Tag Archives: january wine club

Calyptra Mosaiko Pinot Noir

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JANUARY WINE CLUB:

Mellow style logomosaiko pinot noir wine bottleCalyptra Vineyards & Winery
Mosaiko Pinot Noir
Alto Cachapoal, Chile

MELLOW WINE STYLE

Ruby color with violet reflections. The nose with aromas of fresh cherries and plums, forest fruits, a touch of black currant, herbs and a mineral finish. The palate is fresh, with round, soft tannins and good acidity. Juicy and fruity with varietal expression. An elegant, fresh Pinot Noir with mineral character.

Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
Analysis: 13.5% alcohol / volume
Appellation: Cachapoal Valley, Chile
Vineyards: Estate grown and bottled
Winemaker: Emiliano Dominguez Battochia

WINEMAKING:
Made with estate grown grapes in a ravine in the Andean foothills of the Cachapoal valley. The grapes are hand-harvested into 12-kg boxes. Mosaiko Pinot Noir is aged in stainless steel tanks for six months. Then it is bottled and it will spend at least six more months before it is released to market.

ABOUT CALYPTRA VINEYARDS & WINERY:
In 1989, Dr. Jose Miguel Zarhi Troy, a plastic surgeon and wine enthusiast, initiated a vineyard project by planting the first Chardonnay vines on his property in the Alto Cachapoal Valley. Over time, his passion project expanded to include various vine varieties and a winery, producing some of Chile’s top-tier wines. In 2018, Dr. Zarhi extended the Calyptra Winery venture by partnering with Lic. Fernando Rodriguez Merino, an IT businessman from Argentina who is deeply involved in the wine, hospitality, and gastronomic industry since 2007. This collaboration led to the acquisition of a plot in Los Árboles de Villegas en Tunuyán, a prime wine-growing region in the Uco Valley at 1,250 meters above sea level. Learn more here.

Try this wine with the following recipe…

baked-salmon-blogBalsamic Black Pepper Cherry Glazed Salmon

INGREDIENTS: 

  • 1 cup deep red cherries, pitted and sliced into quarters
  • ⅓ cup brown sugar
  • ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
  • ½ teaspoon coarse salt
  • ½ teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • ¼ cup dry white wine
  • 6 salmon fillets (about 4 ounces each)

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a non-stick mat.
  2. Place the cherries, brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, salt, pepper, vinegar, and wine in a saucepan and bring to a boil over medium/high heat, stirring to combine ingredients and dissolve sugar.
  3. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until sauce has reduced and is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Remove from heat.
  4. Lay the salmon fillets out on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2″ from each other.
  5. Portion out about 2 tablespoons of the glaze into a separate cup (to avoid cross contamination or glaze touching raw fish and cooked fish) and brush the glaze on to the salmon fillets, coating each one thoroughly.
  6. Bake on the top rack of the preheated oven for 8-12 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. Take care to not overcook. Remove from the oven. Move fish to a serving platter and spoon the remaining glaze generously over the fish.

Information & Photos © Calyptra Vineyards & Winery – All Rights Reserved.
© Recipe courtesy of The Kitchen McCabe.

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Calyptra Mosaiko Sauvignon Blanc

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JANUARY WINE CLUB:

Calyptra_Bottle_SB_MosaikoCalyptra Vineyards & WineryCrisp Wine Style
Mosaiko Sauvignon Blanc
Alto Cachapoal, Chile

CRISP WINE STYLE

Mild yellow in color, this wine has a fresh nose with citrus and floral notes of lime, green pear and white flowers. The palate is juicy with vibrant acidity. It has a great volume and a long aftertaste, with a fresh and elegant finish.

Varietal: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
Analysis: 13% alcohol / volume
Appellation: DO Cachapoal Valley, Chile
Vineyards: Estate grown and bottled
Winemaker: Emiliano Dominguez Battochia

WINEMAKING:
Made with estate grown grapes, immersed in the Alto Cachapoal Valley. Hand-harvested in 12 kg boxes, Mosaiko Sauvignon Blanc is born from a combination of Sauvignon Blanc quarters, each contributing its own expression. Once in the winery and after a selection of clusters and destemming, they take the grapes to the press, where they do a soft press, to obtain the must. Alcoholic fermentation is carried out in stainless steel tanks at low temperatures, between 57.2ºF and 60.8ºF, over an average period of 20 days. Malolactic fermentation is not carried out. It is aged for six months in stainless steel tanks with its own lees. Once bottled, the wine is aged for a minimum of six months in bottle prior to release.

