Wine On Line

Girasole Vineyards: Made with organically grown grapes & Vegan friendly.

punchin — Sun, 29 Apr 2012 18:44:00 +0000

Girasole Vineyards releases 2010 wines in a bright new package. Organically produced, here is great value for under $20..

2010 Chardonnay

New Release!

Light straw in color with alluring aromas of lemon-lime, kiwi and Granny Smith apples. A creamy entry fills the mouth with vanilla custard and shortbread cookies, which are framed beautifully by just a slight kiss of toasty French oak. This clean, fruit driven wine is sure to please even the most discriminating palates. Serve slightly chilled with seafood, creamy pastas and poultry dishes. SRP: $13.

Made with organically grown grapes & Vegan friendly.

Wine Specs

Vintage2010

AppellationMendocino

Vineyard DesignationEstate grown/CCOF certified organic

Acid.56

PH3.53

FermentationStainless w/ minimal oak influence

Bottling Date11/11

Alcohol %13.5

Wine Profile

Production Notes100% Chardonnay

Food Pairing NotesThis lightly oaked wine is perfect with egg dishes, also with seafood, creamy pastas and poultry. Pair it with your favorite macaroni and cheese recipe, and be sure to try it with a spinach dish.

Production2,000 cases

2010 Girasole Vineyards Pinot Noir

2010 Pinot Noir

Their newest release in redesigned packaging! This 2010 Pinot Noir offers wonderful aromas of strawberry, cherry and clove give way to sweet red cherries on the palate.

This 2010 Girasole Pinot Noir exhibits hues of red roses and ruby jewel tones. Wonderful aromas of strawberry, cherry and clove give way to sweet red cherries on the palate. A touch of new French oak lends texture and helps frame the wonderful sweet red fruit that radiates from this wine, and that classic Mendocino mineral backbone carries it to a long and lingering finish. This wine will pair wonderfully with braised duck breast with a cranberry reduction, or plank grilled salmon with garlic mash potatoes. Of course, pulling a cork and having a glass or two on the porch would work too! SRP: $16.
Made with organically grown grapes & Vegan friendly.

Wine Specs

Vintage2010

VarietalPinot Noir

AppellationMendocino

Vineyard DesignationEstate grown/CCOF certified organic

Acid.56

PH3.75

Alcohol %13.5

Wine Profile

Food Pairing NotesThis fruit-forward wine pairs well with lean beef, lamb and pork dishes, especially grilled or roasted, and is a natural with ahi tuna. Try it with grilled mushrooms, too.

Disclosure

History

Charlie Barra planted the home ranch, Redwood Valley Vineyards, in 1955, and has farmed approximately 200 acres of organic varietal wine grapes ever since. Sitting on the benchlands above the headwaters of the Russian River in Mendocino County, the vineyards share the land with five ponds, open space for wildlife and pasture for smaller animals. All water used for irrigation and frost protection is from winter run-off from the pristine watersheds that surround the vineyards.

In the early stages of developing the ranch, Charlie was instrumental in changing the method of picking grapes, going from wooden lugs carried by pickers to large metal gondolas which were taken into the field on trailers and then loaded by forklift on trucks to go to the winery. He was one of the first grape farmers in the North Coast of California to use water for over-head frost protection, a system developed in Israel and Germany in the early 1960’s. And today, we’re still picking grapes the way Charlie’s grandfather did over 100 years ago…by hand!

Charlie also fought for many state regulations that changed the way growers were paid for their grapes, worked for creation of the first appellation in the United States, and served for forty years on the board of directors of the California North Coast Grape Growers Association with the goal of enhancing the economic climate for the entire California wine industry.

Merlot di San Leonardo, Demonstrates Italy’s Excellence With This Grape

punchin — Sat, 14 Apr 2012 14:29:00 +0000

Merlot di San Leonardo
Wine: Merlot di San Leonardo

Region: Trentino

Oenologist: Carlo Ferrini

Grapes: 100% Merlot

Vineyards location: Adige valley

Extension: 20 ha

Orientation: south

Altitude: 750 ft

Vine training: Guyot and Pergola

Soil: well-drained gravel and soil

Total production (btls): 45,000

Vinification: Grapes are destemmed and soft-crushed, with minimal use of sulphur dioxide. The juice ferments and macerates on the skins for a long period of time, during which the cap is punched down daily. The must is cold-clarified by allowing the lees to settle.

Ageing: For 18 months in 60-hectolitre Slavonian oak barriques. In the bottle for at least four months before release onto the market.

This wine has a brilliant ruby red, with attractive depth and decent length. The aromas are alcohol and fruit-rich when the wine is young, later mellowing with bottle age into ripe plum fruit layered over a faintly grassy background note. Dry, soft and well-balanced on the palate, it reveals a pleasing bitterish twist in the finish. Good aromatic length. A classic food wine with rice and pasta in tomato or meat sauces such as lasagna, and meat or cheese filled pasta, as well as grilled and stewed meats, poultry, white meats and soft cheeses.

LOVELY IN EVERY WAY!

WINE ON LINE RATING: A MINOR

info@viaswine.com

Disclosure

The Estate, founded in 1724, has a rich ancient past. The current owner, Marquis Carlo Guerrieri Gonzaga is the descendent of a famous Italian aristocratic family. The Marquises know how to yoke their aristocratic polish to a genuine rural simplicity. They do it spontaneously, directly involving all the people with they work to at Tenuta San Leonardo.
As a result the vineyards, home only to Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot, become more and more beautiful and the grapes even more delicious. The property spans over 300 hectares. Twenty of them are planted to vine. The cellar equipment includes stainless steel fermentation tanks and small and medium size oak barrels for aging.

The Trentino stretches from its northern borders with the Alto Adige to Lake Garda and the Veneto in the south. It is Italy’s most mountainous region. The majority of the region’s vineyards follow the course of the river Adige, the second longest in the country. The climate is characterised by very cold winters, but is also influenced by the lakes and rivers which create temperate microclimates ideal for viticulture. The region has a total of around 11,000 hectares under vine, for the most part trained on the overhead pergola system, and an annual production of 850,000 hectolitres, approximately 500,000 hectolitres of which consist of red DOC wines. The regional School of Agriculture at San Michele all’Adige, which specialises in viticulture and oenology, provides invaluable support to winemaking in the areas of clonal selection, vineyard management and vinification and has had a major influence on up-grading the quality of the region’s wines.

