Hot Sheets
THE CELLAR DOOR'S 'WOUND UP' HOTSHEET
Chassagne-Montrachet Special, Zinfandel, Malbec, 95 pt. Chateauneuf, Riesling, Montepulciano & more
2016 CLOS DE LA ROILETTE FLEURIE
$19.99 BTL./$239.88 CASE
$19.99 BTL./$239.88 CASE
Once the leaves start to fall and footballs fly through the air in October, it signals the arrival to finish the caprese salads and move on to heartier fare. It also means the arrival of some favorite wines to pair with many autumnal flavors such as this perennial profound Cru Beaujolais from one of Fleurie’s masters.
The vineyard for this wine butts up against Moulin-a-Vent, and when boundaries were established in the 1920s, the landowner at the time was a might bit pissed because it wasn’t included within what at that time was Beaujolais’s most famous land. In response, he put a picture of his racehorse, Roilette, on the label. In addition, the wine’s site, Clos de la Roilette more prominently on the label instead of the appellation name, Fleurie. This remains the same today even under the present owner, Alain Coudert. The 2016 is small in quantity but what was left after Mother Nature decided to take away was mighty impressive. Packed with candied, aromatic black cherry, licorice, some spicy earth, mint and violet tones that dance from the glass and seduce the palate with wonderful, layered flavors that drive into a fresh, uplifting and engaging finish. Even though we are still a month away, this is the perfect Thanksgiving wine to class up the bird; however, this sultry Gamay can also be had with grilled sausage, mushroom-laced pasta dishes, baked ham and roasted chicken. An ravishing deal as it will also age nicely for 5-6 years and almost become like a fine Pinot Noir from the Beaune area.
The vineyard for this wine butts up against Moulin-a-Vent, and when boundaries were established in the 1920s, the landowner at the time was a might bit pissed because it wasn’t included within what at that time was Beaujolais’s most famous land. In response, he put a picture of his racehorse, Roilette, on the label. In addition, the wine’s site, Clos de la Roilette more prominently on the label instead of the appellation name, Fleurie. This remains the same today even under the present owner, Alain Coudert. The 2016 is small in quantity but what was left after Mother Nature decided to take away was mighty impressive. Packed with candied, aromatic black cherry, licorice, some spicy earth, mint and violet tones that dance from the glass and seduce the palate with wonderful, layered flavors that drive into a fresh, uplifting and engaging finish. Even though we are still a month away, this is the perfect Thanksgiving wine to class up the bird; however, this sultry Gamay can also be had with grilled sausage, mushroom-laced pasta dishes, baked ham and roasted chicken. An ravishing deal as it will also age nicely for 5-6 years and almost become like a fine Pinot Noir from the Beaune area.
2012 SEGHESIO ZINFANDEL 'CORTINA'
$27.99 BTL./$335.88 CASE
$27.99 BTL./$335.88 CASE
Seghesio is undoubtedly one of the top and most popular zin specialists in Sonoma. This estate has been in Sonoma for decades and are blessed with ancient vineyards that they cause their detailed zeal. Generally, we sell quite a bit of their entry-level zinfandel but it is exciting to be able to offer limited quantities of one of their hot-to-trot single vineyards from the superb 2012 vintage.
Cortina is named for the dominant soil type that exists on this 56-acre site in the heart of the Dry Creek Valley and exemplifies why Zinfandel is the soul of California’s grape varietals. The core of the Cortina comes from vines planted in 1972. The balance of warmth and cool of 2012 serves to highlight the white pepper, warm exotic spice and ultra-ripe red and black brambly berries that is a hallmark of Cortina. Unfolding in the glass nicely, it never becomes a smashmouth alcohol bomb by any means. Dazzling depth of fruit and plenty of snap to go along with white pepper, vanilla and cocoa powder all take turns alluring your palate. This is a big zin with great balance and best enjoyed over the next 7-10 with braised pork or other slow-cooked hearty meat dishes or mild cheeses.
Cortina is named for the dominant soil type that exists on this 56-acre site in the heart of the Dry Creek Valley and exemplifies why Zinfandel is the soul of California’s grape varietals. The core of the Cortina comes from vines planted in 1972. The balance of warmth and cool of 2012 serves to highlight the white pepper, warm exotic spice and ultra-ripe red and black brambly berries that is a hallmark of Cortina. Unfolding in the glass nicely, it never becomes a smashmouth alcohol bomb by any means. Dazzling depth of fruit and plenty of snap to go along with white pepper, vanilla and cocoa powder all take turns alluring your palate. This is a big zin with great balance and best enjoyed over the next 7-10 with braised pork or other slow-cooked hearty meat dishes or mild cheeses.