ABOUT CALYPTRA VINEYARDS & WINERY:
In 1989, Dr. Jose Miguel Zarhi Troy, a plastic surgeon and wine enthusiast, initiated a vineyard project by planting the first Chardonnay vines on his property in the Alto Cachapoal Valley. Over time, his passion project expanded to include various vine varieties and a winery, producing some of Chile’s top-tier wines. In 2018, Dr. Zarhi extended the Calyptra Winery venture by partnering with Lic. Fernando Rodriguez Merino, an IT businessman from Argentina who is deeply involved in the wine, hospitality, and gastronomic industry since 2007. This collaboration led to the acquisition of a plot in Los Árboles de Villegas en Tunuyán, a prime wine-growing region in the Uco Valley at 1,250 meters above sea level. Learn more here.

Try this wine with the following recipe…

arugula-salad-stacked-blogGoat Cheese Salad with Arugula

INGREDIENTS:

Garlic Butter Croutons

  • 2 Tablespoons salted butter
  • 1 clove garlic pressed
  • 2 cups ¾ inch stale bread pieces about 3 ounces

Honey Balsamic Vinaigrette

  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic pressed
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper

Salad

  • 6-7 pieces bacon
  • 5 ounces plain goat cheese (chévre)
  • 7 ounces arugula
  • 2/3 cup sliced strawberries
  • ½ cup candied pecans
  • 1/3 cup dried sweetened or unsweetened cranberries
  • 1/3 cup diced red onion

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. In a medium skillet over medium low heat, melt the butter and garlic.
  2. Turn the heat off. Add the bread to the skillet and toss so the bread is coated in the melted butter and it is completely absorbed.
  3. Place the bread pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a single layer.
  4. Bake for 10-12 minutes, tossing halfway through. Set aside to cool.
  5. In a small single cup blender or food processor, add the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth. The dressing should be thick and creamy. Set aside.
  6. Fry the bacon in a skillet over medium low heat until browned. Place on a plate lined with paper towels. Once cooled, tear into large pieces. Set aside.
  7. Use a fork to crumble the log of goat cheese into large pieces.
  8. Assemble the salad. You can toss the arugula in dressing first and top with all of the goodies or you can just drizzle the dressing on top.

Information & Photos © Calyptra Vineyards & Winery – All Rights Reserved.
© Recipe courtesy of Bites with Bri.

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January Wine Club Pairing Recipe

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JANUARY WINE CLUB:

Bold wine Style logoCalyptra_Mosaiko-Cabernet-Sauvignon-2023-tech_sheetCalyptra Vineyards & Winery
Mosaiko Cabernet Sauvignon
Alto Cachapoal, Chile

BOLD WINE STYLE

Violet-ruby in color. The nose reveals fresh red and black fruit aromas like cherries, plums and fruits of the forest, along with a floral hint. In the mouth, this wine is juicy with smooth tannins and medium body. The finish is well-balanced and presents notes of sweet red fruit. This wine is very approachable and a great option for sharing.

Varietal: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
Analysis: 14% alcohol / volume
Appellation: DO Alto Cachapoal Valley, Chile
Vineyards: Estate grown and bottled
Winemaker: Emiliano Dominguez Battochia

WINEMAKING:
Made with estate grown grapes from a ravine in the Andean foothills of the Cachapoal Valley. The grapes were hand-harvested into 12-kg boxes. Following cluster selection, they were destemmed and fell directly into the stainless steel tank without the use of pumps. A 3-day pre-fermentative maceration was followed by alcoholic fermentation for 10 days at a temperature of between 64.4ºF and 68ºF.  Ninety percent of the wine remains in stainless steel for the malolactic fermentation, while the other 10% is racked into third-use French oak barrels. The wine is aged for at least six months and then bottle-aged for a further six months prior to release. 

