Tag Archives: Bold Wine Style

October Collector’s Wine Club: Iowa

Posted on by

Collectors Wine ClubBarolo_Via_Nuova_DOCG_Wine_BottleE. Pira e Figli
Barolo Via Nuova DOCG 2018
Nebbiolo
Piedmont, Italy

BOLD WINE STYLE

This classic Barolo blend combines structure with elegance and complexity, emphasizing the particularities of each vineyard site. Though a bit timid when first opened, some time in the glass (or decanter) will reveal Via Nuova’s alluring ethereal floral and fruit perfumes. This wine is clear and lively garnet red in color. It is dry, savory and harmonious; soft in flavor but full with a lasting persistence due to the tannin.

Analysis: 14% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 100% Nebbiolo, certified organic grapes
Region: Piedmont, Italy
Vineyard: Terlo and Liste in Barolo, Ravera and Mosconi in Monforte d’Alba, and Gabutti and Baudana in Serralunga d’Alba
Yield: 450 kg/ha
Aging: Aging for 24 months in lightly toasted 30% new French oak barriques
Average age of vines: 30 years
Acidity: 6.37 g/L
Production: 4,500 bottles
Soil: Calcareous clay, Sant’Agata marl (sandstone)
Average Altitude: 340 m (1,115 feet) above sea level
Vinification: Fermentation in stainless steel tanks at controlled temperature with daily punch downs and pump-overs
Harvest: Mid-October
Cellar: E. Pira Chiara Boschis, Barolo
Bottling: Aged an additional 1 year in bottle
Release: Spring, 3.5 years after harvest
Critical Acclaim: 

  • James Suckling 94 pts. – 2018 vintage
  • Wine Advocate 94 pts. – 2018 vintage
  • Vinous Media 94 pts. – 2018 vintage
  • See previous vintage scores here.
Chiara_Boschis_E. Pira & Figli_Vineyard_and_winery

© Chiara Boschis, owner of E. Pira & Figli

WINEMAKER NOTES:
Via Nuova (New Road) was the name of a small vineyard on the edge of the historical center of Barolo, the name coming from its proximity to the road (new at that time) connecting Barolo to Novello. All that remains today of the road is a small walking path through the vineyards. The wine was produced as a single-vineyard Barolo for many years until, in 2010, this small Cru was incorporated into the larger Terlo subzone. And so, as a sort of homage to tradition, Barolo Via Nuova is now produced as a blend of 6 different vineyards: Terlo and Liste in Barolo, Ravera e Mosconi in Monforte d’Alba and Gabutti and Baudana in Serralunga d’Alba. – E. Pira e Figli

Barolo_Mosconi_DOCG_Wine_BottleCollectors Wine ClubE. Pira e Figli
Barolo Mosconi DOCG 2018
Nebbiolo
Piedmont, Italy

BOLD WINE STYLE

Garnet red in color, this wine is complimented by open perfumes of flowers and mature fruit with some spicy notes. This is a long-lasting wine of power and concentration with firm, velvety tannins.

Analysis: 14% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 100% Nebbiolo, certified organic grapes
Region: Piedmont, Italy
Vineyard: Mosconi (a single-vineyard property acquired in 2009) in Moforte d’Alba
Yield: 450 kg/ha
Aging: Aging for 24 months in lightly toasted 30% new French oak barriques
Average age of vines: 30 years
Acidity: 6.37 g/L
Production: 4,700 bottles
Soil: Calcareous clay marl soils from the tertiary period, with areas rich in calcium carbonate and iron
Average Altitude: 400 m (1,312 feet) above sea level
Vinification: Fermentation in stainless steel tanks at controlled temperature with daily punch downs and pump-overs
Harvest: Mid-October
Cellar: E. Pira Chiara Boschis, Barolo
Bottling: Aged an additional 1 year in bottle
Release: Spring, 3.5 years after harvest
Critical Acclaim: 

  • Wine Advocate 96 pts. – 2018 vintage
  • James Suckling 94 pts. – 2018 vintage
  • Vinous Media 94 pts. – 2018 vintage
  • See previous vintage scores here.

WINEMAKER NOTES:
The most recently acquired parcel, the famous Mosconi Cru in Monforte d’Alba was purchased in 2009. The vineyard’s particular heavy clay soil (in some areas calcium carbonate and iron give the soil a reddish-gray color) lends considerable structure to this wine, making it a Barolo ideal for aging. – E. Pira e Figli 

Chiara_Boschis_Barolo_Wine_Cellar

© Chiara Boschis, owner of E. Pira & Figli

ABOUT E. PIRA E FIGLI WINERY:

E. Pira e Figli is a key player in the history of Barolo. The Pira family, whose members have been vignerons since the seventeenth century, started producing and bottling wines by the 19th century, and received immediate praise for their work. 

In late 1980, the Pira lineage came to a tragic end with the death of the legendary, Luigi (Gigi) Pira (one of the last remaining winemakers to carry out the pressing on foot and the production without the support of any technical means). The estate was then sold to the Boschis family, who had deep family ties with the Pira family. By the end of the 1980’s, Chiara Boschis took the reins of the winery, becoming one of the first women producers in the Langhe. She quickly became a ‘Superwoman’ of the region with her daring and innovative decisions – garnering much acclaim from international publications.

Since 2010, Chiara has been joined by her brother, Giorgio, who shares her same great passion for work in the vineyard and in the cellar. Learn more about their story here.

Photos and Information © E. Pira e Figli – All Rights Reserved.