The most important local grape varieties are the white Nosiola and the red Schiava, Teroldego and Marzemino. French and German varieties are also widely planted. The leading white wines are Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, the local Nosiola and Pinot Bianco. The top reds are Teroldego, which is unique to the Trentino, Pinot Nero and the Bordeaux varieties Merlot and Cabernet, which give particularly high quality results in the south of the region at Borghetto all’Adige. Another variety to note is Marzemino, which makes one of Italy’s most interesting country reds in the area around Isera. Vias has selected a portfolio of first class producers to represent the wines of the Trentino, and their products have contributed significantly to the consolidation of the company’s presence in the high class restaurant se

Description and History

Established in 1983 as an import company specializing in small, high-quality wineries, Vias Imports Ltd. has grown in most recent years to have broad-based distribution operations that place it among the most renowned Italian wine importers in the US market, boasting one of the most outstanding portfolios in the industry.
Its mission is to educate wine lovers about the wide range of grape varietals from Italy, inviting palates to appreciate the diversity of Italian wine through the enticing experience of food and wine pairing, and guiding them in the understanding of a heritage which is particular to the Italian peninsula.
Founding partner and Chairman,Fabrizio Pedrolli was General Secretary of the International Association of Sommeliers for many years. He continues to be a respected member of the Italian Ministry of Agriculture tasting commission, responsible for D.O.C. wines. He is recognized for his in-depth wine knowledge and fine palate, and has been instrumental in putting together a distinguished portfolio representing some of the finest, small wineries in Italy today.
Vias Imports, Ltd., has its headquarters in New York City. It distributes its wines directly in the States of New York and New Jersey, and nationally through a network of 61 distributors divided into seven regions:Northwest, West, Southwest, Midwest,Southeast, Mid-Atlantic, Northeast andFlorida-Caribbean
The management team is well equipped to develop strong sales growth over the next several years and the long term vision for Vias Imports, Ltd. remains committed to expanding its current image and position as an importer of exceptional products distributed to the best customers in the United States.

Luca Bigerna, a graduate of the University of Perugia, comes from a very strong international import and distribution background. After seven years with Cantoni Textile Group in Italy, USA and Hong Kong he joined Vias Imports Ltd. in 1996 as Vice President of Finance and Administration. In 2008 he was unanimously appointed President of the Company.
For the national Operations the National Manager Deena Miskiel runs a team of Managers and District Managers runs a team of nine regional managers and four District Managers, who are responsible for sales and development within their territory. Their high standard of professionalism and combined broad-based experience enhances the company’s ability to build distribution and offer quality service.
The company has its own wholesale operation in both New York under the supervision of Alex Pagano and New Jersey under Vincenzo Zagari.
This unique position of direct sales enables the company to nurture and establish strong relationships with some of the best accounts in one of the most important markets.
Thanks to an experienced marketing team Vias Imports Ltd. receives the necessary support to develop good communication with spokespersons in the editorial world, and to promote its image through a complex network of public relations.

Las Rocas: A Wine like No Other, From a Place like No Other

punchin — Thu, 05 Apr 2012 16:56:01 +0000

Deep in the interior of Aragon, Spain, lies a place few have heard of: Calatayud. Here, the air is dry, the terrain is unforgiving, and shattered rock stretches as far as the eye can see. It would seem that nothing could grow here.

Yet somehow, Garnacha vines thrive on the arid, rocky slopes of Calatayud , creating some of the world’s most sought-after wines. Spain is one of the few places on Earth where vintners bottle pure Garnacha – or Grenache, as it is called outside of Spain – and Calatayud is home to some of the country’s highest Garnacha vineyards.

Rooted deep in rocky, limestone soils at elevations of up to 3,500 feet, these vines see intense sunlight, prompting thicker skins and, ultimately, grapes with richer flavors. Cool evening temperatures mean fruit with greater acidity, giving Las Rocas wines a unique elegance and structure.

Many of Calatayud’s Garnacha vines are nearly a century old, producing rich, robust wines. With flavors and tannins reminiscent of a Cabernet Sauvignon, matched by a structure similar to Pinot Noir, Las Rocas Garnacha has a distinct palate of red fruit, black pepper and earthy notes.

“Las Rocas wines are unique in every sense of the word,” says Yolanda Diaz, managing director of Bodegas San Alejandro, a co-operative of 350 local farmers who grow the grapes for Las Rocas wines. “The rocky slopes create vines that can only be found in Calatayud. The precise combination of climate, soil and elevation here makes our Garnacha unlike any other wine, anywhere else in the world.”

Founded in 1962, Bodegas San Alejandro is located in Miedes, a town of 530 inhabitants about 55 miles north of Madrid, in the valley of the Ebro River. The dynamic winegrowers and winemakers of Bodegas San Alejandro bring the distinct characteristics of Calatayud and the unique flavors of Garnacha into every bottle of Las Rocas. The collection includes a Garnacha made from 30- to 50-year old vines, a Viñas Viejas Garnacha made from vines that are 60 to nearly 100 years old, and a Spanish Red Blend that brings Garnacha together with Tempranillo and Syrah.

Las Rocas® 2009 Garnacha (Pictured Above)

SRP: $14

Las Rocas wines hail from Calatayud, in the southeastern corner of Spain’s Aragon region, where the air is dry and the terrain is unforgiving. Against all odds, Garnacha vines thrive on the steep, rocky slopes here, creating some of the world’s most sought-after wines. The Bodegas San Alejandro growers’ cooperative cultivates grapes from hundreds of small vineyards in Calatayud – many with vines more than 80 years old – to create the rich, robust flavors of Las Rocas.
About the Wine:

The vibrant red color of our 2009 Garnacha hints at its rich dark cherry and blackberry aromas and flavors. This well-structured wine integrates nuances of oak with round tannins to deliver a rich palate of decadent fruit flavors.

Viticulture Notes:
Las Rocas wines come from the steep, rocky vineyards in Calatayud that rest at elevations of 2,500 to 3,500 feet. The vines for our Garnacha are 30 to 50 years old, with loose, rocky limestone soils. The 2009 vintage brought exceptionally dry and hot conditions to the Calatayud region, resulting in a slightly higher alcohol level in the finished wine. Despite the warm weather, careful guidance in the vineyard yielded exceptional grapes with rich flavor characteristics.