Mosaiko is a blend from blocks of Cabernet Sauvignon, with each contributing different characteristics to achieve a youthful wine that is characteristic of the region.

ABOUT CALYPTRA VINEYARDS & WINERY:
In 1989, Dr. Jose Miguel Zarhi Troy, a plastic surgeon and wine enthusiast, initiated a vineyard project by planting the first Chardonnay vines on his property in the Alto Cachapoal Valley. Over time, his passion project expanded to include various vine varieties and a winery, producing some of Chile’s top-tier wines. In 2018, Dr. Zarhi extended the Calyptra Winery venture by partnering with Lic. Fernando Rodriguez Merino, an IT businessman from Argentina who is deeply involved in the wine, hospitality, and gastronomic industry since 2007. This collaboration led to the acquisition of a plot in Los Árboles de Villegas en Tunuyán, a prime wine-growing region in the Uco Valley at 1,250 meters above sea level. Learn more here.

Try this wine with the following recipe…

portobello-mushroomsGrilled Portobello Steaks with Chimichurri and Onion Strings

INGREDIENTS:

Chimichurri (makes 1 cup)

  • 2 tablespoon finely chopped shallots
  • ½ cup finely chopped packed flat leaf parsley
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh oregano (or 2 teaspoon dried oregano)
  • 2 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 2 tablespoon lemon juice
  • ⅓ cup olive oil
  • 1 to 2 teaspoon spicy red chili such as bird’s eye chili, finely minced or red chili flakes (to taste)
  • sea salt and ground black pepper, to taste

Grilled Portobello Steaks

  • 6 portobello mushroom caps
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 2 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce or tamari
  • 2 teaspoon liquid smoke

Mushroom “Steak” Spice

  • 2 tablespoon mustard seed, slightly crushed in mortar & pestle
  • 2 tablespoon granulated garlic
  • 2 tablespoon dill weed
  • 2 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 2 teaspoon dried minced onion flakes
  • 2 teaspoon dried minced garlic flakes
  • 2 teaspoon whole black peppercorns, crushed in mortar & pestle (or ground black pepper)

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Make the chimichurri by combining all the ingredients in a bowl. Refrigerate while you prepare the portobello steaks and onion strings. Don’t make this too far in advance as it will brown.
  2. Trim the stems from the mushroom caps.
  3. In a small bowl combine vegetable oil, low-sodium soy sauce, and liquid smoke.
  4. Combine all of the mushroom steak spices in a separate bowl big enough to fit the mushroom caps.
  5. Brush the oil mixture over each portobello mushroom on each side. Then coat both sides in the steak spice covering it thoroughly. Repeat with remaining mushrooms. Place them on a baking sheet or platter.
  6. Heat a cast iron grill pan over medium-high heat. When hot, place 2 to 3 mushrooms top down and grill for 2 minutes. Turn the mushrooms slightly about 45 degrees to get cross hatched grill marks. Grill for another 2 minutes. Flip and grill the underside of the mushroom for 2 minutes. Turn the mushrooms slightly and cook for another 2 minutes. Set aside to let the mushrooms rest.
  7. If you have another cast iron, you can place it on top of the mushrooms while grilling to help press the moisture out. See the recipe from Hot for Food for further instructions.

Information & Photos © Calyptra Vineyards & Winery – All Rights Reserved.
© Recipe courtesy of Hot for Food by Lauren Toyota.

