Hollywood VIne

This week we visit 3 different continents.

  MAN Vintners began with three friends and an idea: to make a wine that they would love to buy. Good quality, excellent value, and cool packaging. “Keeping peace in the family, we took the initials of our wives. So that is how they explained to Marie, Anette, and Nicky that “ we were going to be busy most weekends. It’s for you! we told them”. Neil Ellis has his winery in the gorgeous Jonkershoek Valley, South Africa. All of his wines reflect attention to detail and a commitment to quality, but to find a wine like the Sincerely at this price point is a rare thing these days. In his “hommage” to Sancerre (Sancerrely?) Neil blends fruit from multiple vineyards located in the wards of Groenekloof and Stellenbosch, with an average age of 12 years and up to 22, and soils of decomposed granite and some clay.

  From Modesto, California; inspired by the “Apotheca,” a mysterious place where wine was blended and stored in 13th century Europe, Apothic Red it’s a great bottle for the fruit first wine lover.

  Beaucastel and its subsidiary wines marketed under the Perrin et Fils moniker are consistently among the bright shining stars of the Rhone Valley in France. Brothers Jean-Pierre and Francois Perrin have an incredible respect for the vineyards, a conscientious, uncompromising work ethic, and extraordinary passion for gentle handling of fruit from their sites, at the same time the Perrins are remarkably flexible if they sense that quality can be improved. The Perrins continue their tradition of innovation through Tablas Creek, founded in conjunction with their longtime importer Robert Haas. They make several trips a year to California, and are actively involved in Tablas Creek’s winemaking, viticulture and management; The partners imported the traditional varietals grown on the Perrins’ celebrated estate, including Mourvèdre, Grenache Noir, Syrah, and Counoise for reds. The vineyards and winery are on a 120-acre property in the hills north and west of Paso Robles which received its organic certification in January 2003.

HOLLYWOOD VINE WINE TASTING!

Tuesday September 7^th, 2010

6:00-9:00 pm

No charge for tastings

MAN VINTNERS CHENIN BLANC, 2009

Chenin Blanc, 100% from dry-land, bush vines in Perdeberg region of Paarl, South Africa.This wine has a unique delicious tangy character , it has tropical fruit, guava and melon aromas, crisp and bold sweet citrus backed by refreshing acidity and minerality characteristic of the coastal vineyards.

BTG $ 4.75                            Retail $9.99

NEIL ELLIS SINCERILY SAUVIGNON BLANC, 2009

Predominant flavors are those of tropical fruit with herbaceous overtones, whilet the overall impression is of elegance and delicacy with a long flavorsome finish.

“This is an altogether refreshing summertime white wine for a song.” -Jim Chanteloup

 Pale, cloudy yellow. Pungently fruity aromas of pink grapefruit, peach and pear. Juicy, pure and brisk, with very good density of fruit for village wine. Finishes with pineapple and grapefruit notes and enticing lingering perfumeBTG $ 5.50                             Retail $13.99

APOTHIC RED WINEMAKER’S BLEND, 2008

Syrah 40%, Merlot 40 %, Zinfandel 20%.

The 2008 Apothic Red reveals intense fruit aromas and flavors of rhubarb and black cherry that are complimented by hints of mocha, chocolate, brown spice and vanilla. The plush, velvety mouth-feel and smooth finish round out this intriguing, full-bodied red blend.

BTG $ 5.25                             Retail $11.99

PERRIN CÔTE DU RHÔNE RÉSERVE, 2007

60% Grenache and the rest equal parts Syrah and Mourvedre.

The 2007 Cotes du Rhone Reserve red possesses beautiful crunchy, juicy, blackberry and cherry fruit as well as hints of underbrush, pepper, and black cherries. Medium-bodied and silky-textured; There’s a stony hint on the finish, which fills out nicely in the glass.

BTG $5.00                              Retail $10.99

TABLAS CREEK CÔTE DE TABLAS, 2008

The Tablas Creek Vineyard Côtes de Tablas is a blend of four estate-grown Rhône varietals: Grenache (42%), Syrah (21%), Counoise (20%) and Mourvèdre (17%). Like most wines of the Southern Rhône, it is a blend of varietals, featuring the fruit and spice of Grenache balanced by the spice and mineral of Syrah, the appealing briary wildness of Counoise, and the structure of Mourvèdre.

