Rochioli Chard/Papapietro-Perry Pinot

 

 

Rochioli Chardonnay/Papapietro-Perry Pinot Noir

 

A Mixed (6) Case of Rochioli Chardonnay and Papapietro Perry Single-Vineyard Pinot Noirs - $310.00

 

The 2007 Rochioli Vineyards Russian River Valley Estate Chardonnay has been released.  Recently, the 2006 Papapietro Perry Single Vineyard Pinots were reviewed by the Pinot Report (an exclusively Pinot Noir publication) receiving scores of "92", "93" and "94".  The wines have also earned "90" and above ratings in the Wine Spectator. The 2007 Rochioli Chardonnay is a stunning wine.  We can offer a mixed 6-Bottle case of: 3-2007 Rochioli Chardonnay and one each of the 2006 Papapietro Perry "Peters", "Leras" and "Elsbree" Pinot Noirs.

 

*2007 Rochioli Vineyards Russian River Valley Estate Chardonnay.  The RR Valley bottling is a blend of the Rochioli vineyard properties including Sweetwater, Riverblock and Mid-40.  Due to the superb quality of the site designate fruit, Tom Rochioli was able to make more of his single-vineyard Chardonnays from 2007 (resulting in a smaller-than-usual production of the Russian River wine).  All of the Single-Vineyard wines are exclusively available to Rochioli's mailing list clientele (currently, there's a five year waiting period for inclusion) making the opportunity to score 3 jars of this 2007 Estate even more magical.

 

*"94"/RC...The Rochioli Estate Chardonnay is one of the finest white wines made on earth.  The 2007 may be Tom's finest effort to date.  Tasting with Barbara (Rochioli's local ambassador) yesterday afternoon I was immediately impressed by the wine's clear, golden/straw color, delicate odors of Golden Delicious apple, pear, citrus and caramel; the flavors mirror the nose adding hazelnuts, butter, roasted grains, tropical fruit and vanilla.  The oak is beautifully integrated and the finish is rich and long.  I can confidently state that this wine is superior to the fabulous 2006, and that is quite an accomplishment.

 

Having just been released, the 2007 has yet to receive any ink from the respected wine journals.  Here are a few reviews of the 2006 as a point of reference. 

 

*"91" Wine Spectator..."Starts with subtle smoky pear, fig and citrus; builds complexity, picking up rich mineral, marshmallow and light hazelnut flavors; elegant and stylish; drink now through 2011".

 

*"92" Parker..."Zesty, smoky hazelnut scents interwoven with notes of orange marmalade, lemon oil and brioche emerge form this medium-bodied, richly textured, pure effort.  Will drink well for 4-6 years"

 

*"90" Tanzer..."Light bright gold; fresh tangerine and spiced apple on the nose with a smoky quality adding depth; expansive orchard and citrus fruit flavors offer palate-staining concentration and focus...finishes with admirable lift and cut".

 

In 1980, Ben Papapietro became a "garagiest" winemaker producing a small amount of Pinot Noir from purchased grapes (literally) in his garage in San Francisco.  Over the course of the following decade, Ben secured handshake contracts for small lots of fruit from several of Sonoma Counties finest growers and worked on perfecting his personal style of winemaking.  In 1998, he and his longtime friend, Bruce Perry took the plunge and produced their first 75-case bottling of wine under the Papapietro-Perry label.  We first introduced you to their "Peters Vineyard" back in 2001.   Since that time Ben and Bruce have expanded to produce additional vineyard designate wines from Leras Family, Mukaida and Elsbree properties as well as Sonoma Coast and Russian River appellation bottlings.  Papapietro Perry is now considered one of the top Pinot Noir producers in California.  The wines are strictly allocated.  

 

*Papapietro Perry "Leras Family Vineyard" Pinot Noir..."94 Points" Pinot Report..."Medium ruby color; spicy, red cherry, orange rind aromas; rich, ripe, deep and complex red cherry, spice and orange rind flavors; silky texture, touch of tannin; good structure and balance; long finish.  Deep, complex and delicious, this is a Pinot that tastes great now but will improve significantly in the glass and the bottle"

 

*Papapietro Perry "Peters Vineyard"..."91" Wine Spectator..."This delicious Pinot is smooth, rich and fleshy, with complex layers of plum, black cherry and red raspberry flavors that are fresh, vibrant and cleansing, repeating the fruity themes on the finish.  Drink now through 2011".