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 >

 
 
 

 

 

Viña Torcida Tempranillo

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baked-fish-dishMediterranean Baked Fish with Tomatoes and Capers

INGREDIENTS:

  • 1/3 cup Private Reserve Greek extra virgin olive oil 
  • 1 small red onion, finely chopped
  • 2 large tomatoes, diced (3 cups diced tomatoes. Use quality canned tomatoes, if you like)
  • 10 garlic cloves, chopped
  • 1 ½ tsp organic ground coriander
  • 1 tsp all-natural sweet Spanish paprika
  • 1 tsp organic ground cumin
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 ½ tbsp capers
  • salt and pepper
  • 1/3 cup golden raisins
  • 1 ½ lb white fish fillet such as cod fillet or halibut fillet (wild, if possible)
  • juice of ½ lemon or more to your liking
  • zest of 1 lemon
  • fresh parsley or mint for garnish

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Prepare the tomato and capers sauce. In a medium saucepan, heat extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking. Add onions, cook for 3 minutes until it begins to turn gold in color, tossing regularly. Add tomatoes, garlic, spices, pinch of salt (not too much) and pepper, capers, and raisins. Bring to a boil, then turn heat down to medium-low and let simmer for 15 minutes or so.
  2. Heat oven to 400°F.
  3. Pat fish dry and season with salt and pepper on both sides.
  4. Pour ½ of the cooked tomato sauce into the bottom of a 9 1/2″ x 13″ baking dish. Arrange the fish on top. Add lemon juice and lemon zest, then top with the remaining tomato sauce.
  5. Bake in 400°F heated-oven  for 15 to 18 minutes or until fish is cooked through and flakes easily (do not over-cook). Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley or mint to your liking.
  6. Serve hot with Mediterranean grilled zucchini, Greek potatoes, or Lebanese rice. 

© Recipe and Photo courtesy of The Mediterranean Dish. All rights reserved.

JANUARY WINE CLUB:

Conde-Valdemar-Vina-Torcida-Tempranillo_bottleBodegas Valdemar
Viña Torcida Tempranillo
Rioja, Spain

FRUITY WINE STYLE

Attractive red cherry color with violet hues. Clean and bright. Intense fruity aromas dominating blackberry, raspberry and blueberry. Subtle floral aromas of violets. Smooth, round, tasty, fresh with a pleasant mouthfeel and a long finish with hints of black fruit. 

Analysis: 14% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 100% Tempranillo
Appellation: Valdemar vineyards in Rioja Alavesa, Spain
Winemaking: Hand harvested and fermented in stainless steel tanks with temperature control for 12 days
Serving Temperature: 56.3ºF

ADDITIONAL FOOD PAIRING RECOMMENDATIONS:
This fruity wine is suited for a variety of dishes: cured or soft cheese platters, charcuterie, stewed legumes, grilled meats, oven-baked fish and pasta. At a slightly lower temperature than usual, it is a particularly pleasant wine to enjoy in summer with rice dishes, paellas and meat or fish brochettes.

Information & Photos © Bodegas Valdemar – 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!

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Conde Valdemar Blanco

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coconut-curry-vegetables-dishCoconut Curry

INGREDIENTS:

  • 1 onion
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 peppers, sliced
  • 1 cup vegetables of choice, such as green beans, snow peas, chopped broccoli, or diced sweet potato
  • 1 can coconut milk (13.5oz)
  • 1 tbsp sweetener of choice
  • 1 tsp minced ginger, or ¼ tsp powdered
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp ground turmeric
  • (Optional) protein of choice, such as cubed tofu or black beans
  • (Optional) 1-2 tbsp green or red curry paste
  • (Optional) handful Thai basil
  • (Optional) ½ cup chopped pineapple
  • (Optional) 2-4 tbsp peanut butter or handful of cashews

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Stovetop Recipe: Combine all ingredients in a pot or skillet. If desired, you can brown the onion in a little oil first. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the coconut sauce has thickened and the carrots are tender. Add water or milk of choice to thin down sauce as needed.
  2. Crock Pot Coconut Curry Recipe: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker or crockpot and cook on low for 6 hours or until vegetables are soft.

© Recipe and Photo courtesy of Chocolate Covered Katie. All rights reserved.

JANUARY WINE CLUB:

Silky styleConde-Valdemar-Blanco-bottleBodegas Valdemar
Conde Valdemar Blanco
Rioja, Spain

SILKY WINE STYLE

Pale yellow in color with greenish highlights. This clean and bright wine has intense and fresh aromas with white fruits such as pear and citrus notes. There are fine nuances of aromatic herbs, boxwood and white flowers. It’s tasty, with a vibrant entry and a persistent, long finish.

