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Cult Wines
In this section I have highlighted some of our extremely limited wines, also known as “Cult Wines.” These wines are produced in extremely limited quantities (sometimes as small as 50 cases) and have consistently earned perfect or almost perfect scores from some of the world’s leading wine authorities.
521 2004 Capo Martino, Silvio Jermann, Friuli, Italy 135
The nose is intense and complex, with notes of ripe fruit and dried flowers. Apples, bananas, hazelnuts, and passionflower stand out. On the palate, it’s pure velvet, showing perfect balance of flavors, delicate aromatic qualities, endless persistence.
605 2004 Pinot Noir, Woodenhead Vintners, “Wiley Vineyard” Anderson Valley 117
Dark garnet in color, with a nose of brandy-infused berries, lavender and violets that belies its depth. Flavors of cherry, huckleberry, black raspberry, cranberry and pomegranate roll over the palate with a hint of underlying mushroom. 305 cases.
623 2006 *Brogan Cellars, “Hansen Vineyards” Dry Creek Valley 180
Made by Margaret Wierenga, the daughter of Burt Williams, winemaker at famed Williams-Selyem, one of the original Cult Wine pinot noir producers. It is a very Burgundian wine, the vineyard definitely shows its terroir. Strawberry, rhubarb and cherry flavor aromas with a bit of earth. Fruit filled mouth entry with some depth and richness.
629 2002 Pinot Noir, Sapphire Hill Vineyards, Russian River Valley 88
Made from three rare Dijon clones of Pinot Noir, all from the estate fruit of Sapphire Hill Vineyards, this wine evokes rich black cherry, tea, and wild berry flavors. Great complexity and beautiful mouthfeel. Fermented on native yeast. 600 cases made.
635 2005 *Pinot Noir, Siduri Wines, “Terra di Promissio” Sonoma Coast 125
Spicy with red currant and sweet cherry characteristics. These flavors are very typical of its cool climate origins and are also more apparent because of the wine’s good natural acidity. Only 216 cases were made.
647 2005 Pinot Noir, Loring Wine Co, “Russell Family Vineyard” Paso Robles 135
This wine has an arsenal of red cherry, earthy aromas and flavors with noticeable oak in the background and throughout. The texture is soft and sexy. The moderate tannins on the long finish smooth out after some decanting and breathing. 175 cases.
655 2006 Pinot Noir, Siduri Wines, “Cargasacchi Vineyard” Sta Rita Hills 130
The Cargasacchi Vineyard remains one of their most prized vineyard sites. Not only are the wines grown in a particularly unique part of the Santa Rita Hills appellation but Peter Cargasacchi’s management of the vineyard is superb. It shows ripe and intense wild berry and black cherry fruit flavors, with hints of earth, mineral, and sage. The finish goes on and on. 360 cases.
657 2005 Pinot Noir, Siduri Wines, “Garys’ Vineyard” Sta Lucia Highlands 155
Dense and rich with underbrush and dark fruit characteristics as well as additional body and muscle, it boasts fragrant aromatics and long, heady flavors. A limited production of 768 cases.
926 2004 Zin, Woodenhead Vintners, “Martinelli Road” RRV, Sonoma 125
From the 100+ year old Jackass Vineyard, this powerhouse offers a bouquet of blackberries and black raspberries with a kind of bramble thicket nose. More cherries, cedar, tobacco and earth to follow. Juicy and rich with cranberry, elderberry, huckleberry, chocolate and white pepper. Finishes bright and earthy, with some hints of minerals and sage. Only 274 cases were made.
1733 2001 *Cabernet, Bond Estates, “Melbury” Oakville, Napa Valley 520
Made by Harlan Estates, this wine is fabulous. With 96 points from Robert Parker this wine has “a big, sweet nose of roasted meats, black fruits, charcoal, and a hint of scorched earth. It possesses fabulous depth, sweet tannin, seamless balance and a finish that lasts close to a minute.”
1753 1993 *Cabernet, Colgin Cellars, “Herb Lamb Vineyard” Spring Mtn. Dist. 800
The combination of excellent terroir and the expertise of winemaker Helen Turley has made the Colgin winery one of the most sought after cult wines. Robert Parker gave this wine 95 points and said, “The color is an opaque purple. The nose offers up cassis, blueberry, black-raspberry, and toasty scents, followed by gorgeously rich, sweet (from extract, not sugar) flavors, full body, gobs of glycerin, and wonderfully ripe tannin in the intense finish that must last for 40+ seconds. It is an exceptional Cabernet that will be approachable upon release; it will age for 20+ years. It is a tour de force in wine-making.”
1839 2004 Cabernet, Kobalt, Napa Valley, California 250
380 cases made. The 2004 vintage with 97% Cabernet and 3% Petit Verdot wafts with notes of rich, succulent, dense, ripe black berry fruit accentuated by hints of mocha and exotic spice. On the palate, the wine effortlessly lingers with candied fruit, black cherry, vanilla bean, and toasted sweet oak circulating with lively, yet supple tannins. The expressive finish on the palate accentuates fine extraction, balance and concentrated flavors.
1877 2002 *Cabernet, Phelan Vineyard, “Estate Grown” Napa Valley 180
Each year the talented Bob Egelhoff, winemaker for Merryvale Vineyards and Axios, produces a wine with rich deep, magenta color. Alluring aromas of black cherry, caramel and sweet toasty oak. Upon tasting, this elegant wine exhibits a full, yet velvety mouthfeel with dense, jammy plum flavors and hints of blueberries and chocolate on the long finish. Only 800 cases made.
Half-Bottles
This size is perfect for pairing wine with multiple courses or for groups who want different wines with different entrees. It allows for white with seafood and red with steaks and chops.