Donatella_Colombini_Rosso_di_Montalcino_Wine_BottleCollectors Wine ClubDonatella Cinelli Colombini
Rosso di Montalcino
Sangiovese
Tuscany, Italy

BOLD WINE STYLE

This wine is “Brunello’s younger and smiley brother”. Obtained from the same Sangiovese grapes and the same Montalcino area, but designed to be consumed sooner. This young red wine is very intense and brilliant ruby red in color. The nose is fine, rich, and well expressed; there are notes of ripe small red berries, spices and dark flowers, such as violets. The palate is full, harmonious and pleasant. The tannins are silky and well balanced by the richness of the fruit. The persistence is pleasant and lengthy.

Analysis: 14% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 100% Sangiovese
Serving: Serve at a temperature between 60.8ºF-64.4ºF, in a balloon shapes wine goblet. Those who wish to open and drink immediately will find it useful to use a decanter.
Food Pairing: Versatile and perfect for the table. Opt for important first courses, roasts, tasty cheeses and cold cuts. This wine requires food that is intense in taste, but not too fatty or greasy.
Critical Acclaim: 90-91/100 from some of the most prestigious international wine magazines 

ABOUT THE VINEYARDS:
The vineyards at Casato Prime Donne are cultivated following the organic regime and cover a total of 16 hectares, three of which are always designated to the production of Rosso di Montalcino. These vineyards are on the northern, and coolest, area of Montalcino, on a hill about 225 m. above sea level, where the soil is made up of clays and sea sands. Each vineyard is divided into 6 small parcels and contain about 5,000 vines per hectare. The grapes are cultivated with the spurred cordon method, and the average production is about 6 tons of grapes per hectare.

HARVEST AND VINIFICATION:
The grapes are harvested by hand between September 15th and October 10th (depending on the climate of the year). The clusters are chosen right in the vineyard and then the berries are selected on an automatic sorting table where two women work. Generally the grapes for Rosso di Montalcino arrive first and then those for the Brunello. To learn more about the vinification process, click here.

Donatella Cinelli Colombini_Women_Staff_Vineyard

© Photo from Donatella Cinelli Colombini

AGING:
After the racking/separation of the wine from the lees, the Rosso di Montalcino begins its aging in oak barrels around February. The oak barrels are chosen according to the characteristics of the vintage – from 5 to 40 hl in size – with or without toasting.  Duration of barrel aging also varies according to the wine, and can go for some months. As for home aging, aim for 3-4 years, and not much more. Keep the bottles lying down in a dark and cool place to keep the Rosso di Montalcino perfectly harmonious and pleasant, rich in taste with soft tannins and great finesse. 

ABOUT DONATELLA CINELLI COLOMBINI WINERY:

Donatella-Cinelli-Colombini-cantina-storica-Fattoria-del-Colle-640x640

© Owner, Donatella Cinelli Colombini

Born in 1953 to a family of producers of Brunello di Montalcino, Donatella Cinelli Colombini founded her own estate in 1998 comprising of Fattoria del Colle in Trequanda and Casato Prime Donne in Montalcino.

Casato Prime Donne is about a 40 hectare property on the northern slope of Montalcino. This estate has belonged to the Colombini family at least since the end of the 16th century and was originally used by Donatella’s maternal forefathers for hunting and to host brides for their honeymoons.

The last three generations, the farm has been passed from mother to daughter – it belonged to grandmother Giuliana Tamanit, then mother Francesca Colombini, now Donatella Cinelli Colombini, who will give it to her daughter, Violante. Donatella has given this location a special meaning, as it is the first winery in Italy to be all female staffed, a flagship for women who work in wine. She has received countless awards and international success for her achievements within the industry. Learn more about their story here.

Photos and Information Information © Donatella Cinelli Colombini – All Rights Reserved.

Collectors Wine ClubLove to collect amazing wines?
Learn more about our quarterly Collectors Club > click here

 

 

 

Casal Da Coelheira Terraços Do Tejo Red

Posted on by

Azores_Beef_Stew_with_PotatoesMOLHA DE CARNE (Azores Beef Stew with Potatoes)

INGREDIENTS:

  • 3.5 lbs sirloin tip roast cut into large pieces (about double or triple the size of regular stewing meat)
  • 1 cup white wine
  • 1 cup beer
  • 1 small can of tomato paste (5.5 fl oz)
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 2 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp ground allspice
  • 3 bay leaves
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 1 cup water
  • 6 white potatoes chopped into large pieces

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Cut the beef into large chunks.
  2. In a large bowl add the white wine, beer, tomato paste, salt, paprika, allspice and whisk until well combined. Add the bay leaves and cinnamon stick.
  3. Add the meat to the bowl and mix well to cover all the meat pieces. Cover the bowl with a plastic wrap or put place the entire contents into a ziplock. Store in the fridge for at least two hours or even over night.
  4. Place a large pot on the stove and add the meat contents to the pot. Add the onions and garlic and bring to a slow boil for 30 minutes covered.
  5. Remove the lid, add the water and cover again. Simmer for 2 hours.
  6. Uncover, add the potatoes, mix well, cover and continue to simmer for 30 minutes.

© Recipe courtesy of Nelson Cardoso of Photos & Food.

OCTOBER WINE CLUB:

Bold wine Style logoCasal da Coelheira_Terraços do TejoCasal da Coelheira
Terraços do Tejo Red
Tejo, Portugal

BOLD WINE STYLE

Deep red in color, this wine has a lively aroma with ripe fruit. On the palate, despite its youthfulness, the tannins are presented but well rounded and accompanied by a good structure. It makes for a very tasty wine, easy for daily consumption but with lots of personality.

