Tag Archives: bordeaux

Domaine De Lilotte Bordeaux

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Bowl,With,Delicious,Meatballs,On,TableBest Ever (Easy) Baked Meatballs

INGREDIENTS:

  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • ½ cup onion finely chopped
  • ¼ cup dried bread crumbs
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 egg
  • ¼ cup parmesan cheese finely grated
  • 3 Tbsp. ketchup
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • ¼ tsp. pepper
  • 1 Tbsp. parsley minced (or about 1/2 Tbsp. dried)

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Preheat oven to 400ºF. Spray a large cookie sheet with cooking spray.
  2. Mix together onion, bread crumbs, garlic, egg, cheese, ketchup, salt, pepper and parsley in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Add in ground beef and mix gently until combined. Do not overwork. Form into 1-inch balls and place on prepared cookie sheet.
  4. Bake in preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until meatballs are browned and cooked through.

© Recipe courtesy of Jenn of Yummy, Healthy, Easy.

JANUARY WINE CLUB:

Mellow style logoDomaine_Lilotte-bottleDomaine de Lilotte
Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc
Bordeaux, France

MELLOW WINE STYLE

Aged in vats, this dry, red wine expresses balance and spicy aromas when very young. Its freshness charms lovers of young wine who above all seek conviviality among friends. Drink now or lay down for 2 or 3 more years.

Varietal: 50% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Cabernet Franc
Analysis: 13.00% alcohol / volume
pH: 3.58
Appellation: Bordeaux
Winemaker: Hugues Mallet is in charge of the production in the vineyard and in the cellar
Pairing: Great with pork chops and a nice honey mustard sauce

WINERY NOTES:

In the Vineyard: The Domaine de Lilotte is located in the village of Tauriac, in Côtes de Bourg wine region, to the north of Bordeaux.  Produced by a 4th generation family, the estate was added to the Haut-Maco family business in the 1970s. Domaine de Lilotte is a clos of just 13 hectares on a clay, alluvium, and sand soil located near the river. The average age of the vines is 25 years old and grass is grown between the rows to create competition for the plants. Vines are de-leafed on the east side in July. Since 2018, the farm has been Certified HVE 3 (“Haute Valeur Environnementale Niveau” 3 or “High Environmental Value” Level 3) – the highest level possible in this French environmental certification.

About the Harvest: To limit the yield, the winery will green harvest when it is necessary. The grapes are picked by a mechanical harvester with a de-stemmer integrated on the machine. The berries are sorted manually on a sorting table.

In the Cellar: Traditional vinification is used. The alcoholic fermentation is done in stainless steel vats with control of temperature and the Malolactic Fermentation. Maceration is for about 10 to 15 days. Aging is completed in vats and bottled frequently to keep its freshness.

Photos and information © Domaine de Lilotte – All Rights Reserved.

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Chateau Le Prieur Cuvée Passion

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Seared,Scallops,In,Cast,Iron,PanSeared Scallops

INGREDIENTS:

  • 1 ½ lbs sea scallops*
  • salt and pepper
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • ½ tablespoon olive oil
  • garlic butter for serving (optional— in recipe notes)

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Pat scallops thoroughly dry all over with paper towels. (If necessary, remove the small side muscle from the scallops.) Season them with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat a large skillet over high heat. Add oil and butter. Once hot, add the scallops, spacing them apart so they’re not touching. The oil in the pan should be hot enough that the scallops gently sizzle when added.
  3. Cook for 2 minutes (without touching them), until a golden crust forms on the bottom.
  4. Reduce heat to medium high. Gently flip to the other side and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until golden on bottom and translucent/opaque on the sides.
  5. Scallops cook very quickly, usually in less than 5 minutes, so use the touch test to check for doneness; if they’re done; they should feel firm, with a little bit of bounce.  Err on the side of undercooking them, as you can always add them back the pan to cook longer, if needed. Keep in mind they will continue to cook a little as they rest.
  6. Garlic Butter Sauce: Remove cooked scallops from the pan. Add 2 tablespoons butter, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
  7. Add 3-4 cloves garlic, juice from half a lemon, and ¼ cup white wine, chicken or vegetable broth. Cook for 2 minutes.
  8. Serve sauce over scallops. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired.

© Recipe courtesy of Lauren Allen of Tastes Better from Scratch.

JANUARY WINE CLUB:

Crisp Wine StyleLe-Prieur-Blanc-bottleVignobles Garzaro
Château Le Prieur
Cuvée Passion
Entre-Deux-Mers, Bordeaux, France

CRISP WINE STYLE

Beautiful color with a pale yellow reflection. This wine has a complex nose combining an elegant sappy character and notes of very ripe Sauvignon. The palate is ample, dominated by the exotic mango-citrus character of the Sauvignon, and the fatness of the Sémillon. Enjoy now or over the next four years.

