Tag Archives: malbec

May Bubbly Club Iowa

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Bubbly Wine ClubFB_Brut_Wine_Bottle_ImageFrench Blue
Crémant de Bordeaux Brut
Bordeaux, France

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

This Brut wine is pale gold in color with an elegant stream of fine bubbles. It is complex on the nose, with white flowers, sweet almonds and a touch of wild strawberry. It has a creamy mousse with brioche notes on the finish.

Analysis: 12% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 80% Merlot, 13% Sémillon, 7% Muscadelle
Residual Sugar: 10 g/L
TA: 6.8 g/L
Appellation: Crémant de Bordeaux (AOC)
Growing Region: Nouvelle-Aquitaine/Bordeaux
Winemaking Style: Méthode Traditionnelle
Winemaker: Stephanie Rivin

FB_Brut_Rose_Bottle_ImageFrench Blue
Crémant de Bordeaux Brut Rosé
Bordeaux, France

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

Salmon pink in color with elegant bubbles. There are aromas of raspberry, red currants and a fresh hint of mint. Perfectly balanced mousse with hints of vanilla on the finish.

Analysis: 12% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 99% Merlot, 1% Malbec
Residual Sugar: 9 g/L
TA: 5.8 g/L
Appellation: Crémant de Bordeaux (AOC)
Growing Region: Nouvelle-Aquitaine/Bordeaux
Winemaking Style: Méthode Traditionnelle
Winemaker: Stephanie Rivin

WINEMAKING NOTES:
“The Bordeaux region of France is highly renowned for producing the best wines in the world. A much lesser known fact is that since 1990 the same region has been producing sparkling wines (Crémant de Bordeaux) “Méthode Traditionnelle” which are the equal, if not superior, to many champagnes and at a fraction of the cost. A huge advantage in this region is that along the banks of the rivers Garonne and Dordogne exist natural caves and grottos, which are high in humidity perfectly ideal for the stockage of sparkling wines. At harvest time the grapes are picked by hand and transported to the cellars to start the vinification process. Here the grapes are pressed and undergo a first fermentation. Once bottled a second fermentation occurs. The wine is then aged sur lie for at least 12 months in order to develop depth of flavors and complexity. While on laths the horizontal bottles are subjected daily to “riddling”, a process of turning each bottle a quarter of a turn. The bottles are then degorged of any residue to leave a perfectly clear and limpid wine ready forfinal preparation” – Stephanie Rivin, Winemaker

ABOUT FRENCH BLUE WINE:
In creating French Blue Wine, Winemaker Stephanie Rivin set out to do something new: put an American twist on French wines. As a result, French Blue wines are ideal for a drawn-out lunch, a gathering of friends, or reading by the water on a hot day. It provides the best drinking experience – relaxed, bright and cheerful. 

Information and Video © French Blue Wine – All Rights Reserved

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April Collector’s Wine Club: Iowa

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Collectors Wine ClubAudere wine bottleHertelendy Vineyards
Audēre Red Blend 2018
(glow-in-the-dark label)
Napa Valley, California

BOLD WINE STYLE

In Latin, Audēre means to dare or to risk. This unique Bordeaux blend is a risk-taker as it defies conventional winemaking methods and boldly stands out. This blend hails from ultra premium, volcanic Napa areas, such as Pritchard Hill, Howell Mountain, Atlas Peak and Hertelendy’s very own Rockwell Ridge estate vineyard (planted in 1993 at 1365 feet, 35 feet below the Howell Mountain AVA). Enjoy a burst of flavor, serious tannins, and a full-bodied mouth feel… plus, the label glows in the dark! 