 

*Papapietro Perry "Elsbree Vineyard"..."93" Pinot Report..."Medium ruby color; complex dark cherry aromas with earthy notes; deep, rich black cherry, pastry spice and color nuances; good structure and balance, long, fruit-driven finish; drink now through 2011"

 

Wow.  What a great box of wine.  Three bottles of one of the finest Chardonnays made in the United States coupled with three stunning and age-able Pinot Noirs from one of the "hottest" (relatively) new producers in California!  This is a very good price, the Rochioli Chardonnay is selling for as much as $72.00 on various internet web sites (The WS and Parker both rate the wine based on $50.00 retail).

 

You could pay as much as $378.00 for this collection elsewhere.  Our price $310.00

 

   

 

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Amazing Find:'06 Brut Bubbly

 

 

Amazing Find: 2006 Brut Bubbly for $160/Case!

 

2006 Naveran Brut Blanc de Blanc...this is a Parkerized, Methode Champenoise-made sparkler of incredible quality, and given its price of $160/Case of 12, it is a crazy Bargain.

 

Economists have forecast 9 out of the last 5 recessions...

 

There's an old saying in our business that goes something like this: "Wine sales are not dictated by the complexion of the economy because people buy wine to celebrate and people buy wine to commiserate, but either way...people buy wine".   I can tell you that there IS SOME truth to the above adage, but recently (like today) the bargain hunters have been driving hard to the net looking for quality, varietal wines that won't cause buyer's remorse or P.O. one's significant other when the CC statement arrives in the mail.

 

The ability to adjust to the requirements of one's clientele is crucial in survival during these trying times.  This thought brings me to today's discovery.

 

That is correct sir!  A Vintage dated (2006), 100% Estate-Grown, Cork Finished Blanc de Blanc Brut made from 50% Xarello ("The more Xarello, the better the wine" -Spanish Sparkling Wine Expert dude). 

 

A very impressive package featuring a tasteful, vintage, Jeles Cheret inspired painting of a woman in a big, feathery hat staring intently into your eyes as you pick up the bottle.

 

Parker says "88 Points"... "The Vintage Brut Blanc de Blanc (a term obviously has a different connotation in Espan~a as in France it would have to be 100% Chardonnay) is a crisp, chalky sparkler that should drink well for 1-2 years."

 

*"90 Points"/RC...Bright, crisp fruit flavors of citrus, Gravenstein apple and minerals; super-clean with laser-beam focus and a long, enticing finish; amazing value given that this wine is estate-grown and made in the costly and labor-intensive Methode Champenoise process rather than bulk Charmat or transfer.  How can they do it for the price?

 

*2006 Naveran Blanc de Blanc Brut $160.00/Case  

 

        The wine will be in the shop on Wed of next week

 

 

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The Phantom Creeps Into View Every Fall

 

 

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The Phantom creeps into view every Fall

 

Bogle's Crazy-Popular "Phantom" has been released. $210/CS

 

Fall in wine country is heralded by the thunderous sound of metal grape bins bouncing through the local vineyards at the crack of dawn. The warm afternoons, cool nights and muted light remind us that the planet is steadily moving away from the sun, and folks begin rummaging through the dark end of their closets for the sweaters and jackets which have hung dormant the last few months.  There's an unmistakable chill in the morning air and hints of Halloween begin to pop up around town...which brings me to the topic of today's offer; another sure sign that Autumn has arrived is the annual release of Bogle's "Phantom".

 

Allocated? Yes.  Expensive? No.

 

The Bogle family produces the Phantom (a blend of Zinfandel, Petite Sirah and Mourvedre) in honor of their heritage (when you're given lemons, yada yada yada), as Webster's defines a Bogle as: bogle ogl n. [Scots, perhaps from Welsh] A goblin; a specter; a bogy, boggart or bugbear; a phantom.

 

In a parallel universe (and with a name like Root) we once thought about making Root Beer, but that's another movie.

 

"THE TIME IS HERE TO START LOOKING OVER YOUR SHOULDER..."

Three varietals combine lush berry and fierce spice into a wine characterized by its incandescence.  Brighter fruit and brighter spice highlight the 2005 vintage of the deep ruby apparition.  Aromas of plums and cherries are embraced by touches of fresh-cracked peppercorns.  From the deep, dark depths come subtle notes of anise, juniper and vanilla to compliment the concentrated fruit characteristics of this wine.  The Phantom was imprisoned in a combination of new and neutral small oak barrels and showcases the finest traits of each distinct varietal employed in its formulation.