Varietal: Sauvignon Blanc and Gris, Sémillon, and Muscadelle
Analysis: 12-12.5% alcohol / volume
Soil: Chalky Clay
Harvest: By machine, allowing the grapes to be picked when fully ripe.
Aging: Short, the wine is bottled after fining within six months of being harvested
Wine Making Techniques: The grapes are pressed immediately after being picked and the juice ferments in vats in the traditional way. Temperatures are regulated between 64.4-68ºF to slow fermentation down and extract as many aromas as possible.
Serving: Ideal with fine seafood such as scallops, lobster and other fish dishes.

ABOUT THE WINERY:
Located along clay-limestone slopes where the vineyard flourishes, Château Le Prieur was acquired in 1912 by the Garzaro Family. Today, Pierre-Etienne and Jean-David Garzaro manage the 60 hectors located in Baron in Entre-Deux-Mers, as well as 10 hectares spread over the most prestigious Bordeaux appellations. Their wines are made from exceptionally high-quality grapes and are regularly awarded in various national and international competitions. Learn more about the company here. >

Information © Vignobles Garzaro – All Rights Reserved.

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Château Haut Barrail Red Bordeaux

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Creamy Leftover Turkey SoupCreamy Leftover Turkey Soup

INGREDIENTS:

  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ cup finely chopped onion
  • ½ cup chopped celery
  • 4 ounces sliced cremini mushrooms
  • 1 clove garlic crushed
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 3 tablespoons flour
  • 6 cups turkey broth OR chicken, OR vegetable
  • 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
  • ½ pound baby potatoes, halved or quartered
  • ½ cup wild rice blend
  • 1 cup half & half
  • 4 cups cooked Turkey meat, shredded
  • ½ cup corn
  • salt & pepper, to taste

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Cook aromatics: Heat butter and oil in large pot over medium heat. Add onion and celery and cook until softened, 4-5 minutes.
  2. Cook mushrooms: Stir in mushrooms and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until mushrooms have softened. Stir through garlic and cook for one more minute.
  3. Season: Reduce heat to medium-low. Sprinkle Italian seasoning and flour evenly over mushroom mixture, stir well for 1 minute.
  4. Add broth: Gradually pour in broth, stirring constantly, to keep any lumps from forming.
  5. Simmer: Stir in carrots, potatoes and rice. Bring soup to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cook, covered, until rice is nearly done (about 20-25 minutes for parboiled rice, about 35 minutes for regular).
  6. Finish soup: Once rice is nearly ready, open lid and stir soup well. Add half and half, cooked turkey meat and corn. Stir well, then simmer over medium heat, uncovered, for 10 minutes or until heated through.
  7. Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve immediately.

© Recipe courtesy of Nora from Savory Nothings.

NOVEMBER WISCONSIN WINE CLUB:

Chateau Haut Barrail wine bottleBold wine Style logoChâteau Haut Barrail
Cru Bourgeois
Red Bordeaux
Médoc, France

BOLD WINE STYLE

Château Haut Barrail is situationed in the Bordeaux region called Médoc. The wine grows on gentle hillsides facing Gironde, with good natural drainage.  This wine has intense garnet color with black tendencies. Aromas of ripe fruit and toasted almonds, with a soft and fruity lingering finish. Médoc wines go extremely well with numerous foods and show their full power when accompanied with white and red meats, game, fish in red sauce and firm-bodied cheese.

Varietal: 70% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon
Analysis: 14%.5 alcohol / volume
Aging: 12 months in 60% new barrels and 40% old barrels
Critical Acclaim: 92 pts James Suckling 2018; 91 pts Decanter 2018; 90 Vinous 2016

WINEMAKER’S NOTES
Produced with sustainable agriculture practices and pruning in double Guyot. Leaf-stripping and traditional winemaker. Cold maceration during 24 hours minimum, with natural yeasts. Fermentation in stainless steel thermo-regulated vats.

ABOUT CHÂTEAU HAUT BARRAIL:
Château Haut Barrail and its windmill, has been around since 1362. The oldest parts of the current house were built at the beginning of the 17th-century.  Nowadays, it represents the typical architecture of the 18th-century, with engraved vines and wheat on the stonework. The Cyrill Gillet Domains are situated in the center of the Médoc area on the Begadon district, spread across 37 acres. Owners since 1987, the Gillet family has done a lot to restore the estate. The first vintage of Château Haut Barrail was 1995.

