Tag Archives: chardonnay

Winery Spotlight Series: March 10 De Martino

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De Martino LogoVirtual Wine Tasting Event on Zoom and Facebook LIVE

De Martino

Isla de Maipo, Chile

Wednesday, March 10, 2021 6:00pm CST / 7:00pm EST

Join us for a virtual wine tasting event, featuring De Martino wines from Chile, with guest speaker Sebastián De Martino. During our virtual event, Sebastián will be guiding us through a tasting of the following 6 De Martino wines:

Zoom Facebook Live
  • Estate Sauvignon Blanc
  • Legado Chardonnay
  • Legado Pinot Noir
  • Gallardia Cinsault
  • Legado Cabernet Sauvignon
  • Les Cruces Malbec
Be sure to RSVP at your local WineStyles location or on Eventbrite. Pre-order your wines in advance at your local participating WineStyles location and taste alongside Sebastián with a front seat on Zoom! Or watch on our Facebook LIVE event.
De Martino WInes
About De Martino:
Founded in 1934, for four generations, the De Martino family has specialized in creating wines that are a faithful reflection of their origins by focusing on selected parcels throughout Chile. The De Martino family has worked to achieve wines that represent them as a family; they believe wines of great purity, with a sense of place and balance, are a result of sustainable agriculture and traditional fermentation techniques. The style that represents the De Martino family, is one that blends origin, personality, balance and gastronomic sensibilities. In order to achieve this type of wine, over the years the De Martino family has explored over 347 vineyards all across Chile. The fourth generation, headed by Marco Antonio and Sebastián De Martino, along with their team, continue with their constant search for exciting terroirs to polish their house style. Learn more about De Martino Winery here.
Winemaking:
De Martino Winery uses organic farming and early harvesting to achieve balanced alcohol levels in their wines. Their fermentation is carried out exclusively with native yeasts, leaving out unnecessary winemaking additives that can alter the profile of the wine. Finally, aging is completed in concrete or stainless steel containers, old barrels, large oak foudres (5,000 liters each) or an ancestral terracotta amphorae (pictured below). All of these are used in the hopes of limiting external influences on the aromas and flavors of their wines, allowing the quality of each origin to fully express itself. De Martino Terracotta wine vessels
About Sebastián De Martino:
Sebastián De Martino is a 4th generation vintner and co-owner who grew up in Isla de Maipo on the vineyards of his family’s wine estate. The De Martino family came from Italy in 1934 and settled in Chile in Isla de Maipo (DO Maipo), where they began specializing in creating wines from Bordeaux grape varieties. In the years since, De Martino has become a leader in innovation and winemaking. Along with receiving his Wine MBA in Bordeaux, Sebastián supplements his wine education by traveling to wine regions around the world. So far, he has traveled to the wine regions of Burgundy, Champagne, Bordeaux, the South of France, Barolo, Tuscany, Sicily, Jura, Rioja, Madrid, Georgia, New Zealand, Australia, and the United States. In 2011, Sebastián and his brother Marco worked with the De Martino technical team to help define the house style of De Martino wines. In the years since, their goal has been to position this house style in the market. Their current goals are also to help develop Itata as a world-renowned wine region, to create an elegant Cabernet Sauvignon and Carmenere from D.O. Maipo, and to spend time experimenting with volcanic wines from the Patagonia region. Today, Sebastián lives in the vineyards of the De Martino winery on Isla de Maipo, with his three dogs.
© Photo by De Martino Winery – Sebastián De Martino
© Photo by De Martino Winery
© Photo by De Martino Winery
© Photo by De Martino Winery – Cava
© Photo by De Martino Winery
© Photo by De Martino Winery
De Martino Terroirs: 
In the Coast the De Martino’s farm vineyards in Limarí (limestone/ clay) and Casablanca (granite), where they specialize in Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc. In the mild – warm climate of Maipo (gravel) they grow Carmenere and Cabernet Sauvignon. In the southern region they focus their attention at old vines, fi eld blends, dry farmed vineyards in Cahcapoal and Maule (granite). In the coast of Itata (450 km south of Santiago), where fi rst vineyards were planted back in 1551, the De Martino’s farm old vines– up to 110 year old – grown sustainably over granite, resulting in exciting Cinsault, Muscat and some other rarities.  

Let’s Taste, Learn and Enjoy® together! 

Contact your local WineStyles to RSVP for this tasting event.

De Martino Isla de Maipo, Chile

Cheers!

WineStyles.com

February Bubbly Club

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Bubbly Wine ClubGustave_Lorentz_Cremant_dAlsace_Brut_Rose_Fact_new-format_JCGustave Lorentz
Crémant d’Alsace Brut Rosé
Alsace, France

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

The Cremant d’Alsace Rosé is made from Pinot Noir, which is full of charm and elegance. It makes a refined aperitif and an ideal cocktail or reception drink. Fresh and discreetly fruity, it inspires a host of gastronomic matches. This refined wine also works with hot and cold seafood appetizers, chicken, pork and other white meats & game, as well as some desserts. Serve chilled.