Analysis: 12.5% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 80% Viura, 15% Malvasía, 5% Tempranillo Blanco
Appellation: Selected vineyards from Rioja Alavesa and Rioja Alta, Spain
Winemaking: Fermentation in stainless steel tanks with temperature control at 60.8ºF for 15 days, followed by fine lees aging.
Serving Temperature: 42.8ºF-46.4ºF

ADDITIONAL FOOD PAIRING RECOMMENDATIONS:
Ideal match for grilled fish, salads and vegetables, as well as pasta dishes and shellfish. A good choice for smoked food and creams.

Information & Photos © Bodegas Valdemar – All Rights Reserved.

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January Wine Club Pairing Recipe

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beef-vegetable-soupInstant Pot Vegetable Beef Soup

INGREDIENTS:

  • 1 pound diced beef (package will often say stew meat)
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder (to season the beef – omit if using leftover pot roast)
  • ½ medium yellow onion, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 cup diced carrots
  • cooking spray or olive oil
  • 4 ½ cups beef broth/ stock (OR water, plus 1 tablespoon Better Than Bullion beef base)
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups frozen corn kernels
  • 1 cup frozen green beans
  • 2 cups diced potatoes
  • 1 can diced tomatoes, undrained (14.5 ounces)
  • 1 bay leaf (remove after cooking is complete)

DIRECTIONS:

  • Preheat the Instant Pot, and spray the pot with cooking spray (or olive oil, if preferred).
  • Add the meat to the pot with garlic powder; salt and pepper generously, and brown for about 3 to 4 minutes.
  • Add the onions, celery and carrots, and cook another 3 to 4 minutes.
  • Turn off the pot, and add all other ingredients.
  • Put on the lid, lock it and set to manual high pressure for 8 minutes. (It will take a while to come to pressure with such a full pot, FYI. Mine took 22 minutes.).
  • After the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally (without using the quick release lever). Mine took about 25 minutes, FYI. If your pot is still pressurized at 25 minutes, go ahead and quick release any remaining pressure.
  • Remove bay leaf, and serve. 

© Recipe courtesy of A Pinch of Healthy.

JANUARY WINE CLUB:

Bold wine Style logoConde-Valdemar-Vina-Torcida-Reserva_bottleBodegas Valdemar
Viña Torcida Reserva
Rioja, Spain

BOLD WINE STYLE

This wine has an intense red cherry color that is clean and bright. It is very complex in nuances due to the oak and bottle aging. It has balsamic aromas and rich ripe fruit and spices on the nose with well-integrated spicy tones, black pepper, clove and vanilla. This wine is rounded, tasty, well-structured with a long and persistent aftertaste.

Analysis: 13.5% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 87% Tempranillo, 8% Mazuelo, and 5% Garnacha
Region: DOCa Rioja, Spain
Vineyards: Valdemar vineyards in Rioja Alavesa, Rioja Alta and Rioja Baja
Aging: 27 months in American oak barrels
Serving Temperature: 60.8ºF-64.4ºF

ADDITIONAL FOOD PAIRING RECOMMENDATIONS:
Perfect pairing for homemade stews, roast, and grilled meat. It also goes well with red meats, game, and Iberian-pork cold meats.

ABOUT BODEGAS VALDEMAR:
Bodegas Valdemar, with a history spanning over 130 years, originated in a small stone cellar in Oyón, Spain.  Jesús Martinez Bujanda (fourth generation), founded the winery with his father in the 1980s. Today, Valdemar stands as a highly esteemed global brand, proudly representing the Rioja region on all five continents. Valdemar wines showcase exquisite grapes from various family estates, embodying a rich tradition. Their commitment to sustainability allows nature to interact with the vineyards, thus enriching them and turning vineyards into wine agroecosystems. They have recently been awarded the international “Wineries for Climate Protection” certification. Bodegas Valdemar is a family of pioneers that never ceases to learn and innovate in order to take the art of winemaking to the next level. Learn more here.

Information & Photo © Bodegas Valdemar – All Rights Reserved.

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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.

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!

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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.

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!

