10/12/21 The Cellar Door's 'MELTING POT' HotSheet
THE CELLAR DOOR'S 'MELTING POT' HOTSHEET
Puligny-MontrachetSpecial, Dry Creek Cab & Interesting Italians, Yummy Oregon Pinot Value & more
2019 BEAURENARD RASTEAU
SPECIAL - $23.99 BTL./$287.88 CASE
SPECIAL - $23.99 BTL./$287.88 CASE
A couple years back Beaurenard made a decision to run with a national importer and after the inevitable price increase to 30 we stopped selling the wine. Fortunately, there is now a sensible special on this perennial, very popular favorite from an outstanding producer so we are excited to have it on offer.
Located in Chateauneuf-du-Pape but with a huge presence in Rasteau, the Coulon family was very influential in having Rasteau upgraded to its own appellation status from Cotes-du-Rhone Villages. 80% Grenache, 17% Syrah, 3% Mourvedre from terraced vineyards, this big shouldered and fleet footed Rhone has much to offer. 2019 is a superb vintage, seemingly with the structure of 2005 but the generosity and plush fruit of the likes of 2009 or 2015. Prominent licorice, rose, plum-pepper, camphor and underlying exotic spices drive the aromas. Creamy, rich fruit seduces the palate; ginger, allspice and lavender arrive as it flows throughout the mouth. Large-scaled, but plenty of freshness and red tones bring it all into balance and take it home on the impressive finish. Very awesome juice that is lovable now and will drink well for 10-12 years. Accueillir a la Maison, Beaurenard.
Located in Chateauneuf-du-Pape but with a huge presence in Rasteau, the Coulon family was very influential in having Rasteau upgraded to its own appellation status from Cotes-du-Rhone Villages. 80% Grenache, 17% Syrah, 3% Mourvedre from terraced vineyards, this big shouldered and fleet footed Rhone has much to offer. 2019 is a superb vintage, seemingly with the structure of 2005 but the generosity and plush fruit of the likes of 2009 or 2015. Prominent licorice, rose, plum-pepper, camphor and underlying exotic spices drive the aromas. Creamy, rich fruit seduces the palate; ginger, allspice and lavender arrive as it flows throughout the mouth. Large-scaled, but plenty of freshness and red tones bring it all into balance and take it home on the impressive finish. Very awesome juice that is lovable now and will drink well for 10-12 years. Accueillir a la Maison, Beaurenard.
2019 MAURO MOLINO BARBERA D'ALBA
$16.99 BTL./$203.88 CASE
$16.99 BTL./$203.88 CASE
La Morra is the home for refined and sophisticated Barolo and the classy Barbera that is grown in the same soils smells and tastes of Piemonte. We fell in love with the Molino family's wines a couple of years ago and what first caught our attention was their impeccable quality coupled with some of the best prices of the region, prompting us to refer to their Baroli as the best values of Piemonte. Since 1978, Mauro Molino has produced wines that are neo-classical bringing together a great respect for the land and the history of this region with the best advances of modern technology.
Not a hair is out of place on this toothsome Barbera and it is La Morra to a "T" with its enticing aromatics and stylish flavors. Aged entirely in tank, this true to its varietal Barbera is melodic and drinking exquisitely right now. Strawberry and Italian plum scents permeate from the nose and follow through to a texture that is handsomely high-toned, fleshy, harmonious and silky-smooth. Nothing not to like with this one! Have it with risotto, root vegetables or pork dishes.
Not a hair is out of place on this toothsome Barbera and it is La Morra to a "T" with its enticing aromatics and stylish flavors. Aged entirely in tank, this true to its varietal Barbera is melodic and drinking exquisitely right now. Strawberry and Italian plum scents permeate from the nose and follow through to a texture that is handsomely high-toned, fleshy, harmonious and silky-smooth. Nothing not to like with this one! Have it with risotto, root vegetables or pork dishes.
2020 MAXIMIN GRUNHAUS
RIESLING TROCKEN 'SCHLOSS'
$23.99 BTL./$287.88 CASE
RIESLING TROCKEN 'SCHLOSS'
$23.99 BTL./$287.88 CASE
Explaining the virtues and intricacies of the noble Riesling grape is always one of the most frustrating aspects of my job. Riesling is a varietal that comes in all shapes and sizes and levels of sweetness. These range from some of the most ferociously dry and ageworthy versions to some of the sweetest and most sought-after dessert wines in the world and then all points in between. Take pause and notice this wine because Carl Von Schubert is one of the Ruwer’s and Germany’s most important producers and this wine, formerly known as simply ‘Trocken’ and ‘Monopol’ doesn’t disappoint. Yes, it is Riesling, yes, it is from Germany, and yes, and yes we have to shout about it out to the non-believers: YES, IT IS DRY!