Analysis: 12.3% alcohol / volume
Varietals: 100% Pinot Noir
Total Acidity: 5.6 g/l
Residual Sugar: 7.8 g/l
Producer: Gustave Lorentz
Region: AOC Alsace
Country: France

WINEMAKING:
The grapes are carefully selected and vinified according to “Methode Champenoise.” After traditional fermentation “vin de base” in tanks, a second fermentation (“prise de mousse”) takes place in the cool cellars. It does not undergo malolactic fermentation. Aging is done “sur lie” between 14 and 18 months, with daily bottle rotation, going from a horizontal to vertical position, in order for the yeast deposit to accumulate in the neck of the bottle. At the time of “degorgement,” the neck is frozen and, enclosed in ice, the sediment is ejected by natural pressure, after which the bottle is corked and wired.

ABOUT THE WINERY:
Founded in 1836, Maison Gustave Lorentz owned 33 hectares of land on the hillsides of Bergheim in the heart of the Alsace wine region, 12.8 hectares of which are classified Grand Cru Altenberg de Bergheim, and 1.75 hectares Grand Cru Kanzlerberg. The first mention of the Lorentz family in the commune of Ribeauvillé dates back to the end of the Thirty Years’ War in the second half of the 17th century. They were innkeepers or coopers as well as ‘gourmets’, the old name given to wine merchants, which afforded them an important status in the local community. In 1748, winegrower and blacksmith Jean-Georges Lorentz was the first to settle in Bergheim, which later became the heart of our domaine. His son, Pierre Lorentz, was married to the youngest daughter of the Mayor of the time (Nicolas Schmitt). Generations passed with the birth of Jacques Lorentz in 1798 and Charles Lorentz in 1836. This same year, Maison Lorentz was founded in the commune of Bergheim. Today, Georges Lorentz has the honor of managing the estate, seven generations later. To learn more about Gustave Lorentz Winery and family, click here.

Gustave Lorentz Vineyard

© Photo by: Gustave Lorentz Winery

Alma 4 Alma 4
Blanc de Blanc
Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

Alma 4’s Blanc de Blanc Chardonnay is greenish yellow in color with slight tints of gold. It has persistent and delicate chains of small bubbles. The nose is quite shocking. It has strong flavors of fruits, such as fresh pear, as well as some citrus notes of mandarin peel and Kinoto. The fruit is balanced, the yeast is subtle, and the wood flavor is complex. On the mouth, it is creamy and fully. There is a harmony of sugar to acidity with an exotic fruit finish. It is long and complex. Intense and fresh. This sparkling wine is tasted with the 5 senses.

Analysis: 12.5% alcohol / volume
Varietals: 100% Chardonnay
Residual Sugar: 4.7 g/l
Acidity: 7.05 g/l
Region: Mendoza, Argentina
Appellation: Uco Valley
Vineyard: Sustainably farmed – 1200-1550 meters in elevation
Production:Traditional method (Champenoise) using direct pressing. Fermentation begins at 59-64.4ºF for 20 days. 15% of Chardonnay is fermented in French oak barrels. No malolactic fermentation. The second fermentation is in bottles between 57.2º F and 60.8º F.
Disgorgement: Performed manually
Time on Yeasts: 40 months

ABOUT THE WINERY:
Alma Cuatro (or Alma 4) began in 1999 as an experimental sparkling wine-making project led by four young people from Mendoza, with a strong investigative spirit: Mauricio, Agustín, Marcela and Sebastián. With passion, perseverance, friendship and work, these four friends came together to create a line of sparkling wines made by second fermentation in the bottle — combining innovation with the avant-garde method. Learn more about these four friends and owners here.

Alma 4 Friends

© Photo by Alma 4

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M by Martellotto

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Garlic Butter Cod Fish Recipe

Cod Fish Recipe

© Photo by Primavera Kitchen

INGREDIENTS:
  • Cod fish fillets – This is an affordable white fish that takes on the flavors it’s cooked with. Haddock, Pollack, or Mahi Mahi would make great substitutes.
  • Olive oil – Or use another neutral cooking oil with a high smoke point like vegetable, avocado, or safflower oil.
  • Spices: garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper
  • Unsalted butter
  • Garlic Lemon zest
  • Green onions, for garnish
DIRECTIONS:
Season the fish
  1. Pat the fish dry with a paper towel so the seasonings adhere better to the surface. It will also help the fish crisp on the outside when seared.
  2. Season both sides of the cod fillets with the spices. It may help to mix them together in a small bowl first to get even coverage.
Cook
  1. Next, sear the fish on both sides in hot oil.
  2. Continue cooking until the fish flakes apart, flipping again halfway through.
  3. Melt the butter in the pan with garlic and lemon zest. Coat the fish in the garlic butter.
Garnish and serve
  1. Remove the pan from heat and transfer the fish to a serving dish.
  2. Then, sprinkle chopped green onions over the top and serve with your favorite sides.
© Recipe courtesy of Olivia of Primavera Kitchen