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January Wine Club Pairing Recipe

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Homemade,Blackened,Salmon,Served,With,Cilantro,Lime,RiceBlackened Salmon

INGREDIENTS:

  • 4 6-ounce salmon fillet portions skin-on
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon light or dark brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¾ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¾ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Place the salmon on a large plate, flesh-side up, and pat dry.
  2. In a small bowl, stir together the paprika, brown sugar, salt, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne, thyme and oregano.
  3. In a separate small bowl, melt the butter. Brush the butter over the flesh-side of the salmon fillets, then sprinkle the flesh sides evenly with the spice mixture. Lightly pat the spices to adhere as needed.
  4. Heat a large cast iron skillet or similar heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat (no need to add oil). Turn on the exhaust fan and open a window if things start to get smoky. Once the pan is completely hot (a droplet of water should dance on its surface), working quickly but gently, add the salmon fillets, one at a time, flesh-side down. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes without disturbing the fillets, until the surface is blackened (peek as little as possible so that the salmon gets a nice dark color), then carefully turn each piece of salmon over.
  5. Continue cooking over medium heat, until the skin becomes crispy, and the fish is fully cooked through, about 5 to 6 additional minutes depending upon the thickness of your fillets. The fish should reach 145°F on an instant read thermometer and flake easily with a fork at its thickest part.
  6. Squeeze lemon over the salmon, then transfer the fillets to serving plates. Serve immediately with a sprinkle of fresh thyme and additional lemon wedges.

© Recipe courtesy of Well Plated by Erin Clarke.

JANUARY WINE CLUB:

Mellow style logoChateau-Govain-bottleChateau Govain
Merlot
Côtes de Bourg, France

MELLOW WINE STYLE

Aged in vats, this dry, red wine expresses balance and fruitiness 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 years.

Varietal: 90% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon
Analysis: 13.00% alcohol / volume
pH: 3.58
Appellation: Côtes de Bourg
Winemaker: Hugues Mallet is in charge of the production in the vineyard and in the cellar

WINERY NOTES:

In the Vineyard: Côtes de Bourg region was liked by the Romans so much they established vineyards on the pretty limestone hillsides (côtes in French) and shipped wine via the river from the port town of Bourg.  Chateau Govain is a little clos of just 4 hectares on a clay and majority of limestone soil located on the first hill above the river. The winery grows grass between the rows, creating competition for the plants. The average age of the vines is 25 years old and the winery de-leafs on the east side in July.

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.

Information © Chateau Govain – All Rights Reserved.

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Mellow style logoRuffion-modus-wine-bottleRuffino
Modus Toscana IGT
Tuscany, Italy

MELLOW WINE STYLE

Ruby red in color, and complex, fruity and intense on the nose. The initial aromas are of mature black fruits, such as cherries, plums, and small blackberries typical of Sangiovese. There are also floral notes that are complimented by hints of spiced cinnamon and cloves. On the palate, it is full-bodied and harmonious with modern Super Tuscan finesse and style. This wine is rich with soft tannins and flavors of mature blackberry fruit that lead to a persistent finish.

Analysis: 14.5% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 37% Sangiovese, 32% Merlot, 31% Cabernet Sauvignon
Grape Sourcing: Ruffino’s Poggio Casciano Estate
Soil: Hilly land with clay, limestone, and a small percentage of silt
Micro-climate: Variable with good diurnal temperature swings, especially during summer
Growing System: Cordon trained
Vine density: 12,000 per acre
Age of vineyards: Recently planted
First Year of Production: 1997
Food Pairings: Wonderful on its own, or serve with bold dishes such as duck with olives and pancetta, beef-stuffed manicotti with Bolognese sauce, or aged cheeses such as Taleggio, Pecorino and/or Gouda.

VINIFICATION AND AGING:
Harvest: Only the best grapes are selected in the vineyards to ensure optimal ripeness when picked. They are again sorted prior to pressing. Due to a warm and dry growing season, the harvest began earlier than usual, as the high summer temperatures led to beautiful fruit maturation.
Fermentation: Each varietal was vinified independently, fermenting in temperature-controlled stainless-steel vats at an average temperature of 82ºF for 10 days. The wine was then allowed to macerate on the skins for another 2 weeks.
Aging: After completing malolactic fermentation, the 3 varietals were blended and aged for 12 months in French oak barrels of first and second use.