© Information and Photos provided by Château Haut Barrail and Decanter.

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August Sweet Club Iowa

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Sweet Wine ClubBarton & GuestierBarton & Guestier
Vouvray Passeport
Loire Valley, France

NECTAR WINE STYLE

Bright clear yellow in appearance, the Vouvray Passeport has a fruit driven nose with subtle aromas of white flowers mixed with peach, pear, pineapple and carambola. On the palate, it is well balanced between fruit and flint, with a nice, refreshing finish.

Varietal: 100% Chenin Blanc
Region: Loire Valley, France – near the town of Tours
Classification: Appellation Vouvray Contrôlée
Soil: Clay and limestone base with sandy patches, where Chenin grows its best
Climate: Oceanic, mild and humid
Vinification: Pressing of the grapes with overnight settling – controlled alcoholic fermentation to preserve residual sugar
Viticulture: Low yields, hand tending, careful selection and minimal interference in the natural ripening of the grapes
Pairing: This wine is very versatile. It can be paired well with anything from cheese to appetizers, salads, fish, barbecue, or even spicy food or curry dishes. Best served between 46ºF and 50ºF.
Critical Acclaim:

  • Double Gold Medal – Wine Tasting Competition (WSWA) 2016 – USA – 2015 vintage
  • Double Gold Medal – York World Wine & Spirits Comp 2016 (2015 vintage)
  • Vivino Wine Style Awards 2017
  • “Best Buy” – Wine Enthusiast (2014 vintage)
  • 91 points Ultimate Wine Challenge ‘Finalist’ (2013 vintage)

WineStyles Wine and Cheese Pairing: Sweet wines from our ‘Nectar’ section pair well with an aged cheese. Learn more about our wine and cheese pairings here.

ABOUT THE WINERY: 
In 1725, Irishman, Thomas Barton settled in Bordeaux, France to start is company – now, the city’s oldest active wine house. His grandson Hugh teamed up with Frenchman, Daniel Guestier, and in 1802 their partnership became official. Since then, the company has reached over 130 countries. Learn more about their story here.

BEXBEX Winery
Riesling
Nahe, Germany

NECTAR WINE STYLE

The BEX Riesling is brilliant straw color. On the nose, there are aromas of orange blossom, lime and white grapefruit, while on the palate there are mouthwatering flavors of lime and mandarin orange. The wine finishes with notes of minerals and citrus zest.

Analysis: 10.0% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 100% Riesling
Appellation: Nahe, Germany
RS: 2.4%
pH: 3.23
TA: .82 g/100ml
Aging: Fermented at cool temperatures (52)F-55)F), then aged in stainless steel tanks to enhance the wines fresh fruit characteristics
Closure: Twist off to preserve the zesty citrus and bright stone fruit nuances. This allows a slight effervescence to be sealed in, lifting the soft aromas out of the glass.
Pairing: Enjoy as an aperitif, pair with a light or spicy cuisine, or serve as a finale with a dessert
Critical Acclaim: Exceptional – “Best Buy” – 90 points: Beverage Testing Institute, Oct 2015

WineStyles Wine and Cheese Pairing: Sweet wines from our ‘Nectar’ section also pair well with an herbal cheese. Learn more about our wine and cheese pairings here.

WINEMAKER NOTES – 2014 VINTAGE:
“The 2014 growing season was early and fast! Riesling shoots appeared on April 12, three weeks before the norm. Flowering was ahead of schedule and the vines ripened nicely through August when a period of strong rains occurred. Luckily Mother Nature delivered a nice dry September helping the grapes to reach full maturity. The hallmark of 2014 Riesling are sassy wines – crisp and lively with well-integrated acidity.” – BEX Winery

ABOUT THE WINERY:
Located 25 miles south of Mosel, in the Nahe (pronounced Nah-heh) region of southwest Germany; BEX Winery works to produce wines highlighting the distinct flavors of its land. Nahe is the most geologically diverse growing region in Germany. It’s known for its red slate/diverse soils, mild climate, and moderate rainfall – making distinct Rieslings with fresh fruit and floral aromas. Learn more about BEX Winery here.

© Photo by BEX Winery
© Photo by BEX Winery
© Photo by BEX Winery

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Château Roc de Candale

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tagliatelles-aux-morilles-et-champignons-de-paris-entete

© Photo by Les Vins de Saint-Emilion

Tagliatelle with Morels and Paris Mushrooms

This mushroom pasta pairs beautifully with the notes from the Merlot and Cabernet Franc blend of Château Roc de Candale. We have found a French recipe from the Saint-Émilion region in France, however, for ingredients more easily accessible in the United States, this Creamy Pasta with Mushrooms from Bon Appétit is a good alternative to try.