 

I've got the subterranean homesick blues... 

 

Although the wine is delicious if opened tonight, a little age in the bottle will integrate the three components into a homogenized brew of magical delight.  Those Bogles are Boogies alright, and should you invite this wine into your kitchen or parlor don't be shocked if a ghost or two show up demanding a glass along with a plate of something savory and rib-sticking to help them ward off the chilly confines of their subterranean refuge.

 

No one knows (The Shadow do) but it's still a shade of true... (Leon Russell, "The Ballad of Mad Dogs and Englishmen")

 

Bogle Family Winery has consistently been included in the Spectator's annual "Top 20 Value Wineries" edition, Food & Wine Magazine's "American Wine Awards" competition, Wine Enthusiasts "Best Value wines in the U.S." and over 60 medals in major wine competitions throughout the country.

 

Owooooooooo!!!! Very Scary! ...Owooooooooooo!!

 

The Phantom rarely hangs around past Thanksgiving (although it pairs beautifully with the traditional Turkey and fixins'...why do we say fixins'?)  and at $210.00/Case of 12, this years version (2005 was an excellent vintage in Bogle's neck o' the woods) will likely put on Harry Potter's inviso-cape and disappear in a flash of acrid gunpowder, flash paper and theatrical flourish.  So Hurry!!! Don't be left out! 

 

But Wait, There's More!!

 

Be one of the first 50 to respond to this offer and receive, absolutely FREE, an official, arrestingly beautiful, blue and gold "Root's Cellar Picnic Corkscrew" to keep in your glove box, purse or beanie!   Our gift to you for marshalling the courage necessary to pull of this vinous séance and beckon the Phantom into your dungeon.  2005 Phantom: Case of 12 - $210.00

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Tues Super Saver...'07 TuTu PG

 

 

 

 

2007 Tutu Pinot Grigio: A Yummy CAL-ITAL Hybrid

 

Famed Cal-Ital winemaker Rob Lawson has crafted an absolute Killer 2007 P-G that rocks the foundation of some of Italy's most noted and (far more expensive) examples made from the same, luscious grape. $150.00 Case of 12.

 

A friend of ours who co-owns a brokerage which features one of the most eclectic and sought after wine portfolios in California (that is NO BS) stopped by last Friday with a bottle of outrageously delicious 2007 Tutu Pinot Grigio.  We've been fielding requests for this wine for months now as the 2006 vintage sold out late last spring.  If you liked that wine, you'll LOVE the 2007!

 

Tutu is a hybrid of the better of two worlds sporting classic California flavors of nectarine, peach, Queen Ann cherries and river stones combined with the traditional Italian characteristics of citrus, mineral and flint.

 

This, my friends is a PERFECT Indian summer wine to serve on the back deck.  It is a delicious and refreshing thirst quencher (only 13% alcohol); it will also serve you well after the sun goes down with any lighter grilled meats, Chef's salads, quiche, starters or all by itself.   

 

"Rob Lawson says: My Tutu (named after the frilly skirt worn by Ballet dancers) consists of 100% PG grapes that are whole cluster pressed and held on their skins for several hours to extract aromatic and flavor intensity.  The wine is then stainless steel tank fermented and aged "sur lies" for three months.  No ML is employed in order to preserve the fresh, crisp flavors and pure aromatics.  Grapes are harvested at different brix levels to maintain acidity and maximize flavor and structure".

 

Parker says "This cuvee is a top-notch bargain from California...Attractive nectarine and fruit aromas suggestive of ripe apple skins jump from the glass of this medium-bodied, dry, crisp, fruity white.

 

2007 Tutu Pinot Grigio...Case of 12 $150.00         

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

Quick and Easy..."93" Pt Gigondas

 

 

 

I predict “93” Points/Highly Recommended-WS

 

A (6) Case of the 2005 Perrin & Fils “La Gille” Gigondas $162.00

 

This one’s another strong candidate for the “Top 100 Wines of 2008” list...

 

Gazing into the magical & mystical future vision provided by my annual subscription to the Wine Spectator’s September 30th “Sneak Preview for the trade” issue my peepers lock onto the top three (Highly Recommended) wines of the issue.  The first scores “94” points ($62), the second matches the first with “94” ($65) while the third, the 2005 Perrin et Fils Gigondas “La Gille” nails a “93” with a price-point of less than half at $27.