Winemaking Notes:
Following harvest at the end of October, the Garnacha grapes were cold soaked for several days to extract the deep, intense flavors of the fruit. During fermentation, which occurred at temperatures between 75°F and 82°F, the juice remained in contact with the skins for 15 days. The wine underwent malolactic fermentation, which softened the mouthfeel and added depth and nuance to the Garnacha. A portion of the wine was aged in French and American oak barrels for nearly one year.
Varietal Content: Garnacha
Varietal Origin: Calatayud DO, Spain
Titratable Acidity: 0.57g/100ml
pH: 3.63
Alcohol Level: 15.20%
Residual Sugar: 0.1 g/100ml
Residual Sugar: 0.1 g/100ml

We liked the dark fruit colors, depth and food friendliness of this Garnacha wine. The red blend was more fruity and terrific for a picnic or easy going dinner. The king (and what value for $20 . . . well worth double the price . . . ) was the Vinas Viejas. Bursting with cranberry and dark cherries, the tannins were subtle, but indicate good aging potential. Go with cheese, game, dark fish or Brazil nuts.

Spanish wines rule.

Disclosure

Las Rocas® 2009 Garnacha Viñas Viejas

SRP: $20
Las Rocas wines hail from Calatayud, in the southeastern corner of Spain’s Aragon region, where the air is dry and the terrain is unforgiving. Against all odds, Garnacha vines thrive on the steep, rocky slopes here, creating some of the world’s most sought-after wines. The Bodegas San Alejandro growers’ cooperative cultivates grapes from hundreds of small vineyards in Calatayud – many with vines more than 80 years old – to create the rich, robust flavors of Las Rocas.
About the Wine:
Our 2009 Garnacha Viñas Viejas exhibits a deep ruby color, with a spicy, rich cranberry bouquet. This well-structured wine has dark cherry flavors and elegant hints of oak, with round, supple tannins and a fruit-filled finish.
Viticulture Notes:
Las Rocas wines come from the steep, rocky vineyards in Calatayud that rest at elevations of 2,500 to 3,500 feet. The vines for our Garnacha Viñas Viejas are 60 to nearly 100 years old, with soils comprised of chalk and black slate, which encourage small clusters of intensely flavored grapes. The 2009 vintage brought exceptionally dry and hot conditions to the Calatayud region, resulting in a slightly higher alcohol level in the finished wine. Despite the warm weather, careful guidance in the vineyard yielded exceptional grapes with rich flavor characteristics.
Winemaking Notes:
Following harvest at the end of October, the Garnacha grapes were cold soaked for two weeks to extract the deep, intense flavors of the old-vine fruit. Fermentation occurred for 10 days at temperatures ranging from 75°F to 80°F. The wine then underwent malolactic fermentation, which softened the mouthfeel and added depth and nuance to the Garnacha. A portion of the wine was aged in mainly French oak and some American oak barrels for 10 months following fermentation.
Varietal Content: Garnacha
Varietal Origin: Calatayud DO, Spain
Titratable Acidity: 0.54 g/100mL
pH: 3.56
Alcohol Level: 15.2%
Residual Sugar: 0.26 g/100mL

.
Las Rocas® 2009 Red Blend

SRP: $14
Las Rocas wines hail from Calatayud, in the southeastern corner of Spain’s Aragon region, where the air is dry and the terrain is unforgiving. Against all odds, Garnacha vines thrive on the steep, rocky slopes here, creating some of the world’s most sought-after wines. The Bodegas San Alejandro growers’ cooperative cultivates grapes from hundreds of small vineyards in Calatayud – many with vines more than 80 years old – to create the rich, robust flavors of Las Rocas.
About the Wine:
The bright red color of our 2009 Red Blend leads to ripe, jammy aromas and nuances of oak. These aromas extend to the palate, creating a bright, medium-bodied wine with a round, smooth finish.
Viticulture Notes:
Las Rocas wines come from the steep, rocky vineyards in Calatayud that rest at elevations of 2,500 to 3,500 feet. A majority of the grapes for this blend were selected from our 30 to 50-year-old Garnacha vines that are grown in loose, rocky limestone soils. The 2009 vintage brought exceptionally dry and hot conditions to the Calatayud region, resulting in a slightly higher alcohol level in the finished wine. Despite the warm weather, careful guidance in the vineyard yielded exceptional Garnacha grapes with rich flavor characteristics.
Winemaking Notes:
Following harvest at the end of October, the grapes were cold soaked for several days to extract the deep, intense flavors of the old-vine fruit. During fermentation, which occurred at temperatures between 75°F and 82°F, the juice remained in contact with the skins for 15 days. The wine underwent malolactic fermentation, which softened the mouthfeel and added depth and nuance to the Garnacha. A portion of the wine was aged in French and American oak barrels for nearly one year.
Varietal Content: Garnacha, Tempranillo, Syrah
Varietal Origin: Calatayud DO, Spain
Titratable Acidity: 0.57g/100ml
pH: 3.63
Alcohol Level: 15.20%
Residual Sugar: 0.1 g/100ml

Yolanda Diaz: A View of the World from Calatayud

Yolanda Diaz entered the world of wine somewhat by accident. A native of Calatayud, Spain, Yolanda traveled the globe for her studies and returned home in 1997 with plans to pursue her MBA. Meanwhile, Bodegas San Alejandro – a Calatayud-based growers’ cooperative – tapped Yolanda for her international business savvy to spearhead its burgeoning wine export business. What was intended to be a brief stint before graduate school quickly turned into a life-changing career move – one that has placed Yolanda in the prestigious post of managing director at Bodegas San Alejandro.

“I didn’t know much about wine when I joined Bodegas San Alejandro,” admits Yolanda, “but it wasn’t long before it became my greatest passion. I can’t imagine working in any other industry.”

While earning her bachelor’s degree in business from Columbus University in Zaragoza, Spain, Yolanda gained a global perspective through semesters abroad at Ecole Supérieure de Commerce in Paris and Hogeschool Zeeland in Holland. She interned at the World Trade Center in Irvine, CA, and spent time studying finance and marketing at Catholic University in Washington, DC.