Analysis: 14.8% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 39% Merlot, 34% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Malbec, 10% Petit Verdot, 5% Cabernet Franc
Harvest Dates: September 26, 2018 – October 30, 2018
Release Date: October 10, 2022
Cooperage: 23 months in 90% French & Hungarian Oak
Growing Season: 2018 was an extraordinary year with the most predictable weather conditions and no heat spikes, which resulted in the longest hang-time on the vines. Vintner, Ralph Hertelendy believes it was the best vintage of the decade.
Cases Produced: 329
Winemakers: Ralph Hertelendy & Phillip Corallo-Titus

CRITIC’S REVIEWS:
“The 2018 ‘Audere’ is another fantastic wine from Hertelendy in this vintage and similar to last years release, this is the most accessible wine from this outstanding lineup. It begins with seductive aromas of ripe blackberries, black cherries currants which are joined by exotic spices, violets, wet gravel, tobacco and hints of earthy nuances all developing in the glass. On the palate this is full-bodied and well-structured with beautifully polished tannins. It displays outstanding concentration and overall balance with a long seamless finish leaving behind flavors of black fruits, tobacco, violets and spices all leave a lasting impression. This is already fantastic, however it also has the structure to take on additional bottle age and evolve gracefully for years to come.” — 95 Points, International Wine Report

2017_SMB_Bottle ImageHertelendy Vineyards
Signature Mountain Blend 2017
Napa Valley, California

BOLD WINE STYLE

Composed of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Petit Verdot, and Cabernet Franc, this limited case production (6 barrels) is the closest wine in Hertelendy Vineyard’s program that could be called an “Estate Wine”, as most of the blend comes from their very own Rockwell Ridge Estate Vineyard (located 35 feet below the Howell Mountain AVA). It is a delectable representation of what their Estate Rockwell Ridge Vineyard (blended with Howell Mountain, Pritchard Hill & Atlas Peak fruit (can produce). 

Analysis: 14.7% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 49% Merlot, 46% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Malbec, 1% Petite Verdot, and 1% Cabernet Franc
Harvest Dates: September 7, 2017 – October 7, 2017
Release Date: February 22, 2021
Cooperage: 23 months in 90% new French & Hungarian Oak
Growing Season: 2017 was a great vintage overall where record-setting winter rains ended their five year drought. A lengthy, moderately warm summer created idyllic conditions for density, ripeness, and concentration. However, the winery lost 50% of their total yield to the fires.
Cases Produced: 150 (6 barrels)
Winemakers: Ralph Hertelendy & Phillip Corallo-Titus

CRITIC’S REVIEWS:

  • 96 Points & Double Gold Medal in the Sunset International Wine Competition
  • “The 2017 Signature Mountain Blend is another stellar wine from Hertelendy in this vintage. This instantly begins to impress as it displays wonderful purity and freshness, releasing gorgeous nuances of ripe cassis, dark cherries and blueberries, which are followed by exotic spices, dark florals, licorice, fresh sage and underlying hints of espresso all taking shape. On the palate this is full-bodied and impeccably balanced, with outstanding concentration and a layered mouthfeel that continues seamlessly through the finish. This is a simply sensational wine that is drinking incredibly well now, but should also hold up beautifully for decades and become even more compelling over time. “— 95 Points, International Wine Report
  • “Coming from the estate property on Howell Mountain, the Bordeaux blend 2017 Signature Mountain Blend has a perfumed, floral, incense, vanilla, and violets tinged bouquet that’s supported by plenty of blue fruits. Playing in the medium to full-bodied end of the spectrum, it has good acidity, a firm, tight, compact feel on the palate, ripe tannins, and outstanding length.” — 93 Points, Jeb Dunnuck

ABOUT THE WINERY:
Hertelendy Vineyards is a luxurious, boutique winery that specializes in producing Bordeaux blends from the most ultra premium terroirs that Napa Valley has to offer. Their ancestors have been making wines in Hungary since the 1700’s, and mountainous, volcanic terroir has always been a Hertelendy winemaking tradition. In 2013, Hertelendy Vineyards was founded by Ralph Hertelendy, who acquired this 4 acre vineyard on the slopes of Howell Mountain. Today, Ralph, and Winemaking Consultant, Phillip Corallo-Titus continuously work together to create wines that meet in the middle of their styles – creating beautiful, compromising expressions that otherwise wouldn’t have been made. Learn more about their story here.

Photos, video and information © Hertelendy– All Rights Reserved.