The 2008 Côtes de Tablas shows a juicy, vibrant, spicy nose with a little minty lift. Its flavors alternate between red raspberry and darker fruits, with refreshing acidity and a licorice-laced finish with gently lingering tannins.

BTG $ 9.50                                 Retail $25.99

REMEMBER BEER TASTING TOMORROW!!!

FRIDAY AUGUST 27^TH, 2010 FROM 7:00 PM TO 9:00 PM

  After twenty years at the helm of the Stimson Lane wine group (Chateau Ste. Michelle, Columbia Crest and other wineries), Allen Shoup retired to pursue a personal dream. For years he had envisioned a joint venture with highly acclaimed winemakers from different regions of the world. His goal was to bring their expertise to Washington to create some of the most special wines ever crafted from the region’s top vineyards; wines that would stand shoulder to shoulder with the world’s best and from them we’ll sample our first wine Poet’s Leap Riesling.

  The next two wines in our tasting come from  La Crema. Founded in 1979 quickly established itself as a pioneer for intensely flavored Chardonnay and Pinot Noir; it is owned by sisters Laura Jackson Giron and Jennifer Jackson and since 2001 winemaker Melissa Stackhouse has brought her passion for Burgundian style Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs The vineyards of Monterey are defined by persistent ocean winds, giving this region one of the longest, coolest growing seasons in California. 

  The unique conditions of Santa Barbara County let Kinton winery create Syrahs displaying both intensity and balance, overseeing all viticulture and winemaking Peter Fraser works twice as hard as most of his peers. Prior to joining Kinton in 2003, he worked in Austraila and his 2001 Yangarra Estate Shiraz and 2004 Cadenzia were both included in the 2003 Wine Spectator Top 100.

  The history of Freemark Abbey began in 1886, when Josephine Marlin Tychson became the first woman to build and operate a winery in California. In 1894 Josephine sold the winery to Nils Larsen, her foreman. In turn, Larsen leased the winery to Antonio Forni who called his new winery Lombarda Cellars years later, in 1939, three businessmen from Southern California, Albert “Abbey” Ahern, Charles Freeman and Markquand Foster purchased Lombarda Cellars. Together they reopened the winery and renamed it Freemark Abbey a combination which includes a portion of each partner’s name.

 HOLLYWOOD VINE WINE TASTING!

Tuesday August 31^st, 2010

6:00-9:00 pm

No charge for tastings

POET’S LEAP RIESLING, 2008

Inspired by the greatest wines of Germany and crafted by one of Germany’s most highly acclaimed Riesling producers, Armin Diel, proprietor of the renowned Schlossgut Diel is the vintner partner in the Long Shadows Vintners group responsible for this world class riesling.

“The Poet’s Leap Riesling continues its string of outstanding vintages, once again exceptionally concentrated and complex. The high-acid 2008 vintage adds extra juicy vibrancy to the fruit, giving the wine an impression of dryness (though it is a bit over 1% residual sugar) and a dense, layered fruit component. A mix of old vine and German clones, this is a superb effort. Editors’ Choice.” 94 Points- Wine Enthusiast

BTG $ 9.25                             Retail $24.99

LA CREMA CHARDONNAY MONTEREY, 2007

Exotic floral & bright tropical flavors over a rich, textured finish.

“The inaugural vintage of Monterey Chardonnay shows exotic floral and tropical fruit on the nose, punctuated

by appealing butterscotch, lemon peel and spice notes. The palate expands into bright peach, grilled

pineapple and honeysuckle with subtle toast and caramel adding richness and beautiful texture on the finish.”

Melissa Stackhouse, La Crema Winemaker

 Pale, cloudy yellow. Pungently fruity aromas of pink grapefruit, peach and pear. Juicy, pure and brisk, with very good density of fruit for village wine. Finishes with pineapple and grapefruit notes and enticing lingering perfumeBTG $ 7.50                             Retail $19.99

LA CREMA PINOT NOIR MONTEREY, 2008

The Pinot Noir for this release was selected primarily from cool vineyard sites on the wind-swept benchlands of Monterey. Predominantly sourced from the innovative Panorama vineyard located on a sloping bench in the Arroyo Seco appellation.

“In the glass, aromas of fresh strawberry and plum are immediately apparent, punctuated by hints of earth and sweet tobacco. The palate echoes the nose, with layered flavors of strawberry and plum joined by cocoa powder and espresso bean. A subtle earthiness leads to a fleshy mid-palate and a smooth, mineral-laced finish.”