Ruffio-riserva-ducale-wine-bottleMellow style logoRuffino
Riserva Ducale
Chianti Classico Riserva
Tuscany, Italy

MELLOW WINE STYLE

Ruby red in color, the nose has an elegant bouquet characterized by violet, cherries, wild berries and plums. There are hints of tobacco, clove and eucalyptus. On the palate, the Riserva Ducale is balance and constant with delicate tannins. The vibrant acidity characterizes this wine, which is typical of Sangiovese’s grapes. The finish is persistent and a good structure completes the entire taste sensation.

Analysis: 14.5% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 80% Sangiovese, 20% Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon
Grape Sourcing: The Riserva Ducale grapes came from owned vineyards and selected growers vineyards located in the traditional Chianti Classico production area, stretching over the provinces of Siena and Florence. Ruffino traditionally works with a small stable of hand-selected growers, chosen as carefully as the Ruffino vineyards.
Soil: Typical of the Chianti Classico area; a mix of clay and limestone with an abundant presence of “Galestro” rock.
Altitude: Variable from 951 to 1,476 feet above sea level
Growing System: Cordon trained
Vine density: about 12,350 vines/acre
Bottle Aging: A minimum of 3 months
First Year of Production: 1927
Food Pairings: Enjoy this timeless Tuscan gem with Italian favorites such as prosciutto and other antipasti, mushroom risotto, pasta Bolognese, and chicken cacciatore. Or, pair it with simple grilled meats and roasted vegetables for a classic Tuscan meal.

VINIFICATION AND AGING:
Harvest: The vintage was characterized by a very hot season with a good maturation of the grapes, which led to a slightly early harvest.
Fermentation: Alcoholic fermentation and maceration were aided by pumping over, which took place in thermo-controlled stainless-steel vats for approximately 16 days.
Aging: The Riserva Ducale aged for 24 months, 12 in big oak casks and the rest in concrete vats.

Mellow style logoRuffino Riserva Ducale OroRuffino
Riserva Ducale Oro
Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG
Tuscany, Italy

MELLOW WINE STYLE

The Riserva Ducale Oro is also Ruby Red in color with hues of garnet. It is powerfully aromatic with cherry, plum, and violet with notes of eucalyptus, chocolate and spicy black pepper. The complexity is an authentic expression of Sangioveses and Classic Chiantis. The wine is full-bodied and powerfully fruity with elegant tannins, perfectly supported by a good acidity. The finish is characterized by pleasantly sweet tobacco, plums, and balsamic herbs. This Riserva Ducale Oro will age gracefully for decades.

Analysis: 14.5% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 83% Sangiovese, 12% Merlot, 5% Colorino
Grape Sourcing: Selected from Ruffino’s Gretole and Santedame estates, located in the heart of Castellina in Chianti.
Soil: Hilly land with poor, rocky, ‘galestro’ soils of mixed clay and sand
Microclimate: Characterized by hot, dry summers with high diurnal temperature swings, which allow for optimal grape maturation.
Altitude: 820-1,300 feet above sea level
Sun Exposure: Predominantly south, southwest, and southeast
Growing System: Cordon-trained
Vine density: 10,000 per acre
Age of Vineyards: 
Vine yield: 12 tons per acre
First Year of Production: 1947
Food Pairings: Traditional Italian dishes pair exquisitely with this wine. Try with a pasta Bolognese, wild boar ragu, or eggplant Parmesan. It also pairs beautifully with American dishes such as grilled rib-eye and roasted vegetables.

VINIFICATION AND AGING:
Harvest: Riserva Ducale Oro Chianti Classico Gran Selezione is produced with grapes meticulously selected during harvest. The picking started the third week of September and ended the first week of October. The vintage 2015 shows a vivid fruity notes, with spicy hints of great elegance.
Fermentation: Aided by racking and délestage, fermentation took place in thermo-controlled stainless-steel vats at an average temperature of 82ºF for 21 days. Post-fermentation maceration on the skins continued for an additional 10 days. The wine was transferred to concrete vats for malolactic fermentation.
Aging: A total of 36 months: the first 12 months in concrete vats, followed by 12 months in Slavonian oak barrels (about 925-2,000 gallons), and finally 12 months in barriques that are four or more years old.