FEBRUARY WINE CLUB:

Silky stylem-by-martellotto-chardonnayMartellotto Winery M by Martellotto Sta. Rita Hills, California

SILKY WINE STYLE
“A Chardonnay lover’s Chardonnay. Sourced from the Spear Vineyards, located a few miles west of the winery in Buellton, off Highway 246 in the Santa Rita Hills. This area is famous for the best, cool climate Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes. Spear Vineyard is CCOF certified organic and located near Seasmoke, which charges $100-200/bottle of their wines!” – Martellotto Winery
The wine was stainless tank fermented and then rested in neutral French oak barrels for 12 months. This Chardonnay has a lovely natural acidity and a light zip in the mouth from the sandy loam vineyard that was covered by the Pacific Ocean millennia ago. The wine is light, delicate, and an eminently drinkable quaffer that pairs with a variety of foods. If you love Chablis and dry, nuanced Chardonnay, then you will love this wine. The M by Martellotto was naturally produced and organically farmed.
Analysis: 13.5% alcohol / volume Varietal: 100% Chardonnay AVA: Sta. Rita Hills Soil: Sandy Loam Farming: Organic Production: 14 barrels Oak: 11 months, neutral French Oak
© Photo by Martellotto Winery
“Santa Barbara remains one of the most fascinating regions in the world. Rich history, a culture of site-specific wines and reasonable pricing make Santa Barbara one of the most exciting and rewarding regions for consumers who want to discover distinctive, high-quality artisan wines that speak of place.” – A. Galloni ABOUT MARTELLOTTO WINERY:
Winemaker, Greg Martellotto

Winemaker, Greg Martellotto

The Martellotto family roots trace 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. From his ancestors’ traditional winemaking in Southern Italy, to his grandfather’s homemade wine during Prohibition, to production in an innovative warehouse facility shared with Barbieri Wine Co. and Lo-Fi wines, Martellotto Winery produces remarkable wines of consequence, consistency, value, and varietal expression. With each bottle, it is the Martellotto family’s desire to share extraordinary, artisanal wines. THE MARTELLOTTO LABEL: Professor John Langdon is famous for creating Ambigrams and inspiring Dan Brown to incorporate his graphics in the books and movie around The DaVinci Code. He has only designed one wine label, and that is for Martellotto Winery. The Martellotto label is a spiritual totem, symmetrical down the middle, and a mirror image. The ARTE of the name engages the Art & Science of winemaking. The bottle enumeration demonstrates the handmade, limited availability of these wines. 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 >

Martellotto Melodeon

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Brown Butter-Sage Chicken Wings Recipe

Credit: © Todd Porter & Diane Cu

Credit: © Todd Porter & Diane Cu

INGREDIENTS:
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 6 to 8 small sage leaves
  • 1 tablespoon ground sage
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 2 pound chicken wings, split
  • Kosher or sea salt, to taste
  • Fresh cracked black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup all-purpose flout, for dredging
  • Vegetable Oil (or other high flashpoint oil), for frying
DIRECTIONS:
  1. Heat a saucepan over medium heat. Melt the butter and stir in the garlic. Continue cooking the butter until it is light brown and develops a nutty aroma.
  2. Remove the butter from the heat and stir in the sage leaves, ground sage, Worcestershire sauce and brown sugar. Set aside.
  3. Rinse the chicken wings and pat them dry. Generously season the chicken with salt and black pepper. Dredge the wings in flour, shaking off any excess flour, and set aside.
  4. In a large saucepan or deep fryer, heat the oil to about 375°. Fry the chicken wings in small batches until golden brown, 8 to 10 minutes. Shake off any excess oil and place on paper towels to drain. Continue frying the chicken in batches until all of the wings are cooked. Toss the wings in the brown butter sauce and serve warm.
© Recipe courtesy of Todd Porter and Diane Cu of Food and Wine Magazine 

FEBRUARY WINE CLUB:

Martellotto ChardonnaySilky styleMartellotto Winery Melodeon Chardonnay Sta. Rita Hills, California