White
002 2005 Chardonnay, Sonoma-Cutrer, Russian River Valley, Sonoma 23
003 2004 *Chardonnay, Trefethen Estate, Oak Knoll District, Napa Valley 28
004 2005 Chardonnay, Trefethen Estate, Oak Knoll District, Napa Valley 34
005 2006 Chardonnay, Patz & Hall Winery, “Dutton Ranch” RRV, Sonoma 45
006 2006 Pinot Grigio, Santa Margherita, Trentino-Alto Adige, Italy 32
007 2004 Pinot Gris, King Estate, Willamette Valley, Oregon 21
013 2004 *Sauvignon Blanc, Pascal Jolivet, Sancerre, Loire, France 29
Red
014 2004 *Barbaresco, Gaja, Piedmont, Italy 225
015 2001 *Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Chateau de Beaucastel, France 135
019 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon, Carter Cellars, “Coliseum Block” Napa Valley 150
020 2003 *Cabernet Sauvignon, Chimney Rock Winery, SLD, Napa Valley 67
021 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon, Chateau Montelena Estate, Napa Valley 68
023 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon, Clos du Val Wine Co., Napa Valley 41
024 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon, Duckhorn Vineyards, Napa Valley 70
025 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon, Faust Wines, Rutherford, Napa Valley 57
026 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon, Frog’s Leap, Rutherford, Napa Valley 47
027 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon, Whitehall Lane, Rutherford, Napa Valley 49
029 2002 Merryvale, “Profile” St. Helena, Napa Valley 99
030 2002 *Opus One, Oakville, Napa Valley 145
031 2004 Opus One, Oakville, Napa Valley 160
032 2002 *Quintessa, Rutherford, Napa Valley 110
033 2003 *Quintessa, Rutherford, Napa Valley 100
035 2004 Quintessa, Rutherford, Napa Valley 135
037 2004 Viader Winery, Napa Valley 96
038 2003 Merlot, Coppola Wines, “Diamond Series” Napa Valley 23
039 2003 Merlot, Duckhorn Vineyards, Napa Valley 55
040 2004 Merlot, Frog’s Leap, Napa Valley 43
041 2001 Merlot, Whitehall Lane, Rutherford, Napa Valley 49
043 2003 *Pinot Noir, Cristom, “Eileen Vineyard” Willamette Valley, Oregon 53
045 2006 Pinot Noir, King Estate, Willamette Valley, Oregon 28
046 2006 Pinot Noir, Siduri Wines, Russian River Valley, Sonoma 39
047 2005 Pinot Noir, Steele, Carneros, Napa Valley 26
051 2004 Zinfandel, Paraduxx, Duckhorn Vineyards, Napa Valley 50
053 2004 Zinfandel, Seghesio Family Vineyards, Sonoma County 26
055 2004 Zinfandel, Seghesio Family Vineyards, “Old Vine” Sonoma County 38
057 2001 *Zinfandel, Turley Wine Cellars, “Delinquent” Paso Robles 150
061 2002 *Sangiovese, Seghesio Family Vineyards, Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma 27
067 2003 Chianti Classico Riserva, “Rancia” Fattoria di Felsina, Tuscany, Italy 42
Champagne/Sparkling Wines
Sparklers are great alone, or with food. Try them with salads, crab cakes, shellfish and dessert.
101 NV Bollinger, “Special Cuvee Brut” Ay, France 90
103 NV Charles Heidsieck, “Brut Reserve” Epernay, France 105
104 NV Dom Perignon, Reims, France 275
105 NV Heidsieck & Co. “Monopole Brut” Epernay, France - 375 mL 45
107 NV *Krug, Grand Cuvee Brut, Reims, France 250
109 1999 *Louis Roederer, “Cristal” Reims, France 300
110 2000 *Louis Roederer, “Cristal” Reims, France 395
111 NV Nicolas Feuillatte, Premier Cru Brut, Epernay, France 59
113 1996 *Perrier Jouet, “Fleur de Champagne” Epernay, France 178
115 NV Veuve Clicquot “Yellow Label” Brut, Reims, France 89
117 1999 *Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin, Reserve, Reims, France 138
119 1999 *Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin, Rose Reserve, Reims, France 158
123 NV Toad Hollow Winery, “Risque” France 36
125 NV Simonnet-Febvre, Cremant de Bourgogne, Chablis, France 35
129 NV Louis Roederer Estate, Brut, Anderson Valley, California 48
131 2000 Schramsberg, “J. Schram” North Coast, California 120
133 NV Schramsberg, “Mirabelle Brut” North Coast, California 45
135 NV Stone’s Throw Winery, California 40
137 NV Prosecco, Nino Rustico, “Rustico” Veneto, Italy 38
Sweet/Dessert-Style Wines
Like spun silk in your mouth, with notes of honey, apricots and peaches. These rich, luscious wines will pair well with dessert and cheese, but they will also be stunning all by themselves.
081 2004 Brachetto d’Acqui, Coppo, “Passione” Piedmont, Italy (375mL) 33
085 2005 Moscato d’Asti, Michele Chiarlo, “Nivole” Piedmont, Italy (375mL) 27
089 2006 Pinot Gris, King Estate, “Vin Glace” Oregon (375mL) 40
091 NV Zinfandel/Chocolate, Rosenblum Cellars, “Desiree” CA (375mL) 44
Pinot Grigio/Gris
The King Estate has a fuller body with beautiful notes of apricots. The Trimbach also has delicious notes of apricot and white peach. The three Italian pinot grigios are dominated by crisp citrus and good acidity. Both the La Tunella and the Jermann see some wood, resulting in a subtle yeasty richness that pairs well with a variety of shellfish.