Melissa Stackhouse, La Crema Winemaker

BTG $ 9.00                              Retail $23.99

KINTON SYRAH, 2006

100% Syrah from Santa Barbara County, aged 10 months on 90% French Oak, 10% American Oak 25% New.

“The 2006 is deep and concentrated with plum and dark berry, lifted with high notes of cherry, spiced with black pepper, and scented with hints of smoky dark chocolate.” – Winemaker Peter Fraser

Great Values from Around the World – Bruce Anderson, Wine Spectator February 2009

BTG $7.00                              Retail $18.99

FREEMARK ABBEY MERLOT, 2007

79% Merlot, 11.2% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8.9% Petite Verdot, .53% Petite Sirah , .23% Malbec, .14% Cabernet Franc. Aged 13.8 months in French and American oak, 40% new wood.

The color is deep, dark ruby with reddish hues, quite opaque. The aroma is rich in dark cherry, plum and boysenberry, with aromatic cedar, juniper berry, vanilla and milk chocolate. The palate has bright cherry fruit and Santa Rosa plum, which lingers with great balance of acidity and fruit. The tannins are very soft and velvety.

BTG $ 7.50                                 Retail $19.99

Beer is the world’s oldest and most widely consumed alcoholic beverage and the third most popular drink overall after water and tea. It has an amazing history that’s wrapped in culture and embraced by people who are passionate about brewing, selling, serving, and supporting it. All of this deserves that we don’t just drink the beer; instead, note the beer’s appearance, how it smells and tastes. Savor each beer. but most important remember it is a beverage that’s meant to be fun, enjoyed, and celebrated.

HOLLYWOOD VINE BEER TASTING!

Friday August 27^th, 2010

7:00-9:00 pm

No charge for tastings

STARR HILL LUCY 

Charlottesville, VA – a historic storefront on Main Street that was once home to the state of Virginia’s first craft brewing operation is also the home of Starr Hill Brewery Co. Starr Hill Lucy is a light English summer ale, spiced with ginger, lime, and coriander. It will remind you of warm summer nights on the beach.

Retail $2.75

REDHOOK ESB ALE

Redhook ESB is modeled after the premium Extra Special Bitters found in English pubs. Brewed since 1987, this full-bodied amber ale is Redhook’s signature brew with its toasted malt flavor and pleasant finishing sweetness. Its eminently drinkable style has established Redhook ESB as a benchmark brew in the amber ale category.

  2008 North American Beer Awards Gold Medal Winner

2009 Great American Beer Festival Gold Medal Winner

Retail $2.75

WIDMER BROTHERS DRIFTER PALE ALE

From Portland, Oregon Rob and Kurt Widmer dliver with its unique citrus character, smooth drinkability, and distinctive hop character, Drifter Pale Ale is truly an original. Brewed with generous amounts of Summit hops, a variety known for their intense citrus flavors and aromas, Drifter has a taste unique to the Pale Ale category. True to style, the bittering hops are perceptible enough to give the beer a crisp, clean, quenching finish, yet also soft enough to keep the beer smooth and balanced.

2006 Great American Beer Festival Silver Medal Winner

Retail $2.75

ESTRELLA DAMM

Estrella Damm is a Spanish pilsener. It has been brewed in Barcelona since 1876 and is the flagship beer of S.A. Damm, a prominent Barcelona brewery. “Estrella” means “Star” in both Spanish and Catalan.

Retail $2.75

ESTRELLA DAMM INEDIT

Inedit is the first beer specifically created to accompany food. It is born from the conviction that a beer that could be paired with the utmost respect to the best cuisine was necessary. That is its aim and its virtue, and that is what makes Inedit different, special and unique. Has been created by Damm brewmasters in Barcelona, Spain, heirs to a century-old tradition, and developers of highly appreciated beers, and by Ferran Adrià, Juli Soler and El Bulli’s sommeliers’ team.

High intensity and aromatic complexity. Its appearance is slightly cloudy. Fruity and floral to the nose, with a yeasty sensation and sweet spices reminiscences. Creamy and fresh texture, soft volume and delicate carbonic. Long aftertaste and pleasant memory.

