Tag Archives: Organic

February Sweet Club Iowa

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Sweet Wine ClubTropical_CranberryTropical Moscato
Cranberry
Italy

NECTAR WINE STYLE

This Moscato comes from a grape variety with quite possibly the highest level of complex aromas of any Piedmont grape. This wine has the distinctive Moscato aroma and flavor, with a unique added complexity from the cranberries from the Italian Alps. The Moscato grape’s sweetness is perfectly balanced by the tartness, acidity and slight spice from the ripe cranberries.

Analysis: 5.5% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 95% Moscato, 4% Small Alpine Cranberry Pulp, 1% Natural Cranberry Aroma
TA: 6 g/L
RS: 120 g/L
Serving Suggestion: Great as an aperitif, or serve as an accompaniment to fruits, aged cheeses, or a hazelnut cake.

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

WINEMAKER NOTES:
The Moscato grapes for this wine come from vineyards located in the Santo Stefano Belbo villages, at 200 to 300 ft. above sea level. Vinification is via autoclave, according to the Charmat Method, until it reaches 5.0% alcohol. Then, wine undergoes cold fermentation and ageing in stainless steel vats for one month, after which time it is blended with the cranberry pulp and bottled.

ABOUT THE WINERY:
Tropical Moscato takes premium Moscato from Asti, a commune located in Italy’s famed Piedmont region, and combines their wines with 100% real fruit. Their wines are highly aromatic and burst with all-natural, vivacious flavors. Learn more here.

SPUMANTI-PIZZOLATO-MUSE-MOSCATO-DOLCELa Cantina Pizzolato
Pizzolato Moscato
Treviso, Italy

NECTAR WINE STYLE

Bright gold in color, this Moscato has aromas of honeysuckle, ripe apricot, and angel food cake. The palate is medium to full bodied with a balanced, round, vibrant, sweet, smooth and refreshing flavor. The wine highlights notes of peach nectar, sweet apple, honey, and orange marmalade. 

Analysis: 6.5% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 100% Moscato (Muscat)
Appellation: Moscato I.G.T.
RS: 89 g/L
Acidity: 5.4 g/L
Vineyard: The estate is located in the countryside north of Treviso, Italy. The vineyards are situated on the plains and hillsides near the Piave River.
Vinification: Soft pressing, then the must remains in the steel pressurized tanks, with Charmat method for 2 months, reaching a pressure up to 2.5 atm.
Terroir: Calcareous clay-based soil
Training System: Cordon spur training
Certification: BIOS
Notable: Vegan, organically grown grapes
Serving Suggestions: Enjoy with an herbal or spicy cheese such as a Gorgonzola; or serve alone as a dessert wine. Serve 46º-50ºF.
Critical Acclaim:

  • 90 points – Vinitaly “5StarWines”

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

ABOUT THE WINERY:
The Farm Pizzolato Settimo & Gino was founded in 1981, farming livestock and growing grapes, kiwi, peaches, strawberries, apples and pears. During this time, grapes and wine were the top products of the farm, however, it wasn’t until 1987 when the winery decided to finally bottle all the types of wine that were produced. In 1991, the farm and winery officially gained organic certification, and today the winery continues to grow, producing organic, vegan and sustainably grown wines. Learn more about their story here.

Sweet ClubLove the Sweet life?
“Wine” not try our Sweet Club! 

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December Bubbly Club: Iowa

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Bubbly Wine Clubraptor ridge winery rose 2015 anniversaryRaptor Ridge Winery
Brut Rosé Méthode Champenoise
Anniversary Estate Cuvée Pinot Noir
Willamette Valley, Oregon

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

Since 1996, when the Shull’s planted Harbinger Vineyard high in the Chehalem Mountains, the site produces a lean expression of Pinot Noir in all but the warmest vintages. With over 2400 vines per acre, this single-guyot trellised site is densely planted by Oregon Standards. The top of the vineyard is about 800 feet above sea level, providing cool nights and slow ripening of the 100% Pinot Noir plantings. In the particularly cool vintage of 2011, a switch went on in Scott Shull’s brain…sparkle it! Henceforth, their approach to this 21-year old vineyard has been to focus on classic Méthode Champenoise. In 2015 Raptor Ridge Winery decided to increase the production by adding Tuscowallame Estate Pinot Noir, which comes from their highest block and contains a mixture of clones. Both vineyards are farmed identically. The base wine ferments and rests en tirage for about three years, before disgorgement and dosage to complete the wine for final bottling.