201 2006 King Estate, Willamette Valley, Oregon 38
205 2006 La Tunella, Colli Orientali del Friuli, Italy 42
207 2005 Santa Margherita, Trentino-Alto Adige, Italy 59
209 2004 Silvio Jermann, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Italy 69
211 2003 Trimbach, “Reserve” Alsace, France 45
Chardonnay
Most of these wines have noticeable fruit and a rich texture on the palate. Cool climate wines, like those from Carneros,Washington, France and Italy, have a zingy, pronounced acidity with beautiful notes of citrus and green apple. Those from warmer climates tend to be richer, with flavors of peaches and melons accompanied by a spicy butteriness.
303 2006 Cakebread Cellars, Napa Valley 84
305 2004 *Far Niente Winery, Napa Valley 110
306 2005 Far Niente Winery, Napa Valley 125
307 2006 Forman Vineyards, Napa Valley 95
308 2002 Franciscan Oakville Estate, “Cuvee Sauvage” Oakville, Napa Valley 73
309 2004 *Franciscan Oakville Estate, “Cuvee Sauvage” Oakville, Napa Valley 77
311 2005 Patz & Hall Winery, Napa Valley 60
317 2005 Beaulieu Vineyards, Carneros 41
318 2005 Mi Sueno Winery, “Los Carneros” Carneros 70
325 2005 *Pine Ridge Winery, “Dijon Clones” Carneros 65
327 2002 *Robert Craig Winery, Carneros 56
329 2006 Stone’s Throw Winery, “Red Barn Vineyard Reserve” Carneros 48
333 2005 Coppola Wines, “Director’s Cut” Russian River Valley, Sonoma 42
335 2006 Ferrari-Carano Vineyards & Winery, Alexander Valley, Sonoma 70
337 2005 Flowers Vineyard & Winery, Sonoma Coast, Sonoma 87
339 2005 Jordan Vineyards, Russian River Valley, Sonoma 66
341 2005 Patz & Hall Winery, “Dutton Ranch” Russian River Valley, Sonoma 86
343 2005 Sebastiani Vineyards, “Dutton Ranch” Russian River Valley, Sonoma 62
344 2005 Sonoma-Cutrer “Russian River Ranches” Russian River Valley, Sonoma 46
345 2005 Sonoma-Cutrer “Les Pierres” Russian River Valley, Sonoma 79
347 2005 Terlato Family Vineyards, Russian River Valley, Sonoma 44
351 2005 Paraiso Vineyards, Santa Lucia Highlands, Central Coast 39
357 2005 Steele “Steele Cuvee” Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Barbara 41
365 2004 L’Ecole #41, Walla Walla, Washington 48
371 2005 *Gaja, “Rossj-Bass” Piedmont, Italy 125
373 2005 Pio Ceasre, “L’Altro” Piedmont, Italy 37
377 2004 Silvio Jermann, “Were Dreams” Friuli Venezia Giulia, Italy 125
379 2003 Tenuta del Cabreo, “La Pietra” Tuscany, Italy 63
380 2005 Barton & Guestier, “Bistro Wines” Vin de Pays, France 28
381 2003 *Le Grand Noir, Chardonnay/Viognier, France 26
382 2005 Macon-Lugny, “Les Charmes” Maconnais, France 30
383 2005 Michel Picard, Pouilly Fuisse, France 57
384 2005 Cloudy Bay Vineyards, Marlborough, New Zealand 48
387 2005 Thorn-Clark Vineyards, “Shotfire” Eden Valley, Australia 42
Riesling
Some are drier with noticeable acidity, like the Trefethen or the Rene Mure. The Gustave Lorentz is a dynamite Grand Cru with tender notes of apricot and little residual sugar. The Fess Parker is somewhat sweet with beautiful floral aromas. The Josef Rosch is an amazing wine from a wonderful vintage. Enjoy these wines with oysters, crab cakes, shellfish and poultry.
402 2001 *Gustave Lorentz, Grand Cru, “Kanzlerberg” Alsace, France 62
407 2004 Rene Mure, “Tradition” Alsace, France 28
403 2006 Fess Parker, Santa Barbara, California 30
405 2006 J.J. Muller, Mosel-Saar-Ruwer, Germany 35
406 2006 Josef Rosch, Leiwener Klostergarten, Kabinett, Mosel, Germany 45
409 2005 Trefethen Vineyards, Dry Riesling, Napa Valley, California 34
Gewurztraminer
The name means “spicy Traminer.” Wine made from gewurztraminer is one of the most recognizable of all. It has a pronounced fruitiness overlaid by aromatic, spicy notes. They are amazing with food! The nose is reminiscent of roses, lychees, ripe grapefruit and sometimes mangoes.
451 2006 Arthur-Metz, “Cuvee Anne-Laure” Alsace, France 33
453 2006 Banyan Wines, Monterey County, Central Coast, California 26
454 2006 Fitz-Ritter, Spatlese, Pfalz, Germany 37
455 2006 Josef Weger, Sudtirol, Alto-Adige, Italy 42
Sauvignon Blanc and Other Amazing Whites
The Ballentine chenin blanc has racy acidity, a creamy richness and great minerality. Sauvignon blanc from New Zealand frequently has a tangy flavor reminiscent of gooseberries and kiwi. The Attitude has wonderful grassy aromas, while the Carbonnieux sees some wood, so it is toasty, nutty and long-lasting. Try the Capo Martino for a beautiful blend unlike anything you’ve had before.