Wonderful dimension both aromatically and in the mouth, it reveals the slate aspect of the Ruwer region. Livewire, luminous and with loads of succulence and stoniness. Brilliant and blazing on the finish, this wine seemingly grooves its ass out on the dance floor and is cool as a cucumber. Always a wonderful match with turkey, it also can be paired with seared albacore tuna marinated in ginger, soy and garlic or spicy Thai specialties. Lastly, there is plenty of zest and character for those who may fancy themselves as aficionados, but also fruity enough to serve to Granny who normally doesn't drink wine during dinner.
Wonderful dimension both aromatically and in the mouth, it reveals the slate aspect of the Ruwer region. Livewire, luminous and with loads of succulence and stoniness. Brilliant and blazing on the finish, this wine seemingly grooves its ass out on the dance floor and is cool as a cucumber. Always a wonderful match with turkey, it also can be paired with seared albacore tuna marinated in ginger, soy and garlic or spicy Thai specialties. Lastly, there is plenty of zest and character for those who may fancy themselves as aficionados, but also fruity enough to serve to Granny who normally doesn't drink wine during dinner.
2018 KNUTTEL FAMILY
CABERNET SAUVIGNON DRY CREEK
$19.99 BTL./$239.88 CASE
CABERNET SAUVIGNON DRY CREEK
$19.99 BTL./$239.88 CASE
It’s back…the delicious Cab from Bill Knuttel, who was the founding winemaker at Saintsbury winery then also at Chalk Hill and Dry Creek Vineyard. This California wine vet is producing wines with outstanding quality, value and sense of place. To all those who whine about Cabernet prices, you need to be drinking this Sonoma stalwart.
This Dry Creek Cabernet Sauvignon is from fruit hillside blocks from Peterson and Raffanelli Vineyards with a small blend of Malbec from Peterson and Merlot from the Woods Vineyard. Teeming with aromas of blueberry, cassis and black plum, peppermint and anisette scents, those who love Cabernet will immediately be impressed. Entry on the palate is savory and fruit forward, with waves of flavor, good structure, acidity, and finely balanced tannins that drop a finish that is poised, gentlemanly and really hangs around nicely. Gorgeous now with all of its good stuffing, it can also age another six-8 years.
This Dry Creek Cabernet Sauvignon is from fruit hillside blocks from Peterson and Raffanelli Vineyards with a small blend of Malbec from Peterson and Merlot from the Woods Vineyard. Teeming with aromas of blueberry, cassis and black plum, peppermint and anisette scents, those who love Cabernet will immediately be impressed. Entry on the palate is savory and fruit forward, with waves of flavor, good structure, acidity, and finely balanced tannins that drop a finish that is poised, gentlemanly and really hangs around nicely. Gorgeous now with all of its good stuffing, it can also age another six-8 years.
2019 I CLIVI SCHIOPETTINO
$26.99 BTL./$323.88 CASE
$26.99 BTL./$323.88 CASE
Often it has been said that the finer things in Italy come from the more chic areas around Milan, Florence or Rome. While we are not here to argue this point, we do believe that Northern Italy is the home of some of Italy's most flavorful and innovative red wines. This red wine from Friuli, which is located near the Slovenian border, is one such wine. Avoiding the pitfalls of unripe grapes that sometimes plague this region, I Clivi masters the fine line between clever and stupid and makes wines that are unique and very special.
This wine, which is made from the obscure Schiopettino grape, has both ripeness and intensity as well as generously proportioned, savory baked red cherry aromas, lavender, hints of herbs and violets, which progress into a flavorful, chewy and extending palate. This wine is very accessible, and will carry over to the Italian table very nicely and show well with an array of pasta dishes or a roasted pork loin.
This wine, which is made from the obscure Schiopettino grape, has both ripeness and intensity as well as generously proportioned, savory baked red cherry aromas, lavender, hints of herbs and violets, which progress into a flavorful, chewy and extending palate. This wine is very accessible, and will carry over to the Italian table very nicely and show well with an array of pasta dishes or a roasted pork loin.