 

The wine is also top rated by Parker and Tanzer...

 

Gigondas is a small village in France’s Rhone River Valley.  This quaint artist colony lies between Vacqueyras and Sablet at the bottom of the Dentelles de Montmirail mountains and can trace its history to the Roman times with extensive tangible proof laying around the place like polished battle axes, goofy hats and bronze-age furniture (which isn’t very comfortable to sit on).  The 11th century Saint Catherine’s church, with its central clock tower flanked by the campanile belfry and old sundial are well photographed icons of Gigondas as are the ruins of the Castle of the Princes of Orange.  Apparently, the little town is “run amok” with modern sculpture crafted by self-appointed artists from both Europe and the “New World”.

 

Nothing rhymes with Orange...

 

Gigondas was a “Seigneurie” of the principality of Orange and to the north of the village, on the road up to the Dentelles Montmirail; the ancient Chappelle Sts-Come-ET-Damien extends up out of the forest on a hilltop, giving an added, eerie medieval feeling to the area.  I think they filmed that wacked-out Roman Polanski-Johnny Depp movie “The Ninth Gate” around Gigondas which is a nightmare inducing, spooky and extremely weird flick.

 

What about the wine?

 

Perrin’s 10.5 hectares (26 acres) Gigondas Vineyards are leased and managed by the Beaucastel team.  The vineyards lay 15 kliks to the west of the town of Orange, between the Dentelles and the River Ouveze, a tributary of the Rhone.  There’s also an old half acre of pre-phylloxera vines harvested separately.  Perrin’s Gigondas “La Gille” 2005 is 80% Grenache and 20% Syrah.  The juice receives its extraction and complexity through multiple daily pump-overs rather than punch-downs.  Perrin describes the wine as “deep in color with a velvety aspect; the nose is reminiscent of red fruit jams with a mineral and earthy tone; generous and powerful, robust and distinguished with firm, integrated tannins.”

 

The Spectator says “93 Points/Highly Recommended...Dark and smoky, with alluring cocoa powder, mesquite and bacon fat notes leading the way for rich black currant, melted licorice and espresso.  The long, smoldering finish shows a nice wild side.  Impressive now but better with some cellaring.  Grenache and Syrah; now-2014”.

 

Parker agrees...”90 Points...Perrin ET Fils also produces two cuvees of Gigondas.  Their basic cuvee, which is close to 100% Grenache aged in both tank and foudres, is called “La Gille”.  The 2005 offers plenty of kirsch liqueur, licorice and crushed rocks and has an elegant minerality, medium body and a Burgundian-like flavor and aromatic profile.”

 

As does Tanzer...”89 Points...Bright red; smoky raspberry and strawberry on the nose, with a wild component of cured meat; bitter cherry and ripe red berry flavors are complicated by Garrigue and pepper notes.  Finishes with chewy tannins and a cherry pit flavor.”

 

2005 Perrin & Sons Gigondas “La Gille” $162.00/Case of 6      

Pahlmeyer Jayson Allocations

 

 

 

Pahlmeyer Jayson allocations/no price increase

 

A 6 or 12 Bottle Case (2 or 4 bottles each) of Jayson Pahlmeyer's stunning "Jayson" 2005 Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir, his 2006 Napa Chardonnay and the already legendary 2005 Napa Valley Red Wine, $320/Case of 6, $610/Case of 12

 

All of Pahlmeyer's vinous efforts have earned international recognition due to his "full-throttle, macro extraction" winemaking philosophy and execution.  Because the Pahlmeyer Napa Proprietary Red, Merlot and Chardonnay are so highly allocated and expensive, he decided to produce a second tier of wines made from "declassified" lots originally intended for his premium package as well as fruit grown on some of Napa Valley, the Russian River and Sonoma Coast's finest properties.  Made in the same, intensely rich style as his pricy efforts, the "Jayson" trio is roughly half the price of the Pahlmeyer line yet often receives remarkably similar kudos.       

 

Jayson Pahlmeyer approaches winemaking in a way that is at once both time-worn and cutting edge.  The grapes are picked at high Brix (sugar level) and once destemmed and crushed, brought through primary and malolactic fermentation in small lots, which softens tannins and magnifies fruit flavors.  The chardonnays undergo barrel fermentation in 100% French oak.  The wine is then aged on the lees for over 12 months and in bottled unfined & unfiltered (think Kistler). 

