Hot Sheets
"RIDICULOUSLY TASTY" HOTSHEET - 91 point, 21 buck Washington Cab, Pieropan Soave, Corbieres, under 20 Oregon Pinot, Stellar Barbera & more
2011 EVESHAM WOOD PINOT NOIR
WILLAMETTE VALLEY
$16.99 BTL./$203.88 CASE
$16.99 BTL./$203.88 CASE
After Russ Raney took an early retirement and sold Evesham Wood to his former assistant Erin Nuccio, the quality of these wines has remained at an impeccable level. Seemingly the specter of Russ was and always will be around even now that Erin is making his own mark…and doing it in a way that certainly has to make Russ Raney proud!!
Always a great Oregon Pinot address, Evesham Wood's 2011 is an appealing, extremely well-done, honest Pinot Noir that performs way above its seventeen dollar price-tag. Stylish red and blackcurrant fruit permeates from the glass and is enhanced by intertwined cinnamon, violet and red earth which follows into a smooth, Burgundian-inspired, velvet-laden texture that seduces, then lingers but also lets you know that its rather serious with underlying firm structure. Drinks almost too easily, but no problem to age for 4-5 years. Given the popularity of this wine, it won't be available very long. If you desire fine Oregon Pinot at an amazing price, you need to "click to order" below immediately!
Always a great Oregon Pinot address, Evesham Wood's 2011 is an appealing, extremely well-done, honest Pinot Noir that performs way above its seventeen dollar price-tag. Stylish red and blackcurrant fruit permeates from the glass and is enhanced by intertwined cinnamon, violet and red earth which follows into a smooth, Burgundian-inspired, velvet-laden texture that seduces, then lingers but also lets you know that its rather serious with underlying firm structure. Drinks almost too easily, but no problem to age for 4-5 years. Given the popularity of this wine, it won't be available very long. If you desire fine Oregon Pinot at an amazing price, you need to "click to order" below immediately!
2010 PIEROPAN SOAVE "PIEROPAN"
$13.99 BTL./$167.88 CASE
$13.99 BTL./$167.88 CASE
IL SOAVE – THE SOAVE!! Legendary Nino Pieropan literally put the region on his back and has carried it into the heights that we see today and vintage 2010 continues the man's long and storied legacy. Fragrant seashore scents combine with lemon and green apple character while developing more mineral and rocky tones as it opens. In the mouth it is mouth-coating and very clean and gaining lightning-like acidity, especially on the energetic soil-driven finish. Beautiful with an array of seafood, especially fresh crab. 100% of this fruit is from Pieropan's own vineyards within the Classico zone, but since it's bottled under screwcap, it is not entitled to Classico status. Either way, it was top-level great when it was 20 bucks and under cork – same great quality and even more attractive at $14!!
2010 DOMAINE DE FONTSAINTE CORBIÈRES
$12.99 BTL./$155.88 CASE
$12.99 BTL./$155.88 CASE
Corbières is a vast region within Languedoc that is responsible for 46% of the wine output of the entire region. Divided up into 11 different "terroirs," this is a region where there is seemingly no middle ground; either outstanding, well-priced flavorful and detailed wines emerge from here or "attractively" priced, one-step-up-from-bug juice is produced. Thankfully Fontsainte falls into the former category.
Always outstanding, Domaine de Fontsainte and the Loubacarié family are among the finest in the region. Given the quality of these wines, they are remarkably priced, too. Bryan has been working with these wines since the 1987 vintage and is still always happy to drink bottles of the tasty Black label Corbières. 60% Carignan, 20% Grenache, 15% Mourvèdre, 5% Syrah from clay-limestone soil with plenty of gravel and large stones. Forward, room-filling aromas of ripe strawberry, anisette, garrigue and cocoa tones mingle with cracked pepper and roasted earth. This wine is round, savory 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. Unlike the old-fashioned rustic Corbières wines that have to be consumed with slow-roasted roadkill, this very attractive bad-boy is ideal with mushroom quiche, grilled fish, roasted chicken, or braised pork loin.
Always outstanding, Domaine de Fontsainte and the Loubacarié family are among the finest in the region. Given the quality of these wines, they are remarkably priced, too. Bryan has been working with these wines since the 1987 vintage and is still always happy to drink bottles of the tasty Black label Corbières. 60% Carignan, 20% Grenache, 15% Mourvèdre, 5% Syrah from clay-limestone soil with plenty of gravel and large stones. Forward, room-filling aromas of ripe strawberry, anisette, garrigue and cocoa tones mingle with cracked pepper and roasted earth. This wine is round, savory 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. Unlike the old-fashioned rustic Corbières wines that have to be consumed with slow-roasted roadkill, this very attractive bad-boy is ideal with mushroom quiche, grilled fish, roasted chicken, or braised pork loin.
2009 DOMAINE DE FONTSAINTE CORBIÈRES "DEMOISELLES"
$16.99 BTL./$203.88 CASE
$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 105 year old vines! Fontsaintes Demoiselles is a Corbières that thinks it's 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 Corbières 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 2009 - 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!
2009 OLIM BAUDA BARBERA D'ASTI "LA ROCHETTE"
$19.99 BTL./$239.88 CASE
$19.99 BTL./$239.88 CASE
Introduced to Tenuta Olim Bauda's wines a few years ago, Bryan instantly loved them and visited the estate back in 2010. Safe to say meeting with brothers Dino & Gianni Bertolini and experiencing the family's wines it was a most educational way to learn more about the Asti region.