Appellation: Willamette Valley, Oregon
Analysis: 12.5% alcohol / volume
TA: 7.5 
pH: 3.37
Brix: 20.8
Case Production: 360
De-stem: 100%
Cold Soak: 96 hours

ABOUT THE RAPTOR RIDGE WINERY:
Owned and operated by Scott and Annie Shull, the duo have been nurturing Raptor Ridge for 26 years – from a “garage” winery, to the clearing of their vineyard in 2000 and the opening of their tasting room in 2010. The Shull’s winegrowing focuses on quality, consistency and intrigue. Their wines express simplicity, while also having layers of sensory complexity on the palate and mind. Learn more about their journey here.

gaspard bulles sparkling rose

Gaspard
Bulles Sparkling Rosé
Loire Valley, France

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

“Bulles”, meaning “bubbles” in French, is the perfect name for this wine. This sparkling, fruity Rosé is full of red berries. It makes for a perfect aperitif wine, great for any celebration, or while snacking on other nibbles.

Grapes: Pineau d’aunis
Vineyard: Clay and Limestone
Vines: 80 year-old vines, sustainable growing practices

WINEMAKING:
The grapes are handpicked, pressed. The first fermentation occurs with natural yeast in tanks. The wine is then filtered and bottled with liqueur de tirage to start the second fermentation in bottles. The wine is disgorged and topped up with more wine, zero sugar added. Total time in cellar is 36 months.

ABOUT THE GASPARD:
Gaspard is one of Jenny & François‘ house labels, these wines come from their exclusive cooperation with carefully selected winemakers in France and beyond. The growers they are partnered with work sustainably and organically to produce the purest wine. These Loire Valley wines focus on the nature of the wine, while also staying in a friendly budget to their consumers. All wines are made with tradition and use the most popular varieties of their regions. Learn more about their story here.

Bubbly Wine ClubLearn more about our Bubbly Club >

 

 

November Bubbly Club: Iowa

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Tuff-nutt-pet-nat-biancoBubbly Wine ClubDelinquente Wine Co.
Tuff Nutt
Bianco Pet Nat
Riverland, South Australia

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

The 2021 “Tuff Nutt” Bianco Pet Nat is bright and clean with intense tropical citrus bursting from the glass. Fresh and persistent bubbles pop in the mouth while the fruity flavors become more savory and herbaceous on the end. After being fermented with wild vineyard yeast in stainless steel, the wine was bottled under crown seal to finish fermenting – this resulted in the naturally sparkling style. 

WINEMAKER NOTES:
2021 was the kindest vintage we have experienced in 9 years of Delinquente – a La Nina cycle bringing good spring rainfall, mild summer temperatures and cool, crisp nights. The Sherwood Estate vineyard in Loxton has the only planting of Bianco d’Alessano in Australia – the vines are now coming up to 15 years old, are looking as healthy and strong as ever, and producing some wonderful fruit year on year. – Delinquente Wine Co.

Weeping-juanDelinquente Wine Co.
Weeping Juan
Pink Pet Nat
Riverland, South Australia

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

The “Weeping Juan” Pink Pet Nat blend has super bright red fruit that cut through the citrus and stone-fruit notes of the wine. It is hazy blush in the glass, and the nose is super clean with a pleasant yeastiness. The fine spritz of the “Weeping Juan” makes this wine perfect for all-day and all-night drinking. Each variety used in this blend was picked and fermented separately. The final wine was blended and bottled just before the ‘Nero d’Avola’ finishing ferment, which created the natural sparkling style.

WINEMAKER NOTES:
2021 was the kindest vintage we have experienced in 9 years of Delinquente – a La Nina cycle bringing good spring rainfall, mild summer temperatures and cool, crisp nights. The Bassham Family Organic and Biodynamic vineyard, bursting with natural vitality and life, took full advantage of Mother Nature’s gift and produced beautiful quality fruit – sweet, layered, and with piercing acidity – and plenty of it too! – Delinquente Wine Co.

ABOUT DELINQUENTE WINE CO.:
Delinquente, meaning ‘delinquent’ in Italian is a winery making small batch, minimal intervention wines from Southern Italian grape varieties grown in Riverland, South Australia. These organically grown, hand-made wines reflect the sun and the red dirt that are unique to the Australian terroir of the Riverland. Since their climate can become so hot and dry, Delinquente Wine Co. chose wine varieties suited for these extreme conditions. This decision allowed them to create more environmentally sustainable wines with lower alcohol levels, yet loads of freshness and flavor.  Learn more about the winery here.

© Photo by Delinquente Wine Co.
© Photo by Delinquente Wine Co.
© Photo by Delinquente Wine Co.
© Photo by Delinquente Wine Co.
© Photo by Delinquente Wine Co.