Varietal: Aragonês, Syrah, Castelão
Region: Tejo, Portugal
Analysis: 13.6% alcohol / volume
Total Acidity: 6.10 g/L
pH: 3.64
Total Sugar: 0.9 g/L
Soil Type: Sandy
European Vegetarian Union: Vegan
Serving Temperature: 60ºF-64ºF
Pairing: Pasta and white or red meat
Longevity: Drink now or keep it until the end of 2025
Winemaker: Nuno Falcão Rodrigues

WINEMAKING NOTES:
Destemming, maceration and fermentation with temperature control, malolactic fermentation and filtration.

ABOUT THE WINERY:
Located at parallel 39 North, Casal da Coelheira Estate has been benefiting from the Mediterranean climate for over three generations. For years, they have been committed to producing the best and most innovative wines within the Tagus River wine region. While the winery has seen many upgrades to their production and winemaking technology over the years, the facade at Tramagal remains the same – showcasing a traditional Portuguese facility with timeless architecture and impressive white and yellow walls. Learn more about the winery here.

© Photo by Casal da Coelheira
© Photo by Casal da Coelheira
© Photo by Casal da Coelheira

Photos and information © Casal da Coelheira – All Rights Reserved.

Wine club logoJoin our WINE CLUB and enjoy these amazing wines and pairing recipes each month. Plus, you’ll receive 10% off all retail wine purchases!

Learn More >

 
 
 

 

October Wine Club Pairing Recipe

Posted on by

Spaghetti,Alla,Puttanesca,-,Italian,Pasta,Dish,With,Tomatoes,,BlackPORTUGUESE STYLE SARDINE SPAGHETTI

INGREDIENTS:

    • 2 tbsp olive oil
    • ½ red pepper finely sliced
    • 1 medium red onion, finely sliced
    • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
    • ½ cup of olives, sliced
    • 1 cup (18 small) cherry tomatoes, sliced in half
    • 2 tbsp tomato paste
    • ½ red chili pepper without excessive seeds, sliced
    • 1 tin of sardines
    • basil leaves, to taste
    • 200 grams of dried spaghetti
    • black pepper
    • lemon zest
    • ½ cup of white wine/lemon juice

DIRECTIONS:

    • Place a big frying pan over a medium heat, add the olive oil and a drizzle of the sardine oil. When hot, add the bell pepper and cook until slightly soft.
    • Add the red onion and garlic and sauté for a further 2-3 minutes.
    • Add the olives and let everything slowly fry until it reaches a softer texture.
    • Move the ingredients to one side of the frying pan and if necessary add another splash of olive oil and lightly fry your cherry tomatoes and basil leaves.
    • Once the skin of the tomatoes start wrinkling, combine it with the rest of the pan, and add our chili pepper and the sardines, breaking it into smaller pieces.
    • Add zests of one lemon and a splash of white wine or lemon juice to deglaze the pan and bring all those flavors together. Let it sizzle for another couple of minutes.
    • While you wait, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. 
    • Once the pasta water is boiling, begin cooking your spaghetti. Following the recommended instructions. For “al dente” pasta, remove from the water a minute early to taste. 
    • Add the tomato paste and half of a cup of the pasta water into your sauce. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes. The starch from the pasta water will help the sauce to bond with the spaghetti. Try the sauce and check if you need to adjust the salt or add another splash of pasta water. As some of the ingredients already contain salt, extra salt may not be needed.
    • Drain the pasta and add it immediately into the saucepan and gently combine everything.
    • Serve the finished sardine pasta into two pasta bowls and add some freshly grated black pepper and Parmesan cheese on top (we know that this goes against the rules but as cheese lovers we think that cheese goes well with everything. Who invented this silly rule anyway?).

© Recipe courtesy of We Travel Portugal.

OCTOBER WINE CLUB:

CASAL-DA-COELHEIRA-REDBold wine Style logoCasal da Coelheira
Red
Tejo,Portugal

BOLD WINE STYLE

Intense color, resulting from a skin maceration prior to fermentation. The aromas are intense with berry notes and red fruits – strawberry and raspberry – combined with a slight floral note as violet. In the mouth it is with great elegance revealing a very gastronomic wine with good body, fruit and a well balanced acidity.

Varietals: Touriga Nacional, Alicante Bouchet, Touriga Franca
Region: Tejo, Portugal
Analysis: 13.0% alcohol / volume
Total Acidity: 7.8 g/L
pH: 3.20
Total Sugar: 0.6 g/L
Soil Type: Sandy
European Vegetarian Union: Vegan
Serving Temperature: 46ºF-50ºF
Pairing: Drink as a starter, or pair with salads, pasta, fish or seafood
Longevity: Drink now or keep it until the end of 2024
Winemaker: Nuno Falcão Rodrigues

WINEMAKING NOTES:
Destemming, crushing, maceration and fermentation with temperature control, malolactic fermentation, partly matured in American oak, filtration.

ABOUT THE WINERY:
Located at parallel 39 North, Casal da Coelheira Estate has been benefiting from the Mediterranean climate for over three generations. For years, they have been committed to producing the best and most innovative wines within the Tagus River wine region. While the winery has seen many upgrades to their production and winemaking technology over the years, the facade at Tramagal remains the same – showcasing a traditional Portuguese facility with timeless architecture and impressive white and yellow walls. Learn more about the winery here.

Video and information © Casal da Coelheira – All Rights Reserved.

Wine club logoJoin our WINE CLUB and enjoy these amazing wines and pairing recipes each month. Plus, you’ll receive 10% off all retail wine purchases!

Learn about our Memberships >

 
 
 

 

September Premium Wine Club

Posted on by

Bold wine Style logoBendewijn-Syrah-2020 (1)The Ahrens Family Winery
Bendewijn
Syrah
Paarl, South Africa

BOLD WINE STYLE

This medium to full bodied Syrah is grown on old bush-vines in a shale dominant soil on the northern side of the Paarl district. Bright red spicy fruit is complemented with a silky soft tannin.