INGREDIENTS:

  • 1.1 lbs (500 g) fresh Tagliatelle pasta
  • 1/3 cup (25 g) dried morels (or substitute dried porcini or shiitake mushrooms)
  • 1 cup (250 g) fresh Paris mushrooms (substitute white or Crimini mushrooms)
  • 1 leek (white part)
  • 1 yellow onion
  • 16.9 fl. oz. or about 2 cups (50 cl) light cream (about 18% fat content)
  • sunflower oil
  • nut oil
  • salt and pepper

DIRECTIONS:

  1. The day before, rehydrate the mushrooms in water for half an hour. Rinse to remove sand and then soak them again in 2 cups (50 cl) of fresh cream. Place the preparation in the refrigerator overnight.
  2. The next day, drain the mushrooms and keep the liquid cream. Peel and cut the Paris mushrooms into thin strips. Slice the leek and onion.
  3. Sauté the onion, leek and mushrooms in an oiled pan. Add salt and pepper. Wet it if necessary.
  4. After ten minutes, add the fresh cream, filtered through a fine sieve. Stir regularly and adjust seasoning. Cook for 10 minutes.
  5. When cooked, boil a large pot of salted water. Cook the Tagliatelle.
  6. Once the pasta is cooked and drained, serve immediately, if you like, with a drizzle of walnut oil from Périgord.

© Recipe courtesy of Les Vins de Saint-Emilion.

APRIL WINE CLUB:

Mellow style logoChateau-Roc-de-Candale-bottle-webMagali & Thibaut Decoster Vineyards
Château Roc de Candale
Saint-Émilion Grand Cru, France

MELLOW WINE STYLE

Château Roc de Candale has a bright purple color. The flattering bouquet is charming thanks to fine notes of spices. The wine is immediately pleasing with notes of fresh, ripe and juicy fruits. Château Roc de Candale offers sophisticated and spontaneous enjoyment.

Varietal: 90% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc
Analysis: 13.5% alcohol / volume
Harvest: By hand, in small crates
Average Yield: 25 hl/ha
Vinification: Soaking, pigeages (punching down the cap), and malolactic fermentation in barrels
Fermentation: 30 days
Vats: Wooden
Aging: 12 months in barrels
Production: 23,000 Bottles
Oenologist Consultant: Stéphane Derenoncourt

ABOUT THE VINEYARD
Château Roc de Candale was previously called Vieux Château Haut Béard. Its vineyard is close to that of Château de Candale and is planted at the foot of Saint-Emilion’s south-facing slope. The former owner brought together the two estates when he acquired Vieux Château Haut Béard after having purchased Château de Candale. Today, each growth has its own vineyard and cellar. In this way, the identity and style of each of them are preserved. 
Château Roc de Candale is planted on a more clay-silt terroir which gives the wine greater suppleness in its early years. Being less complex than its neighbor, it is a wine for more immediate enjoyment. Learn more here. 

ABOUT DECOSTER VINEYARDS:

Their story began in 2004 when Thibaut and Magali became wine-growers at Clos des Jacobins, though they had little ties to the world of wine-growing. Both came from Limoges, and they studied business and marketing in France and England. Eventually, Thibaut moved to the Bordeaux area and was taken on as a vineyard worker at a wine estate in Léognan. There, for a period of 3 years in the field, he practiced all the vine-growing tasks required to produce high-end reds and whites. In 2003, an opportunity came along for Thibaut and Magali to set up in Saint-Émilion. Clos des Jacobins and Château La Commanderie were up for sale, and one year later Thibaut and Magali were the new owners of the estates. Learn more about their story here. 

© Photo by Magali et Thibaut Decoster
© Photo by Magali et Thibaut Decoster
© Photo by Magali et Thibaut Decoster

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Pierre Jean Sauvignon Blanc

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maryland-crab-cakes

© Photo by Sally’s Baking Addiction

Maryland Crab Cakes 

INGREDIENTS:

  • 1 Large egg
  • ¼ cup (60g) mayonnaise
  • 1 Tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or 2 teaspoons dried)
  • 2 teaspoons dijon mustard
  • 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (up to 1 and ½ teaspoons for a spicier kick)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice, plus more for serving
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 1 pound fresh lump crab meat*
  • 2/3 cup Saltine cracker crumbs (about 14 crackers)
  • Optional: 2 Tablespoons (30g) melted salted or unsalted butter