2014 VON KESSELSTAT RIESLING
KABINETT 'SCHARZHOFBERGER'
$19.99 BTL./$239.88 CASE
KABINETT 'SCHARZHOFBERGER'
$19.99 BTL./$239.88 CASE
Our prophecy is that once you taste this wine you are certain to become addicted. The Scharzhofberger Vineyard is Grand Cru and it could be stated that it is the greatest Riesling vineyard in the world. While some may disagree if you were to state it and mention other sites, they certainly would not think that you are crazy and simply expressing hyperbole. Okay, so there is an ever so faint kiss of sweetness here but no more than what would be in an overoaked Chardonnay or Oregon Pinot Gris. The more important thing is that it conveys the unbridled minerality and electricity that are the benchmarks of the Saar and in particular, this renowned vineyard site.
Masculine aromas laden with fruit tones such as lime and spiced peach carry over into a gushing, slate-driven texture that is best described as athletic. Lightning-firm, linear and very expressive on the finish. If you don't believe white wines will age, hold one back (if you can resist) for a decade years and try it, profoundness will be abound!
Masculine aromas laden with fruit tones such as lime and spiced peach carry over into a gushing, slate-driven texture that is best described as athletic. Lightning-firm, linear and very expressive on the finish. If you don't believe white wines will age, hold one back (if you can resist) for a decade years and try it, profoundness will be abound!
2014 LUIS PATO BIERA ATLANTICO
'COLHEITA SELECCIONADA' TINTO
$14.99 BTL./$179.88 CASE
'COLHEITA SELECCIONADA' TINTO
$14.99 BTL./$179.88 CASE
A legend in Portugal, Luis Pato literally put the Barraida region and the Baga grape on the worldwide wine map. Located just west of the famed Dao region, the maritime influence on these wines cannot be understated and the Baga grape gives somewhat of a notation of an Atlantic Nebbiolo.
Based around Baga with a dollop of Touriga Nacional to bring about fruit and roundness. Bright with red berry, raspberry, a little bit of leather and spice box. Ripe, chewy red fruits are integrated nicely with subtle oak tones. The finish is wild with a little game and plenty of bright flavors and briary spiciness. Drink over the next 3-4 years particularly with Portugal’s main vegetable, pork.
Based around Baga with a dollop of Touriga Nacional to bring about fruit and roundness. Bright with red berry, raspberry, a little bit of leather and spice box. Ripe, chewy red fruits are integrated nicely with subtle oak tones. The finish is wild with a little game and plenty of bright flavors and briary spiciness. Drink over the next 3-4 years particularly with Portugal’s main vegetable, pork.
2011 BELASCO DE BAQUEDANO MALBEC
'AR GUENTOTA'
[reg. $29.99]
SPECIAL - $19.99 BTL./$239.88 CASE
'AR GUENTOTA'
[reg. $29.99]
SPECIAL - $19.99 BTL./$239.88 CASE
A new discovery from Argentina for us is the high elevation, 100-year-old vine, upscale wines from Belasco de Baquedano. Several labels are produced here but this is the crown jewel in the portfolio and if you like and appreciate the best that Argentina has to offer as well as an introductory special price then take advantage.
From Mendoza’s Lujan du Cuyo and particularly the Agrelo Valley and grown at 3300+ feet this wine’s heady, full and aromatic nose of bold, dark plum-pepper, allspice, violet and hot rock reveals that it is 103 year old vines and elevation. Sexy, saturated, chewy and polished it is a dense, vinous and a real mouthful of red wine. Through all of this, it maintains vivid aspects that calls you back for another glass and another and another, etc., etc. The finish is penetrating and dense, revealing chocolate-covered raspberry red tones and sticks around for a long time. Wow! Drink through 2024.
From Mendoza’s Lujan du Cuyo and particularly the Agrelo Valley and grown at 3300+ feet this wine’s heady, full and aromatic nose of bold, dark plum-pepper, allspice, violet and hot rock reveals that it is 103 year old vines and elevation. Sexy, saturated, chewy and polished it is a dense, vinous and a real mouthful of red wine. Through all of this, it maintains vivid aspects that calls you back for another glass and another and another, etc., etc. The finish is penetrating and dense, revealing chocolate-covered raspberry red tones and sticks around for a long time. Wow! Drink through 2024.
2015 VILLA DES ANGES
CABERNET SAUVIGNON
$10.99 BTL./$131.88 CASE
CABERNET SAUVIGNON
$10.99 BTL./$131.88 CASE
From Languedoc and a terrific value! A wine that really combines both its terroir and varietal, this Cabernet possesses inviting Southern French aromas of lavender, thyme and licorice along with cassis and cocoa tones. Ripe, smooth entry gives way to exotic spice on the personable finish. Easy to grasp, easy to like and a great choice for a midweek Cabernet.
2015 COL DEL MONDO
MONTEPULIANO D'ABRUZZO 'SUNNAE'
$10.99 BTL./$131.88 CASE
MONTEPULIANO D'ABRUZZO 'SUNNAE'
$10.99 BTL./$131.88 CASE
Col del Mondo is one of the superb names in Abruzzo so it would only make sense that the estate would produce a smokin' red wine that kills it from the first sniff until the last swallow. A real over-achiever! Soulful, harmonious and packed with jazzy strawberry/blackberry/balsamic aspects. Mouth-filling, dry and delivering a combination of spice and earth, this engaging, food-friendly number will work with a hot-sausage sandwich, lamb chops or macaroni & gravy.