Analysis: 14.5% alcohol / volume
Varietal: Syrah
Total Acidity:  5.4 g/L
pH: 3.56
Residual Sugar:  2.7 g/L
VA: 0.52 g/L
Total Production: 721 bottles

Bold wine Style logoBendewijn-Cabernet-Cinsault-2020 (1)The Ahrens Family Winery
Bendewijn
Cabernet Sauvignon, Cinsault
Wellington, South Africa

BOLD WINE STYLE

This medium bodied small batch red wine was grown on a complex coffee-stone gravel/quartz combination soil, giving the wine both weight and mineral elegance. The bold Cabernet tannins are rounded into a silky smooth texture with the addition of Cinsault, also enhancing the fruit.

Analysis: 14.5% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 72% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Cinsault
Total Acidity:  5.0 g/L
pH: 3.73
Residual Sugar:  2.0 g/L
VA: 0.59 g/L
Total Production: 994 bottles

ABOUT ALBERT AHRENS’ BENDEWIJN LABEL:

Albert Ahrens

© The Ahrens Family

Bendewijn is passion project for Winemaker, Albert Ahren of The Ahrens Family Winery. Bendewijn was intended to be a group united by wine. Albert writes:

“A ‘bende’ directly translated is a gang, and “wijn” translated is wine… Hence Bendewijn is a wine-gang, more specifically, a wine-following. Bendewijn is not a wine club! So… Let me explain… Firstly, I’m a grape-scout & winemaker, annually producing our address specific Ahrens Family Wines. As the years go by, I constantly find myself inspired to explore other regions and wine styles. Occasionally I stumble across an intriguing vineyard, in most cases an older vineyard, usually located on the slopes of one of our many mountains located in the Western Cape. I’m obviously keen to have a go at it and produce a barrel or two. After every harvest, the end result is a couple of interesting new wines. These wines could be once-off or made again… no rules. Bendewijn is my space of freedom of expression. The aim is for a group of winelovers to join my “wine-gang” and follow me on my exploration. Bendewijn is sent out in a mixed case of six bottles, once every few months and if there is enough wine – no rules!”. – Albert Ahren

© Information from Albert Ahren’s Bendewijn and The Ahrens Family Winery – All Rights Reserved. 

Wine club logoJoin our PREMIUM WINE CLUB, enjoy amazing wines every other month. Plus, you’ll receive 10% off all retail wine purchases!

Learn more about our Premium Club >

 
 
 

 

Jan Harmsgat Shiraz

Posted on by

Grilled T-Bone Steak and herb butter on wooden cutting board

GRILLED T-BONE STEAK

INGREDIENTS:

  • For the Steak:
    • 1 (36 oz.) T-bone or porterhouse steak
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    • 1 tablespoon salt
    • ½ tablespoon pepper
  • For the Herb Compound Butter:
    • ½ cup butter (room temperature)
    • 3 tablespoons fresh cilantro (chopped)
    • 3 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
    • 1 tablespoon fresh oregano (chopped)
    • 2 cloves garlic (diced)

DIRECTIONS:

  • For the Steak:
    • Take the steak out of the fridge and out of it’s packaging. Pat both sides with paper towel. Season with oil, salt and pepper on both sides. Let it come to room temperature.
    • Preheat your BBQ over high heat.
    • When the steak is too temperature, place it on the grill, let it sear for 2-3 minutes with the lid closed. Come back, and turn it 90°, and let it sear for another 2-3 minutes with the lid closed.
    • Flip the steak over (at this point, you should be able to see the diamond patter on this side). Sear for 2-3 minutes, then turn 90°. Allow it to finish cooking in this position (it should take another 8-12 minutes, depending on the size of your steak.
    • Allow the steak to rest on a cooling rack for 7-8 minutes. Serve with compound butter discs on top.
  • For the Compound Herb Butter:
    • In a small bowl, mix the butter, herbs and garlic.
    • Place a section of plastic wrap on your work surface. Scrap the butter on to the surface, and carefully roll the wrap around the butter. Twisting the ends, roll the butter back and forth until it forms a smooth cylinder. Refrigerate for one hour, then slice and serve with steak.

© Recipe courtesy of Cara at The Gourmet Bon Vivant.

AUGUST WINE CLUB:

Bold wine Style logoJan-Harmsgat_ShirazJan Harmsgat
Shiraz
South Africa

BOLD WINE STYLE

This Shiraz is spicy and fruit driven. The nose and the palate are equally spicy with notes of white peppers and dark fruit.

Varietal: Shiraz
Analysis: 15.0% alcohol / volume
pH: 3.77
RS: 2.1 g/L
Production: 5,000 Bottles
Wood Maturation: Spicy, white peppers, dark fruit

WINEMAKER’S NOTES
For a red wine so young, this Shiraz is remarkably drinkable with plenty of dark soft berries and spice. The flavors are rich and mouth-filling, while comfortably fresh tannins ensure there’s no heaviness. This wine should give pleasure of the next year or two.

ABOUT JAN HARMSGAT:
Founded in 1723, the Jan Harmsgat Farm (JHG) is situated on the most southern tip of the Robertson Wine valley, along the foothills of the Langeberg Mountains in the Western Cape of South Africa. This area is locally known as the “valley of wine and roses”. JHG’s philosophy is to create delicious single-block wines — the smallest production unit for vineyards that may not exceed six hectares per cultivar. Their unique position borders with dry conditions of the Karoo (semi-desert region), along with cool sea breezes from the coastal regions. Learn more about the winery’s history here.