SILKY WINE STYLE
“A Chardonnay lover’s Chardonnay. The fruit in the Martellotto Chardonnay is from the Spear Vineyard, located a few miles west of the winery in Buellton, off Highway 246 in the Santa Rita Hills. This area is famous for the best Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes and we are pleased to be sourcing such high quality fruit. Spear Vineyard is farmed organically and located very near Seasmoke, which charges $100-$200/bottle for their wines!” – Martellotto Winery
This Melodeon Chardonnay was barrel fermented and has a lovely natural acidity and a light zip in the mouth from the sandy loam vineyard that was covered by the Pacific Ocean millennia ago. A broad mouthfeel and yummy vivacity combine with layers of vanilla, toasted hazelnuts, and nutmeg singing into the finish. If you love Chablis and dry, nuanced Chardonnay with layers of depth and a crunchy deliciousness, then you will love this wine.
Analysis: 13.5% alcohol / volume Varietal: 100% Chardonnay AVA: Sta. Rita Hills Soil: Sandy Loam Farming: Organic Production: 14 barrels Oak: 11 months, 20% new French Oak “The daring, innovative spirit embodied by the region’s young producers and a vast range of first-class sites creates conditions that are idea for the production of distinctive, pedigreed wines of the highest level. Best of all, with few exceptions, these wines remain under the radar and very fairly priced relative to global peers.” – Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
© Photo by Martellotto Winery
ABOUT MARTELLOTTO WINERY:
Greg Martellotto

Winemaker, Greg Martellotto

The Martellotto family roots trace 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 – in the hottest new AVA region of Happy Canyon of Santa Barbara – Martellotto Winery focuses on vibrant Bordeaux varietals, with a vineyard first philosophy of gentle handling and minimal intervention. Through a deft combination of sourcing sustainably farmed grapes from California’s choicest vineyards and deploying creative, progressive blending and fermenting techniques, Martellotto produces outstanding wines that capture pinpoint varietal expression. Greg has nearly two decades of diverse experience in all facets of the wine business, including import and distribution and working with some of the greatest wines and wineries in California, Piemonte, Tuscany, and Bordeaux, as well as Spain, Chile and Argentina. Consultant Mike Roth, an authority in the fields of biodynamics and natural winemaking, has working under Napa pioneers Mike Grgich and Nils Venge. He has made wine in Santa Barbara at Koehler, Demetria, Martian Ranch, and for his own Lo-Fi brand. THE MARTELLOTTO LABEL: John Langdon designed the Martellotto label as a spiritual totem, symmetrical down the middle, and a mirror image. The ARTE of the name recognizes the Art & Science of winemaking. The bottle enumeration demonstrates the handmade, limited availability of these wines. Prof. Landon’s signature ambigram design is located on the bottom right of the back label. Turn the bottle upside down to visualize how his name reads left to right. Greg Martellotto video 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 >

January Cheese Club: Iowa

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Cheese ClubBlumenkäse Switzerland

An alpine cheese covered with wildflowers from the meadows of Switzerland. This floral beauty isn’t just pretty on the outside, it’s packed with flavors of French onion soup and sweet carrots on the inside. The rind is decorated in a long list of herbs and flowers, including: winter savory, dill, garlic, caraway, lovage, marjoram, mint, leek, chive, parsley, juniper berries, onion, marigolds, cornflower, roses, and strawberry leaves.  WINE & CRAFT BEER PAIRING: When pairing wine with this cheese, reach for a Chardonnay, Viognier, Bubbles or Fruity Red Wines; for beer, look for something Hoppy and Bitter, such as an IPA. WINESTYLES: Crisp, Fruity, and Bubbly BEERSTYLES: Hoppy and Bitter Blumenkases

Marcel Petite Sagesse 24-Month Comté France

Selected by Essex St. Cheese Co., Sagesse Comté (formerly “Symphony”) represents the highest level a wheel of Comté can achieve at Marcel Petite; only 2% of all production reaches this point. Sagesse Comté is selected in line with the Essex flavor profile, but is bigger and broader in taste with a darker paste and immense tyrosine crystallization. This is an unpasteurized cows’ milk cheese with a powerful depth of flavor, similar to a great piece of dark chocolate. Sagesse Comté is available only once a year. WINE & CRAFT BEER PAIRING: When pairing wine with this cheese, reach for a Champagne, aged Chardonnay, or Pinot Noir; for beer, look for something Malty & Sweet such as a Milk Stout. WINESTYLES: Rich, Mellow, or Bubbly BEERSTYLES: Malty & Sweet
MarcelPetiteSagesse

© Photo by Comté Marcel Petite

Monthly Cheese ClubDon’t let your Wine Club go home alone! Join our Cheese Club and bring home a match made in heaven!