Retail $15.00

20% off  on 1 bottle take out

35% off on a six-pack mix and match take out

Neil and Maria Empson have been selecting Italy’s finest wines for over thirty-six years. In February 2007, they were joined by their daughter, Tara Smeralda. Here is a sample of an amazing portfolio In the Sulcis side of Sardenia where an ancient civilization of farmers, fishermen and growers established; Cantina Sociale di Santadi was founded in 1960 and has become one of Italy’s premier wineries, responsible for the first and the last wine in this tasting; wines that succesfully capture the spirtit of the Esmerald Island speaking for its unique soil and accent. For the second wine we travel to the region of Campania where over 3000 years ago, on the lavic, mineral-rich slopes near Mount Massico and the volcano of Roccamonfina, Greek settlers reinvented viticulture, adjusting cultivation methods to the climate and soil of their adoptive home. Due East from Campania is the region of Apulia where the exciting Matané range promises to explore, enhance and export the richness and excellence of Salento viniculture in the original Empson spirit. No trip to Italy is complete without a visit to Tuscany where suspended between magic and mystic, fairytale and monastic quiet Egidio and Brianna Lorenzi welcome us to the Canonica (parsonage) first built around the year 1000 by the canonici or parsons of the Siena cathedral surrounded by luxuriant Turkey oaks (cerreto); in 2003 they built a winery entirely underground to preserve the aesthetics of the landscape and properly utilized the vineyards adjacents to the Castelnuovo Berardanga.

HOLLYWOOD VINE WINE TASTING!

Tuesday August 24^th, 2010

6:00-9:00 pm

No charge for tastings

SANTADI VILLA SOLAIS VERMENTINO DI SARDEGNA DOC, 2009

70 % Vermentino, 30% Nuragus, 100 % Stainles Steel

Brilliant straw yellow, with green and golden tinges. The Bouquet is fresh and pleasant. A nice fresh finish on the palate, together with an attractive mineral note.

BTG $ 5.25                             Retail $12.99

VILLA MATILDE GRECO DI TUFO DOCG, 2008

100% Greco varietal, 4 Months in Stainles Steel

Straw yellow, intense, persistent, appealing nose of white peach, apricots and sweet almonds on a mineral background melding into elegant, mellow complexity; rich, structured palate, fresh and characterful yet never aggressive, with abundant goût de terroir.

Pale, cloudy yellow. Pungently fruity aromas of pink grapefruit, peach and pear. Juicy, pure and brisk, with very good density of fruit for village wine. Finishes with pineapple and grapefruit notes and enticing lingering perfumeBTG $ 7.50                             Retail $19.99

90 Points Wine Spectator Issue June 30, 2010

CANONICA A CERETTO CHIANTI CLASSICO , 2004

Lots of vanilla, new wood and jammy fruit aromas and flavors lead to a full body, with velvety, soft-textured tannins and a long finish. This is a full-throttle Chianti Classico

BTG $ 10.00                              Retail $27.99

90 Points Wine Spectator Issue July 31, 2010

MATANÉ PRIMITIVO, 2008

When Neil, Maria and Tara tasted the silky, seductive, structured reds crafted by Filippo Baccalaro for Valentino Sciotti, the Matané project (from Maria, Tara & Neil) began to take shape. Matané Primitivo is very deep ruby red with violet reflections; fruity, spicy and intense bouquet with notes of plum, cherries, rosemary and vanilla. Full, mellow, well balanced.

BTG $5.00                              Retail $11.99

SHARDANA IGT, 2005

85% Carignano, 15% Shiraz; 10 to 12 months in barrique

Valli di Porto Pino “SHARDANA” IGT. One of the most fascinating details about SHARDANA resides in the seafront vines, some over 100 years old, many rare, pre-Phylloxera stock. Their roots grow in finely textured, wind-swept sand that naturally: 1. Makes it difficult for Phylloxera to deposit its eggs; and 2. When the parasite does attack the roots, producing small holes in them, these cavities are immediately filled up by grains of sand that “heal the wounds”, allowing the plant to thrive in spite of Phylloxera. Very intense, dark, deep ruby red a nose with ample and complex; black cherry fruit, leather and game are laced with subtle spice, vanilla, black pepper, dried flowers; well integrated in the mouth with oak and spices, smooth, silky texture and layered structure, balance and elegance.

BTG $ 12.00                                 Retail $32.99

94 points Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate # 189 -June, 2010

In this next tasting let’s toast and drink to Napa Valley; the heart and brain of the New World. California and Napa Valley wines are ready to please and indulge. With rich, exotic and intese fruit aromas and flavors; even spices show with vibrancy and a refreshing character.  Cheers!