Located in Incisa Scapaccino, which along with the village of Nizza Monferrato, is the spiritual heart of the Asti region of Piedmont. From the eponymous-named vineyard in Isole d'Asti whose vines were planted in 1950, instantaneously one can discover that this wine steps it up a level or six!! Vinous driving nose of hearty Italian plum, mineral, gentle kisses of smoky oak and underlying cherry pit character. Big-boned with its fruit and velvety texture yet full of elegance and suaveness. A luminous presence of vividness follows through to a drawn-out lavish finish that displays hints of milk chocolate, coffee and plenty of fullness while maintaining poise and freshness. Very lingering, this wine is rocks for 20 bucks. Enjoy it with risotto dishes laden with beef or sausages.
Located in Incisa Scapaccino, which along with the village of Nizza Monferrato, is the spiritual heart of the Asti region of Piedmont. From the eponymous-named vineyard in Isole d'Asti whose vines were planted in 1950, instantaneously one can discover that this wine steps it up a level or six!! Vinous driving nose of hearty Italian plum, mineral, gentle kisses of smoky oak and underlying cherry pit character. Big-boned with its fruit and velvety texture yet full of elegance and suaveness. A luminous presence of vividness follows through to a drawn-out lavish finish that displays hints of milk chocolate, coffee and plenty of fullness while maintaining poise and freshness. Very lingering, this wine is rocks for 20 bucks. Enjoy it with risotto dishes laden with beef or sausages.
2010 COL D'ORCIA "SPEZIERI" ROSSO
$12.99 BTL./$155.88 CASE
$12.99 BTL./$155.88 CASE
A super wine from a historic and top Brunello di Montalcino producer that is an unabashed Tuscan guzzler. Sangiovese, Ciliegiolo, Cabernet & Merlot, this wine is like a fine chef blending various spices, both traditional and exotic. 2010 is the next important vintage in Tuscany and this flavorful number reveals what's to come with the big wines. Mouth-filling, yet smooth and clean with ample scents and flavors of wild cherry, cassis, sage and pepper notes. Lots of character and depth, this wine is a great Thursday evening pasta wine. Enjoy it now and enjoy it often.
2011 CRIOS TORRONTES
$12.99 BTL./$155.88 CASE
$12.99 BTL./$155.88 CASE
Torrontes is seemingly the white grape of choice in Argentina. A bit more serious than most, Susanna Balbo's Crios version exhibits more than just explosive and dramatic aspects. Fragrances of peach pit, flowers, and orange citrus fruit follow into a brisk, alluring texture that's bright, complex and with charming depth that keeps you coming back for more. On second sip, we found aromas of gooseberry, spicy banana and lychee that lead to a surging floral finish with a touch of honey. Fully dry and playing fantastically on the myriad of fruit flavors this wine is perfect foil with spicier seafood preparations.
2010 HUET VOUVRAY DEMI-SEC "CLOS DE BOURG"
$37.50 BTL./$450.00 CASE
$37.50 BTL./$450.00 CASE
One of two "first growth" producers in Vouvray, along with their neighbor Domaine Foreau, Domaine Huet is the most important in the region and if Vouvray were ever to have Grand Cru Vineyards, Clos de Bourg would most certainly be included. Demi-Sec, meaning semi-dry, is one of the specialties of this great estate. Not much Demi Sec wine was produced chez Huet in vintage 2010 and to have some available from this top-flight vineyard is a real good thing.
Located above the church in the village, Clos de Bourg differs from the estate's Le Mont and Haut Lieu vineyards with its ungodly quantity of limestone. The 2010 is tension personified! Wet chalk, lime, mineral, quince and underlying white peach scents glimmer and carry over to a rich, chalky and blitzing texture that's a vinous flame-thrower. Attacking, semi-dry aspects about, wiry, ripe, extensive and extremely persistent. There is silk and honey tones lurking beneath the surface and in time, they will emerge. One of France's great white wines, and given the vintage, this wine will easily age 20+ years. If you have to uncork one now, have it with lobster and a substantial sauce.
Located above the church in the village, Clos de Bourg differs from the estate's Le Mont and Haut Lieu vineyards with its ungodly quantity of limestone. The 2010 is tension personified! Wet chalk, lime, mineral, quince and underlying white peach scents glimmer and carry over to a rich, chalky and blitzing texture that's a vinous flame-thrower. Attacking, semi-dry aspects about, wiry, ripe, extensive and extremely persistent. There is silk and honey tones lurking beneath the surface and in time, they will emerge. One of France's great white wines, and given the vintage, this wine will easily age 20+ years. If you have to uncork one now, have it with lobster and a substantial sauce.
2009 NOVELTY HILL CABERNET SAUVIGNON
$21.49 BTL./$257.88 CASE
91 POINTS – THE WINE SPECTATOR
$21.49 BTL./$257.88 CASE
91 POINTS – THE WINE SPECTATOR
The accolades for Washington wines are often well-merited, but alas, there's only one issue. All too often, with accolades come high prices. Novelty Hill wines are made by Mike Januik, one of Washington's legendary vintners and the beautiful thing about these wines is the pricing. Now with 7 consecutive 90+ scores awarded in 2003 through 2009 this smashing Cab is a fairly priced 20 dollar version that taste like many that are 40!
"Smooth in texture and effusive with its plum, dark berry, mint and cream flavors, rolling easily through polished tannins on the long finish… - 91 POINTS." Always a fine early drinker, no problem to age through 2018 or so.
"Smooth in texture and effusive with its plum, dark berry, mint and cream flavors, rolling easily through polished tannins on the long finish… - 91 POINTS." Always a fine early drinker, no problem to age through 2018 or so.