If you enjoy pairing cheese with wine, this is your club!  Each month you’ll discover specialty and artisan cheeses to pair with your Wine Club. Monthly cheese selections are chosen by your local WineStyles participating location. It’s the perfect opportunity to Taste, Learn and Enjoy® amazing artisan cheese every month! Only $19.99/month and your wine won’t be lonely!  Click to learn more >

January Bubbly Club

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Bubbly Wine ClubAntech Brut NatureAntech
Blanquette de Limoux Brut Nature
Limoux, France

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

“Our Brut Nature wines are made with “zero dosage”, which means that no “expedition liqueur” (sugar) has been added to the bottle. They respect and reveal the purest expression of our painstakingly selected grapes and our blends — berries, linden tree flowers, crisp green apple, anise, etc. — depending on the cuvées.” – Antech

This wine has not received any dosage and thus it expresses the purity and liveliness of the wine. With a crystalline yellow color and golden highlights, the fineness of the bubbles are delightful. The intense nose offers delicate aromas of hawthorn and a pretty fresh mouth of citrus aromas with a very harmonious finish, where the wine can express itself. Taste it as an aperitif or along with the meal. Serve chilled (45-47°F).

Analysis: 12% alcohol / volume
Varietals: 90% Mauzac, 5% Chenin, 5% Chardonnay
Vinification: Traditional Method, exclusively handpicked harvest. Direct pressing of the grapes and selected musts are set for a first fermentation in inox vat under controlled temperature. Finally, blending and a second fermentation are completed in capped bottles on lattes for around 18th months in air conditioned cellars.
Critical Acclaim: 90 points from Decanter

VINEYARD:
This wine is grown with an oceanic influence in a Mediterranean climate on hillsides and terraces with gently sloping clay-limestone soil. On average, the vine age is about 20 to 40 years old and yields less than 50 hectares. For over five centuries, Antech has tamed this magical terroir to make fine sparkling wines. The secret of their character lies in the wise combination of Limoux’s three terroirs, which form the backbone of their cuvées: freshness from the Pyrenees, vinousness from the ocean and roundness from the Mediterranean. Limoux is a lovely little Languedoc town in the heart of Cathar country.  Learn more about their vineyards here.
ABOUT THE WINERY:

Family owned and independent for 6 generations, the Antech Estate dedicates itself to the elaboration of sparkling wines in Limoux, legendary sparkling wine area. Forerunner in the regional anchoring and the revival of the traditions, the Antech Estate distinguishes itself by a distinctive style, from the elegance of its bubbles to the commitment of its action.

Do you speak bubbles? Learn the lexicon >

© Photo by Antech Winery
© Photo by Antech Winery
© Photo by Antech Winery
© Photo by Antech Limoux

CollectionDomaine Charles Baur
Crémant d’Alsace Brut
Eguisheim, Alsace, France

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

Crémant is a style of sparkling wine from France, with strict regulations that govern the production methods. Alsace, as a Crémant producing region, dates back to the 19th century and typically have fine mousse (bubbles).

This Crémant, or Brut sparkling white wine, offers a complex nose of apples, pears, white flowers, and a touch of melon. On the palate, this sparkler is fresh, delicate, well-balanced, and provides a fantastic mouthfeel. It pairs nicely with seafood, oysters, and desserts, but can also be enjoyed on its own any time.

Analysis: 12.5% alcohol / volume
Varietals: 80% Pinot Blanc, 20% Chardonnay
Appellation: AOC Crémant d’Alsace
Harvest Method: Manuel harvest with sorting
Vinification: Pneumatic pressing of whole grapes with selection of juices. Prize de Mousse in bottles at low temperature. Stored, then disgorged.
Critical Acclaim: 92 points Wine Enthusiast 

VINEYARD:
The vines are located in Eguisheim and the surrounding area. Predominately clay-limestone, the slopes of Eguisheim have weak to steep slopes. Protected by the Vosges, rainfall is low, which promotes maturation and limits disease. To learn more about Domaine Charles Baur’s Vineyard, click here.

Alsace wines Charles Baur Eguisheim_ Crémant d'Alsace Brut

Photo by Domaine Charles Baur

ABOUT THE WINERY:
Located in Eguisheim, in the heart of the Alsatian vineyard, the Charles Baur family cultivates vines located on the slopes of Eguisheim and its immediate surroundings. Their beautiful wine heritage is made up of several plots located on the Grands Crus Brand, Eichberg and Pfersigberg. With the aim of producing great Alsace wines, they seek moderate yields and harvest and sort all of their production by hand. In order to ensure a high level of quality every year, they exclusively produce wines with their own harvest grapes. The Charles Baur Winery develops the entire range of Alsace wines, a very wide range of Grands Crus and several Crémants d’Alsace.

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December Bubbly Club

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Bubbly Wine ClubChampagne Collet RoseChampagne Collet
Brut Rosé
Aÿ-Champagne, France

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

“This Brut Rosé Champagne seduces with its intense pink color, its tenderness and harmony.”