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Whisk the egg, mayonnaise, parsley, dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay, lemon juice, and salt together in a large bowl. Place the crab meat on top, followed by the cracker crumbs. With a rubber spatula or large spoon, very gently and carefully fold together. You don’t want to break up that crab meat.
  2. Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes and up to 1 day.
  3. Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C). Generously grease a rimmed baking sheet with butter or nonstick spray or line with a silicone baking mat.
  4. Using a ½ cup measuring cup, portion the crab cake mixture into 6 mounds on the baking sheet (don’t flatten). Use your hands or a spoon to compact each individual mound so there aren’t any lumps sticking out or falling apart. For extra flavor, brush each with melted butter. This is optional but recommended!
  5. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly browned around the edges and on top. Drizzle each with fresh lemon juice and serve warm.
  6. Cover leftover crab cakes tightly and refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

© Recipe courtesy of Sally’s Baking Addiction

APRIL WINE CLUB:

Silky styleJean-Pierre-Sauvignon-Blanc-bottle-webPierre Jean
Sauvignon Blanc
Côtes de Gasgone, France

SILKY WINE STYLE

Classically French with lively aromas of wildflower, lemongrass, apple and pear with a nuance of flint.  Delicious flavors of mandarin orange, peach, apple and pear lead to a crisp, long finish with racy acidity and more of that flinty terroir.  This wine is an ideal aperitif or will complement almost any light summer cuisine.

Varietal: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
Analysis: 11% alcohol / volume
Appellation: Côtes de Gascogne
Closure: Screw cap
Pairing: Serve between 50˚F-53.6˚F with aperitif, fresh fish, haddock, seafood, or salads

Côtes de Gascogne is located just south of Bordeaux, in the Gascony district and specializes in white wines. Most are local grape varieties but better-known varietals such as Sauvignon Blanc are borrowed from Bordeaux (to the north). About 60% of its wines are exported and young sommeliers have recently rediscovered this wine region. In 1979, an association of  Vin de Pays (country wine) was established and today includes 1400 wine farmers. The Pierre Jean brand is named after one of Yvon Mau’s grandsons, who developed the design for the bottle. The Pierre Jean series consists of very accessible wines that are a party every day. The beautifully styled bottle of course also contributes to this. 

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April Wine Club Pairing Recipe

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Beef Tenderloin with Roasted Shallots

Beef Tenderloin with Shallots

© Photo by All Recipes

INGREDIENTS:

  • ¾ pound shallots, halved lengthwise and peeled
  • 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 3 cups beef broth
  • ¾ cup port wine
  • 1 ½ teaspoons tomato paste
  • 2 pounds beef tenderloin roast, trimmed
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 3 slices bacon, diced
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 4 sprigs watercress, for garnish

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9-inch pie pan, toss shallots with oil to coat. Season with salt and pepper. Roast until shallots are deep brown and very tender, stirring occasionally, about 30 minutes.
  2. In a large saucepan, combine beef broth and port. Bring to a boil. Cook over high heat until the volume is reduced by half, about 30 minutes. Whisk in tomato paste. Set aside.
  3. Pat beef dry; sprinkle with thyme, salt and pepper. In a large roasting pan, set over medium heat on the stove top, sauté bacon until golden. Using a slotted spoon, transfer bacon to paper towels. Add beef to pan; brown on all sides over medium high heat, about 7 minutes.
  4. Transfer pan to oven. Roast beef until meat thermometer inserted into center registers 125°F (50°C) for medium rare, about 25 minutes. Transfer beef to platter. Tent loosely with foil.
  5. Spoon fat off top of pan drippings in roasting pan. Place pan over high heat on stove top. Add broth mixture, and bring to boil; stir to scrape up any browned bits. Transfer to a medium saucepan, and bring to simmer. Mix 1 ½ tablespoon butter and flour in small bowl to form smooth paste; whisk into broth mixture, and simmer until sauce thickens. Whisk in remaining butter. Stir in roasted shallots and reserved bacon. Season with salt and pepper.
  6. Cut beef into ½ inch thick slices. Spoon some sauce over, and garnish with watercress.

© Recipe courtesy of Christine L. from All Recipes.

APRIL WINE CLUB:

Mellow style logoChateau-de-Bel-Air-Lalande-de-Pomerol-bottle-webChâteau de Bel-Air
Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon
Lalande de Pomerol, France

MELLOW WINE STYLE

On the nose, Château de Bel-Air presents notes of red fruit and floral aromas; on the palate, a harmonious balance between flesh and tannins means it can be enjoyed after just a few years of cellaring. A delicate wine that is a perfect partner for refined dishes.
 