501 2003 Chateau Carbonnieux, Grand Cru Classe de Graves, Pessac, France 69
502 2007 Sauvignon Blanc, New Harbor, Marlborough, New Zealand 30
503 2006 Sauvignon Blanc, Pascal Jolivet, “Attitude” Loire, France 40
505 2007 Sauvignon Blanc, Cloudy Bay Winery, Marlborough, New Zealand 70
513 2005 Chenin Blanc, Ballentine Vineyards, Napa Valley, California 32
514 2005 Chenin Blanc, Barton & Guestier, Vouvry, Loire, France 26
515 2003 Fume Blanc, Chimney Rock Winery, Napa Valley, California 54
517 2005 Pinot Blanc, Lucien Albrecht, “Cuvee Balthazar” Alsace, France 28
519 NV Sokol Blosser “Evolution” 9th Edition, Willamette, Oregon 34
521 2004 Capo Martino, Silvio Jermann, Friuli, Italy 135
Pinot Bianco, Pinot Grigio, Tocai, Picolit
Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir ranges in style from light with notes of juicy cherry and raspberry to dark and heady with blackberry, earth and vanilla flavors. The best are silky, yet slightly savage. Enjoy these wines with salmon, chicken and pork.
601 2006 Carmel Road, Monterey County 45
603 2004 Duckhorn Wine Company, “Goldeneye” Anderson Valley 120
605 2004 Woodenhead Vintners, “Wiley Vineyard” Anderson Valley 117
607 2005 Ancien, “Toyon Vineyard” Carneros 83
609 2005 Artesa Vineyards & Winery, “Estate Reserve” Carneros 79
610 2004 Beaulieu Vineyards, Carneros 86
611 2003 Benzinger Family Winery, “Ricci Vineyard” Carneros 110
613 2005 Domaine Chandon, Carneros 67
615 2005 Etude Wines, Carneros 89
617 2005 Patz & Hall Winery, “Hyde Vineyard” Carneros 130
619 2004 Ancien, “Red Dog Vineyard” Sonoma Mountain, Sonoma 104
621 2006 Brogan Cellars, Sonoma Coast, Sonoma 125
623 2006 *Brogan Cellars, “Hansen Vineyards” Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma 180
625 2002 John Tyler Wines, “Bacicgalupi Vineyard” Russian River Valley 95
627 2005 Martin Ray Winery, “Angeline” Russian River Valley, Sonoma 35
628 2006 Patz & Hall Winery, Sonoma Coast, Sonoma 84
629 2002 Sapphire Hill Vineyards, Russian River Valley, Sonoma 88
631 2005 Sebastiani Vineyards, Russian River Valley, Sonoma 63
633 2006 Siduri Wines, Sonoma 51
634 2006 Siduri Wines, “Hirsch Vineyard” Sonoma Coast Sonoma 108
635 2006 Siduri Wines, “Terra di Promissio” Sonoma Coast, Sonoma 125
636 2005 Zepaltas Wines, Sonoma Coast, Sonoma 105
637 2006 Zepaltas Wines, “La Cruz Vineyard” Sonoma Coast, Sonoma 120
638 2005 Alma Rosa Winery, Santa Rita Hills, Central Coast 68
641 2005 Belle Glos, “Clark & Telephone Vineyard” Santa Maria Valley 79
643 2006 Foxen Winery, Santa Maria Valley, Central Coast 76
645 2006 Laetitia Estate, “Limite” Arroyo Grande Valley, Central Coast 42
646 2006 Loring Wine Company, “Brosseau Vineyard” Chalone, Central Coast 115
647 2005 *Loring Wine Company, “Russell Family Vineyard” Paso Robles 135
649 2006 Morgan Winery, “Twelve Clones” Santa Lucia Highlands 59
651 2005 Sea Smoke Cellars, “Southing” Santa Rita Hills, Santa Barbara 119
653 2005 Sea Smoke Cellars, “Ten” Santa Rita Hills, Santa Barbara 160
655 2006 Siduri Wines, “Cargasacchi Vineyard” Santa Rita Hills, Central Coast 130
657 2005 *Siduri Wines, “Garys’ Vineyard” Santa Lucia Highlands 155
659 2005 Archery Summit, “Premier Cuvee” Willamette Valley, Oregon 89
661 2005 Beaux Freres, “Beaux Freres Vineyard” Willamette Valley, Oregon 168
663 2003 *Domaine Serene, “Evanstad Reserve” Willamette Valley, Oregon 105
664 2006 Siduri Wines, Willamette Valley, Oregon 60
665 2005 Barton & Guestier, “Bistro Wines” Vin de Pays d’Oc, France 30
667 2004 Dom. Besson, “Le Petit Pretan” 1er Cru, Givry, France 59
668 NV Dom. Leroy, Bourgogne “En Hommage au Troisieme Millenaire” France 99
669 2002 Dom. Leroy, Vosne Romanee, “Les Genaivrieres” 1er Cru, France 265
671 2003 Joseph Drouhin, Savigny-les-Beaune, Cote de Beaune, France 67
673 2004 Louis Jadot, Bacchus, “Reserve” Burgundy, France 55
674 2005 Cloudy Bay Vineyards, Marlborough, New Zealand 60
675 2002 Bru de Gramona, Penedes, Spain 94
677 2006 Sockeye, Central Valley, Chile 49
Merlot
With aromas of currants, plums and blackberries, these wines are enjoyable with just about everything. They have medium levels of acidity and tannins, which makes them seem vibrant and fresh. Merlot has a lower level of natural acidity than cabernet sauvignon resulting in a more silky, lush finish. Easily enjoyable with chicken, pork, lamb and filet mignon.