© Photo by Jan Harmsgat
© Photo by Jan Harmsgat
© Photo by Jan Harmsgat

© Information provided by Jan Harmsgat

Wine club logoJoin our WINE CLUB and enjoy these amazing wines and pairing recipes each month. Plus, you’ll receive 10% off all retail wine purchases!

Learn about our Memberships >

 
 
 

 

July Premium Wine Club

Posted on by

Bold wine Style logoPascual Toso Alta CabernetPascual Toso
Alta Cabernet Sauvignon
Mendoza, Argentina

BOLD WINE STYLE

Cabernet Sauvignon grapes sourced from 60 year old vines, Pascual Toso Alta has a nose and palate redolent of boysenberry and raspberry, with hints of vanilla, baking spices and chocolate. Complex and well-balanced, it is elegant in structure with gentle tannins and a lingering finish.

Analysis: 14.0% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
Total Acidity: 6.07 g/L
Residual Sugar: 2.63 g/L
pH: 3.66
Appellation: Maipú, Mendoza, Argentina
Serving: Serve between 59°F and 62°F with red meats, pasta dishes or mature cheeses
Critical Acclaim: 93 pts JamesSuckling.com; 92 pts Decanter; 2022 Decanter World Wine Award Silver

WINEMAKER NOTES:
The grapes are 100% estate grown and hand-picked using small baskets. The vineyard is carefully managed to ensure the grapes reach optimum ripeness. Cold maceration takes place over 48 hours, prior to fermentation.  The winemaker process is carried out in stainless steel tanks and macerated from 15 to 20 days.  To obtain its maximum expression, the wine is softly filtered before being bottled.  Aged in new French oak barrels for 14 months, it then receives an extra six months aging in bottle prior to release.

ABOUT PASCUAL TOSO:
When in the mid 1880s Pascual Toso set out towards Argentina from its home town, Canale D’Alba, in Piamonte, Italy, he could not have imagined that he would become the founder of a winery, which is today one of the oldest and most prestigious wineries in Argentina.

When he arrived in Argentina, he settled in Mendoza. As he had been closely involved in the development of his family wine business in Piedmont, he promptly saw the promising future for winemaking in the region and decided to use his expertise. Thus, in 1890, Pascual Toso established his first winery.

At the beginning of the 20th century, he decided to expand his business and acquired vineyards in Maipú. At his estate “Las Barrancas”, he built another winery, “Las Barrancas” (small Canyon) which is dedicated to producing and growing the finest grapes. Since 1890, Bodegas y Viñedos Pascual Toso has become one of the most exciting and promising Argentine wineries and remains faithful to its principles: Tradition, Authenticity, Innovation. Learn more >

Bold wine Style logoParticular_Cabernet_Franc_2019-wine-bottleBodegas Bianchi
Particular Cabernet Franc
Mendoza, Argentina

BOLD WINE STYLE

This Cabernet Franc is deep red in color with intense and lively purple hues. On the nose, there are aromas of black currant and cassis, combined with sweet spices, such as red peppers and black pepper, as well as vanilla and smokey aromas from the oak aging. It has a great structure and volume on the palate, with sweet tannins. It is elegant, with a balanced acidity and a persistent finish.

Analysis: 14.6% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 95% Cabernet Franc, 5% Malbec
Total Acidity: 5.7 g/L
Residual Sugar: 3.5 g/L
pH: 3.55
Region: Uco Valley, San Rafael, Mendoza, Argentina
Serving: Room temperature as the perfect accompaniment to pork and beef, as well as salmon or other flavorful fish.

WINEMAKER NOTES:
The grapes come from the Uco Valley, or more precisely, from Los Chacayes, Tunuyan. This terroir is renowned for its great properties for producing high-end wines. There is a daily thermal range that brings this varietal to perfect ripeness, and a soil composition that contributes mineral notes. Together, they make this Cabernet Franc a structured and truly complex wine. The wine was aged for 12 months in French barrels; the wine was then transferred to stainless steel tanks for 10-15 days in order to allow the lees to precipitate. After stabilization, the unfiltered, final wine was bottle-aged an additional 8 months.

ABOUT BODEGAS BIANCHI:
Bodegas Bianchi is a family winery that values tradition, quality, prestige and innovation. The history and tradition of Bodegas Bianchi were made possible by owner, Valentín Bianchi. Born in Italy in 1887, Valentín was encouraged to travel to San Rafael at the young age of 23 where he began his new life on this side of the world. In 1928, Valentín achieved his life goal to have his own vineyard and open a winery, of which he named El Chiche, “the small winery of the great wines”. Determined to make the best wines, he imported European vines and adapted them to the climate and characteristics prevalent in the region of San Rafael. As a result, he gradually built a familiar winery whose name would be an authentic patrimony of Argentina: Bodegas Bianchi. Today, Bodegas Bianchi is a global brand present in more than 40 countries, continued by Valentín’s son, Don Enzo Bianchi. Learn more about their winery here.

Valentin Bianchi Winery

Bianchi Family Photo

Don Valentin Bianchi

Wine club logoJoin our PREMIUM WINE CLUB, enjoy amazing wines every other month. Plus, you’ll receive 10% off all retail wine purchases!

Learn more about our Premium Club >

 
 
 

 

July Collector’s Wine Club: Iowa

Posted on by

Collectors Wine ClubRobert-Craig_Stick_Blend_2017_bottle_imageRobert Craig Winery
2017 “The Stick” Red Blend
Candlestick Ridge Vineyard
Napa Valley, California

BOLD WINE STYLE

This Cabernet Sauvignon blend is dense, powerful and beautifully concentrated. The nose is perfumed with luxurious  aromas of black currant, boysenberry, cedar box and Herbes de Provence. The intensely layered palate excites with cassis, plum, and graphite. It is rich and seductive with a velvety texture that finishes long and perfumed.