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July Premium Wine Club

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

BOLD WINE STYLE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BOLD WINE STYLE

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

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

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

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

Valentin Bianchi Winery

Bianchi Family Photo

Don Valentin Bianchi

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November Wine Club Pairing Recipe

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Rich and Simple French Onion Soup Recipe

French,Onion,Gratin,Soup

INGREDIENTS:

  • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cups sliced onions
  • 4 (10.5 ounce) cans beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons dry sherry
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 pinch salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 slices French bread
  • 4 slices Provolone cheese
  • 2 slices Swiss cheese, diced
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Melt butter with olive oil in an 8 quart stock pot on medium heat. Add onions and continually stir until tender and translucent. Do not brown the onions.
  2. Add beef broth, sherry and thyme. Season with salt and pepper, and simmer for 30 minutes.
  3. Heat the oven broiler.
  4. Ladle soup into oven safe serving bowls and place one slice of bread on top of each (bread may be broken into pieces if you prefer). Layer each slice of bread with a slice of Provolone, ½ slice diced Swiss and 1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese. Place bowls on cookie sheet and broil in the preheated oven until cheese bubbles and browns slightly.

© Recipe courtesy of Lori Levin from All Recipes. 

NOVEMBER WINE CLUB:

Mellow style logoEstate-Cellars-Red-BlendEstate Cellars
Proprietary Red Blend
Central Coast, California

MELLOW WINE STYLE

The Estate Cellars’ Proprietary Red Blend is a Bordeaux Style and a true representation of a California Meritage.  It is crafted out of the finest lots of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec and Petit Verdot from Central Coast vineyards. Blends are a true representation of the winemaker’s craft and the best possible wine they can make. Utilizing each of the varietals for different components rounds out the blends mouth feel and creates balance in the final product.

TASTING NOTES:
It’s a medium to heavy bodied wine that is dark purple in color with aromas of dried herbs, blueberry and tea leaf. On the palate, there are flavors of cocoa powder, currants and white pepper.

Varietal: 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 15% Malbec, 15% Petit Verdot
Appellation: Central Coast, California
Analysis: 14.5% alcohol / volume
Aged: 16 months on 30% New French Oak, 70% Neutral French and American Oak
Harvest Date: Sept. 30 – Nov. 2
Average Brix at Harvest: 25.0
pH: 3.62
TA: 0.63
Sugar: 0.20 g/L
Food Pairing: Pot Roast, French Onion Soup, Italian Sausage Pasta
Cheese Pairing: The November Cheese Club selections.

California Certified Sustainable logoWINEMAKER NOTES:
The Estate Cellars Red Blend grapes were handpicked, and hand sorted prior to a 48-hour cold soak at 40°F. During fermentation, the wine is pumped over four times per day during peak fermentation to maximize extraction. Post fermentation the wine is held on skins for 24 hours to extend maceration and provide even more color and tannin extraction. The Red Blend is the best representation of a winemaker using all the tools they have to make the best wine possible. This wine is crafted over several tasting sessions with the winemaking team, fine tuning all aspects from flavor and aromas, to structure and mouthfeel.

HARVEST NOTES:
The 2019 Estate Cellars’ Red Blend, similar to the previous two years, was notated as one of the latest starts to their season’s harvest. The winters have prolonged their growing seasons as the increasingly wet soils allow the vines time to mature at a healthy rate. The above average rainfall in the spring gave rise to a later than average bud break and bloom, which allowed the weather time to warm up and decrease any concerns of destructive frost. The summer temperatures were well below the seasonal average with only four days of 100+ degree temperatures (in previous years, they saw 11-16 days over 100 degrees). These even and mild temperature changes gave the winery an ideal growing season that pushed them well into November. They believe this hang time has shaped up to provide high quality wine and one of their best vintages to date.

Clos LaChance logoABOUT THE WINERY:
Estate Cellars is a secondary brand to Clos LaChance, a family owned and operated winery in the Northern Central Coast region of California. After perfecting their portfolio, they wanted to reach additional markets by creating unique labels while still maintaining their same attention to high quality wine. Clos LaChance Winery started in 1987 when co-owners, Bill and Brenda Murphy, decided to plant a few rows of Chardonnay in their Saratoga backyard. By 1992, they grew into a commercial winery releasing their very first vintage. Today, Clos LaChance Winery and Estate Vineyard is proud to be Certified Sustainable by the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance. Learn more here.