A native Spanish speaker, Yolanda has mastered English, German and French, making her the ideal candidate to represent Las Rocas wines in the global marketplace. After joining Bodegas San Alejandro, Yolanda remained committed to her education, earning her MBA with specializations in wine marketing and horticulture from Columbus University, while ascending the ranks of the winery.

Today, as managing director of Bodegas San Alejandro, Yolanda touches every aspect of the business, from winegrowing and winemaking to sales and marketing. She travels extensively to bring the wines of Las Rocas to new markets. And, she wouldn’t have it any other way.

“Traveling has exposed me to so many cultures and so many different types of wine and food,” explains Yolanda. “I am able to bring these rich experiences back to the winery and, in turn, I get to share the unique story of Calatayud and Las Rocas wines with the rest of the world.”

It seems it was no accident that Bodegas San Alejandro found Yolanda Diaz. She is right at home in the world of wine.

Garnacha: At Home in Calatayud

Garnacha, called Grenache in the U.S. and France, is one of the world’s most widely planted red grapes. But nowhere is it more at home than on the rocky slopes of Calatayud, Spain. Here, Garnacha has ascended to extraordinary heights, giving the acclaimed wines of Las Rocas their rich, robust flavors.

Some believe that Garnacha found its way to Spain from its original home in Sardinia, when the kingdom of Aragon ruled that island during the 14th and 15th centuries. Other research supports the notion that Garnacha’s ancient origins lie in the same region of Spanish Aragon where the wines of Las Rocas are made today. The enticing flavors in Las Rocas Garnacha offer a compelling case for the latter theory.

Easy to grow and easy to ferment, Garnacha is also easy on the palate. In the glass, it tends to be low in acid and tannin, with a soft mouthfeel and pronounced flavors of berry and spice. In the vineyard, Garnacha takes its time to ripen, and it flourishes in sunlight and warm weather, making it perfectly suited for the long, hot summer growing season of Calatayud. The old vines of the region, ranging from 30 to 100 years old, curtail the natural vigor of the Garnacha vine, yielding fewer grape clusters. The result is a wine with a richer concentration of color and flavor.

Garnacha is typically used as a blending grape across the globe, but it is the centerpiece of Las Rocas wines. The rocky terroir of Calatayud grants Las Rocas’ Garnacha its signature palate of spice and minerality.

Tucked in the southwest corner of the Spanish province of Zaragoza, the dynamic Calatayud winegrowing region was awarded Denominación de Origen status in 1989. Here, in the Ebro River Valley, a network of tributaries creates a series of smaller valleys, each with its own unique mesoclimate.

The Calatayud DO includes 14,000 acres of vineyard in 46 small towns along the river valleys. Most of the vines rest at altitudes of 2,500 to 3,500 feet above sea level, on diverse soils ranging from chalk and limestone, to clay and marl.

We can trace the region’s name back to the Moorish occupation of Spain, when the local governor, Ayud, had a fortress called a Qalat, where the town of Calatayud now stands. Wine has been made here for 2,000 years.

The region enjoys a continental climate with hot, dry summers and cold winters. While summer temperatures occasionally soar to 100°F and the winter months pose a frost risk, the vines generally enjoy a temperate climate year-round. Most of the vineyards have loose, rocky limestone soils with low nutrient levels and high lime content. With an average annual rainfall between 12 and 20 inches. The vines in this region have to work their way deep into the fractured soils to find the water and nutrients they need.

Calatayud is famous for its red wines, which represent 85% of yearly wine production in the region. Out of the 11 wine grape varieties approved for the DO, Garnacha is by far the most widely planted.

Las Rocas: A Wine like No Other, From a Place like No Other

punchin — Thu, 05 Apr 2012 16:56:01 +0000

Las Rocas® 2009 Garnacha (Pictured Above)

SRP: $14

Spanish wines rule.

Disclosure

Las Rocas® 2009 Garnacha Viñas Viejas

.
Las Rocas® 2009 Red Blend

Yolanda Diaz: A View of the World from Calatayud

It seems it was no accident that Bodegas San Alejandro found Yolanda Diaz. She is right at home in the world of wine.

Garnacha: At Home in Calatayud

Calatayud is famous for its red wines, which represent 85% of yearly wine production in the region. Out of the 11 wine grape varieties approved for the DO, Garnacha is by far the most widely planted.

TENUTA FRESCOBALDI DI CASTIGLIONI 2009 PROVES HOW GOOD A $25 WINE CAN BE

punchin — Thu, 29 Mar 2012 16:50:10 +0000

LEGENDARY FAMILY-OWNED TUSCAN WINE COMPANY PUTS NAME PROMINENTLY ON FRONT LABEL FOR FIRST TIME

While a $25 SRP may be a celebratory wine to some Americans, to others it is the benchmark, where retail wines become agreeably drinkable. Fitting tin that category, we are always delighted to discover a $25 wine that is better than many carrying a $50 (or more) price tag. And while Marchesi de’ Frescobaldi is hardy a secret in the wine world, it is reassuring to know there re names we can trust and depend upon.

All you ever want to know and more can be found below, but the truth is in the bottle and it is terrific now and will last some years. Make sure it is cellar temperature and opened a good 2 hours before drinking. We loved the generous fruit, structure and subtle tannins. Great with chicken, beef, lamb, medium firm cheeses.

Highly Recommended. We plan a tasting of the complete line one of these days.

Marchesi de’ Frescobaldi Releases ‘Tenuta Frescobaldi di Castiglioni’

Marchesi de’ Frescobaldi launches its first wine in the US market bearing the family name, ‘Tenuta Frescobaldi di Castiglioni’. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (50%), Merlot (30%), Cabernet Franc (12%) and Sangiovese (8%), Tenuta Frescobaldi di Castiglioni comes from the original Frescobaldi family estate, Castiglioni, located approximately 20 kilometers west of Florence, in Val di Pesa, along the Arno River. The wine (2009 vintage, SRP $25), which has been marketed under Tenuta di Castiglioni previously, will be available in the US from January.

President of the company, Marchese Leonardo Frescobaldi asserts, “We found it was appropriate to add the Frescobaldi name to this exclusive wine because it comes from the oldest estate where my family began to cultivate vineyards and produce wines over 700 years ago. Since that time, the family passion has flourished and continued to the present 30th generation.”