HOLLYWOOD VINE WINE TASTING!

Tuesday August 17^th, 2010

6:00-9:00 pm

No charge for tastings

CHARLES KRUG SAUVIGNON BLANC, 2009

100 % Sauvignon Blanc, 100 % Stainles Steel

This harvest yielded fruit forward tropical notes of banana, pineapple and accents of lemon-lime. Pear nectar nuances and hints of peach skin ensure a smooth, balanced finish.

BTG $ 6.25                             Retail $15.99

NAPA CELLARS CHARDONNAY, 2008

100% French Oak, 1/3 New

The Napa Cellars 2008 Chardonnay opens with an assortment of rich aromas; melons and granny smith apples mingle with clove spiced oak and coconut. The palate showcases huge fruit flavors balanced by a layer of citrus acidity accentuating the long, polished finish.

Pale, cloudy yellow. Pungently fruity aromas of pink grapefruit, peach and pear. Juicy, pure and brisk, with very good density of fruit for village wine. Finishes with pineapple and grapefruit notes and enticing lingering perfumeBTG $ 7.75                             Retail $19.99

COSENTINO THE FRANC, 2007

The aromas come out immediately with ripe plum, cherry and clove. Plentiful ripe plum, black cherry and clove notes abound on the palate, followed by a welcome shot of tannin on the smooth finish.

BTG $ 7.00                              Retail $17.99

COSENTINO CIGARZIN, 2007

99% Zinfandel, 1% Sangiovese. Aged 8 months in American Oak; Unfined

Classic Cigarzin blend of exotic fruit and spice aromas. Pomegranate, rhubarb, red cherries, and cream flavors intermingle in a rich, concentrated style with spicy notes. Structured with a bright fruit tartness despite being big, rich, and mouthfilling throughout.

BTG $9.25                              Retail $23.99

VINE CLIFF ROCK BLOCK CABERNET SAUVIGNON, 2006

Vine Cliff is located in the Oakville appellation of the Napa Valley. It is managed according to the principles and practices of sustainable viticulture, with a renewed emphasis on natural farming. This has meant that no commercial pesticides, herbicides or artificial fertilizers have been used on the vines for more than a decade. Vine Cliff creates premium Napa Valley wines that capture the essence and magic of the region.

The limited release Vine Cliff Rock Block Cabernet has Dark fruit on the nose, blackcurrants, mint, and some roasted herbs, but much more veggie on the attack. Hints of spice and pepper combine with solid tannins for a satisfying, finish.

BTG $ 12.75                                 Retail $34.99

Sake is a Japanese alcoholic beverage made from rice. in Japanese, sake or o-sake refers to alcoholic drinks in general. The Japanese term for this specific beverage is Nihonshu  meaning “Japanese sake”. Carrie Becker from Selected Brands will be with us to help us understand the styles and nuisances of yamahai (sake brewing process) and tokutei meishō-shu (different kinds of sake).

HOLLYWOOD VINE SAKE TASTING!

FRIDAY, AUGUST 13TH , 2010

7:00-9:00 pm

No charge for tastings

CHIKURIN HANA HOU HOU SHU

Sparkling Junmai from the Marumoto Brewery in the prefecture of Okayama in the south of Japan it is light and flavorful infused with rose petals and hibiscus.

BTG $ 4.25 2oz                                  Retail $16.99 300ml

YUKIKAGE SNOWSHADOW TOKUBETSU JUNMAI

From Kinshihai Shuzo Brewery in the prefecture of Niigata this Tokubetsu junmai offers aromas of apples and marsipan; with a soft light body and very long finish.

BTG $ 4.00 2oz                                  Retail $ 25.99 720 ml

CHIKURIN KAROYAKA JUNMAI GINJO

Also known as “lightness” Karoyaka Junmai Ginjo is part of the Chikurin line of the Marumoto Sake Brewery Co in Okayama. This sake is easy to enjoy light with mild fruits and enough body to hold it together; pasteurized only once instead of the usual two times it retains great vibrancy and complexity to enjoy.

BTG $ 4.75 2 oz                                  Retail $19.99 300ml

KIMINOI EMPEROR’S WELL YAMAHAI JUNMAI GINJO

A prototypical Yamahai nose filled with earthy, gritty, ricey, shroomy, grainy elements with a waft of creme brulee. And yes the flavor matches the aroma as this deep and layered sake has a gamey attitude that is full and robust. Look for flavors such as rice and grains that blend into a gentle earthiness with a vein of vanilla.