Bubbly Wine ClubLearn more about our Bubbly Club >

 

 

Estate Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon

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Sourdough Stuffing with Sausage and Gruyère Recipe

Thanksgiving stuffing with sausage

INGREDIENTS:

  • 4 Tbsp. (½ stick) (2 oz./60 g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 loaf sourdough bread, about 1 lb. (500 g), crust removed and cut into 1-inch (2.5-cm) cubes
  • 5 slices bacon, chopped
  • 1 lb. (500 g) pork breakfast sausage, casings removed
  • 1 large yellow onion, diced
  • 4 celery stalks, diced
  • 4 garlic cloves, chopped
  • 3 eggs
  • 3 cups (24 fl. oz./750 ml) turkey or chicken stock
  • 1 cup (4 oz./125 g) grated Gruyère cheese
  • ¼ cup (1/4 oz./7 g) chopped fresh sage
  • 2 Tbs. fresh thyme leaves
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Preheat an oven to 350°F (180°C). Using the melted butter, grease the bottom and sides of 9″x13″ (23cm x 33cm) baking dish.
  2. Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet and toast in the oven until dried but not browned, about 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and set aside. Leave the oven on.
  3. In a large sauté pan over medium-high heat, cook the bacon until most of the fat is rendered but the bacon is not yet crisp, about 5 minutes. Add the sausage and cook, breaking up the meat into small pieces with a wooden spoon, until the meat is browned, about 10 minutes. Add the onion, celery and garlic and continue cooking until the vegetables are softened and translucent, about 10 minutes. Remove from the heat and set aside.
  4. In a large bowl, lightly whisk the eggs. Add the stock and whisk until combined.
  5. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the sausage mixture to a very large bowl; discard any fat and liquid remaining in the pan. Add the bread cubes and cheese to the bowl and toss to combine. Add the stock mixture to the bowl and toss until the bread cubes are evenly moistened. Set aside for 10 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid. Stir in the sage and thyme and season to taste with salt and pepper.
  6. Transfer the stuffing mixture to the prepared dish and bake until the stuffing is set and the top is golden brown and lightly crisped, about 40 minutes. Let rest 10 minutes before serving. Serves 10 to 12.

© Recipe courtesy of Williams Sonoma and Chris Lanier, co-founder and chef of Ravenwood, Kerhonkson, NY.

NOVEMBER WINE CLUB:

Bold wine Style logoEstate-Cellars-Cabernet (1)Estate Cellars
2019 Estate Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon
Central Coast, California

BOLD WINE STYLE

Cabernet Sauvignon is the king of red wines and at Clos LaChance there is no exception. Cabernet is the largest volume of acreage for a single varietal on their estate and made up of over six different clones on four different root stocks. The Estate Cabernet Sauvignon has always been a top performer for quality and the flag ship of the Clos LaChance portfolio.  They stay true to the style and the terroir on their Estate that presents an approachable and elegant style of Cabernet that is crafted for your everyday indulgence. The wine is ready to drink now and can be laid down for several years as well.

TASTING NOTES:
Dark Plum in color, the 2019 Estate Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon is full bodied with medium acid and high tannins. On the nose, there are flavors of cassis, tea leaf, and blackberry jam. On the palate, there are notes of cedar, huckleberry and molasses.

Varietal: 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, 10% Malbec
Appellation: Central Coast, California
Analysis: 14% alcohol / volume
Aged: 16 months on 25% new French oak, 10% new American oak, 65% neutral French and American oak
Harvest Date: Oct. 2 – Oct. 31
Average Brix at Harvest: 25.0
pH: 3.61
TA: 0.62
Sugar: 0.13 g/L
Food Pairings: Braised Short Ribs, Vegetarian Lasagna
Cheese Pairings: Gruyére, or with the November Cheese Club selections.
Critical Acclaim: 95 pts. justwinepoints.com

 

 

California Certified Sustainable logoWINEMAKER NOTES:
The Cabernet Sauvignon is sourced from some of the finest vineyards throughout the Central Coast of California, ranging from San Francisco and Livermore in the north to Paso Robles in the south. The grapes are handpicked and hand sorted prior to a 72-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 wine is then aged on 25% new French oak and 10% new American oak, and the remainder is aged on a mix of neutral American and French oak.