Analysis: 14.8% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc
TA: 6.3 g/L
pH: 3.77
Maturation: 18 months in 70% new French oak
Appellation: Howell Mountain AVA, Napa Valley, California
Winemaker: Jason Price
Critical Acclaim: 93 pts. JamesSuckling.com

VINTAGE:
The 2017 harvest was the first in the area following a 5 year drought. The soils and water table had been replenished and the vines took off early in the season and weather patterns were about normal until late August. In early September, heat spikes hit the valley and set record or near record temperatures. With plenty of water available most vineyards were heavily irrigated and the temperatures cooled in mid-September to more normal levels. The quantity of grapes was quite low, but quality looked to be excellent. A huge wildfire at the end of harvest threatened vines that still had fruit, but luckily the vast majority of grapes were already safely in the winery for the year.

TERROIR:
Just down the road from the estate, Candlestick Ridge is the northernmost vineyard in the Howell Mountain AVA and is slightly warmer than the summit ridge where the Winery Estate vineyard lies. Candlestick is influenced by warm air from Pope Valley to the east and is protected from the constant wind that hits the ridge line. The big subsurface boulders were removed during the replanting, leaving thin tufa soil on top of a rocky volcanic bedrock.

Collectors Wine ClubRobert_Craig_Winery_Howell_Zinfandel_2018_bottle_imageRobert Craig Winery
2018 Howell Mountain Zinfandel
Black Sears Vineyard
Napa Valley, California

BOLD WINE STYLE

True to the Howell Mountain, the 2018 vintage is beautifully clean and focused with boysenberry and bramble berry wrapped in a subtle pepper spice on the nose and palate. This Zinfandel is balanced and elegantly structured through the finish.

Analysis: 14.8% alcohol / volume
Varietal: Zinfandel
TA: 6.3 g/L
pH: 3.57
Maturation: 18 months in 60% new French oak
Appellation: Howell Mountain AVA, Napa Valley, California
Winemaker: Jason Price

VINTAGE:
February saw abundant rains, followed by lots of filtered light in the spring and early summer. Both bud break and flowering occurred a bit late, but under ideal weather conditions, creating plentiful and even fruit set. Summer brought generous sun during the day and cooler marine influences, virtually uninterrupted by major heat spikes. The relatively mild summer followed by extended fall sunshine and moderate heat created near-ideal conditions for winemakers to allow their fruit to accumulate flavor complexity with gradual increases in sugar levels.

TERROIR:
Black Sears has “King of the Mountain” bragging rights on Howell Mountain – topping out at 2,400 feet, making it officially the highest vineyard on the mountain. The vineyard is located just past the gate of the Howell Mountain estate, and now the winery surrounds it – literally – having purchased the vineyard just on the other side of it as well. For 25 years, winemakers have clamored for the Zinfandel grown here: both biodynamic and organic, the site is dry farmed and the vines are pruned in the old world style with no trellising. Zinfandel thrives in the mountain’s well-drained, rocky, volcanic soils and moderate climate.

ROBERT CRAIG WINERY:
Bob Craig always had a passion for Napa Valley Mountain Cabernets, so naturally, he founded his eponymous winery on Howell Mountain with three of his friends from business school. In 2004, the team was joined by CEO Elton Slone, who later became a full partner in 2007.  After Bob’s retirement and departure from the wine business in 2012, Slone has continued to move the business forward with the other three founding partners. Today, the winery is still known for producing small-lot, site-expressive wines from high elevation vineyards. Robert Craig Winery consistently receives high scores and positive accolades from the wine press. Learn more about the winery here.


Hess Collection Allomi Cabernet SauvignonThe Hess Collection
2018 Allomi Cabernet Sauvignon
Allomi Vineyard
Napa Valley, California
375 ml (half bottle)

BOLD WINE STYLE

“The combination of steady heat and well-drained clay loam soils in our Allomi Vineyard allows fruit to ripen evenly, gaining welcomed complexity and layers of flavor. We consistently see beautiful yields from the Allomi Vineyard, and this vintage was no different. On the nose, this wine delivers delicious aromas of boysenberry, blackberry and elegant expressions of lavender alongside a touch of vanilla. Allomi Cabernet is concentrated upon entry with dense, but well-integrated tannins that provide a round, plush mouthfeel. Layers of juicy black fruit, notably black cherry and black plum, lead to elements of espresso supported by a subtle oak spice that adds to the personality of the wine and reminds us why this is one of our most popular Napa offerings.” – Dave Guffy, Director of Winemaking

Analysis: 14.5% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Petite Sirah, 5% Malbec, 2% Merlot, 2% Petit Verdot
TA: 0.58 gms/100ml
pH: 3.76
Harvested: October 8 – November 2, 2018
Maturation: 18 months in 27% new American oak
Appellation: Napa Valley, California
Winemaker: Dave Guffy
Food Pairing: Chocolate Lave Cookie Recipe >

 

VINTAGE:
Budbreak began on schedule at the end of February, and Spring brought moderate temperatures that progressed into a warm Summer without any disruptive heat spikes. Steady, consistent growing conditions provided the perfect environment for the fruit to mature and develop. As the moderate, even temperatures continued into the Fall, harvest started slightly later than normal, and in some areas, extended long into the first week of November. With such lengthy hang time, the fruit matured consistently and was picked when it was at its peak, promising exceptional flavor in bottle.