BTG $ 4.50                                               Retail $18.99 300ml

TAKENAKA HIKOS MILKY JUNMAI NIGORI

Special Milky Junmai” distinguished sake made with Oumi Nihonbare rice BY Takenaka Brewery in Kog Shiga; Aromas of canteulope and hints of sweetness.

BTG $ 4.00                                               Retail $14.99 300ml

Napa, Oregon, Sonoma, Mendoza, Priorat; Wineries, Winemakers they all combine to create a festival of flavors in this next tasting.

Intense fruit flavors is the common denominator, from refreshing to rich will be the progression; and the fun is to appreciate the complexety on each and everyone of them.

HOLLYWOOD VINE WINE TASTING!

Tuesday August 10^th, 2010

6:00-9:00 pm

No charge for tastings

CAKEBREAD SAUVIGNON BLANC, 2008

90 % Sauvignon Blanc, 4% Sauvignon Musqué, an aromatic clone of Sauvignon Blanc, and 6% Sémillon

It displays a beautifully fragrant nose of ripe pomelo, Golden delicious apple, honeydew melon, lime and mineral, with little of the herbaceousness that sometimes characterizes the variety. On the fleshy, full-bodied palate, ripe melon, grapefruit, kiwi and lemon-lime flavors lead to a long, flavorful finish enlivened by bright mineral tones.

BTG $ 10.00                                  Retail $27.99

KING ESTATE ACROBAT PINOT NOIR, 2008

King Estate, celebrating 19 years of Oregon winemaking in 2010, is located southwest of Eugene, Oregon producing wines of exceptional quality using organic & sustainable farming methods  King Estate Acrobat Pinot Noir is bright garnet with ruby tint.  In the nose Sweet cherry, tobacco, earth, raspberry, oak,floral notes the mouthfeel  is silky and lively mid palate with Blueberry, dried cherry, chocolate, spice and a round finish.

Pale, cloudy yellow. Pungently fruity aromas of pink grapefruit, peach and pear. Juicy, pure and brisk, with very good density of fruit for village wine. Finishes with pineapple and grapefruit notes and enticing lingering perfumeBTG $ 8.50                                 Retail $21.99

VALLEY OF THE MOON ZINFANDEL, 2007

Located in the heart of Sonoma County Valley of the Moon Winery has been in operation since 1863. The Zinfandel 2007 is very nicely focused blackberry fruit filled out by notes of sweet spice and hints of blueberry pie start this full-bodied, balanced offering out in the right direction, and its somewhat fleshy, full and rich flavors keep it going.

BTG $ 5.25                                   Retail $12.99

MASI TUPUNGATO PASSO DOBLE, 2007

The 2007 Passo Doble is a blend of Malbec and Corvina (a grape found primarily in Italy’s Veneto) made in the Ripasso method. Purple-colored, the wine has an excellent bouquet of jammy black cherry and blackberry liqueur. Forward and easy going.

BTG $5.50                                  Retail $13.99

BODEGAS PINORD PRIORAT +7, 2006

D.O.C. Priorat made from Grenache, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah varietals. Dark deep red and highly presistent wine. The first impression is of the oak, blended with fruity bouquets that render it very refined and complex. Full and complex to the taste, smooth and balanced on the palate. A wine where lightly smoky and frankly pleasant fruit notes predominate.

92 Points-Wine Spectator –Issue November 30, 2009

BTG $ 12.00                                      Retail $32.99

Five varietals from five different regions, winemakers that capture the essence of the vineyard, the true characteristics of the varietals and are able to offer us great wines that set standards of quality.

HOLLYWOOD VINE WINE TASTING!

Tuesday July 27^th, 2010

6:00-9:00 pm

No charge for tastings

WALLACE BROOK PINOT GRIS, 2008

This Wallace Brook Cellars Willamette Valley Pinot gris (Adelsheim declassified excess fruit)embodies the crisp,bright flavors of true quality Oregon Pinot gris style. This wine is a blend of grapes from five vineyards in the Chehalem Mountains, Eola-Amity Hills, and Willamette Valley appellations of Oregon.