ABOUT RUFFINO WINERY:
In 1877, cousins, Ilario and Leopoldo Ruffino, embraced their passion for winemaking by establishing a small winery in the town of Pontassieve, near Florence. Natives to Tuscany, they knew this region already had century-old traditions of growing exceptional wine grapes, but cousins felt that much of the area’s greatness had yet to be revealed. Word eventually grew about the quality wine the Ruffino cousin’s were producing and the winery began to flourish. Ruffino became known for clean, balanced wines. They became nationally and internationally known when their Chianti won Gold Medals and other prizes in 1881, 1884 and 1885 Wine Exhibitions. In 1890, the Duke of Aosta became intrigued by the winery’s reputation, and after trying it for himself, he appointed Ruffino as the official supplier to the Italian Royal family. In 1927, the winery released their first vintage of Riserva Ducale – named after the Duke of Aosta to acknowledge his esteemed patronage.

Today, Ruffino has a collection of estates in Tuscany’s most important wine appellations. They continue to take a traditional approach when making their wines to allow their wines to reveal themselves without manipulation. Ruffino has established itself as a leader in Chianti, as they have become a global ambassador of Tuscan wines around the world. Learn more here. 

Mellow style logoFrescobaldi-Nipozzano-RiservaFrescobaldi
Castello Nipozzano
Nipozzano Riserva
Tuscany, Italy

MELLOW WINE STYLE

The Nipozzano 2017 conveys the intense, harmonious character of the vintage with personality, translating the heat of the season into the glass. The ruby-red color is bright and intense. The usual notes of red fruits and citrus are expressed in a seductive combination of elegance and intensity. Tertiary notes due to aging, such as spices and vanilla, enhance the aromas and balance the tasting experience. The palate is rich, dense and balanced, with a great expression of maturity, polyphenolic elegance and final persistence.

Analysis: 13.5% alcohol / volume
Varietal: Sangiovese and complementary varieties
Critical Acclaim:

  • James Suckling: 92 Points
  • Gambero Rosso: 3 Glasses
  • Luca Maroni: 90 Points

VINIFICATION AND AGING:
Harvest: The winter was mild and dry. In the spring, the early sprouting of the vines brought the growing season forward. During spring, the arrival of sporadic rains restored the vineyards’ water table, guaranteeing a good blooming, still ahead of time with respect to the previous season. The harvest began at the end of August/first few days of September, after a hot, dry summer that led to the harvesting of well-ripened grapes, qualitatively rich in body and color. As soon as the grapes were harvested, they were taken to the cellar.
Fermentation: Once de-stemmed, the natural fermentation process began in thermo-regulated stainless steel vats. The wine remained in the vats to complete maceration. After racking, malolactic fermentation took place in steel as well.
Aging: At the end of the year, the wine was transferred into barriques, where it was aged for further months. A further period in the bottle brought Nipozzano to its full expression as a wine with exceptional balance.

ABOUT FRESCOBALDI WINERY:
Beginning in the early 1300s, the Frescobaldi family has been producing wine in Tuscany for over seven hundred years. That family history is filled with illustrious ancestors, from literary figures, explorers, and musicians, to financiers, bishops, and statesmen. Over the years, the Frescobaldi family had established commercial contracts and relationships, and had the opportunity to share their wine with numerous historical names and courts such as the Court of England, the Papal Court in Rome, Donatello, Michelozzo, Michelozzi, and Filippo Brunelleschi.

The winery has been passed down in the family from generation to generation, building many different sub-family estates over the years. Today, the President, Lamberto Frescobaldi, aims to strengthen the uniqueness of the wines of each family estate. The Frescobaldi family believes each family estate, and their vineyards, should express the diversity and individuality of their Tuscan terroir while always respecting their nature and authenticity. Learn more about the family history here.

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