2/6/17 'CRYPTIQUE ET MYTHIQUE' HOTSHEET
THE CELLAR DOOR'S 'CRYPTIQUE ET MYTHIQUE' HOTSHEET
DESCRIPTION & more
2010 TEDESCHI VALPOLICELLA
CLASSICO SUPERIORE 'NICALO'
[reg. $21.99]
SPECIAL - $15.99 BTL./$191.88 CASE
CLASSICO SUPERIORE 'NICALO'
[reg. $21.99]
SPECIAL - $15.99 BTL./$191.88 CASE
Tedeschi’s Nicalo cuvee is serious business! The technique for the production of this wine is known as Appassimento and grapes for this offering are dried for about a month, then aged for 18 months in large Slovenian botti and this is what brings more body and complexity to the wine.
Dried cherry tones that seems as though they've been infused with exotic herbs and spices play off of mint and amaro tones. In the mouth, there is good force with full fruit that runs very deep. Flavors of cherry that come from just around the pit are highly present and are very textbook. The finish planes out and is quite sophisticated for 20 bucks. A perfect winter wine to drink now over the next 2-3 years with an array of pastas, braised meats or cheese. Lastly, mark your calendars because Tedeschi owner/winemaker Riccardo Tedeschi will be here for a Friday Sips Tasting on April 28.
Dried cherry tones that seems as though they've been infused with exotic herbs and spices play off of mint and amaro tones. In the mouth, there is good force with full fruit that runs very deep. Flavors of cherry that come from just around the pit are highly present and are very textbook. The finish planes out and is quite sophisticated for 20 bucks. A perfect winter wine to drink now over the next 2-3 years with an array of pastas, braised meats or cheese. Lastly, mark your calendars because Tedeschi owner/winemaker Riccardo Tedeschi will be here for a Friday Sips Tasting on April 28.
THREE CAPTIVATING CORBIERES WINES
2015 DOMAINE FONTSAINTE CORBIERES
$13.99 BTL./$167.88 CASE
$13.99 BTL./$167.88 CASE
Domaine Fontsainte is a trailblazing estate when it comes to the large Languedoc region of Corbieres. This winery has been influential over the last 25+ years in bringing Corbieres into the forefront with clean, mouthfilling, soulful wines that respect the terroir.
The black label classic version is 60% Carignan, 30% Grenache Noir, 10% Syrah from clay-limestone soil with plenty of gravel and large stones. Forward, substantial with room-filling aromas of ripe strawberry, anisette, garrigue and cocoa tones mingle with cracked pepper and roasted earth. This wine is round, concentrated and luscious in the mouth with tannins that are ripe and integrated. Everything shows off the fruit, which moves right into the lengthy expressive finish with pepper, earth and complexity. Ideal with mushroom quiche, grilled fish, roasted chicken, or braised pork loin.
The black label classic version is 60% Carignan, 30% Grenache Noir, 10% Syrah from clay-limestone soil with plenty of gravel and large stones. Forward, substantial with room-filling aromas of ripe strawberry, anisette, garrigue and cocoa tones mingle with cracked pepper and roasted earth. This wine is round, concentrated and luscious in the mouth with tannins that are ripe and integrated. Everything shows off the fruit, which moves right into the lengthy expressive finish with pepper, earth and complexity. Ideal with mushroom quiche, grilled fish, roasted chicken, or braised pork loin.
2015 DOMAINE FONTSAINTE
CORBIERES 'LA DEMOISELLE'
$16.99 BTL./$203.88 CASE
CORBIERES 'LA DEMOISELLE'
$16.99 BTL./$203.88 CASE
Kilo for Kilo, this is one of the finest red wines produced in the South of France! Made with the same blend as the black label, the difference here is the age of the vines; the Carignan portion is from 110-year-old vines. Think of it this way, Domaine Fontsainte’s Demoiselles is a Corbieres that thinks it is a Châteauneuf!
Packed, deep Mediterranean aromas of sun-drenched plums, wind-swept lavender, undertones of dark chocolate, white pepper, strawberry and balsamic continually build in complexity. Soulful, layered and very real, Domaine Fonsainte's Demoiselles a compelling ensemble of savory richness and elegance that follows through to the ample dry and vibrant finish. A Corbieres of impeccable quality, we have tasted this when it's 10 years old and no problem for this to do the same thing with the 2014 - although it is mighty tempting now. One that is a hedonistic match for smoked or grilled pork in a tangy sauce. If I'm going to hell for eating and drinking this combination, then put me on the escalator down!
Packed, deep Mediterranean aromas of sun-drenched plums, wind-swept lavender, undertones of dark chocolate, white pepper, strawberry and balsamic continually build in complexity. Soulful, layered and very real, Domaine Fonsainte's Demoiselles a compelling ensemble of savory richness and elegance that follows through to the ample dry and vibrant finish. A Corbieres of impeccable quality, we have tasted this when it's 10 years old and no problem for this to do the same thing with the 2014 - although it is mighty tempting now. One that is a hedonistic match for smoked or grilled pork in a tangy sauce. If I'm going to hell for eating and drinking this combination, then put me on the escalator down!