2015 LAURENT PILLOT
CHASSAGNE-MONTRACHET
[reg. $55.99]
SPECIAL - $42.99 BTL./$515.88 CASE
CHASSAGNE-MONTRACHET
[reg. $55.99]
SPECIAL - $42.99 BTL./$515.88 CASE
If you need reassurance that Laurent Pillot is one of the rock stars of Chassagne-Montrachet all one needs to do is to give a go to one of his village wines. This is a terrific entryway into Electric Larry Land! Our friend Laurent Pillot has been making stellar wines and leading his family Domaine since the 1990 vintage and each year we get very excited to sell the wines. Until the end of the month or until it sells out, we are running a profound special on this particular offering that kills it at a price now unheard of for anything with a hyphen and tagged with the word Montrachet. If you love these wines, you'll want to hit send on your email.
After tasting a barrel sample of this wine last year and then again reiterated earlier this year, Bryan told Laurent that he should invent his own Premier Cru name for this wine because it is way above the regular village quality level! Very precise Chassagne aromas of peach, orange and rosemary. Ample mineral beneath a gentle kiss of vanilla and cream from proper use of barrique. Beautiful expanse from the vintage occurs in the mouth. Beautifully drawn out, but also very energetic. Killer Juice! Drink now – 2025+.
After tasting a barrel sample of this wine last year and then again reiterated earlier this year, Bryan told Laurent that he should invent his own Premier Cru name for this wine because it is way above the regular village quality level! Very precise Chassagne aromas of peach, orange and rosemary. Ample mineral beneath a gentle kiss of vanilla and cream from proper use of barrique. Beautiful expanse from the vintage occurs in the mouth. Beautifully drawn out, but also very energetic. Killer Juice! Drink now – 2025+.
2015 VIEUX DONJON
CHATEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE
$65.99 BTL./$791.88 CASE
CHATEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE
$65.99 BTL./$791.88 CASE
In all honesty, greatness needn't be hyped when it comes to Vieux Donjon's Chateauneuf-du-Pape wines because they back it up. Consistently Lucien Michel along with daughter Claire and son Francois, allow the vintages to tell their stories of what went down that particular year within the vineyard sites. The style here is always one of class and grace, make no mistake, these wines have ample depth, body and breed.
2015 is an apex Chateauneuf vintage, to me somewhat of a cross between the warmth of 2009 and the backbone and structure of 2010. Always well-defined and shapely so that they may be enjoyed right away, Vieux Donjon CnDPs nevertheless age slowly and magnificently. The last sentence doesn't necessarily ring true with the structured and cerebral 2015. Finely detailed with exotic black fruits along with wild spices. Bold, but really holds on to the signature Vieux Donjon style of finesse and silkiness extremely well. Underlying dusty herbs de provence and turned earth. More amplification and penetration than 2013 and 2014, but some real seduction presents itself with the old vine fruit. Gathers its thoughts and then turns inward and youthful, particularly on the flavorful, long, very detailed finish that offers extreme persistence and transparency. A real winner! This could use about 3-4 years in the cellar and will drink nicely from 2019 – 2030. If you need the equivalent of a wine performance enhancement drug, otherwise known as a score, this one has 95 from The Wine Spectator.
2015 is an apex Chateauneuf vintage, to me somewhat of a cross between the warmth of 2009 and the backbone and structure of 2010. Always well-defined and shapely so that they may be enjoyed right away, Vieux Donjon CnDPs nevertheless age slowly and magnificently. The last sentence doesn't necessarily ring true with the structured and cerebral 2015. Finely detailed with exotic black fruits along with wild spices. Bold, but really holds on to the signature Vieux Donjon style of finesse and silkiness extremely well. Underlying dusty herbs de provence and turned earth. More amplification and penetration than 2013 and 2014, but some real seduction presents itself with the old vine fruit. Gathers its thoughts and then turns inward and youthful, particularly on the flavorful, long, very detailed finish that offers extreme persistence and transparency. A real winner! This could use about 3-4 years in the cellar and will drink nicely from 2019 – 2030. If you need the equivalent of a wine performance enhancement drug, otherwise known as a score, this one has 95 from The Wine Spectator.
FRIDAY SIPS
Rioja Friday
This Friday, October 27 from 1:30 - 6:30
Rioja lives in interesting times right now. Old school traditionalists co-exist alongside modernista producers to put forth a variance of styles that highlight Spain’s most venerable region. Drop by this Friday to check out four wines from this area that currently have us very excited to share with you.
FEATURED WINES:
2012 Marques de Murietta Rioja Reserva
2015 Alegre Valganon Rioja Cosecha Tinto
2014 Alegre Valganon Rioja Blanco
2010 Remelluri Rioja Reserva ‘Labastida’