VINEYARD:
A pioneer by nature, Donald Hess was determined to defy convention and pursue winemaking in the far reaches of the Napa Valley. In 1995, he sought out the Allomi Vineyard with a vision to uncover its potential. Once a dormant beauty, the Allomi Vineyard now gives life to luxury Napa Valley wines. The estate vineyard is located in the gently rolling hills of northeastern Napa Valley. The 210-acre vineyard is focused into 35 unique growing blocks with six different Cabernet clones that add diversity of flavors and complexity to this wine.

THE HESS COLLECTION WINES:
Though just 30 miles long and a few miles wide, Napa Valley is home to diverse micro-climates and soils uniquely suited to wine grape growing. It is considered one of the premier wine regions in the world. The Hess Collection wines are family owned, sustainably farmed and dedicated to reflecting a true sense of place. There wines are recognizable for their elegant, rich and complex flavors and a tradition of excellence. Learn more about the Hess story here >

Chocolate Lava Cookie Recipe

Chocolate Lava Cookie Recipe – pairs with Allomi Cabernet Sauvignon

Collectors Wine ClubLove to collect amazing wines?
Learn more about our quarterly Collectors Club > click here

 

 

 

July Wine Club Pairing Recipe

Posted on by

Tasty crispy fried wedges of potato with fresh rosemaryDuck Fat Potatoes

INGREDIENTS:

  • 3.5–4 lbs. potatoes, medium or large, Yukon Gold or Russet
  • 1 tbsp salt
  • 2 tbsp semolina
  • 1.5 tsp kosher salt
  • 7 oz duck fat
  • 2 tsp rosemary, roughly chopped
  • sea salt flakes

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Peel the potatoes, then cut into 3 inch pieces.
  2. Preheat oven to 450°F.

Par Boiling & Roughing up:

  • Add 1 tbsp salt and then the potatoes to a large pot of boiling water. Boil for 10 minutes.
  • Drain potatoes well.
  • After draining the potatoes well, return to the empty pot on the turned off stove and allow to “steam dry” for a few minutes.
  • Add 1.5 tsp salt and the semolina. Place lid on, then shake the pot up and down vigorously 5 to 7 times to rough up the surface.

Roasting:

  • Pour duck fat into heavy based metal roasting pan (not glass or ceramic).
  • Heat in oven for 5 to 7 minutes until it’s shimmering and very hot with little wisps of smoke.
  • Working quickly and carefully, remove pan from oven.
  • Transfer potatoes into the roasting pan (be careful), and turn to coat in fat. Then, arrange the potatoes cut face down.
  • Roast for 25 minutes. Turn potatoes, roast for another 15 minutes. Turn again, then roast for a final 10 to 15 minutes, or until deep golden and super crunchy.
  • Transfer to a warm serving bowl. Sprinkle with sea salt flakes and rosemary, serve immediately.

© Recipe courtesy of Nagi at RecipeTin Eats.

JULY WINE CLUB:

Bold wine Style logoKillermans Run Cabernet SauvignonKilikanoon
Killerman’s Run Cabernet Sauvignon
Clare Valley, South Australia

BOLD WINE STYLE

The aromas of blackberry, mocha, sage and French oak combine sweetly on the nose.  The classic cassis and herbaceous notes carry through from the nose onto the palate, beautifully supported by fine grained tannins. Velvety texture finishing with black pepper and exotic spice.

Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
Analysis: 14.0% alcohol / volume
Maturation: 16 months in new and seasoned French oak hogsheads
Winemaker: Peter Warr
Appellation: Clare Valley, South Australia, Australia
Pairing Recommendations: Slow Cooked Beef Brisket with a side of duck fat potatoes and greens
Critical Acclaim: 91 pts JamesSuckling.com; 90 pts Wine Spectator; 90 pts Robert Parker Wine Advocate

BACKGROUND:
Named after a legendary Clare Valley squatter, Killerman, who planted and tended vines on a paddock adjoining the Kilikanoon property. As legend has it, Killerman made his own wines in a galvanized iron lean-to.

WINEMAKING:
The grapes are sourced from the cool climate vineyards of the Clare Valley, South Australia. Hand-selected fruit parcels, maturation in new and older small French oak hogsheads for up to two years and attention to final blending has ensured a wine of great poise and balance.

ABOUT KILIKANOON:
Kilikanoon is a boutique Clare Valley winery founded in 1997 by Kevin Mitchell; it is known for producing regionally expressive, terroir-driven wines. The Kilikanoon property, featuring a circa 1860s stone cottage housing Kilikanoon’s tasting room, was originally settled by early English migrants who named it after a historic old mansion in Cornwall. When purchasing the historic property in 1997, the mature vineyards of Shiraz, Cabernet, Grenache and Riesling that had been planted by Kevin’s father, Mort in the 1960s, became a part of Kilikanoon, and now form the heart of the estate vineyards. Learn more here.

© Photo by Kilikanoon Wines
© Photo by Kilikanoon Wines
© Photo by Kilikanoon Wines

© Information provided by Old Bridge Cellars.

Wine club logoJoin our WINE CLUB and enjoy these amazing wines and pairing recipes each month. Plus, you’ll receive 10% off all retail wine purchases!

Learn about our Memberships >

 
 
 

 

June Wine Club Pairing Recipe

Posted on by
Eggplant Caponata Pasta Sauce_Bella Cucina

© Photo by Bella Cucina

EGGPLANT CAPONATA PASTA SAUCE

INGREDIENTS:

NOTE: Bella Cucina products available at select WineStyles locations

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Cut eggplant into small dice. Sprinkle with kosher salt and let drain in a colander for 10 minutes. Squeeze out any excess moisture and blot dry with a towel. ⁠
  2. In a large pan, heat the olive oil. Add the eggplant with the salt. Cook over medium high heat, stirring occasionally, until the eggplant is cooked and lightly browned, almost crisped but not burned. Add the pasta sauce and pesto. Continue to cook, covered, over low heat for an additional 10-15 minutes. ⁠
  3. ⁠Toss with pasta and garnish with fresh basil leaves and toasted pine nuts. ⁠

© Recipe courtesy of Bella Cucina.