703 2004 Beaulieu Vineyards, Napa Valley 37
706 2005 Duckhorn Vineyards, Napa Valley 112
707 2001 Duckhorn Vineyards, Howell Mountain, Napa Valley 152
709 2002 Duckhorn Vineyards, Howell Mountain, Napa Valley 165
710 2003 Duckhorn Vineyards, Howell Mountain, Napa Valley 148
711 2003 Duckhorn Vineyards, “Three Palms Vineyard” Napa Valley 170
712 2004 Duckhorn Vineyards, “Three Palms Vineyard” Napa Valley 180
713 2004 Franciscan Oakville Estate, Oakville, Napa Valley 50
714 2004 Frog’s Leap, Rutherford, Napa Valley 82
715 2003 Miner Family Vineyard, “Stagecoach Vineyard” Napa Valley 80
717 2003 Rombauer Vineyards, Napa Valley 62
719 2002 Selene Wines, Napa Valley 106
722 2004 Stag’s Leap Winery, Stag’s Leap District, Napa Valley 66
723 2004 Sterling Vineyards, Napa Valley 52
724 2004 Sterling Vineyards, “Three Palms Vineyard” Napa Valley 115
725 2003 Swanson Vineyards, Oakville, Napa Valley 68
726 2002 Silver Oak Vineyards, “Twomey” Napa Valley 140
727 2005 Trinchero Family Wines, Napa Valley 30
728 2005 Turnbull Wines, “Old Bull Red” Estate Grown, Napa Valley 53
729 2000 Vine Cliff Winery, Napa Valley 115
733 2003 *Pride Mountain, Sonoma/Napa Valley 125
737 2004 Ravenswood Winery, “Vintner’s Blend” Sonoma Valley, Sonoma 26
739 2004 Simi Winery, Sonoma County 44
743 2003 Stone’s Throw Winery, “Reserve” Sonoma County 58
745 2003 Westerly Vineyards, Estate Grown, Santa Ynez Valley, Central Coast 49
746 2005 Marquis Phillips Winery, Padthaway, South Australia 48
747 2006 Mollydooker Wines, “The Scooter” McLaren Vale, Australia 50
749 2004 Marques de Casa Concha, Concha y Toro, Rapel Valley, Chile 46
Syrah/Shiraz
This grape loves heat. When it is grown in hot climates, it results in inky, dark, rich wines that are hedonisitc and wonderful. Aromas of black fruits and currants abound. There is an especially spicy characteristic in the wines from Australia and California, while many of the others have an earthiness that is fantasic with rich, grilled meats.
801 2005 Greg Norman, Limestone Coast, Australia 36
803 2005 Jip Jip Rocks, Limestone Coast, Australia 21
805 2005 Mitolo Wines, “G.A.M.” Mc Laren Vale, Australia 90
807 2006 Mollydooker Wines, “Blue Eyed Boy” McLaren Vale, Australia 112
809 2006 Mollydooker Winer, “Enchanted Path” Mc Laren Vale, Australia 175
811 2006 Old Plains Winery, “Long Hop” Adelaide Plains, South Australia 45
813 2004 Penfolds, “Bin 2” Syrah, Mourvedre, South Australia, Australia 33
815 1999 *Penfolds, “Grange” South Australia, Australia 340
817 2000 *Penfolds, “Grange” South Australia, Australia 325
819 2004 Shinas Estate, “The Guilty” Victoria, Australia 54
821 2001 Stanley Lambert, “August” Barossa, Australia 36
823 2004 Stanley Lambert, “Family Tree” Barossa, Australia 144
824 2006 Tait Wines, “The Ball Buster” Barossa, Australia 38
825 2005 Tapestry Vineyards, McLaren Vale, Australia 50
826 2005 Terlato & Chapoutier Family Wines, “Malakoff” Victoria, Australia 70
827 2006 Terlato & Chapoutier Family Wines, Victoria, Australia 53
828 2006 Thorn-Clark Vineyards, “Shotfire Ridge” Barossa, Australia 43
829 2005 Two Hands Winery, “Bella’s Garden” Barossa Valley, Australia 148
830 2006 Two Hands Winery, “Gnarly Dudes” Barossa Valley, Australia 62
831 2004 Wolf Blass, “Gold Label” Barossa, Australia 48
835 2004 Yangarra, “Estate Vineyard” McLaren Vale, Australia 59
837 2002 K Vintners, “Morrison Lane” Walla Walla Valley, Washington 125
839 2002 Domaine Serene, Rockblock Syrah, Willamette Valley, Oregon 74
840 2004 Black Bart Winery, “Stagecoach Vineyard” Napa Valley 117
841 2002 Bonny Doon, “Le Cigare Volant” Santa Cruz, Central Coast, California 66
843 2004 Fess-Parker Wines, “The Big Easy” Santa Barbara County, California 75
845 2001 *Kongsgaard Winery, Syrah, Napa Valley, California 245
847 2003 L’Aventure, “Optimus” Paso Robles, Central Coast, California 105
849 2004 Melville Winery, “Verna’s Estate” Santa Barbara County, California 58
851 2003 Michael & David Phillips, “6th Sense” Lodi, Central Valley, California 39
853 2005 Novy Family Wines, “Garys’ Vineyard” Santa Lucia Highlands, CA 86
856 2004 Star Lane Vineyard, Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Barbara, California 72
857 2001 Steele Wines, “Stymie” Founder’s Reserve, Lake County, California 90
858 2005 Sterling Vineyards, “Vintner’s Cuvee” Central Coast, California 30
859 2003 Truchard Vineyards, Carneros, Napa Valley, California 70
861 2004 X Winery, “Syrahtica” Napa County, California 33
862 2005 Zepaltas Wines, “Rosella’s Vineyard” Santa Lucia Highlands, CA 115
863 2003 Chateau de Jau, “Le Jaja de Jau” Rousillon, France 26
865 2001 Chateau de Jau, “Talon Rouge” Cotes du Rousillon Villages, France 38
867 2002 L’Ostal Cazes, Minervois la Laviniere, France 70
869 2005 Tenimenti d’Alessandro, “Cortona Syrah” Tuscany, Italy 45
871 2001 Tenimenti d’Alessandro, “Il Bosco” Tuscany, Italy 75
873 2004 Vina Ventisquero, “Pangea” Colchagua Valley, Chile 98
875 2005 Finca Sandoval, Manchuela, Spain 105
877 2004 Glen Carlou, Paarl, South Africa 48
Zinfandel
This grape seems to have become a speciality of California. At its best, it has aromas of blackberries and pepper. It is a richly fruity red, full of blackberry and plum flavors. It is a great match with chicken, pork and lamb. The best ones will stand up to any rich steak or chop.