“The soil of the Castiglioni estate is located southwest of Florence on gentle hills,” he continues, “and is characterized by a mixture of sand, clay and limestone. The land offers a fitting home for the different vineyards cultivated with perfect exposure. The wine is very much characterized by this particular terroir and offers a great intensity of fruit with a long lasting finish, elegance, and its richness is extremely stylish.”

Tenuta Frescobaldi di Castiglioni expresses the typicity and character of the territory of its origin and is consistent with the philosophy and mission of the family to ensure that each estate’s wine maintains its unique identity. The Frescobaldi family traces its origins back to the 11th century in the area where the Castiglioni estate was established in the 14th century. The vineyards at the 513-hectare estate are 200 – 250 meters above sea level. The local climate is warm and dry and the vineyards, completely replanted to high densities in the 1990s, favor the production of wines that display rich aromas of wild red berry fruit, classic to this Chianti area.

Tenuta Frescobaldi di Castiglioni is understated and refined, much like the Frescobaldi family itself, with a rich, deep, ruby-red color that is striking to the eye. The bouquet is fragrant with dark fruit that blends with notes of cocoa powder and roast espresso beans. The tannins are well integrated and offer a warm, lingering finish.

Marchesi de’ Frescobaldi, the leading wine producer of Tuscany and one of the most historic and respected wine companies in the world, combines centuries of tradition with progressive winemaking techniques and practices. Founded in the 14th century and a supplier of wines to the royal courts of Europe for generations, Marchesi de’ Frescobaldi is still a family-owned company today. Comprised of nine distinct estates totaling approximately 1,100 hectares, Marchesi de’ Frescobaldi produces wines utilizing only the grapes grown in its own vineyards. The company continually upgrades and modernizes its grape growing and winemaking operations, maintaining a relentless focus on producing unique wines that express the individuality of each unique terroir from which they are produced

Disclosure

TENUTA FRESCOBALDI DI CASTIGLIONI 2009
DENOMINATION: Toscana, IGT
GENERAL INFORMATION: The rich Tenuta Frescobaldi di Castiglioni, this estate’s iconic wine, is
clearly in a modern key, but holds fast to the qualities of its local terroir. The labels of the bottles
prior to the 2009 vintage presented the caption as “Tenuta di Castiglioni”
VINTAGE REPORT The balance sheet is strikingly positive, particularly regarding the outstanding
quality level of the fruit harvested. Spring 2009, as was the case in previous years, brought endless
rainstorms, which severely tested the vineyard staff as they labored to balance vine growth and
control pests, but the rain at the same time built up groundwater reserves. June and July, however,
brought light levels of rain, which reversed the slowdown in vine growth and brought forward the
ripening stage. The vines were thus able to perform at their best, and the grapes ripened slightly
early compared to the previous years. September’s cool nights and warm, sunny days ensured that
this demanding grape variety ripened perfectly and yielded wines of remarkable quality. Favourable
growing conditions made it possible to bring into the cellars optimally-ripened grapes with good
acid levels and complex aromatics.
TERROIR AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
TECHNICAL INFORMATION TASTING NOTES
VARIETY: 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc, 10%
Sangiovese
YIELD/HECTARE: 40 hl/ha (2,342 tons/Acres)
HARVEST PERIOD: Beginning of October
VINEYARD PRACTICES: Manual
FERMENTATION VATS: Inox
FERMENTATION TEMPERATURE: 28°C (86° Fahrenheit)
ALCOHOL BY VOLUME: 13,5%
LENGTH OF FERMENTATION: 10 days
LENGTH OF MACERATION ON THE SKINS: 12 days
MALOLACTIC FERMENTATION: Immediately after the alcoholic fermentation
MATURATION METHOD: Barriques
LENGTH OF MATURATION: 12 months in barriques and 2 months in bottle
BOTTLE FORMATS: 0,75 lt., 1,5 lt., 3 lt.
Tenuta di Castiglioni’s deep, opaque ruby-red, rimmed in
purple, intrigues the eye. The nose is marked by
appealing, fragrant fruit, with deep draughts of
dark-fleshed fruit, such as wild blackberry, black cherry,
plum, and strawberry, which shade into toastier notes of
cocoa powder, roast espresso bean, tobacco leaf, vanilla,
and cinnamon. Impressively full-bodied, the palate shows
pleasurably warm, smooth, and well-rounded. Its tangy
acidity and noble tannins, already well integrated into the
structure, contribute to its exemplary balance. Subtle fruit
enlivens a lengthy, long-lingering finish.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS Ideal with game such as hare
and boar, with roasted or sautéed beef, roast of pork, as
well as with full-flavoured cheeses.
ESTATE AND VINEYARD LOCATION: Tenuta di Castiglioni, Comune di Montespertoli
ALTITUDE: From 200 to 250 m (From 656 to 820 feet)
VINEYARD SIZE: 130 Ha (321 Acres)
EXPOSURE: South-west
SOIL TYPE: Clay-limestone
5.500 viti/ha
TRAINING SYSTEM: Spur pruned cordon
VINEYARD AVERAGE AGE: 12 years
2007 Copyright Marchesi de’Frescobaldi
info@frescobaldi.it
www.frescobaldi.it
Marchesi de’ Frescobaldi
Via S.Spirito 11 50125 – Firenze
tel: +39 055 27141
AWARDS
Luca Maroni 90 points
2008
The Wine Advocate 90 points
2007
2007 Copyright Marchesi de’Frescobaldi
info@frescobaldi.it
www.frescobaldi.it
Marchesi de’ Frescobaldi
Via S.Spirito 11 50125 – Firenze
tel: +39 055 27141

AbouMarchesi de’ t Frescobaldi – http://www.frescobaldi.it

4 Noteworthy Petite Sirahs

punchin — Sun, 25 Mar 2012 16:44:39 +0000

Here Are 4 Petite Sirahs (Some Not So Petite). All Delicious and Unique.

