 20 AT THE END OF THE DAY

**WINES ORDERED WILL ARRIVE IN SPRING 2014

Yet another 2011 Pinot that has impressed me. Then again, Jay Somers and team consistently accomplishes this with their flavorful Pinots. Instantaneously classy, this Pinot truly is exactly what Pinot should be: tender, aromatic, graceful, mouthfilling without ever becoming heavy and possessing loads of silk.

A true to form Willamette Valley "village" wine, Pinot fruit from 4 appellations (Yamhill-Carlton, Dundee Hills, Eola-Amity and Chehalem Mountain) are blended into this cuvee. Beautiful combo of red berry, violet, sage, lavender and spicy earth flow nicely from the alluring aromatics into the smooth, gliding texture. Sensuous throughout this wine will be lovable over the next 4-5 years.

Like any virtuouso, Baumard simply has to show up and with their deft touch will make fabulous wine. Known for dry Savennieres and some of France's greatest dessert wines from Quarts de Chaume and the Coteaux du Layon, Baumard has taken their prowess and has produced a sparkling wine that is perfect for those who don't want to drop the bank on Champagne.

Made from Chenin Blanc in the traditional Champagne method, this wine exudes class with its lip-stinging apricot, quince and brioche character. A fine sipper that will pair nicely with hors d'oeurves.