 

Don't forget that the first release of Opus One was labeled "Napa Valley Red Wine" (which caused a lot of debate)...it is a technical description which avoids bowing to the "Meritage Society" requirements

 

The Jayson "Red" (Think Opus One/Insignia etc) is a declassification of the wine originally intended for the Pahlmeyer proprietary red.  Made from a blend of 73% Merlot, 19% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Cab Franc, 1.5% Petit Verdot and .5% Malbec, the '05 offers toasty oak, tobacco, tar, graphite and earthy notes blended with spice, cherry, red berry and dark fruit flavors in a vibrant and complex package.  The finish is long and persistent.  Erin does not grow or seek out fruit in order to produce wine for the Jayson label.  The '05 was harvested and vinified in the same manner as the proprietary red and the Merlot; the whole berry fruit came from hand-picked lots and fermented in short, open-topped stainless steel tanks and cold soaked, using native yeasts. The wine then finished fermentation in 80% new French oak barrels and was bottled unfined/unfiltered.

 

A little bit of Helen in every bottle or Erin's wines

 

The Pinot Noir fares from Pahlmeyer's Estate vineyard out on the wild and wind-whipped Sonoma Coast (a couple five-irons from both Marcassin and Flowers) as well as a few neighboring properties.  (The Mighty Russian River flows into the Pacific literally at the base of the hill one descends when departing Pahlmeyer vineyards) .Pahlmeyer's wines are made by the extremely talented  Erin Green (who also served as Helen Turley's protégé at Martinelli in her previous life).  Erin likes to say her job allows her to "have fun being serious" about making the Pahlmeyer wines. 

 

The 2005 "Jayson" Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir is also a "declassification" of the Pahlmeyer Pinot Noir.  After a meticulous selection process in assembling the final blend of the Pahlmeyer wine.  Erin Green goes through the remaining lots and determines which, if any, are good enough to bottle under the Jayson label.  Erin describes the wine as having a nose of cherries and rich earth, with blackberry and elegant tannins on the palate; the wine has a long and complex finish with touches of plum and spice with a long and elegant finish.

 

The PinotFile (our friend, Rusty Gaffney) describes the '05 Jayson as "a sexy nose of dark cherries, blackberries, mushrooms and earth; the flavors mimic the aromas with an added spice and woodsy influence in the background.  After 4 hours, a little spice comes forth in the nose and a hint of root beer enlivens the flavors; the tannins are well concealed and the alcohol is well-integrated; no question this is a broad-shouldered middleweight Pinot with a core of fruit but it dances softly on the palate".    

 

All of Pahlmeyer's wines are "Pedal to the Metal"

 

Over time, Pahlmeyer has nurtured relations with growers willing to acknowledge revolutionary Viticultural practices to aid his pursuit of creating powerful wines.  Both Erin and Jayson work with growers to implement radical growing techniques including severe crop thinning and strict canopy management.  By creating an environment for balanced growth, Pahlmeyer can harvest ultra-ripe fruit without disrupting the levels of acid and pH.  The result is wine with INTENSE concentration and finesse.

 

"Industrial Strength" wine with polish and panache.

 

Erin describes the style as "going for the optimum in all stages of the winemaking process...starting with the physiological ripeness of the fruit at harvest, barrel selection, striving for supple (as opposed to angular) tannins and finally blending for maximum flavor, body, dimension and texture.

 

The topic of "product placement" occasionally comes up in discussions within the wine community.  An example involves a scene played rather convincingly by Demi Moore and Michael Douglas in the film "Disclosure".  The libation which aids in Ms. Moore's successful seduction of POOR, poor Michael was Pahlmeyer Chardonnay.  Although Jayson was reluctant to donate a couple cases of the wine prior to the filming, he said that his ultimate decision to do so paid of handsomely.  "I'd made 400 cases of that wine...after the movie came out I could have sold 400,000".    

 

The 2006 Pahlmeyer "Jayson" Chardonnay is a straw-golden color in the glass and offers a nose of tropical fruit, apricot, peach and creme brulee.  The palate is fresh and bright with flavors of ripe pear, orange blossoms, caramel, vanilla and toast.  The finish is crisp and lingers long after the last sip.