MICHAEL DAVID

WINERY

Petite Petit
2009 I Petite Sirah
Petit Verdot

Like elephants whose size is imposing, Petite Petit is large!
A blend of 85 Petite Sirah and 15 Petit Verdot.
Offering a joyous explosion of color and fun, it is a
substantial, dense, full-bodied, whopper style of wine
loaded with pure black fruit and vanilla flavors that coat the
palate. It reveals remarkable richness with a finish that is
slightly dry and seems to linger.
Technical Data:
T.A.: 0.57
pH: 3.56
Ale.: 14.5
Winemakers: Adam Mettler
Derek Devries
Composition:
85 Petite Sirah
15 Petit Verdot
Bottled: March 29th, 2011
Time in barrel:
18 months in French oak

With a blend of 85 Petite Sirah, 15 Petit Verdot this huge wine is with a SRP of $18

will knock you over with its intensity and power, yet woo you with it complex tannins, subtle acid and affinity to hearty stews, BBQ and cheese.
Lodi, California
www.MichaelDavid http://michaeldavidwinery.comWinery.com

CONCANNON.
www.concannonvincyard.com
PETITE SIRAH
Tech Data
Appellation: Livermore Valley
Case Production: 1) 1 00
Aging: 17 months in French
and American oak barrels
Alcohol: 15.0

Residual Sugar: 0.06g/100ml
Titratable Acidity: 0.64g/100ml
pH: 3.64
Release Date: Spring 2011
Suggested Retail: $30.00
Available: Tasting Room
& Online

2008
Captain Joe’s
Petite Sirah
RESERVE, LIVERMORE VALLEY
Vineyard Notes

Captain Joe’s Petite Sirah honors founder James
Concannon’s son, affectionately known as Captain Joe
because of his service in the First Cavalry. Every year Captain
Joe produced special wines that were shared only at the family
dining table, and this wine is a tribute to his tradition.This
Petite Sirah is composed from four estate vineyards; favorites
of their winemaking team for their consistent quality and
fruit-forwardness.
Winemaker Notes

The 2008 Captain Joe’s Petite Sirah, Reserve is an artful
expression of this unique varietal. Aromas of nutmeg and
clove, this wine is soft with a creamy mid-palate of blueberry
pie and blackberry finishing velvety, smoky, and long. While
ready to drink now, age-worthy wine can be held for upwards
of six years.
Suggested Pairings
Meatballs with smoky
eggplant puree

In the day, Concannon was synonymous with Petite Sirah. Now, with loads of competitors, it remains one of the most dependable. We plan to do a comparative tasting of all their Sirahs in the future.

Disclosure

MICHAEL DAVID

EARTHQUAKE
2009 Petite Sirah
Over the top and shattering to the veins, all varietals under the
Earthquake label are Michael and David’s reserve level wines.
These wines posses major concentration and daring flavor with
only a limited production offered each year.

The original is the Earthquake Zin that comes from an old Lodi vineyard planted
around the time of San Francisco’s great Earthquake in 1906.
While mulling over a label name in the vineyard, Michael
Phillips thought it only seemed fitting to relate this intense
wine with the historical quake. With over 15% alcohol and
bold tannins, these dark and voluminous wines will definitely
leave your senses quivering.

Big, juicy, in your face, and ultimately a fine, bold wine full
of intense black olive tapenade, chocolate, and tobacco, with
a tannic, peppery finish, a nod to its 19 months spent in
French oak.
Technical Data:
T.A.: 0.59
pH: 3.60
Alc.: 15.5
Winemakers: Adam Mettler
Derek Devries
Composition:
Petite Sirah blended
with a bit of Cabemet
Sauvignon
Bottled: May 18th, 2011
Time in barrel:
19 months in French oak
SRP: $26

www.MichaelDavidWinery.com

McCay Cellars

2008 Petite Sirah / $26.00 750ml Bottle
100 Petite Sirah; Bruella Rd Vineyard

http://mccaycellars.com/index.php

Grown in Lodi Sandy Loam soil this vineyard is located in the North/East corner of the Lodi/AVA. .

Winemaker Notes:
”I have been farming this field for the past 15 years, which
has given me the chance to understand the fields nuances.
This vineyard is typically grown to 4.5 tons per acre. This is
the only vineyard we harvest fruit from on a trellis (vertical).
Tasting Notes: Plum and Berry are present and up front in
this 2008 vintage that is 100 Petite Sirah. Wonderful notes
of Plum, Blackberry, Cherry and Prune are.found through
out the palate range. A round and balanced wine with soft
tannins makes this Petite Sirah a foodie wine for any table. “

Appellation: Lodi; Harvest Date: 10/5/2008; Harvest Brix:
25.1; Alcohol: 15.7
pH: 3.61; ; Residual Sugar: Dry;
Cooperage: 28 months in 100 French Oak Barrels, 24
New; 37 second & third fill; balance neutral
Bottling Date: 2/25/2011; Production: 113 cases;
Winemaker: Michael J McCay
Gold Medal 2011 California State Fair Wine
Competition, 93pts
Gold Medal 2011 L A International Wine Competition, 93pts
Gold Medal 2011 Consumer Wine Awards

Rich, ripe fruit and balance. Great with game.

Liked it a lot!

Rodney Strong Is The Name To Remember For Affordable Wines of Dependable Quality

punchin — Sat, 24 Mar 2012 18:48:04 +0000

Here’s a red duo you’ll like. Both different; both delightful.

2009 Rodney Strong Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon ($17.00)

WINEMAKER     Rick Sayre
ALCOHOL     13.5 .
TA     0.58gm/100ml
PH     3.66
APPELLATION     Sonoma County
CELLAR & FERMENTATION 20 months in oak, 85 American, 15 French

HISTORY
Over thirty years ago Rod Strong observed that the cool, foggy nights that
regularly enshrouded the winery, though crucial in the ripening process of
fine pinot noir and chardonnay, were less than ideal for growing cabernet
sauvignon. For that, Rod would have to look north, to the Alexander Valley,
where the days are warmer and the strong influence of the cool Pacific
Ocean is diminished. Today they farm their estate vineyards of prime cabernet
sauvignon in the well-drained alluvial, volcanic, and uplifted shale/sandstone
soils on the benches and hillsides of the celebrated Alexander Valley.

IN THE VINEYARDS

For the third year in a row, the 2009 vintage started off with a dry spring,
which typically produces smaller clusters, smaller berries, and less canopy
overall. Spring was mild enough to ward off frost this year, and vines
affected from the previous year seemed to rebound. The main growing
season was cool to warm and without incident. Picking commenced toward the end of September, and all of the cabernet was harvested by November 3rd.