This Brut Rosé Champagne is intense and luminous peach-pink color. On the nose it first gives off floral fragrances, which give way to fragrances of orange, mandarin, yellow peach and red fruits – mulberries and raspberries. It has a beautiful freshness and a delicate nose with notes of brown sugar. Enjoyment and elegance describe this cuvée Brut Rosé. A richness of fruits – mulberry, blackcurrant, and peach – and a note of cocoa, make a round, supple, velvety wine. This wine has a beautiful, silky texture, sustained by a tender effervescence.

Brut Rosé will delight the palate as an aperitif, but also lends itself perfectly to a buttery lobster or a red fruit dessert.

Analysis: 12.5% alcohol / volume
Varietals: 50% Pinot Noir, 40% Chardonnay, 10% Pinot Meunier
Closure: Natural Cork
Critical Acclaim:  91 pts. Wine Spectator

VINEYARD:
The grapes in this wine have their origin in 20 Crus from the Grand and Premier Crus sites of the Champagne region. The Chardonnay comes predominantly from the Premier Cru of Vertus and gives the wine freshness and lemony notes, while the mineral dimension and flinty aromas, come from the Cru of Villers-Marmery, which has a limestone soil. The Grands Crus and Premiers Crus villages, such as Chouilly, Avize, Oger and Vaudemange, complete the blend with great complexity. The Pinot Noir comes from the Grands Cru and Premiers Cru villages of Ay, Hautvillers, Avenay Val d’Or and Louvois; it produces light, tender and fruity wines, while the Pinot Meunier imparts a roundness and suppleness. This unique blend of terroirs, producing a unique Rosé Champagne.

Brut Rosé

Photo by Eric Vanden at Champagne Collet

ABOUT THE WINERY:

Since 1921, Maison Collet has been creating distinctive champagnes that appeal to a clientele of demanding wine connoisseurs in search of authentic, elegant and refined champagnes. Established in Aÿ, in the heart of the Champagne region, Maison Collet uses primarily Premier and Grand Crus in its wines in order to reflect the diversity of the Champagne terroirs. Champagne Collet is a gastronomic wine and every cuvée has been created to complement various fine dining and fine drinking experiences, whether served as an aperitif or paired with the most sophisticated of dishes.

Raoul Collet became Director of Champagne Collet in 1928. At the time he was a wine producer in Mareuil-sur-Aÿ and had created his eponymous brand in 1921. Over his lifetime (1896-1960), he dedicated 30-years of work to Maison Collet, which he took to the most important French and international exhibitions. He was the instigator of property investments and was behind the brand’s first advertising campaigns. During his tenure as director, he lived in the Villa Collet with his family.

This spirit of the “Roaring Twenties” lives on at Maison Collet today and is reflected in its rich heritage and its elegant, Art Deco-inspired visual identity. The elegant transparency of the Champagne Collet labels gives the brand a contemporary feel and is an expression of the brand’s sincerity and taste for innovation. This design universe has been applied to all the Champagne House’s creations, from the champagnes’ packaging, gift boxes and cases, to the decor of Villa Collet, our “brand home”. Learn more about Champagne Collet here.

Photo by: Champagne Collet
Photo by: Champagne Collet
Photo by: Champagne Collet
Photo by: Champagne Collet

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November Bubbly Club

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Bubbly Wine ClubBouteille Fiche BrutRidgeview
Bloomsbury Brut
Ditchling, Sussex, England

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

“Our sole focus in the winery at Ridgeview is minimal intervention, to let our exceptional grapes speak for themselves and nurture the juice into making the best wine possible. Balance is at the heart of all of our wines, making the most of the full fruit flavors in harmony with our wonderful cool climate acidity.”

Bloomsbury is light golden in color with a fine, persistent mousse. Citrus fruit aromas with hints of melon, peach and honey. Chardonnay dominance brings finesse, along with crisp freshness. The Pinots add depth and character leading to a beautifully balanced finish. Will age gracefully over time as the Chardonnay matures.

Analysis: 12.5% alcohol / volume
Varietals: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier
Altitude: 5m-65m ASL
Vineyard Age: Between 8 and 22 years old
Exposure: South & Southeast
Soil: Clay & Limestone, Flint & Loam
Bottle fermentation on the Lees: 12-18 months
Memorable Moment: Official wine served for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee
Critical Acclaim:

  • SILVER Decanter World Wine Awards 2018
  • SILVER OUTSTANDING International Wine and Spirit Competition 2018
  • 90 pts. – Decanter 2013
  • 90 pts. – The Wine Advocate (NV)
  • 91 pts. – AG Vinous (NV)
  • 90 pts. – Wine Enthusiast (NV)
  • 92 pts. – Wine Enthusiast 2015
  • 91 pts. – Wine Enthusiast 2014
  • 92 pts. – Wine Enthusiast 2013
  • 90 pts. – Wine & Spirits (NV)

PRODUCTION:
Whole-bunch pressed to limited pressure, and to give a low yield of 62% volume to weight. A natural cold settling takes places without the use of enzymes. Fermentation at a moderate temperature of 60.8-64.4°F in stainless steel using natural yeast. Malolactic fermentation is carried out.