2015 DOMAINE FONTSAINTE
CORBIERES-BOUTENAC 'CLOS DU CENTURION'
$19.99 BTL./$239.88 CASE
CORBIERES-BOUTENAC 'CLOS DU CENTURION'
$19.99 BTL./$239.88 CASE
In 2005, the Corbieres region of Boutenac received a well-deserved upgrade to Cru status and of course, one would expect masterful results from the Laboucarie family. This special cuvee is once again 60% Carignan, 30% Grenache and 10% Syrah but the difference is that it is the limited production tete de cuvee and is from four specific micro parcels in Boutenac and 70-year-old vines.
Of all the years we have been working with Domaine Fontsainte’s wines, this is the first time we have ever been offered any of the Clos Du Centurion and vintage 2014 is a velvet monster with great character. Chewy, bold and voluptuous with all of the telltale wild blackberry, sage, olive, pepper and grenadine notes that are associated with the area. In the mouth, it is mouth coating, spicy and with plenty of staying power and length. Very approachable now, and will work with an array of dishes but its gastronomic soul mate would be leg of lamb or filet of beef doused with fresh chanterelles. No problem to age this terrific value red wine for 10-15 years.
Of all the years we have been working with Domaine Fontsainte’s wines, this is the first time we have ever been offered any of the Clos Du Centurion and vintage 2014 is a velvet monster with great character. Chewy, bold and voluptuous with all of the telltale wild blackberry, sage, olive, pepper and grenadine notes that are associated with the area. In the mouth, it is mouth coating, spicy and with plenty of staying power and length. Very approachable now, and will work with an array of dishes but its gastronomic soul mate would be leg of lamb or filet of beef doused with fresh chanterelles. No problem to age this terrific value red wine for 10-15 years.
2014 ROCCA DI MONTEGROSSI
CHIANTI CLASSICO
$19.99 BTL./$239.88 CASE
CHIANTI CLASSICO
$19.99 BTL./$239.88 CASE
We often marvel at how so many of the wines we love reflect the personality of the person who raises them. Moreover, when it comes to the debonair, charming, sincere and elegant Marco Ricasoli this theory holds up perfectly. Furthermore, this is a man of supreme integrity and in what is a difficult vintage; Marco made strict selection of grapes as well as not producing any of his single vineyard Reserve wine known as San Marcellino and truly produced a magnificent Chianti Classico in what were weren’t the easiest of conditions. If you don’t believe me that this wine is THIS good, I’ll have Antonio Galloni from Vinous wax with a glowing, 91 point review and they list if for $28:
‘The 2014 Chianti Classico is a surprisingly powerful, potent wine. Black cherry, smoke, licorice and dark spices fill out the wine's ample frame effortlessly. The sheer depth and intensity are impressive and show why this is such a great site. Sweet rose petal, spice and mint are some of the many nuances that blossom as the wine sits in the glass. Put simply, this is one of the wines of the vintage. – 91 POINTS, ANTONIO GALLONI, VINOUS’
‘The 2014 Chianti Classico is a surprisingly powerful, potent wine. Black cherry, smoke, licorice and dark spices fill out the wine's ample frame effortlessly. The sheer depth and intensity are impressive and show why this is such a great site. Sweet rose petal, spice and mint are some of the many nuances that blossom as the wine sits in the glass. Put simply, this is one of the wines of the vintage. – 91 POINTS, ANTONIO GALLONI, VINOUS’
2015 RUDI PICHLER
GRUNER VELTLINER FEDERSPIEL
[reg. $35.99]
SPECIAL - $25.99 BTL./$311.88 CASE
GRUNER VELTLINER FEDERSPIEL
[reg. $35.99]
SPECIAL - $25.99 BTL./$311.88 CASE
The name Pichler is synonymous when it comes to Austria and especially the famed region of Wachau. Whether it be Rudi or FX Pichler, these wines perform on a world-class level and are some of the world’s finest dry white wines. The Federspiel offering was one of the most impressive wines that I sampled last week and it is on special. Stereotypically, people believe Austrian white wine to be sweet. Except for dessert wines, which make up 3% of the country's entire production, this could not be further from the truth. The majority of Germany's white wines are made from Riesling carrying various levels of sweetness. Riesling is also produced in Austria, but here the noble varietal is Grüner Veltliner possessing more volume and makes for a very DRY WINE!
Revved up, multi-faceted scents of powdered lime, peppermint, crushed rock and an undertone of melon build from the glass. Commencing with full, expansive fruit in the mouth, the wine's lightning-bolt crisp, zesty mineral characteristics dominate the substantial, clean, firm middle and gushing finish. One with immense potential. Drink over the next 6-7 years with seafood including sea bass or halibut dressed with greens, Indian cuisine based around curry or mild cheeses.
Revved up, multi-faceted scents of powdered lime, peppermint, crushed rock and an undertone of melon build from the glass. Commencing with full, expansive fruit in the mouth, the wine's lightning-bolt crisp, zesty mineral characteristics dominate the substantial, clean, firm middle and gushing finish. One with immense potential. Drink over the next 6-7 years with seafood including sea bass or halibut dressed with greens, Indian cuisine based around curry or mild cheeses.