BTG $ 4.50                                  Retail $9.99

TALLEY ESTATE CHARDONNAY, 2008

Produced entirely from estate grown chardonnay grapes from the ArroyoGrande Valley, 85% Rincon Vineyard, 15% Rosemary’s Vineyard.

The 2008 Estate Chardonnay has slightly reticent aromas of citrus and grilled nuts. The flavors

feature layers of lemon, wet stone and spicy green apple with a complex and elegant finish. This is a

well balanced chardonnay

Pale, cloudy yellow. Pungently fruity aromas of pink grapefruit, peach and pear. Juicy, pure and brisk, with very good density of fruit for village wine. Finishes with pineapple and grapefruit notes and enticing lingering perfumeBTG $ 9.50                                 Retail $25.99

LOUIS-CLAUDE DESVIGNES MORGON COTES DE PY, 2007

Morgon is, along with Moulin-à-Vent, the most age worthy of the Cru Beaujolais and Desvignes wines are fine examples. Deep, bright red. Mineral-driven aromas of blood orange, raspberry and Asian spices, with a subtle floral note gaining power with air. Lush and creamy on entry but gains energy and tightens up with air, showing sweet red fruit flavors and very good mineral cut. Expands on the finish, leaving pure red berry and floral notes behind.

BTG $7.00                                         Retail $18.99

 90 Points Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar, November 2009

VIÑA COBOS MERLOT EL FELINO, 2008

Viña Cobos is the result of the partnership beteween Paul Hobbs from California and Andrea Marchiori and Luis Barraud from Argentina.The Felino Merlot is made with grapes from all over the region of Mendoza and represent the best qualities of the varietal with a deep red color and dark hues. On the palate, it displays and explossion of black cherries, plums and dried grass, with a velvet smooth structure; it has a pleasant, lingering finish.

BTG $8.50                                  Retail $21.99

ACENTO CABERNET SAUVIGNON, 2008

The fruit comes from the famous Beckstoffer Vineyard in Lake County, California and is made by a Napa super star, who understandably doesn’t publish his name on this wine. These are grapes that don’t make the $100.00 plus wines from the same vineyard. It’s  very fruit forward, bold and smooth. For you Cab lovers who are looking for great wine at every day prices, this is the one

BTG $ 6.00                                      Retail $15.99

We approach this tasting with climate in mind. The South of France , Rias Baixas, La Mancha and North California deliver a common gift; great wine. Hot Summers teach the vignerons to produce refreshing and complex wines full of  vibrant exhuberance. Lets explore and enjoy!

HOLLYWOOD VINE WINE TASTING!

Tuesday July 13^th, 2010

6:00-9:00 pm

No charge for tastings

ATMOSPHERE ROSE, 2009

25% Grenache, 15% Cinsault, 30% Syrah, 30 % Cabernet Sauvignon

An Assemblage of red varietals grown on the hillsides above the Mediterranean.

A pastel pink color, a nose of watermelon and pink grapefruit.

BTG $ 5.25                                 Retail $12.99

NORA ALBARIÑO, 2008

Bodegas Nora’s philosophy is to allow the Albariño grape to achieve maximum expression of its maturity which helps develop Nora’s signature crisp style full of melon and tropical fruit flavors.

Pale, cloudy yellow. Pungently fruity aromas of pink grapefruit, peach and pear. Juicy, pure and brisk, with very good density of fruit for village wine. Finishes with pineapple and grapefruit notes and enticing lingering perfumeBTG $ 7.50                                 Retail $19.99

VENTA LA OSSA TEMPRANILLO, 2006

Venta La Ossa comes from La Mancha, Spain, a region that has some of the lowest precipitation levels and, not surprisingly, some of the highest average summer temperatures. This helps make Venta La Ossa a very deep colored, complex wine. It’s 100% Tempranillo.

BTG $ 7.75                                  Retail $20.99

TRINITAS OLD VINES ZINFANDEL, 2006

87% Zinfandel, 8% Petite Sirah,  4% Mataro and 1% Alicante Bouschet

Near the Bay Area town of Oakley live some of California’s oldest vineyards. Planted as far back as 1890, these historic “old vines” produce low yields with concentrated flavors. This Zinfandel displays bright red fruit, raspberries, white pepper, cinnamon, smoke, and toast.

BTG $ 7.00                                        Retail $18.99

BENNET LANE TURN 4 CABERNET

This Napa Valley Cabernet opens with intense aromas of black fruit, bright cherry, & minerals. Background notes of cedar, sage and violets add to the complexity of the wine. On the palate the wine has good weight, with flavors of dark cherry, cocoa, and plums. The tannins are velvety and approachable, leading to a long, elegant, fruit driven finish.