Varietal: 73% Merlot, 19% Cabernet Franc, 8% Cabernet Sauvignon
Analysis: 13-14% alcohol / volume
Viticulture: Culture Raisonnée, soil tilling or cover cropping
Harvest: Mechanical, with sorting in the cellar
Winemaking: Parcellary, in thermo-regulated concrete vats


Mentioned in the Cocks & Feret guides as one of the best wines of the appellation as early as 1922, Château de Bel-Air is situated on a sunny plateau that gently slopes southward. The historical quality of its wines and its privileged position, which guarantees the vineyard ideal sun exposure year-round, inspired owner Michel de Laet Derache to acquire the property in 2011. The vines, averaging 40 years of age, are planted on a terroir of gravel brought from the volcanic Massif Central by rivers during the quaternary era, with layers of iron rich clay. In order to best express the nuances of the site, the vineyard is managed and vinified plot by plot, with a respect for the different ages of the vines, varietals, and rootstocks. Vinification takes place in thermo-regulated concrete tanks. The wine is then mostly aged in oak barrels (45% new) for 12-18 months. 

© Photo by Moueix
© Photo by Moueix
© Photo by Moueix

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February Wine Club Pairing Recipe

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delish-191015-slow-cooked-pork-shoulder-0369-portrait-pf-1572470102

© Photo by Parker Feierbach of Delish

Slow-Cooker Pork Shoulder

  • 1 boneless, skinless pork shoulder, Boston butt about 6 lbs.
  • 20 cloves garlic 
  • 1/2 cup olive oil, divided 
  • 2 tsp. cumin
  • 2 tbsp. salt 
  • 1 tbsp. black pepper 
  • 3 tbsp. oregano leaves 
  • 1/2 cup fresh squeezed orange juice 
  • 1/4 cup fresh squeezed lime juice 
  • 1 Serrano pepper, seeded, and diced
  • 1/4 cup freshly chopped fresh cilantro  
  • White rice, for serving, optional 

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Dry pork shoulder with a paper towel and make 1” incisions with a knife all over.
  2. Pulse garlic, ¼ cup oil, cumin, salt, pepper, and oregano in a food processor until a paste is formed. Remove 2 tablespoons of the paste and set aside.
  3. Rub pork shoulder all over with remaining paste, pushing some of it into the incisions.
  4. Place pork in slow cooker, cover, and cook on low until meat is fork-tender but not yet completely falling apart, 7 1/2 to 8 hours.
  5. To make the sauce, heat remaining ¼ cup oil in a small saucepan over medium heat until shimmering. Add reserved 2 tablespoons garlic paste and let sizzle, stirring continuously until fragrant, just about 1 minute. Remove from heat and let cool before whisking in orange juice, lime juice, serrano pepper, and cilantro.
  6. Serve sliced pork over rice with sauce drizzled on top.

© Recipe courtesy of Kat Boytsova of Delish

FEBRUARY WINE CLUB:

Rosso Di SeraBold wine Style logoMartellotto Winery
Rosso Di Sera
Santa Barbara, California

BOLD WINE STYLE

“Martellotto’s ‘Evening Red’ Bordeaux blend steals the Spotlight! Greg Martellotto believes blends are better and this wine highlights the symphonic harmony of three Bordeaux varietals: Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc.” – Martellotto Winery

Aromas of luxardo cherry, cedar, and fresh Mediterranean herbs entice; while flavors of ripe plum, blueberry and oak dance on the tongue. This Rosso Di Sera is a stunning value; rich, opulent and easy to gulp; and a wonderful expression of the AVA.

Varietal: 40% Malbec, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Cabernet Franc
Analysis: 14.2% alcohol / volume
AVA: Happy Canyon of Santa Barbara
Soil: Sandy/Clay Loam
Farming: Sustainable
Production: 60 barrels
Aging: 10 months in tank, 20% new oak
Critical Acclaim: 90 pts. Wine Enthusiast; 90 pts. Jeb Dunnuck

HAPPY CANYON OF SANTA BARBARA:
This new, small AVA was established in 2009. Located in the southeast part of the larger Santa Ynez Valley- the hottest part of the valley and furthest from the ocean. Rolling hills sit atop a serpentine-laced terroir that is primarily planted to Bordeaux varietals.

Photo from Martellotto Winery

© Photo from Martellotto Winery

ABOUT MARTELLOTTO WINERY:
The Martellotto family roots back to a 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 that speak to his own viticultural passion.

Located in Buellton, California, Martellotto Winery focuses on vibrant Bordeaux varietals from the hottest new AVA, Happy Canyon of Santa Barbara. Indeed, Martellotto Winery is one of the few California wineries bottling and producing varietal wines from each of the five noble Bordeaux grapes: Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc and Merlot. Since 2005, Martellotto Winery has produced unique and exciting wines designed to surprise and ignite discerning palates of wine lovers everywhere. Martellotto has a vineyard first philosophy, and sources sustainably farmed grapes from California’s choicest vineyards. Gentle handling and minimal intervention result in wines that are consistently vibrant and a joy to share. Learn more about the Martellotto Winery here.