901 2005 Beaulieu Vineyards, Napa Valley 48
903 2003 Chateau Potelle, “VGS” Mount Veeder, Napa Valley 116
906 2005 Duckhorn Vineyards, “Paraduxx” Napa Valley 100
907 2003 Madrigal Vineyards, Napa Valley 79
909 2003 Nichelini Winery, Napa Valley 52
911 2005 Rombauer Vineyards, Napa Valley 57
913 2005 Storybook Mountain Vineyard, Mayacamas, Napa Valley 64
914 2005 Titus Vineyards, Napa Valley 54
915 2005 Ferrari-Carano Vineyards, Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma 58
916 2005 Gamba Vineyards, “Moratto Vineyard” Old Vine, RRV, Sonoma 99
917 2005 Lake County Winery, Russian River Valley, Sonoma 40
918 2004 Murphy-Goode Estate Winery, “Liar’s Dice” Sonoma County 45
919 2005 Ridge Vineyards, “Lytton Springs” Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma 74
920 2002 Rodney Strong Vineyards, Sonoma County 34
921 2005 *Rosenblum Cellars, “Monte Rosso Vineyard Reserve” Sonoma Valley 114
922 2003 Sapphire Hill Vineyards, “Bastoni Old Vine Vineyard” Sonoma County 63
923 2001 St. Francis Winery & Vineyards, “Pagani Vineyard” Reserve, Sonoma 107
924 2005 Seghesio Family Vineyards, “Old Vine Zinfandel” Sonoma County 69
925 2004 Trentadue Winery, “Old Patch Red” Sonoma County 38
926 2004 Woodenhead Vintners, “Martinelli Road Vineyard” RRV, Sonoma 125
927 2006 Eberle Winery, “Steinbeck/Wine Bush Vineyards” Paso Robles 45
928 2003 Renwood Winery, “Granmere” Amador County, Sierra Foothills 64
929 2004 Rosenblum Cellars, “Annette’s Reserve” Redwood Valley, North Coast 79
931 2005 Rosenblum Cellars, “Appellation Series” San Francisco Bay 42
935 2004 Stone’s Throw Winery, “Z-52” Amador Foothills, Central Valley 54
~~~~~Featured Argentinean Wine~~~~~
Bin 1205 2005 Bodegas Caro “CARO” Mendoza, Argentina $89
The name CARO is an infusion of the names Catena and Rothschild (Lafite), two world-class wine-making families. The idea of forming a partnership between Domaines Barons de Rothschild-Lafite and the Catena family was first mooted in 1988. Initial enthusiasm quickly became a concrete plan to produce a single wine that would combine French and Argentine cultures and the two signature grapes of each producer, Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec. CARO has a strong Argentinean identity, heralded by Malbec, while obtaining further elegance and complexity through blending with Cabernet Sauvignon. The combination has made a rich and refined wine; a harmonious balance between the Argentinean and Bordeaux styles. It has a beautiful dark color with a strong nose, nicely grilled with vanilla, raspberry and black cherry aromas. In the mouth, it is fruity, dense, and has a long finish combining great freshness and wonderful depth. It is a rich and balanced wine with mature and gorgeous tannins.
Grenache/Carmenere
Grenache is a strong grape making it perfect for blended wines like Priorat and Chateauneuf du Pape. It produces a juicy, peppery wine with good weight and tannins. Carmenere displays beautiful fruit with a fair amount of spice.
1001 2004 Carmenere, Apaltagua, “Envero” Colchagua Valley, Chile 33
1003 2005 Carmenere, Concha y Toro, “Terrunyo” Cachapoal Valley, Chile 64
1004 2006 Carmenere, Terra Noble, Gran Riserva, Maule Valley, Chile 44
1005 2005 Bodegas Zabrin, “Atteca Old Vines” Calatayud, Spain 40
1006 2005 Jean-Luc Colombo, “Les Bartavelles” Chateauneuf-du-Pape, France 76
1007 2005 Mas de Boislauzon, “Tradition” Chateauneuf-du-Pape, France 79
1009 2004 Roger Sabon, “Les Olivets” Chateauneuf-du-Pape, France 89
1011 2003 Dom. de la Janasse, “Terre d’Argile” Cotes du Rhone-Villages 51
1013 2005 Dom. Grand Veneur, “Les Champauvins” Cotes du Rhone-Villages 42
1015 2004 Domaine Raspail-Ay, Gigondas, France 65
1017 2004 Penfolds “Bin 138 GSM" Barossa Valley, Australia 52
1019 2000 *Alvaro Palacios, “Finca Dofi” Priorat, Spain 148
1021 2004 *Mas Romani, “La Basseta” Priorat, Spain 155
1023 2001 Rotllan Torra, Reserva, Priorat, Spain 39
Tempranillo & Spanish Blends
It is the major grape of Spain, but is often blended with New World varietals, like cabernet sauvignon and merlot. It shows bright red fruit with a minerally undertone. The high levels of acidity make it a great match with everything from salmon to steak.