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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

Martellotto ‘My Way’ Malbec

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Lamb Sliders with Blue Cheese

© Photo Credit: Becky Luigart-Stayner; Styling: Leigh Ann Ross

INGREDIENTS:

  • 1 1/4 teaspoons olive oil
  • 1 2/3 cups thinly sliced onion (about 1 large)
  • 3/4 teaspoon brown sugar
  • dash of salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 13 ounces lean ground lamb
  • cooking spray
  • 8 (1.3 ounce) mini-sandwich buns
  • 2 tablespoons crumbled blue cheese

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add onion and sugar to pan; cook 10 minutes, stirring frequently. Stir in 1/8 teaspoon salt. Reduce heat; cook 8 minutes or until tender and browned, stirring occasionally. Keep warm.
  2. Preheat broiler.
  3. Combine remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt, pepper, and lamb in a large bowl. Divide lamb mixture into 8 equal portions; shape each into a 1/2-inch-thick patty. Place patties on the rack of a broiler pan coated with cooking spray; place rack in pan. Broil 6 minutes, turning once after 3 minutes. Remove from oven; let stand 3 minutes.
  4. Broil buns, cut sides up, 2 minutes or until lightly toasted. Place patties on bottom halves of buns; top each patty with about 1 1/2 tablespoons caramelized onion and about 3/4 teaspoon blue cheese. Cover with top halves of buns.

FEBRUARY WINE CLUB:

Bold wine Style logoMalbecMartellotto Winery
My Way
Santa Barbara, California

BOLD WINE STYLE

“A Hedonistic wine that is a pleasure to share. This Malbec is the dark horse of Cahors and Argentina. Martellotto produces an outstanding expression from the hottest part of SB County.” – Martellotto Winery

The “My Way” Malbec is dark as night, inky, and redolent with blue fruits. Flavors of dark plum, cherry, and blackberry explode in the glass and the finish is lush with toasty oak, vanilla, and crusted flowers. ‘My Way’ is an awesome California expression on this noble varietal – it’s a velvet glove with an iron fist.

Varietal: 80% Malbec, 20% Petit Verdot
Analysis: 14% alcohol / volume
AVA: Happy Canyon of Santa Barbara
Soil: Sandy Loam
Farming: Sustainable
Production: 20 barrels
Aging: 10 months, 30% new French Oak

HAPPY CANYON OF SANTA BARBARA:
This new, small AVA was established in 2009. Located in the southeast part of the larger Santa Ynez Valley, this is 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 by Martellotto Winery


ABOUT MARTELLOTTO WINERY:
The Martellotto family roots trace back to 17th century winery in Alberobello in Puglia, Italy. Over four centuries later, winemaker Greg Martellotto continues his family’s viticultural legacy, by making enticing, vibrant wines what speak to his own viticultural passion. 

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.

Winemaker, Greg Martellotto

Winemaker, Greg Martellotto

ABOUT THE WINEMAKER:
Greg Martellotto 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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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.

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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Winery Spotlight Series: Jan. 27th Finca Decero

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finca-decero-logo-alpha
Virtual Wine Tasting Event on Zoom and Facebook LIVE

Finca Decero

Mendoza, Argentina

Wednesday, January 27, 2021
6:00pm CST / 7:00pm EST

Join us for a virtual Winery Spotlight tasting event, with Chief Commercial Officer, Stephanie C. Morton-Small, and Winemaker, Tomás Hughes, from Finca Decero in Mendoza, Argentina. During our virtual event, Stephanie and Tomás will be guiding us through a tasting of the following 7 wines:

Zoom Facebook Live

  • Owl & the Dust Devil Malbec 2017
  • Owl & the Dust Devil Cabernet Sauvignon 2017
  • Owl & the Dust Devil Icon Blend 2016
  • Decero Mini Ediciones Cabernet Franc 2017
  • Decero Mini Ediciones Petit Verdot 2015
  • Decero Mini Ediciones Tannat 2015
  • Decero Amano 2016

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 Stephanie and Tomás with a front seat on Zoom! Or watch on our Facebook LIVE event.