 

"90" Wine Spectator..."Elegant, complex, focused and concentrated with smoky fig, hazelnut, nutmeg and cedary oak flavors of ripe pear, orange blossoms, caramel, vanilla and toast.  The finish is crisp and lingers long after the last sip".

 

I can't stress the importance of your rapid response to this offer.  The wines are selling like hotcakes from Pahlmeyer's W.Coast distributor...and there are just so many cases available.

 

Case of 6, 2 each of Napa Red, Chardonnay and  SO-Coast Pinot Noir...$320.00

 

Case of 12, 4 bottles of each wine...$610.00

 

 

This message was sent from Root's Cellar to rebecca@rootscellar.com. It was sent from: Root's Cellar, 1401 E Grove Street , Healdsburg, CA 95448. You can modify/update your subscription via the link below.

 

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Super Saturday-Wholesale 4 Delicious Malbec Rose

 

 

Pay Wholesale for Delicious ‘07 Malbec Rose'

 

"Los Cardos" ‘07 Carnation-Pink Malbec Rose' $95/Cs of 12

 

Wow! The quality/value ratio on dry Rose' has hit an unprecedented level.  Never, in my near 40 year (so called) career in the wine business have I see such a fabulous cornucopia of lusciously sexy pinks!  Here's another one that costs very little yet delivers refreshing, complex fruit flavors by the bucket. 

 

While Malbec has long been known as one of the principal contributing varieties in the great blends of Bordeaux, it has also become the signature grape of Argentina.  The vineyards which provide the fruit for the Los Cardos Rose' are located in the foothills of the Andes and are considered some of the most beautiful in the world.  The grapes are all hand-harvested and vinified sans a splinter of wood to muck up the bright and crisp flavors of strawberry, watermelon and creamy cherry custard.

 

Los Cardos means "thistles" - flowers known for their intense and surprisingly vivid color.  In the Mendoza region their presence is a symbol of excellent terroir.

 

The wine is beautifully packaged and a stone-lock bargain at $95.00/Case    

 

This message was sent from Root's Cellar to paul@rootscellar.com. It was sent from: Root's Cellar, 1401 E Grove Street , Healdsburg, CA 95448. You can modify/update your subscription via the link below.

 

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Thurs Last Call-"94"PT Aalto Mags

 

 

A Rare Magnum Opportunity... "94" RP, "93" ST

 

A 2-Pack of the magnificent and Parkerized ("94 Points), Tanzerized ("93 Points") 2004 Bodegas Aalto "Aalto" MAGNUMS for $290...a $30 savings off suggested price of $320.

 

The Bodegas Aalto is one of Spain's greatest red wines which is often compared to classified-growth Bordeaux... 

 

I think Tempranillo is one of the world's must under-appreciated grape varieties. It shouldn't be.  Wines made from this heat-loving grape possess some of the finest qualities of its vinous cousins.  Tempranillo (Tinto) has the aging power of Bordeaux or top-notch Napa Cabernet, the juicy, fruit-driven complexion of Zinfandel, the muscle, color and bite of Syrah and (when allowed to age) can develop the soft, silky and sensuous traits of Burgundy/Pinot Noir.

 

The Aalto is only made in great vintages from hand-harvest fruit carefully selected from the properties finest rows...2004 receives "95" Points in Parker ("The finest, extraordinary") and "96" in the Spectator "Powerful and balanced with deep, pure fruit"

 

Called "Tinto Fino" in the Ribera del Duero region of Spain, this wine drinks beautifully today but will surely age well beyond 2030 (in Magnum format, it's a fact that larger volume bottles age at a slower pace).  Buy this one for your own dining pleasure but keep in mind that it would make a great 21st Birthday gift for any little knee crunchers you happen to know who were born in '04.

 

Like much of Spain, Ribera del Duero has a long history of winemaking.  As far back as 2K years ago there is strong evidence of grape growing and winemaking by those pesky Romans.  As early as the 16th century, the region began to establish rules governing varietals and quality levels.  Located northwest of Madrid, the region is based around the Duero river which unites over 100 small villages and covers 115 kliks of vineyard land along the riverbanks and further north and south.

 

Mariano Garcia designed and commissioned the 15,000 liter stainless-steel fermentation tanks.  The original conical shape of the tanks comes from the guy's desire to control and maneuver the cap during "remouage".  Each vineyard is harvested, vinified and aged separately prior to blending and bottling.  The wines are then bottled sans filtration. 