ABOUT THE WINERY:
The Ridgeview story began in 1995, when Mike and Chris Roberts decided to release a vision, nurtured for many years. With a love of England and a passion for wine, they investigated the English wine industry with a view to understanding the type of wine production they felt would thrive best in the cool climate of Southern England. Their research pointed towards traditional method sparkling wine made from the three classic varieties: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. At the time, sparkling wine production in England was largely unexplored and unproven, so the dream to create world class sparkling wine in Sussex was a certainly a risk.

Nestled at the base of the beautiful South Downs with their chalky soils, the perfect site was found – the ridge with an unforgettable view. It was here the journey began. Whilst the vines were gently nurtured towards their first harvest, we were busy creating one of England’s only underground cellars and building a state-of-the-art winery. Ridgeview’s first grapes were harvested and pressed; the wines were bottled, then hidden away in the cellar to age.

Over 20 years later, production has increased to more than a quarter of a million bottles and Ridgeview is sold across the world. Their winery continue to invest in the most modern, specialist machinery and proudly crafts every element of their production methods on site- from hand picking all of their grapes, gently pressing them to extract maximum flavor, bottling, riddling, disgorging and labelling. Learn more about Ridgeview Winery here.

Simon Roberts

Head Winemaker: Simon Roberts

WINEMAKER:
Founder, Mike Roberts MBE, was originally at the winemaking helm ably assisted by his son Simon, to whom he passed his considerable knowledge and experience. Simon Roberts is now Ridgeview’s Head Winemaker, supported by a highly experienced and talented winery team.

A natural winemaker with a skilled palate, Simon likes minimal intervention as a Winemaker and would rather let the grapes speak for themselves. Simon trained at Plumpton Wine College and gained experience in Australia. Now responsible for the day-to-day Winemaking at Ridgeview, Simon has the support of a fantastic team. In his spare time Simon can be found coming up with culinary creations in the kitchen. Learn more about the Ridgeview team here.

© Photo by Ridgeview Wine
© Photo by Ridgeview Wine – Winemaker, Simon
© Photo by Ridgeview Wine
© Photo by Ridgeview Wine
© Photo by Ridgeview Wine

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Finca Buenaventura Aureo Chardonnay

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Caramelized Onion, Apple and Brie Tartlets

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INGREDIENTS:

  • 2 Tbsp Olive Oil
  • 3 Medium Onions, thinly sliced (about 7 cups)
  • 1 1/2 Tbsp Minced Fresh Thyme
  • 1 Sheet Frozen Puff Pastry
  • 1-6 oz. Granny Smith Apples (peeled, quartered, cored, thinly sliced, crosswise)
  • 2-6 oz. Wedges of Chilled Brie Cheese (rind removed, cheese cut into 1/4-inch-thick slices, each slice cut crosswise into thirds)

DIRECTIONS:

  • STEP 1: Heat oil in heavy large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until deep golden brown, about 30 minutes. Mix in thyme. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Cool. (Can be prepared 1 day ahead. Cover and refrigerate).
  • STEP 2: Roll out pasty on lightly floured work surface to 12-inch square. Cut pastry lengthwise into six 2-inch-wide strips. Cut strips crosswise into 2-inch squares, for a total of 36 squares. Place pastry squares, spacing apart, on 2 large baking sheets. (Can be prepared 1 day ahead. Cover and refrigerate.)
  • STEP 3: Preheat oven to 350°F. Spoon 1 1/2 teaspoons onion mixture atop each pastry square. Top with 2 apple slices. Bake until pastry is golden brown, about 20 minutes. Top each square with 1 piece cheese and bake just until cheese melts, about 3 minutes. Transfer to serving platter.
  • © Recipe from Bon Appétit (December 2000 Catalog)

NOVEMBER WINE CLUB:

Silky styleAureo ChardonnayFinca Buenaventura
Aureo Chardonnay
Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina

SILKY WINE STYLE

Finca Buenaventura was established in the Uco Valley of Mendoza, Argentina, sitting 1174 meters above sea level at the foot of the Andes Mountain Range. With great passion and commitment the Finca Buenaventura team began an innovative project by buying the land and getting to know each sector and soil of their 100-hectare area. Their farm is a fusion of the best terroir in Argentina and people committed to a project of excellence, respect for nature, teamwork, and honesty.