2013 MANOS NEGRAS CARMENERE
$11.99 BTL./$143.88 CASE
$11.99 BTL./$143.88 CASE
The Carmenere grape was originally planted in the Medoc in Bordeaux and is part of the Cabernet family. While virtually extinct there due to it being difficult to ripen in Bordeaux's conditions, it is alive and thriving in Chile.
The Manos Negras version is an assertive charmer. Leather, spice, tealeaf, black licorice and black plum shine on the nose and follow through to a texture that is broad, polished and persistent; it is a yummy, full-flavored wine that is perfect for every-evening consumption.
The Manos Negras version is an assertive charmer. Leather, spice, tealeaf, black licorice and black plum shine on the nose and follow through to a texture that is broad, polished and persistent; it is a yummy, full-flavored wine that is perfect for every-evening consumption.
2013 NARUPA VINOS ALBARINO
$19.99 BTL./$239.88 CASE
$19.99 BTL./$239.88 CASE
A young and exciting producer in Galicia, Rosa Pedrosa makes a mere 4000 bottles of this wine from her very rocky, ancestral vineyard that is located three miles from the sea. One of last to bottle, these are some of the most structured Spanish white wines that we have come across. Most importantly is the regional character of freshness and aromatics. If you love to eat sea critters, you will definitely enjoy this wine.
Persistent aromas of grapefruit and orange, an underlay of perfumed rocks, along with hints of herbs and subtle spice careen from the glass. Broad and relaxed in the mouth with fleshy tangerine and pear notes filling out with crisp, lemony vibrancy. The finish is lingering, fruit filled and livewire, calling you back for another glass. Break out the fresh crab!
Persistent aromas of grapefruit and orange, an underlay of perfumed rocks, along with hints of herbs and subtle spice careen from the glass. Broad and relaxed in the mouth with fleshy tangerine and pear notes filling out with crisp, lemony vibrancy. The finish is lingering, fruit filled and livewire, calling you back for another glass. Break out the fresh crab!
2014 BANSHEE NAPA VALLEY
CABERNET SAUVIGNON
$39.99 BTL./$479.88 CASE
CABERNET SAUVIGNON
$39.99 BTL./$479.88 CASE
This wine goes to show that there are some terrific newcomers in Napa and Sonoma making balanced yet full wines with excellent pedigree. In existence since 2009 and run by three partners from various aspects of the wine business and while the primary focus is on Sonoma Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, these young guys have truly fashioned a remarkable Napa Cabernet.
96% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Cabernet Franc from Calistoga, Rutherford and Howell Mountain this Cab reveals intense, yet sophisticated aromas of plum, raspberries, smoke, violet, cocoa, nutmeg and cedar-box. Rich and coming at you in waves, there is plenty of structure here for aging, but the tannins seem to be gobbled up nicely by the sublime fruit. Finishes with authority, but planes out and the flavors stick around for a heck of a long time. Buy now to be ahead of the game! Drink this wonderful expression of the Napa Valley over the next 15+ years.
96% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Cabernet Franc from Calistoga, Rutherford and Howell Mountain this Cab reveals intense, yet sophisticated aromas of plum, raspberries, smoke, violet, cocoa, nutmeg and cedar-box. Rich and coming at you in waves, there is plenty of structure here for aging, but the tannins seem to be gobbled up nicely by the sublime fruit. Finishes with authority, but planes out and the flavors stick around for a heck of a long time. Buy now to be ahead of the game! Drink this wonderful expression of the Napa Valley over the next 15+ years.
2008 GIACONDA SHIRAZ
'WARNER VINEYARD
$75.99 BTL. - LIMITED
'WARNER VINEYARD
$75.99 BTL. - LIMITED
Don’t hang up the phone on this Aussie because it is amongst the most legendary Shiraz wine that the nation has to offer. Starting Giaconda in Beechworth in the northeastern portion of Victoria by Rick Kinzbrunner in 1982, very quickly these well-balanced, image-busting pure and very ageworthy wines quickly attained cult status. As the popularity of Australia’s wines have waned over the years, there are still some that stand above it all, are genuine, and truly express their profound quality.
Serving up killer aromatics, this wine possesses tantalizing scents of violet, roasted earth, cranberry, white pepper, charcuterie and hints of asphalt. Finesseful, layered flavors that expand and fill the mouth. Structured notes show in the middle, but the wine extends beautifully and shows off an almost Northern Rhone-like finish at the end with its silkiness. Coming up on age 9, this is starting to drink exquisitely and will continue to age and develop for another decade and beyond. Without a doubt, this is one of Australia's greatest cool climate Shiraz wines!
Serving up killer aromatics, this wine possesses tantalizing scents of violet, roasted earth, cranberry, white pepper, charcuterie and hints of asphalt. Finesseful, layered flavors that expand and fill the mouth. Structured notes show in the middle, but the wine extends beautifully and shows off an almost Northern Rhone-like finish at the end with its silkiness. Coming up on age 9, this is starting to drink exquisitely and will continue to age and develop for another decade and beyond. Without a doubt, this is one of Australia's greatest cool climate Shiraz wines!