Decero Wines_Blog
About Finca Decero:

Born of the world-class vision of Swiss owner Thomas Schmidheiny, Finca Decero is an acclaimed wine estate located in a one-of-a-kind Remolinos vineyard in Agrelo, Mendoza.

Finca Decero, once a bare patch of soil in the Argentine foothills of the Andes, is now a one-of-a-kind vineyard, where each vine is nurtured by hand and winemaking is without compromise. As Decero means ‘from scratch’, they are fortunate to be free from constraints of tradition, developed an ‘amano’ or ‘by hand’ approach that is human, sustainable and sensitive to nature. The winery treads lightly in an environment that they have come to know intimately, almost inch by inch. Only in this way can the unique natural attributes of the Remolinos vineyard and Agrelo, shine through in the single vineyard wines, handcrafted from scratch. Learn more about Finca Decero here.

© Photo from Finca Decero
© Photo by Finca Decero
© Photo from Finca Decero

Stephanie C. Morton-Small – Chief Commercial Officer

Stephanie-Morton-Small

© Photo by Finca Decero – Stephanie Morton-Small

Experiencing wine at some of the greatest estates of France during time spent in Bordeaux, Burgundy and Aix-en-Provence was the seed from which Stephanie’s career in wine grew. After graduating from University of London, time in the UK wine trade was followed by nearly a decade in international sales and marketing roles based in Australia and further consolidated by an MBA.

Having been a Director of a group of some of the finest and well established wineries in Australia, Stephanie was attracted to moving away from the “established” to start something “from scratch”. The long-term vision of Thomas Schmidheiny and the quality of every aspect of Finca Decero, from the ground up, formed a unique attraction which caused Stephanie to move to Argentina in 2007. Learn more about her story here.

Tomás Hughes – Winemaker

Tomas-Hughes

© Photo by Finca Decero – Tomás Hughes

Tomás has spent most of his career focused on making fine wines from Mendoza, first with the team at Achaval Ferrer then at Clos de Chacras. However, not to leave his travels behind, in 2006 Tomás visited Australia working a vintage with Peter Lehmann and visiting vineyards and wineries throughout the Barossa, McLaren Vale, Clare Valley and Adelaide Hills before returning to Mendoza to take up the position of senior winemaker, working with Daniel Pi at Trapiche, responsible for their highest tier of red and white wines.

Joining the Finca Decero team as winemaker in 2014, Tomás finally realized a long-held dream of working daily at one with nature, explaining: “For me, joining Finca Decero is a reflection of who I am and what I have learned over the years about the inextricable link between the earth and wine.” Learn more about his journey to become a winemaker here.

Let’s Taste, Learn and Enjoy® together! 

Contact your local WineStyles to RSVP for this tasting event.

Finca Decero
Mendoza, Argentina

Cheers!

WineStyles.com

November Wine Club Pairing Recipe

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Easy Leftover Turkey Pasta Bake

© Little Spice Jar

Malbecs beg to be paired with full-bodied foods such as leaner red meats, dark meat turkey, pepper, sage, creamy mushroom sauces and melted cheese. Reach for Finca Buenaventura’s Aureo Punto Malbec and this Leftover Turkey Pasta Bake for the perfect post-Thanksgiving meal.

Easy Leftover Turkey Pasta Bake

  •  12 ounces cooked egg noodles or Pappardelle
  •  2 tablespoons butter
  •  1 pound baby Bella mushrooms, thinly sliced
  •  1 ½ jar (22 ounces total) prepared Alfredo sauce
  •  1 ½ cups turkey or chicken stock
  •  ½ cup ricotta cheese
  •  2 teaspoons garlic powder
  •  2 teaspoons dried basil
  •  ⅛ – ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  •  1 cup defrosted peas
  •  2 cups shredded or diced turkey or chicken
  •  1 ½ cup shredded (or diced) white cheddar cheese

DIRECTIONS:

  • PREP: Position a rack in the center of the oven and preheat the oven to 375°F. Spray a nonstick 13 x 9 baking dish with cooking spray; set aside.
  • SAUTE: Heat the butter in a large saucepan and saute the mushrooms over medium-high heat until they brown; about 7-9 minutes. Then, stir in the Alfredo sauce, chicken stock, and ricotta cheese. Season with garlic powder, basil, and red pepper flakes. When the sauce is smooth and heated through, stir in the peas and turkey (or chicken.) Then, fold in the prepared egg noodles and stir to combine.
  • BAKE: Add the prepared turkey pasta mixture to the baking dish and sprinkle with cheese. Bake the turkey pasta for 15-18 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top. You could also give it a minute under the broiler at the end to help it along. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley on top, if desired, and serve!
  • © Recipe courtesy of Marzia, Little Spice Jar.

NOVEMBER WINE CLUB:

Bold wine Style logoAureo Punto MalbecFinca Buenaventura
Aureo Punto Malbec
Mendoza, Argentina

BOLD WINE STYLE

Finca Buenaventura means “Great Adventure” in Spanish. Finca is an award-winning winery located in the premier subzone of Uco Valley in Mendoza, Argentina. Recognized with numerous awards from Decanter Magazine and the British press, these wines are now exclusively available at WineStyles for the first time in the US.

Located an hour’s drive south from the city of Mendoza, the region is home to the production of Argentina’s icon grape variety: Malbec. It shines in the Uco Valley, with a distinctive floral aroma. It is considered part of the Mendoza region, but the Uco Valley can be recognized in its own right on several counts. Among Uco’s merits is its higher-altitude location at the foot of the Andes Mountains. The valley benefits from high daytime temperatures which drop to cool temperatures at night; this allows the grapes to produce balanced sugars and acidity while achieving phenolic ripeness. The dry continental climate brings little rain. Soils in the Uco Valley are alluvial and fairly uniform: a clay and rock base with a stony, sandy surface. These free-draining soils are excellent for quality viticulture as they stress the vines, leading to decreased vigor, lower yields, and consequently wines with a higher concentration of flavor.

Ruby in color with sparkling purple blue notes, the Aureo Punto Malbec has an intense nose of red fruit aromas, raspberries, cherries, pepper and vanilla. The mouth showcases a velvet like sensation with an open start, and a long end.

Varietal: 100% Malbec
Analysis: 14.5% alcohol / volume
pH: 3.7
Acidity: 5.4 g/L
Residual Sugar: 2.8 g/L
Aging: French & American Oak
Harvested: Middle of April
Altitude: 3680 feet

Sergio Giménez

Winemaker: Sergio Giménez

ABOUT THE WINERY:
Fernando del Castillo and Ana Maria Delmar started this project in 2003 when they were looking for the perfect spot to establish an innovative idea: produce the best expression of the soil and sky. They found the land situated at the foothill, and on the aquifer, at an altitude of 3852 feet, protected by 180 degrees of mountains. They studied the land for more than one year, and began working. By 2005, the Finca Buenaventura vineyard was complete.

Fernando and Ana Maria belong to a completely different backgrounds. Fernando was a successful lawyer, participating in the Constitutional Reform as a consultant and constituent; while Ana Maria was a language and literature professor at a university.  Both returned to school to be prepared for this challenge; they studied agri-business and marketing and continue to grow their knowledge at the vineyard and winery.

They are proud of having a fantastic, hard working team. Even their son and daughters, who have their own professions – an Oenologist, a Designer and an Agronomical Engineer- are all deeply involved in their family’s project. They understand the family’s idea that wine is an expression of art and are responsible of the vineyard with their 20 to 150 workers in harvest time.

ABOUT SERGIO GIMÉNEZ:
Sergio received his Bachelor of Oenology and Fruit and Vegetable Industry in 1996. He received the titles of Senior Winemaker and Senior Technician in Fruit and Vegetable Industries, awarded by the “Don Bosco” Wine School.  After graduation, Sergio went on to be a secretary, advisor and winemaker for many different wineries throughout Argentina.

In July 2009, Sergio became the first winemaker of Mi Terruño Winery, located in the region of Maipú, Argentina. He helped make premium and super premium varietals, bottling them with the brands such as Uvas, Mi Terruño Reserva and Mayacaba, scored with more than 90 points by specialized journalists.