 

*100% Tinto Fino from 60 year old vines

*Aged in 100% NEW French oak for 18 months

 

The personality of Ribera wines is displayed in their muscular structure and integrated but obvious tannins.  Often compared to classified growth Bordeaux for their deep, textured and multi-dimensional character and tremendous age-ability, the best examples (such as the Aalto) are full-bodied yet retain a powerful fruit driven and food-friendly nature.

 

*"94" Robert Parker..."The 2004 Aalto reveals pain grille (toast!), pencil lead, wild blueberry, black raspberry and blackberry liqueur notes.  Opulent on the palate, it has layer upon layer of ripe fruit and superb length but is still an infant developmentally.  Give this top-flight effort 6-8 years to further evolve and drink it through 2032."

 

*"93" Stephen Tanzer..."Deep ruby; smoky red berry aromas offer striking precision and lift; floral and mineral qualities appear with air, adding a seductive character.  Racy and bright in the mouth, displaying an impressive array of concentrated red fruit flavors with gentle tannins contributing shape; finishes with impressive cut and persistence.  Very suave stuff"

 

"90" Wine Spectator..."This red has plenty of depth, with blackberry, color mineral and floral notes lurking under firm tannins which frame the dense texture.  Rich and intense.  Drink now through 2014".

 

This is a wonderful opportunity to purchase a couple jars of extraordinary wine in Magnum (1.5 liter = 2 bottles) format.  In cases involving super-premium, small production wines, Magnums are not priced proportionately to their 750 ML little brothers and sisters because most winery's bottling lines do not adapt to the 1.5 liter size vessel, hence they often have to be (essentially) hand filled.  It's a pain and very time consuming which explains their price.  In this case however, there are 40 bottles left on the west coast and we have committed to most of them providing us a discount which we're passing on to you.  Parker gives the wine a "94" point rating based on a $80 price for the 750 ml.  Your price for two Magnums of the 2004 Aalto Aalto is $290.00    

 

 

 

 

 

 

This message was sent from Root's Cellar to rebecca@rootscellar.com. It was sent from: Root's Cellar, 1401 E Grove Street , Healdsburg, CA 95448. You can modify/update your subscription via the link below.

 

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The Penny-Pinching Connoisseur Has Arrived!

 

 

 

The Penny-Pinching Connoisseur Has Arrived!

 

$135.00 buys you a box of Domaine Lafage Cotes du Roussillon "Cote Sud"...a wine which Robert Parker describes as "A Mind Boggling Value" and "90 Points".

 

Think of this one as our Saturday Super Saver...on Thursday It's the last of the stock and it'll be here on Friday. Stop by and grab some or let me know when to ship.

 

This too, shall pass...

 

We're hardly unaware of the current status of the economy (Oy, are we not unaware!), however we also know that people are not going to deprive themselves of  life's simple pleasures...they're just going to "adjust" their buying habits a bit in order to compensate.  I'm proud to say that we've always been a good source of disproportionately high-quality/low priced wines and in today's financial climate the deals out there in the wholesale wine world have NEVER been better.   We're going to take full advantage of this situation and double our efforts to bring you really great stuff at prices that won't rattle your teeth or curl your toes.  Today's offer is a good example of that which I quack...   

 

A "90 Point" red that retails for $11 Bucks n'change...

 

Jean-Marc Lafage is one of the most sought-after winemakers in Europe.  Lafage lends his expertise to several top estates in both France and Spain (He makes the world-famous Las Rocas Grenache for Eric Solomon's European Cellars) however his finest efforts emerge from his estate in the hills of the Roussillon. 

 

Caesar Slept Here...

 

The Cotes du Roussillon is one of the oldest Viticultural regions in France with many vineyard sites displaying evidence of cultivation by the Romans.  With some of the most dramatic topography in Europe, many of the zones are composed of extremely steep hillsides.  Much of the vineyard land looks more like that of Priorato in Spain than it does that of France.  The area of French Catalonia still possesses many cultural remnants of being part of the Catalan region including local language, cuisine and art.  Winemaking and Viticultural practices have undergone a renaissance in the last decade bringing this ancient land up to speed in comparison to the rest of central Europe. 

 

Like much of the Roussillon, the vineyards of Lafage are at high altitude and many are on steeply terraced vineyards.  The reds are grown well inland on hillsides replete with schist, red clay and gneiss.  Nearly all of the parcels are quite remote and some are only accessible by tractor or 4X4 vehicle.  Many of these parcels are steeply terraced with retaining walls, requiring regular maintenance and reinforcement due to extensive erosion during the winter months.