2017 CARLONE CROATINA
COLLI NOVARESE
$19.99 BTL./$239.88 CASE
COLLI NOVARESE
$19.99 BTL./$239.88 CASE
From Northern Piedmont, Davide Carlone’s land is within the Boca region, which is about halfway between Barolo and Barbaresco and the Swiss border. Not only is Nebbiolo present here (Boca) but Croatina, also known as Bonarda, is also present and Davide’s version is from 80-100+ year old vines and is one of the finest versions that I have ever sampled.
An illuminating red that is like the neon lights outside of an Amsterdam ‘tart’ shop. Warm, sultry and bursting with strawberry and licorice and then deft, properly hearty and flavorful from the instant that it is placed in the mouth all the way to the savory, succulent finish. A groovy kind of wine that will take you on a fantastic voyage and is all about the old vines as well as the earth. Enjoy this over the next 3-4 years with pasta done with meat sauces.
An illuminating red that is like the neon lights outside of an Amsterdam ‘tart’ shop. Warm, sultry and bursting with strawberry and licorice and then deft, properly hearty and flavorful from the instant that it is placed in the mouth all the way to the savory, succulent finish. A groovy kind of wine that will take you on a fantastic voyage and is all about the old vines as well as the earth. Enjoy this over the next 3-4 years with pasta done with meat sauces.
2018 SHIBA-WICHERN PINOT NOIR
'WILLAMETTE CUVEE'
$21.99 BTL./$263.88 CASE
'WILLAMETTE CUVEE'
$21.99 BTL./$263.88 CASE
One of our most successful introductions to a relative newcomer to the Oregon roster, we are once again extremely pleased to offer the newly arrived 2018 from Shiba-Wichern. Akiko Shiba earned her degree in winemaking form the esteemed University of Geisenheim in Germany's Rheingau region. After working at wineries in Germany and at Evesham Wood, St. Innocent, and Ayres, she and Chris Wichern launched Shiba Wichern.
Defying the warmth of 2018, this Pinot is beautifully balanced. The grapes come from Nuestro Sueno (Eola Amity) and Havlin (Van Duzer Corridor) vineyards as well as two vineyards from the McMinnville AVA – Momtazi and Bellevue Cross. Enticing from the first moment it's poured, this Pinot presents cinnamon/clove spice scents beneath prominent violet and red berry that are very prominent on the rather sultry and graceful nose. Nice movement and polish in the mouth while being quite airy. Gains depth, substance and especially fresh vibrancy; spreads out very well indeed on the finish with touches of ripe fruit, dusty herbs and an underlay of detailed earth. Fine material that lingers on well after the wine is swallowed, this 2018 drinks well early-on but will easily age for 5-6 more years, too.
Defying the warmth of 2018, this Pinot is beautifully balanced. The grapes come from Nuestro Sueno (Eola Amity) and Havlin (Van Duzer Corridor) vineyards as well as two vineyards from the McMinnville AVA – Momtazi and Bellevue Cross. Enticing from the first moment it's poured, this Pinot presents cinnamon/clove spice scents beneath prominent violet and red berry that are very prominent on the rather sultry and graceful nose. Nice movement and polish in the mouth while being quite airy. Gains depth, substance and especially fresh vibrancy; spreads out very well indeed on the finish with touches of ripe fruit, dusty herbs and an underlay of detailed earth. Fine material that lingers on well after the wine is swallowed, this 2018 drinks well early-on but will easily age for 5-6 more years, too.
2016 ACUSTIC CELLER MONTSANT 'BRAO'
$31.99 BTL./$191.94 - SIX PACK
$31.99 BTL./$191.94 - SIX PACK
Ahh Football season! Every year Cellar Door Team's eyes are tested by excessive amounts of glow from the television, fantasy football and legal gambling. While we like to work a nice assgroove into the couch during autumn weekends, we are always in need of a good bottle to accompany the endless hours of pigskin prognostication. Below is something wonderful from a great friend who produces exquisite and full flavored offerings and this is an upscale tailgate or TV watching selection.
Over the last 15+ years, many of you have come to know and to love the wines from our good friend Albert "Super Catalan Man" Jané and his family’s winery, Jané Ventura, which is located about 45 minutes south of Barcelona in Catalonia. Albert is the family's free spirit and the real investigator of the family, and in 2003, went against them and purchased land in the exciting region of Montsant which is about two hours south of Barca. Braó, meaning courage, strength or valor in the Catalan language, is Albert’s top wine and its namesake is very appropriate for this wine.