In March 2012, Sergio became the winemaker at Finca Buenaventura, where he still works today. He has produced premium and super-premium wines with the brands such as Aureo de Colección, Punto Aureo and Aureo a la Obra. His 2012 vintage of Aureo a la Obra obtained the gold medal in the 2013 Vinandino contest.

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 >

November Premium Wine Club

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BurburyFinca Buenaventura
Bunbury Blend
Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina

Bold wine Style logoBOLD WINE STYLE

“Our wines are the expression of this soil and sky: they have structure, intensity, aromas and different levels of flavors. Raspberry and blackberry flavors, roasted notes, spices, and a touch of vanilla. Final length, enveloping and fruity.” 

On the eyes, this wine has an intense deep red color with shades of purple and black. On the nose, it presents complex, red fruits and spices; black fruit, spice and black pepper; and secondary aromas of vanilla and chocolate from the oak. On the mouth it is elegant and creamy with a touch of dried fruit and a long finish. An excellent quality of tannins appear as part of the complexity and body of the wine.

Appellation: Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina
Varietal: Malbec 60%, Cabernet Sauvignon 40%
Analysis: 13.9% alcohol / volume
TA: 5.70 g/l
Residual Sugar: 2.9 g/l
Maturation: Natural cold stabilization unfiltered
Aging: 25% in French & American Oak

DescarriadosFinca Buenaventura
Descarriados Gran Malbec
Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina

Bold wine Style logoBOLD WINE STYLE

This Malbec has an intense ruby and blue-violet color. The nose has deep scents of red fruits, and the mouth has a velvety sensation from the beginning, with a long end and balanced acidity.

Appellation: Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina
Varietal: Malbec
Analysis: 13.9% alcohol / volume
pH: 3.7 g/l
TA: 5.70 g/l
Residual Sugar: 2.80 g/l
Maturation: Natural cold stabilization unfiltered
Aging: 12 months French & American Oak

Sergio Gimenez

Winemaker: Sergio Gimenez

ABOUT THE WINERY:
Fernando del Castillo and Ana Maria Delmar started this project in 2003 when they were looking for the perfect spot to establish an innovative idea: produce the best expression of the soil and sky. They found the land situated at the foothill, and on the aquifer, at an altitude of 3852 feet, protected by 180 degrees of mountains. They studied the land for more than one year, and began working. By 2005, the Finca Buenaventura vineyard was complete.

Fernando and Ana Maria come from completely different backgrounds. Fernando was a successful lawyer, participating in the Constitutional Reform as a consultant and constituent; while Ana Maria was a language and literature professor at a university.  Both returned to school to be prepared for this challenge; they studied agri-business and marketing and continue to grow their knowledge at the vineyard and winery.

They are proud of having a fantastic, hard working team. Even their son and daughters, who have their own professions – an Oenologist, a Designer and an Agronomical Engineer- are all deeply involved in their family’s project. They understand the family’s idea that wine is an expression of art and are responsible of the vineyard with their 20 to 150 workers in harvest time.

ABOUT SERGIO GIMÉNEZ:
Sergio received his Bachelor of Oenology and Fruit and Vegetable Industry in 1996. He received the titles of Senior Winemaker and Senior Technician in Fruit and Vegetable Industries, awarded by the “Don Bosco” Wine School.  After graduation, Sergio went on to be a secretary, advisor and winemaker for many different wineries throughout Argentina.

In July 2009, Sergio became the first winemaker of Mi Terruño Winery, located in Maipú, Argentina. He helped make premium and super premium varietals, bottling them with the brands such as Uvas, Mi Terruño Reserva and Mayacaba, scored with more than 90 points by specialized journalists.

In March 2012, Sergio became the winemaker at Finca Buenaventura, where he still works today. He has produced premium and super-premium wines with the brands such as Aureo de Colección, Punto Aureo and Aureo a la Obra. His 2012 vintage of Aureo a la Obra obtained a gold medal in the 2013 Vinandino contest.

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

Learn more about our Premium Club >