 

"The wine takes on an aura of unreality when one sees the price!"

 

All of Lafarge's varietals come from different sites in the eastern and central Roussillon and are vinified separately before blending.  The reds often exhibit a mineral component as Jean-Marc avoids over-extraction, preferring the fruit to take center stage.  Yields are amazingly low for wines at this price-point and all are bottled unfiltered.

 

"A Mind-Boggling Value"....-Parker

 

"90 Points"..."Jean Marc Lafage and his importer are rendering a huge service to consumers with several cuvees that represent outstanding values.  Among the reds, Lafage has scored a MIND BOGGLING VALUE with his 80% Syrah-based (10% each Grenache and Cabernet) 2005 Cote Sud.  Intense aromas of plum paste, cherry and herbs lead into a richly-fruited, deeply mineral, dynamic palate with layering and inter play of black chocolate, lavender, licorice, cherry preserves, singed meat, salts and iodine.  A wine this rich and complex and with a finish this long takes in an aura of unreality when one sees the price!  Even alongside "introductory-level" wines as amazing as Lafage's, those of his more expensive cuvees that I had occasion to taste (both from high-altitude vines in the south of Roussillon) do not have to fear comparison, and should be capable of improving for several years". -Parker

 

The Cote Sud ("South Slope") is a perfect Summer red as it pairs beautifully with grilled meats, Pastas, pizzas, Italian cold cuts on baguette and medium-bodied cheeses.

 

*Full (12 Bottle) Case of Lafage Cote Sud - $135.00

 

 

 

 

This message was sent from Root's Cellar to paul@rootscellar.com. It was sent from: Root's Cellar, 1401 E Grove Street , Healdsburg, CA 95448. You can modify/update your subscription via the link below.

 

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Wed Quick and Easy Recession Buster

 

 

 

DiBruno, Sea Smoke & 3-degrees of Separation

 

This one's a real Recession Buster!

 

Pay WHOLESALE for a case of Bright, Refreshing, Juicy and Delicious 2006 DiBruno Pinot Grigio from former Sanford winemaker Bruno D'Alfonso.  Winery price $261...Your Price-$175!

 

It's not that great of a stretch even without Kevin Bacon...

 

Bruno D'Alfonso makes the delicious 2006 "DiBruno" Pinot Grigio.   Kris Curran makes her eponymous "Curran" wines and up until last January made all vintages of the fabled Sea Smoke Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays.  Kris is (recently) married to Bruno and both of their labels can be tasted at "Trio" tasting room (along with Bruno's "Badge" Pinot Noir...otherwise it'd be "Duo"...Doh!) Hence DiBruno Pinot Grigio is related to Sea Smoke via Bruno's longtime love interest and recent bride, Kris Curran.

 

If Sea Smoke had made a Pinot Grigio...?

 

In the hands of someone less talented or less committed to producing traditionally Italianate varietals, Pinot Grigio can be a bit dull and devoid of character.    This is hardly the case with Bruno D'Alfonso, as the man takes his craft extremely seriously and is committed to producing a Grigio jammed with the classic characteristics common to the most expensive and paragon examples of the old country.

 

Bruno's 2006 sports a complex nose of fresh-cut hay, lively citrus and sweet herbs.  Flavors of bright orange, grapefruit and lemon cream are framed by a hint of honeysuckle and zingy, ripe, chilled Thompson Seedless plus a pinch of vanilla.  The finish is amazing!  So crisp and refreshing yet with a serious spread of fruit flavors lingering on the tongue.

 

You Watcha you Mouth!

 

There's a famous Pinot Grigio that boasts of being one of the most ubiquitous Italian whites available on restaurant wine lists nation-wide (if you know who I mean and I think you do).  This stuff will blow that mediocre, gazillion-case production, absurdly expensive import out of the Mediterranean Zuppa.

 

The printed WHOLESALE price on the DiBruno PG is $174.00/case (which makes the Suggested Retail $261.00, no trade secret there) YOUR PRICE $175.00/Case of 12.    

 

This message was sent from Root's Cellar to paul@rootscellar.com. It was sent from: Root's Cellar, 1401 E Grove Street , Healdsburg, CA 95448. You can modify/update your subscription via the link below.

 

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