BTG $ 9.25                                        Retail $24.99

Lets start July with refreshing clean flavors from Oregon and New Zealand; an elegant and stylish merlot from Washington State and a Cabernet Sauvignon and Zinfandel that teach us to appreciate exhuberance in fruit and balance in tannins.

HOLLYWOOD VINE WINE TASTING!

Tuesday July 6th, 2010

6:00-9:00 pm

No charge for tastings

EVOLUTION, LUCKY EDITION (SOMEWHERE BETEWEEN 12^th & 14^th)

“We felt that 13, with its historical negative connotation, wasn’t the right vibe for Evolution,” said Alison Sokol Blosser, Co-President of Sokol Blosser Winery (Dundee, Oregon). 

With over 40 white varietals to choose from, nine different grapes made the luck of the draw for Evolution’s unique blend: Pinot Gris, Müller-Thurgau, White Riesling, Semillon, Muscat Canelli, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay, and Sylvaner.  The Lucky Edition is inviting with aromas of jasmine, orange blossoms, complex spices and tropical fruit followed by an array of pear, peach, lychee, and honey flavors.

BTG $ 6.50                                  Retail $16.99

VILLA MARIA PRIVATE BIN SAUVIGNON BLANC, 2009

Fruit for this wine was sourced from vineyards across the Marlborough region. A blend of fruit grown in the Wairau and Awatere Valleys spanning a range of different meso-climates were incorporated; the grapes which were harvested at varying levels of ripeness over a five week period, provide for an array of flavours and blending options .This vibrant Sauvignon Blanc is bursting with a fruit-salad-bowl of flavours including ripe gooseberry, passionfruit, fresh citrus lime and exotic herbaceous aromas. The wine has an exciting palate with layers of juicy flavours, intensity and fullness, finishing with a refreshing crisp, clean and racy acidity.

Pale, cloudy yellow. Pungently fruity aromas of pink grapefruit, peach and pear. Juicy, pure and brisk, with very good density of fruit for village wine. Finishes with pineapple and grapefruit notes and enticing lingering perfumeBTG $ 5.25                                 Retail $12.99

COLUMBIA CREST MERLOT COLUMBIA VALLEY RESERVE, 2006

87% Merlot, 12% Cabernet Sauvignon, 1% Cabernet Franc aged in 70% new French oak and 30% American oak barrels for 25 months.

Intense aromas of blackberries lead to a soft, velvety palate of chocolate and dark berry flavors. This soft, yet powerful Merlot showcases excellent tannin structure integrated with delicate fruit flavors.

BTG $ 8.50                                  Retail $22.99

90 Points Wine Spectator Issue Feb.28, 2010

JOEL GOTT 815 BLEND CABERNET SAUVIGNON, 2008

Fruit is sourced from Napa Valley, the Mendocino coast, Paso Robles and Lake County. Together, these appellations create a balanced, structured wine with supple tannins, bright acidity and flavors of spicy red fruit and rich black fruit that are intensified by aromas of currants, cedar and black tea.

BTG $ 6.00                                        Retail $15.99

JOEL GOTT ZINFANDEL, 2008

Joel Gott Zinfandel is a rare red wine gem that has steadily built a following over its first 9 vintages. This Zinfandel is considered by some “the poor man’s Turley” because of its astonishing quality-to-price ratio.

The 2008 vintage is a blend of 96% Zinfandel, 3% Petite Sirah and 1% Alicante Bouchet, combining grapes from Napa, Sonoma, Lodi and Amador. The Lodi and Amador vineyards are old, dry-farmed, gnarly head-trained vines which produce concentrated fruit. Adding the depth of Napa Valley fruit and the spiciness from cool Sonoma grapes creates a blend that shows off the best of California Zinfandel. The wine is a deep ruby/purple in color with a vibrant nose of black raspberry, black cherry, plum, cola, tobacco and spicy oak. Medium/full in body, it is bright and assertive with soft tannins and bold flavors of black cherries, raspberries, plums, maple and spice. Aged for 10 months in 30% new American oak, 70% 2- and 4-year-old French oak barrels. Well structured and complex, it offers beautiful balance and a long, smooth finish.

BTG $ 6.00                                        Retail $15.99