The final blend was RODNEY STRONG
2009 CABERNET SAUVIGNON
SONOMA COUNTY
82 cabernet sauvignon, blended
with merlot and cabernet franc for
roundness and additional complexity.

TASTING NOTES
Aromas of blackberry, cocoa, and
currant lead to a rich, layered
mouthfeel, replete with black cherry,
cedar, and cassis, and structured
with lush, mature tannins. Enjoy this
seductive cabernet sauvignon now
and over the next several years.
2009 VINTAGE

A perfect steak wine!!

Click Here For Their Website

2009 Rodney Strong Estate, Knotty Vines Zinfandel ($18.50)

Disclosure

ESTATE VINEYARDS
2009

WINEMAKER     Rick Sayre
ALCOHOL     15.0
TA     0.56gm/100ml
PH     3.75
APPELLATION     Northern Sonoma
CELLAR & FERMENTATION     16 months in French and American oak barrels

HISTORY
Zinfandel vines have been thriving in Sonoma County during the last three
centuries. When Rod Strong first acquired benchland acreage on the west side
of the Russian River, he wisely chose to leave untouched the 15 acres of old,
gnarled zinfandel vines that had been growing there since 1904. Today they still
harvest zinfandel from those same old vines, along with a handful of vineyards
they farm to the north in the Alexander Valley.

IN THE VINEYARDS
For the third year in a row, the 2009 vintage started off with a dry spring, which
typically produces smaller clusters, smaller berries, and less canopy overall.
Spring was mild enough to ward off frost this year, and vines affected from the
previous year seemed to rebound. The main growing season was cool to warm
and without incident. Picking commenced in the middle of September, and all
of their zinfandel was harvested by October 17th.
2009 KNOTTY VINES ZINFANDEL
ESTATE VINEYARDS

TASTING NOTES
Fresh, bright berry fruit from their heritage
Russian River vineyard combined with the ripe
peppery jamminess from their Alexander Valley
vineyards make for wonderful diversity of flavor
showcasing the best that zinfandel can offer in
one wine. Aging [or 16 months in French and
American oak enhances the zinfandel’s inherent
spicy qualities, while the ebullient fruit of this
medium rich wine suggests enjoyment over the
next 2 to 4 years.

This wine is made for full flavored cheeses.

Pinot Gris Quartette, By Oregon in A Major

punchin — Sun, 11 Mar 2012 17:03:16 +0000

We love Pinot Gris, whether they come from Italy as the Pinot Grigio, Alsace, California, or arguably best of all, Oregon.

Here are four delightful choices, all priced in the affordable range and all sprightly, fresh and delicious.

The Soloists

AIRLIE
2009 PINOT GRIS

David Hill
VINEYARDS & WINERY

2010 ESTATE PINOT GRIS
Willamette Valley, OR

OAK KNOLL

2009 PINOT GRIS
WILLAMETTE VALLEY

2010 Pinot Gris – TERRAPIN CELLARS

Beginning with the

AIRLIE
2009 PINOT GRIS

Harvest Notes:
While 2009 was an average year in total degree
ripening days the large swings in temperature
from week to week combined with timely rains
to balance those periodic heat spikes kept th vineyard on
its toes in the vineyard. Decisions regarding
leaf pulling and spraying were critical to give the
vines their best chance as getting the fruit ripe.
Picking dates were also important as we had a
keep an eye on potential rains while taking
advantage of any warm days. The grapes were
handpicked on October 11 th & and
processed the same day.

The vineyards are certified sustainable by
Salmon Safe and LIVE (Low Input Viticulture
and Enology). The vineyards are hand cultivated
allowing us to respond to individual vine needs.

Winemaking:
The fruit was gently de-stemmed directly into the press to minimize skin contact. Pressing decisions are done by taste and both lots were stopped at just over 1 bar of pressure in order to minimize potential phenolics. After 3 days of settling the juice was racked off its lees and inoculated. Fermentation temperatures were kept at 55° to 58°F and lasted about 6 weeks allowing both lots to go to dry. The two lots were blended and bottled in early April 2010.

Tasting Notes:
Tropical fruit flavors and hints of lime combine with a creamy mid-palate and crisp finish to bring you a versatile food companion. This wine goes well with chicken or seafood in an Alfredo sauce or with creamy soft cheeses.

Wine Information:
Harvest Sugar: 21.2Q Brix
Alcohol: 13.3
pH: 3.43
Titratable Acidity: 5.5 g/L
Residual Sugar: 0.3
Malolactic: No
Number of Cases: 926

Vineyard Information:
Appellation: Willamette Valley
Vineyard Sources:
Dunn Forest (Estate) grafted 1995 (77)

BeckenRidge grafted 1997 (23)
Harvest Dates:
Dunn Forest: October 17th
BeckenRidge: October 11th

Airlie Winery

15305 Dunn Forest Road, Monmouth, Oregon 97361
Phone: 503-838-6013 Fax: 503-838-6279
www.airliewinery.comairlie@airliewinery.com

PINOT GRIS
2009

Suggested Retail: $14

Disclosure

David Hill
VINEYARDS & WINERY

2010 ESTATE PINOT GRIS
Willamette Valley, OR
This year the Gris was harvested on two different dates ten days apart. The two sections of Pinot Gris were processed in separate tanks with two unique yeast strains. One of the lots was fermented dry while the other was left with a hint of sweetness. The two lots of wine were eventually blended and finished before bottling. The fresh aromas of citrus and tropical fruit compliment the refreshing palate.

Lovely with all seafood or just to sip. The most expensive of the group, and worth the extra $2.

Brix at harvest: 22.5 and 25_1
R.S.: 0.8
TA: 0.72 g/100ml
pH: 3.34
Alcohol: 12.9
Cases bottled: 368 cases
Date Bottled: 03/09/11
Retail Price: $16.00
46350 David Hill Road I PO Box 366 I Forest Grove, Oregon 97116 I 503.992.8545
Toll Free 877.992.8545 I Fax: 503.992.8586
www.davidhillwinery.com I Email : davidhill.winery@verizon.net

OAK KNOLL

2009 PINOT GRIS
WILLAMETTE VALLEY

GROWING SEASON:
A forecasted warm and dry
harvest period gave way to cooler
than expected conditions in late
September and early October.
Fortunately the majority of the fruit
statewide was at or near its ripening
plateau.