Greg Martellotto

Winemaker, Greg Martellotto

ABOUT THE WINEMAKER – GREG MARTELLOTTO:
Greg has been making wine since 2005. His peripatetic path has led him to winemaking experience 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 opportunities to travel to most of the major winemaking regions of the world as both a buyer and a consumer, which informs his style. Equally important and unique among most winemakers, Greg’s experience as an importer and wine buyer provides insiders access to the greatest wines and wineries in the world. In this capacity, he regularly tastes more than 400 wines per month and he knows great wine.

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July’s Collectors Wine Club: Iowa

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Collectors Wine ClubClos du Clocher

About Clos Du Clocher

Clos du Clocher wine estate is located in the Pomerol wine growing region in France. With three parcels of vineyard and just 300 yards south of the church in Pomerol, it is surrounded by the most famous growths of the appellation.   Founded in 1924, when the first parcel of vines were bought by a successful Bordeaux negociant,  Jean Baptiste Audy.  Today, the estate is owned by his grandson Pierre Bourotte and his great-grandson Jean-Baptiste.  The soils are composed of the famous dense iron-rich clay that is found in Pomerol.  The vineyards are planted with 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Franc with an average age of 39 years old. Grapes are hand harvested into small baskets and double sorted.  Winemaking is traditional and carried out in stainless steel and cement thermo-regulated vats.  After 4 weeks in the vats, malolactic fermentation takes place in oak barrels or vats, depending on the parcels and the vintage.  The wine is aged for up to 18 months in French oak barrels (two thirds new and one third one year old).

Clos du Clocher PomerolBold wine Style logoClos du Clocher
Pomerol
Merlot, Cabernet Franc
Bordeaux, France

BOLD WINE STYLE

This month’s Collector’s Club includes both the 750ml and 1.5 Magnum bottle of Clos du Clocher.

In the very center of the famous Pomerol plateau, under the shadow of the eponymous bell tower of the neighboring church, this vineyard is home to some truly ancient vines that translate into a tremendous wine in bottle. This is without a doubt “A beauty from the high plateau of Pomerol” to quote Robert Parker of The Wine Advocate. 

Clos du Clocher is an elegant Pomerol style and a wonderfully pure expression of the vineyard’s terroir. Perfect for short-medium term drinking for the vintage.  Annual production at Clos du Clocher is about 2000 cases and the legendary consultant Michel Rolland consistently produces wines of real elegance from a modest 7 hectares. In a diminishing field, this elegant style is one of Pomerols very best values. 

“Has a lightly roasted feel, with ganache and espresso notes lining the core of plum and blackberry fruit. Roasted alder hints fill the finish, while the roasted edge provides the texture. Shows more guts than refinement.” Wine Spectator

Appellation: Bordeaux (right bank), Pomerol, France
Varietal: 80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc
Analysis: 14% alcohol / volume
Aging: 18 months French Oak barrels
Winemaker: Michel Rolland

About Chateauneuf-du-Pape

In the 14th Century, under the reign of Pope John XXII, the Avignon village became the summer residence of the papacy. As for the precious nectar produced in this area, he granted it the rank of “Vin du Pape”, opening the doors of the great European courts.  More than likely, during Gallo-Roman times the vines covered the territory of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. However, the first written evidence of its existence dates from 1157. In keeping with local tradition and planting himself, Geoffroy, bishop of Avignon, had a vineyard within the territory of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. However, it’s the popes from the fourteenth century that were the real promoters of the wine growing business of the appellation.

By the 19th Century, the wines were very well known, enjoyed by famous people, poets, literary and cultural associates in Paris.  By the 20th Century, winemakers were anxious to defend the growing reputation of the Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines, the beginnings of the current system of AOC.  The 1919 wine appellation law on “designations of origin” was too general and didn’t prevent fraud. The constituent meeting of the “Châteauneuf-du-Pape winegrowers union” took place in October 1923. After several years of legal proceedings, the decree of the appellation is published and Châteauneuf-du-Pape becomes the first wine-making AOC of France on May 15, 1936.  Still in force today, it continues to protect and guarantee the quality of Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines. The vineyards now cover 7900 acres in the towns of Châteauef-du-Pape, Bédarrides, Courthézon, Orange and Sorgue.