1101 2003 Artesa Vineyards & Winery, Alexander Valley, Sonoma 55
1103 2004 Abrazo Riserva, Carinena, Spain 26
1105 2003 Bodegas Aresan, “White Label 6 Months” La Mancha, Spain 70
1106 2002 Bodegas Aresan, “Red Label 9 Months” La Mancha, Spain 80
1107 2003 Bodegas Condado de Haza, Ribera del Duero, Spain 40
1108 2005 Bodegas El Nido, “El Nido” Jumilla, Spain 250
1109 2005 Bodegas Numanthia Termes, Toro, Spain 67
1111 2000 Bodegas Navarro Lopez, Old Vines Riserva, Rioja, Spain 34
1113 2004 Bodegas Palacio y Hermanos, Rioja, Spain 38
1115 2003 Dom Martinho, Estremoz, Portugal 32
1117 2003 Finca Allende, Rioja, Spain 68
1119 1998 *Ramon Bilbao, Rioja Gran Riserva, Rioja, Spain 82
1121 2003 Tinta Garcia Figuero, “Noble” Ribera del Duero, Spain 250
~~~~~Featured Syrah~~~~~
Bin 827 2003 L’Aventure, “Optimus” Paso Robles, California $105
Stephan Asseo has been a dedicated vigneron and artisan winemaker for nearly two decades. His unique style and level of quality garners acclaim and accolades from the European press, travel guides, the Wine Advocate and the Wine Spectator. In 1996, Stephan left France in search of a terroir where he could consistently achieve full maturity in his fruit and be unfettered as an innovator. At 64% Syrah, 33% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 3% Petit Verdot, the 2003 Optimus is an exuberant wine. It sings with aromas of violets, wildflowers, and a high-tone floral note of muted honeysuckle. These notes mingle with a hint of leather, earth, and fresh plums, with a peppery finish on the palate. This is a wine for many diverse dishes. Excellent with grilled meats, but don't overlook shellfish!
Malbec
Traditionally a blending grape of Bordeaux, Malbec seems to have found its home in Argentina. It produces lush, violet scented wines with hints of leather and tobacco finishing with refined, elegant tannins. These pair well with all of our steak and chop entrees.
1201 2005 Ben Marco, Mendoza, Argentina 54
1203 2006 Bodegas Caro, “Amancaya” Mendoza, Argentina 37
1205 2005 Bodegas Caro, “CARO” Mendoza, Argentina 89
1207 2005 Cueva de las Manos, “Reserve” Mendoza, Argentina 35
1209 2004 Francois Pelissie, “Croix du Mayne” Cahors, France 45
1211 2006 Tikal, “Amorio” Mendoza, Argentina 62
1215 2004 Trapiche, “Vina Pedro Gonzalez” Mendoza, Argentina 75
Petite Sirah
These heavily extracted wines have aromas of cedar, eucalyptus and raw meat. They have chewy tannins and a long, lingering finish. Pair these with all things beef.
1300 2005 Guenoc Estate Vineyards & Winery, Lake County, North Coast 33
1301 2004 Ironstone Vineyards, Sierra Foothills 46
1303 2003 Lolonis Winery, “Sister’s Blend” Redwood Valley, North Coast 69
1305 2004 Madrigal Vineyards, Napa Valley 66
1307 2004 *Michael & David Phillips, “Earthquake” Lodi, Central Valley 72
1309 2004 Stag’s Leap Winery, Stag’s Leap District, Napa Valley 87
1313 2004 Stone’s Throw Winery, Santa Clara Valley, Central Coast 56
~~~~~Featured French Wine~~~~~
Bin 1007 2005 Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Mas de Boislauzon, France $79
The 2005 Chateauneuf du Pape is 85% Grenache, 10% Mourvedre, and 5% Syrah. Deep ruby. Raspberry and strawberry aromas lifted by exotic spices and an intriguing orange zest quality. Nicely focused, with cocoa and nutmeg laced red berry flavors demonstrating the freshness of the vintage. Finishes sweet and long, with very fine tannins and a lingering orange zest tone. It shows the telltale and classic signature of many Chateauneuf du Papes– kirsch liqueur, raspberries, licorice, a loamy, resiny soil note, and beautiful roasted herbs and pepper. It is ripe, rich, reveals zesty acidity, medium to full body, and an approachable style that will make it undeniably charming and even irresistible for another 12 or more years. In the northernmost sector of Chateauneuf, the Chaussy family run this fine estate that has been making brilliant Chateauneuf du Pape for over a decade.
Piedmont Varietals
Barolo and Barbaresco are the stars of Piedmont. Made exclusively from the nebbiolo grape, they are richly fragrant of mushrooms, violets, earth and stewed, tart cherries. Although Barbaresco is typically lighter than Barolo, they have huge tannins and aren’t for the faint of heart. Excellent with pork, lamb, buffalo and steak.
1401 2001 Barbaresco, Bruno Rocca, Piedmont 135
1403 1998 Barbaresco, Gaja, Piedmont 425
1404 2001 Barbaresco, Gaja, Piedmont 360
1405 2003 Barbaresco, Gaja, Piedmont 325
1406 2004 Barbaresco, Gaja, Piedmont 370
1407 2003 *Barbaresco, Produttori del Barbaresco, Piedmont 69
1408 2004 Barbaresco, Produttori del Barbaresco, Piedmont 73
1409 2000 Barbaresco, Prunotto, “Bric Turot” Piedmont 120
1410 2004 Barbera, Coppo, “Camp du Rouss” Piedmont 51
1411 2005 Gaja, “Sito Moresco” Langhe, Piedmont 135
1412 1995 *Gaja, “Sperss” Langhe Nebbiolo, Piedmont 375
1413 2003 *Barolo, Michele Chiarlo, “Brunate” Piedmont 215
1414 2003 *Barolo, Michele Chiarlo, “Cannubi” Piedmont 215
1415 2003 *Barolo, Michele Chiarlo, “Cerequio” Piedmont 215
1417 2003 Barolo, Michele Chiarlo, “Tortoniano” Piedmont 115
1421 1998 Barolo, Pio Cesare, “Ornato” Piedmont 180
1422 2001 Barolo, Poderi Luigi Einaudi, Piedmont 145
1423 2005 *Dolcetto, Palmina, Santa Barbara County, California 43
1425 2003 La Spinetta, “Pin” Monferrato Rosso, Piedmont 119
Native Italian Blends
Amarone is a blend of three grapes that produces a dense, chewy, opulent wine with intense flavors of raisins, figs, almonds and vanilla. Although Valpolicella is made from the same grapes as Amarone, it quite a bit lighter. Aglianico produces dark, inky, robust wines that are fabulous with food. Try the Barrua for a wonderful alternative to a California cabernet. It has notes of black fruit, cedar and firm tannins. Amazing! Nero d’avola is the native grape of Sicily and makes delicious, full-bodied wines.