There was record long hang
time this year. The fruit was deeply
ripe, and because of a three day late
September heat spike, sugars got
quite high. The wines are in balance,
though. The lush, ripe wines will be
received quite enthusiastically, if the
past is any guide.

There is a personality to each vintage,
a pedigree made of weather and
terroir, that is both intellectually and
hedonistically interesting. This vintage
is similar to 2002, when we had good
weather during harvest and lots of
fruit. Flavors are mineral accented,
with no real overripe characters. With
site differences, we brought in fruit
that was bright and acid driven. It was
also rich and broad-palated fruit from
warm or lower-yielding sites. Three
weeks prior to harvest, we had one
inch of rain over a weekend, followed
by several warm days near 90 with
drying winds. Concerns of the effects
of desiccation/shriveling have given
way to fresh fruit aromatics, with an
emphasis on the high notes. Wines
appear very balanced in their alcohol
and acidity levels. Color is in a normal
range, neither light nor intensely dark.

2009 PINOT GRIS
WILLAMETTE VALLEY
Vineyards: Sheppard, Dion,
Mason Ridge, Wirtz, Cloud Rest,
and Hauer of the Daun
Fermentation:
Malo-lactic:
Oak Ageing:
Total Acidity:
PH:
Residual Sugar:
Alcohol :
Production:
none
none
.56
3.31
.82
13.73
5,476 cases

They ended up with that rare
combination of excellent
quality and quantity. Hang time
was long, sugars were high,
especially toward the end. This
is a magnificently captivating
wine- comely, gregarious, and
very intriguing. Overall quality
should be superb. This year was
characterized by big berries, a
year of the winemaker, not the
vineyard. As harvest approached
there was cooler weather, more
normal temperatures. The result
was brix levels higher
than normal but plenty of
hang time to reach full maturity
without excessive alcohol in most
varieties.
TASTING NOTES:
The wine bursts from the glass
with intense fruit aromas.
Irresistible fruit flavors are
supported by an elegantly rich
texture and a surprisingly crisp
finish.

Oak Knoll Winery is one of
Oregon’s oldest wineries,
producing fine wines since 1970.
www.oakknollwinery.com

2010 Pinot Gris – TERRAPIN CELLARS

The grapes come from three vineyards near Salem, Oregon in the Willamette Valley AVA. The fruit is whole cluster pressed and fermented at cool temperatures to preserve the aromas that the pinot gris grape has to offer. The wine did not go through malo-lactic fermentation. The 2010 growing season was
perfect for growing pinot gris. It was cooler than normal so the grapes were able to spend more time ripening, developing a complex flavor profile beautifully balanced between fruit, lively acidity and a moderate alcohol level. the grapes were harvested between 10/20/10 and 10/27/10. Bottled 4/14/11,
1,300 cases produced. Anticipated release date 5/20/11
Ale. = 12.6, pH = 3.14, TA = 6.8g/L, R.S. = .7

Tasting notes:
Soft and round aromas of tropical fruit and me on followed by peach flavors on t e front of the palate
giving way to lively acidity and a long lingering finish.
Suggested retail per bottle – $14.00
Owner/Winemaker – Rob Clare 503 871-9526
www.terrapincellarswine.com

Pinot Gris Quartette, By Oregon in A Major

punchin — Sun, 11 Mar 2012 17:03:16 +0000

We love Pinot Gris, whether they come from Italy as the Pinot Grigio, Alsace, California, or arguably best of all, Oregon.

Here are four delightful choices, all priced in the affordable range and all sprightly, fresh and delicious.

The Soloists

AIRLIE
2009 PINOT GRIS

David Hill
VINEYARDS & WINERY

2010 ESTATE PINOT GRIS
Willamette Valley, OR

OAK KNOLL

2009 PINOT GRIS
WILLAMETTE VALLEY

2010 Pinot Gris – TERRAPIN CELLARS

Beginning with the

AIRLIE
2009 PINOT GRIS

The vineyards are certified sustainable by
Salmon Safe and LIVE (Low Input Viticulture
and Enology). The vineyards are hand cultivated
allowing us to respond to individual vine needs.

Wine Information:
Harvest Sugar: 21.2Q Brix
Alcohol: 13.3
pH: 3.43
Titratable Acidity: 5.5 g/L
Residual Sugar: 0.3
Malolactic: No
Number of Cases: 926

Vineyard Information:
Appellation: Willamette Valley
Vineyard Sources:
Dunn Forest (Estate) grafted 1995 (77)

BeckenRidge grafted 1997 (23)
Harvest Dates:
Dunn Forest: October 17th
BeckenRidge: October 11th

Airlie Winery

15305 Dunn Forest Road, Monmouth, Oregon 97361
Phone: 503-838-6013 Fax: 503-838-6279
www.airliewinery.comairlie@airliewinery.com

PINOT GRIS
2009

Suggested Retail: $14

Disclosure

David Hill
VINEYARDS & WINERY

Lovely with all seafood or just to sip. The most expensive of the group, and worth the extra $2.

OAK KNOLL

2009 PINOT GRIS
WILLAMETTE VALLEY

Oak Knoll Winery is one of
Oregon’s oldest wineries,
producing fine wines since 1970.
www.oakknollwinery.com

2010 Pinot Gris – TERRAPIN CELLARS

Ivana Wines Win Awards.

punchin — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 23:57:55 +0000

The first word that pops out of your mouth, when it comes to wine, may not be “Ivana,” but don’t tell the wine-world. The legendary lady, who only needs a fist name to be recognized, launched her new collection late 2011 to accolades from the press and wine critics alike, in events gliding from her New York town house to Palm Beach wine venues.

Follow the links below to her personal website: http://www.ivanawine.com/

and the website where the wines can be purchased online. http://www.ivanatrump.com/Press.html

Madam Trump “is limiting her own drinking to St. Tropez,, where she spend half the year.”

Disclosure

Ivana Wines win Silver Medal at Norwoods Wine Tasting held in early November and will be featured at the Awards Tasting on Friday, December 2! .