JUNE WINE CLUB:

Bold wine Style logoM-by-Martellotto-Grenache_bottleM by Martellotto
Grenache
Portico Hills Vineyard
Santa Barbara County, California

BOLD WINE STYLE

This Grenache is fresh and brilliant with dark blackberries and crushed black cherry fruit. It is exceptionally natural, but has a medium acidity and a fruit-focused approach that makes this wine “lip-smacking delicious”.  The wine is concentrated, but light on the mouth with an appealing finish that ultimately, leads to easy drinking.

Varietal: Grenache
Vineyard: Portico Hills Vineyard
Fermentation: Stainless steel tanks
Aging: Rested in mostly neutral French Oak for 15 months
Production: Only 525 cases produced

Greg Martellotto

Winemaker, Greg Martellotto

ABOUT THE WINEMAKER:
Greg Martellotto has been making wine since 2005. His path led him to winemaking experiences in Mexico, Italy, Napa Valley, Paso Robles, and Santa Barbara. He holds a degree in Biological Sciences from Stanford University and a Masters degree from the University of Texas. His global wine experience has provided opportunity to travel to most of the major winemaking regions of the world as both a buyers and a consumer, which informs his style. Equally important and unique among most winemakers, Greg’s experience as an importer and wine buyer provides insider’s access to the greatest wines and wineries in the world. In this capacity, he regularly tastes more than 400 wines per month— it’s safe to say, he knows great wine!

ABOUT MARTELLOTTO WINERY:
The Martellotto family roots trace back to 17th century winery in Alberobello in Puglia, Italy. Over four centuries later, winemaker Greg Martellotto continues his family’s viticultural legacy, by making enticing, vibrant wines what speak to his own viticultural passion. Since 2005, Martellotto Winery has produced unique and exciting wines designed to surprise and ignite discerning palates of wine lovers everywhere— Greg strays away from mass produced wines that are squeaky clean, uniform and less interesting. Greg starts with healthful and sustainably farmed grapes. Then, by combining creative fermentation techniques with artistic blending techniques before bottling, the Martellotto Winery is able to produce distinctive and delicious wines. Learn more here.

Wine club logoJoin our WINE CLUB and enjoy these amazing wines and pairing recipes each month. Plus, you’ll receive 10% off all retail wine purchases!

Learn about our Memberships >

 
 
 

 

May Wine Club Pairing Recipe

Posted on by
© Photo by Jess Larson

PERFECT GRILLED SAUSAGE

INGREDIENTS:

  • 1 pound (raw) fresh sausage links or brats of choice
  • For serving, as desired: toasted brat buns or brioche buns, grilled peppers & onions, sauerkraut, mustard or Dijonnaise, ketchup, etc.
  • For a Latin American flare, turn your grilled sausage into a Choripán by topping with a Chimichurri Sauce on a Crusty Baguette. Follow Hilah Johnson’s recipe here.

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Preheat the grill: Prepare your grill for indirect cooking, creating a zone of direct high heat & a second zone of indirect heat.
  2. Grill the sausage: Once the grill is hot, place the sausage directly on the indirect head side of the grill, arranging the sausage as close to the direct heat as possible without being directly over the flame. Close the lid & cook for 4-5 minutes. The heat from the direct heat side of the grill will circulate around the sausage, cooking them with really gentle indirect heat. After 4-5 minutes, flip the sausage, and cook over indirect heat for another 4-5 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted in the center of the sausage registers a temperature of 150 degrees F.
  3. Chargrill the sausage: Transfer the sausage to the direct heat. Grill 2-3 minutes per side, until charred as desired & the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees F. Transfer to a plate to rest & cool slightly before serving
  4. Serve the grilled sausage on a toasted bun with all of your favorite toppings. Enjoy!

© Recipe courtesy of Jess Larson at Plays well with Butter.

MAY WINE CLUB:

Bold wine Style logoCasas del Toqui Cabernet Sauvignon Alto Cahapoal ChileCasas del Toqui
Terroir Selection Alto Cachapoal
Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon
Cachapoal Valley D.O., Chile

BOLD WINE STYLE

This Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon is ruby red in color with aromas of cassis, spices, black fruits and notes of toffee and caramel. On the palate, the wine has good structure with a long and pleasant finish.

Varietal: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
Analysis: 14.0% alcohol / volume
Region: Cachapoal D.O., Chile
Viticulture: Vertical espalier
Vinification: Fermentation at 80.6ºF-84.2ºF, post fermentation maceration and aged in oak barrels for 12 months
Closure: Natural Cork
Serving Suggestion: Serve between 60.8ºF-64.4ºF
Food Pairing: Serve with red meat, pork loins or sausage

ABOUT CASAS DEL TOQUI:
In 1994, Château Larose Trintaudon, a major French wine producer from the Bordeaux region, partnered with traditional wine producers from the Cachapoal region in Chile and together they founded Casas del Toqui. In 2010, the Court family recaptured their legacy, adding their own distinct and unique touch to this already elegant winery. Learn more here.

Casas-del-toqui-barrel-cellar

Wine club logoJoin our WINE CLUB and enjoy these amazing wines and pairing recipes each month. Plus, you’ll receive 10% off all retail wine purchases!

Learn about our Memberships >