Domaine Chante CigaleBold wine Style logoDomaine Chante Cigale
Rouge 2016
Châteauneuf du Pape, France

BOLD WINE STYLE

Today, the Domaine Chante Cigale is one of the most important family estates of Châteauneuf du Pape.  Alexandre Favier is now carefully running the winery by keeping up with the winemaker’s tradition of the family.

The Estate now stretches over 40 hectares on the Châteauneuf du Pape appellation, divided into 45 parcels, scattered all over this exceptional terroir.  The diversity of its soils and of the grape varieties allows the elaboration of a unique and exceptional wines.  Alexandre Favier and his team are taking good care of every step of the wine production themselves, respecting the spirit of the Domaine. 

“Bright violet. Ripe cherry and raspberry on the deeply perfumed nose, lifted by suggestions of pungent flowers and cracked pepper.  Nicely concentrated but lively as well, offering sappy red berry, candied cherry and lavender flavors that show very good clarity and smooth, seamless texture.  Finishes sweet and silky, displaying spicy persistence and gentle tannic grip.” – 91 pts. Vinous 2018

“It boasts silky tannins, plenty of cherry fruit and a dusting of ground pepper and all spice on the long finish. Drink 2018-2028.” – 91 pts, Robert Parker 2018

Appellation: Châteauneuf-du-Pape, France
Varietal: 65% Grenache, 20% Syrah, 10% Mourvédre, 5% Cinsault
Analysis: 15.5% alcohol / volume
Aging: 12-14 months in 35% new French oak

 

 
 
 

September Wine Club pairing recipe

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risotto with mushroomsBarley Risotto with Mushrooms and Gremolata

GREMOLATA INGREDIENTS:
• 1/3 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
• 2 Tbs. grated lemon zest
• 1 Tbs. finely chopped garlic

BARLEY RISOTTO INGREDIENTS:
• 1 oz. dried porcini mushrooms, rinsed
• 1 cup hot water
• 2 Tbs. olive oil
• 1 lb. assorted fresh mushrooms (such as morels, shiitakes, oyster, or chanterelles), sliced ¼ inch thick
• 2 tsp. kosher salt; more to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 6 to 7 cups homemade or low-salt canned chicken or vegetable broth
• 3 Tbs. unsalted butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cups pearled barley

DIRECTIONS:

• To make the gremolata—In a small bowl, mix together the parsley, lemon zest, and garlic.
• To make the risotto—Soak the porcini in the hot water for at least 30 min. Strain the liquid through a fine sieve and reserve. Chop the porcini into small pieces.
• In a large sauté pan with straight sides, heat the oil over high heat until shimmering but not smoking. Sauté the sliced fresh mushrooms until they release some liquid and are browned, about 5 min. Stir in the porcini and the reserved liquid, scraping up any browned bits. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Transfer the mushrooms and liquid to a bowl.
• In a saucepan, bring the broth to a boil, reduce the heat, partially cover, and hold at a simmer.
• In the pan used for the mushrooms, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until tender and translucent, 8 to 10 min. Add 2 tsp. coarse salt and the barley, and stir until the grains are coated with butter. Add 1 cup of the hot broth, reduce the heat to low, and stir frequently until the broth is absorbed. Stir in another cup of broth. Once it’s absorbed, add 1 more cup, stirring until it’s also absorbed. Add 2 more cups and simmer the barley, stirring frequently, until it softens but isn’t completely tender and the liquid is almost absorbed, about 10 min. Stir in the cooked mushrooms and their liquid and 1 to 2 more cups of broth. Simmer until the barley is tender, about 10 min. more, stirring frequently and adding hot water or broth if needed. The total cooking time for the barley can range from 30 to 60 min.
• Stir in the gremolata and adjust the seasonings to taste. Serve hot.

Plantey wine bottle imageMellow style logoChâteau Le Plantey
Merlot Cabernet Franc
Castillon – Cotes de Bordeaux
Bordeaux, France

Founded in 1878, this family property has been managed by Paul and Lorette Valade for over 30 years. Originally located in the Castillon-Côtes de Bordeaux appellation, the vineyards expanded into St. Emilion in 2007. On this property, every effort is made to ensure that the wines produced have impeccable quality. Traditional expertise, handed down from generation to generation, combined with long hours of hard work in the vineyards and a meticulous approach to each task, enables the Château to produce outstanding wines from Castillon-Côtes de Bordeaux.

Valade Family wine makers

Valade Family wine makers

“Red and black fruit on the nose, along with very fine oaky notes. Lively on entry, full on the palate. Château Le Plantey is a wine combining power and elegance with soft tannins.”

Winemakers: Valade Family
Appellation: Belvès-de-Castillon, France
Varietal Blend:  85% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc
Analysis: 14.2% alcohol / volume