1432 2003 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico, Sant’ Antonio, Veneto 115
1433 2000 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico, Sergio Zenato, Veneto 130
1434 2000 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Riserva, Sergio Zenato 155
1435 2005 Valpoicella Classico, Masi, “Bonacosta” Veneto 28
1436 2004 Feudi di San Gregorio, “Rubrato” Campania (aglianico di Taurasi) 53
1437 2002 Argiolas, “Turriga” Sardinia (cannonau, carignano, bovale) 142
1438 2003 Tenuta San Guido, “Barrua” Sardinia 115
1699 2004 Planeta, “Burdese” Sicily (cab sauvignon, cab franc) 95
1439 2003 Tenuta Sette Ponti, “Saia” Sicily (nero d’avola) 78
1441 2004 Santa Tresa, “Nivuro” Sicily (nero d’avola, cabernet sauv) 45
Sangiovese & Super Tuscan Blends
Sangiovese is the main grape of Chianti and the sole grape of Brunello di Montalcino. It is frequently blended with cabernet sauvignon and merlot, resulting in a style of wine with the famous name - Super Tuscan. Sangiovese produces wines that have a fascinating bitter-cherry and chocolate richness. They are a great match with rich meats like lamb, ribeye and its original pairing the bistecca alla florentine, also known as the porterhouse.
1451 2001 Brunello di Montalcino, Castiglion del Bosco, Tuscany 95
1452 2000 Brunello di Montalcino, Baroncini, Tuscany 130
1453 2003 Brunello di Montalcino, Tenuta Il Poggione, Tuscany 145
1454 2001 Brunello di Montalcino, Tenuta Il Poggione Riserva, Tuscany 175
1455 2004 Chianti, Da Vinci, Tuscany 27
1457 2004 Chianti Classico, Fonterutoli, “Mazzei” Tuscany 58
1458 2003 Chianti Classico Riserva, Melini, “La Selvanella” Tuscany 63
1459 2003 Chianti Classico Riserva, Fattoria di Felsina, “Rancia” Tuscany 74
1460 2004 Chianti Classico Riserva, Fattoria di Felsina, “Rancia” Tuscany 95
1461 2003 Chianti Classico Riserva, Tenuta di Nozzole, “La Forra” Tuscany 115
1462 2003 Rosso di Montepulciano, Antinori, La Braccesca “Sabazio” Tuscany 38
1463 2003 Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, Avignonesi, “Grande Annte Riserva” 125
1464 2001 Arnaldo Caprai, “Collepiano” Umbria (sagrantino) 95
1697 2000 Carpineto, “Farnito” Tuscany (cabernet sauvignon) 75
1467 2004 Fattoria di Felsina, “Fontalloro” Tuscany (sangiovese) 100
1468 2005 Gaja, Ca’ Marcanda Estate, “Magari” Tuscany 160
1469 2005 Gaja, Ca’ Marcanda Estate, “Promis” Tuscany 95
1471 2005 Ruffino, “Modus” Tuscany (sang, cab sauv, merlot) 65
869 2005 Tenimenti d’Alessandro, “Cortona” Tuscany (syrah) 45
871 2001 Tenimenti d’Alessandro, “Il Bosco” Tuscany (syrah) 75
1473 2005 Tenuta dell’Ornellaia, “Le Volte” Tuscany (cab sauv, merlot, sang) 47
1475 2003 Tenuta San Guido, “Sassicaia” Bolgheri, Tuscany 230
1477 2003 Tenuta Sette Ponti, “Crognolo” Tuscany (sangiovese, merlot) 70
1478 2005 *Tenuta Sette Ponti, “Oreno” Tuscany 200
1479 2004 Tenuta Sette Ponti, “Poggio al Lupo” Tuscany 110
1481 2003 Terrebianca, “Campaccio” Tuscany (cab sauv, sangiovese) 78
~~~~~Featured Spanish Wine~~~~~
Bin 1105 2003 Bodegas Aresan, White Label, La Mancha, Spain $70
This red wine is a unique blend of Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah grapes, all coming from Aresan’s 15 year-old vineyards. The complex, intense and aromatic nose reveals ripe red and black fruits, balanced by hints of spice. Elegant dark-roasted coffee and bakery notes appear as a product of good integration of wood. In the mouth, the attack is rich, fresh and fruity, mimicking the aroma. Then, full, ripe, brilliant tannins take over, adding balance to the fruit. The wine has a long, persistent finish. Absolutely amazing with grilled meats such as lamb and ribeyes. Also try it with rich cheeses and chocolate. A perfect food wine!
Bordeaux
The wines from St. Emilion and Pomerol are primarily merlot, with a little cabernet franc blended in. They exhibit a juicy, almost jam-sweetness and are wonderfully approachable. They tend to be a little lighter in style than the wines farther down on the list. The wines from the Haut-Medoc, St. Estephe, Pauillac, St. Julien, Margaux and Graves are dominated by cabernet sauvignon, with varying blends of merlot and cabernet franc. Built for structure and longevity, these powerhouses reveal flavors of black currant, black cherry, cedar and tobacco.
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