These are the oldest vines of the vineyard, 70-85 years old, and the blend is 70% Samsó and 30% Grenache. The formidable aromas let you know this Montsant gives its more prestigious neighbors in Priorat a big run for the money. In fact, if this were a Priorat, the price would be double! Creamy, crushed raspberry, plum, cinnamon, mineral and jasmine. More pipe-tobacco creeps as the wine is left to breathe. Velvety, layered, and rich without being weighty, prominent cracked pepper rolls with the fruit all carrying impressively from front to back. Very vinous, stately and long on the finish. Simply put, this is meditative stuff! Drink through 2030.
Over the last 15+ years, many of you have come to know and to love the wines from our good friend Albert "Super Catalan Man" Jané and his family’s winery, Jané Ventura, which is located about 45 minutes south of Barcelona in Catalonia. Albert is the family's free spirit and the real investigator of the family, and in 2003, went against them and purchased land in the exciting region of Montsant which is about two hours south of Barca. Braó, meaning courage, strength or valor in the Catalan language, is Albert’s top wine and its namesake is very appropriate for this wine.
These are the oldest vines of the vineyard, 70-85 years old, and the blend is 70% Samsó and 30% Grenache. The formidable aromas let you know this Montsant gives its more prestigious neighbors in Priorat a big run for the money. In fact, if this were a Priorat, the price would be double! Creamy, crushed raspberry, plum, cinnamon, mineral and jasmine. More pipe-tobacco creeps as the wine is left to breathe. Velvety, layered, and rich without being weighty, prominent cracked pepper rolls with the fruit all carrying impressively from front to back. Very vinous, stately and long on the finish. Simply put, this is meditative stuff! Drink through 2030.
2017 LAURENT PILLOT
PULIGNY-MONTRACHET 'NOYERS-BRETS'
[reg. $84.99] SPECIAL - $65.99 BTL. - 30 btls available
PULIGNY-MONTRACHET 'NOYERS-BRETS'
[reg. $84.99] SPECIAL - $65.99 BTL. - 30 btls available
A real, hot damn special and from the great 2017 vintage! Laurent Pillot is a Chassagne-Montrachet maestro but he makes one cuvee of Puligny-Montrachet that is usually about 300 cases…for the world. Even though they are so close in terms of distance, the wines of Chassagne and Puligny could not be more different. This wine is from an individual site that is not premier cru, located just south of the village below the Premier Cru of Enseigneres at the foot of the Bienvenue-Batard-Montrachet Grand Cru hillside.
Scintillating minerality. Precise like a fine German racecar. Honey-lemon over hot rocks the poised and rich, classic Puligny notes build bracing structure. Lavish lemon and peach tones with an electric finish that will make all Puligny freaks and geeks and chunks and drunks smile with glee! Harmonious, very sophisticated and possessing true Puligny mystery, but with Pillot's joie de vivre, this is a great way to climb down the profound rabbit hole known as Puligny-Montrachet drink through 2030.
Scintillating minerality. Precise like a fine German racecar. Honey-lemon over hot rocks the poised and rich, classic Puligny notes build bracing structure. Lavish lemon and peach tones with an electric finish that will make all Puligny freaks and geeks and chunks and drunks smile with glee! Harmonious, very sophisticated and possessing true Puligny mystery, but with Pillot's joie de vivre, this is a great way to climb down the profound rabbit hole known as Puligny-Montrachet drink through 2030.
2017 QUINTA DOS CURRAIS TINTO
BIERA INTERIOR
$8.99 BTL./$107.88 CASE
BIERA INTERIOR
$8.99 BTL./$107.88 CASE
Portugal’s red wines represent remarkable values and this particular version from the Biera Interior district is one such selection. Made from Touriga Nacional, Aragonez, Castelao and Rufete. Unlike many other wines in this price point, this hearty, full-flavored winner stands on its head!
Broad plum and blackberry cobbler scents that are touched nicely by vanilla and coffee follow into a packed texture that is flavorful and appealing. Vivid strawberry flavors arrive on the finish to add lift and bring everything together all in a smoothed-out package. A terrific, above average everyday wine to drink on a Tuesday or Wednesday evening.
Broad plum and blackberry cobbler scents that are touched nicely by vanilla and coffee follow into a packed texture that is flavorful and appealing. Vivid strawberry flavors arrive on the finish to add lift and bring everything together all in a smoothed-out package. A terrific, above average everyday wine to drink on a Tuesday or Wednesday evening.