This wine is a greenish yellow Chardonnay with golden reflections. The nose expresses typical fruit aromas of the variety: pear and green apple combines with very attractive mineral notes. The mouth shows all of its fruity profile with freshness and liveliness, while having volume and roundness. Its acidity adds freshness, which is expressed in a long, deep and tasty finish.

Winemaker: Sergio Gimenez

Winemaker: Sergio Gimenez

Analysis: 13.5% alcohol / volume
Acidity: 6.37 g/L
Residual Sugar: 1.80 g/L
Aging: 100% in French oak
Harvested: By hand, first week of March
Altitude: 1,200 meters above sea level
Winemaker: Sergio Gimenez

“We feel that as we got off the train of family’s tradition passed down from our parents, we went our own path and followed our own dreams and passions. That is why we will be “Descarriados“ for the rest of our lives; and this is what we leave our children: follow your dreams and work hard to achieve your goals.” – Winemaker, Sergio Gimenez


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Winery Spotlight Series: Nov. 18th Michael David Winery

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Michael David Winery Logo
Virtual Wine Tasting Event on Zoom and Facebook LIVE

Michael David Winery

Wednesday, November 18, 2020
6:00pm CST / 7:00pm EST

Please join us for a virtual wine tasting event with David Phillips, Co-Owner and President of Michael David Winery. During our virtual event, David will be guiding us through a tasting of the following 7 wines:

Zoom Facebook Live

  • Michael David Sauvignon Blanc
  • Michael David Chardonnay
  • Lodi Red Blend
  • Earthquake Cabernet Sauvignon
  • Inkblot Cabernet Franc
  • Inkblot Petit Verdot
  • Earthquake Zinfandel

Be sure to RSVP at your local WineStyles location or on Eventbrite.  Pre-order your wines in advance at your local participating WineStyles location and taste alongside David with a front seat on Zoom!  Or watch on our Facebook LIVE event.Michael David Winery Wines

Michael David Winery Wine Tasting

About Michael David Winery:

The Phillips family and Lodi, California go way back. They have been farming this soil since the 1860’s and cultivating wine grapes since the early 20th century. Founders and brothers, Michael and David Phillips, are 5th generation grape growers who have raised their families in the vineyard; and now the 6th generation has joined the team, Mike’s son, Kevin, and daughter, Melissa. They embrace the importance of “leaving it better than you found it” for future generations. The Phillip’s family legacy and love of Lodi drive their focus on sustainability. Plus, they are pretty fun too.

David Phillips – Co-Owner and President

David Phillips

David Phillips

Early adopter of farmer’s markets, underage winemaker, long distance runner, UC Davis alum, champion of Lodi Wines, cork dork, brother, husband, father, and outdoor enthusiast. Working the family farm and vineyards from a young age, Dave returned to Lodi in 1989 after graduation, obtaining a job in the wine cork industry, and backpacking the world. Since then, he’s combined his love of Michael David Winery wines with his love of traveling by overseeing distribution from just one state to all 50, then onto 32 countries!

Michael Phillips – Co-Owner and Founder

Michael Phillips

Michael Phillips

Lifetime tractor driver, UC Davis grad, 5th generation Lodi grape grower, brother, husband, father, grandfather, jet-setter, un-traditionalist. Raised in Lodi, Mike worked harvests from a young age. After college, he wanted to show the wine world what Lodi was capable of and started planting unexpected varietals. In 1984, he opened a small tasting room at his parents’ farmstand. Today, you know that farmstand as Michael David Winery, and it’s helped put Lodi on the map as one of the finest wine regions in the world. Learn more about Dave, Mike, and their team here.

Photo by Michael David Winery
Photo by Michael David Winery
Photo by Michael David Winery: Barrels
Photo by Michael David Winery
Photo by Michael David Winery
Photo by Michael David Winery: Pond at Sunset
Photo by Michael David Winery: Vineyard

Lodi Rules:

“Some people like to say “rules were made to be broken.” We like to say “when rules are created to support and protect farmers, vintners, the land, your neighbors, and amazing wine… maybe you should stick with them.” – Michael David Winery

With over 100 “rules,” or practices geared towards environmental, social, and economic sustainability, the Lodi Rules certification helps both wineries and consumers to make better choices when it comes to making and drinking wine; the Phillips Family lives by these rules. These rules have been vetted by scientists, academics, and environmental groups worldwide, and are the most thorough set of sustainable viticultural standards in the entire state of California. Every year, Michael David Winery strives to make 100% of their wines Lodi Rules Certified. Learn more about Lodi Rules here.

Brothers Mike and Dave

Brothers: Mike and Dave

Let’s Taste, Learn and Enjoy® together! 

Contact your local WineStyles to RSVP for this tasting event.

Michael David Winery
Lodi, California

Cheers!

WineStyles.com