HARVEST NOTES:
The 2019 Estate Cellars’ Cabernet Sauvignon, similar to the previous two vintages, 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 ESTATE CELLARS:
From the family owned and operated winery Clos LaChance, based in the Northern Central Coast region of California, Estate Cellars was established as their secondary, high-quality line made to reach additional markets with a unique label. Clos LaChance Winery and Estate Vineyard is proud to be Certified Sustainable by the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance. The winery stays true to the style of their terroir by creating approachable and elegant wines. Learn more here.

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

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October Bubbly Club: Iowa

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Bubbly Wine ClubMAYLA-ROSE_PETILLANTAlella Vinícola
Mayla
Rosé Petillant
Alella, Spain

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

This attractively colored rosé has a sweet nose of red fruits. On the palate, the mouthfeel is light and fresh with flavors of red fruits.

Analysis: 11.5% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 100% Red Grenache
Vineyard: Viña Rials
Aging: 6 months on lees
Yield: 35 Hl/Ha
Vine aged: 22 years
Farming: Organic without herbicide, insecticide and inorganic fertilizers
Pruning: Royat doble
Height and exposition: 100m, EST
Soil: Granites (“sualó”)
Climate: Maritime Mediterranean
Winemaker: Xavier Garcia
Annual Production: 5,000 bottles
Aging Potential: Drink now or mature for up to 3 years
Food Pairing: Ideal as an aperitif or with fresh pasta, rice dishes, or grilled snails
Recent Awards:
  • Guía Peñín 2018: 87 points
  • Guia de Vins de Catalunya 2018: 9.14 points

WINEMAKING:
“The wine was aged in stainless steel tanks on its own fine lees from November to February in order to give the wine more volume, and to prepare it to improve its evolution throughout time . The second fermentation has taken place in bottle for two months more to attain the sparkling point that we wish.” – Alella Vinícola

ona-blanc-brut-natureAlella Vinícola
Ona
Blanc de Noir Brut Nature
D.O. Alella, Spain

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

Although the Ona Blanc de Noir is a black grape variety, the color is golden with soft reflections. On the nose, there are intense, yet delicate aromas of cherries, strawberries, raspberries, peaches and clean cut grass. On the palate, the bubbles are crisp and well integrated into the wine. The wine is refreshing and highlights all of the flavors of white and red fruit with a honeyed, long finish.

Analysis: 12% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 100% Red Grenache
Vineyard: Viña Rials
Aging: Minimum of 12 months in bottle
Yield: 25 Hl/Ha
Vine aged: 15 years
Farming: Organic without herbicide, insecticide and inorganic fertilizers
Pruning: Royat doble
Height and exposition: 100m, EST
Soil: Granites (“sualó”)
Climate: Maritime Mediterranean
Winemaker: Xavier Garcia
Annual Production: 2,500 bottles
Aging Potential: Drink now or mature for up to 8 years
Recent Awards:
  • Guía Peñín 2018: 89 points
  • Robert Parker: 88 points
  • Guia de Vins de Catalunya 2018: 9.15 points
  • Great Premi Vinari 2015 Reserva Sparkling Wines

Alella Vinícola logoABOUT ALELLA VINÍCOLA:
Family owned and operated, Alella Vinícola has been operating in the heart of the D.O. Alella, Spain since 1906 – just over 9 miles north of Barcelona. Brothers Samuel and Xavier Garcia perform all of the tasks of managing the winery from planting the vineyards to the commercialization of their wines. The winery’s wines are characterized by the Mediterranean climate and are always produced free of herbicides, insecticides and inorganic fertilizers. Learn more about the winery here.

© Photo by Alella Vinícola
© Photo by Alella Vinícola
© Photo by Alella Vinícola
© Photo by Alella Vinícola
© Photo by Alella Vinícola
© Photo by Alella Vinícola

Bubbly Wine ClubLearn more about our Bubbly Club >

 

 

Alella Vinícola Costa Del Maresme

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Skirt Steak

Credit: © Tina Rupp

Skirt Steak with Moroccan Spice Rub and Yogurt Sauce

INGREDIENTS:

  • 1 ¼ pounds skirt steak, cut into 6-inch lengths
  • 3 tablespoons plus 1 1/2 teaspoons Moroccan Spice Rub
  • ¾ cup plain whole-milk yogurt
  • 2 scallions, thinly sliced
  • 1 garlic clove, smashed
  • 1 tablespoon chopped pickled jalapeños
  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for brushing
  • salt and freshly ground pepper
  • 4 large pita breads, for serving
  • Romaine lettuce leaves, for serving

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Light a grill. Rub the steaks all over with 3 tablespoons of the spice rub and let stand for 5 minutes.
  2. Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, combine the yogurt, scallions, garlic, jalapeños and the remaining 1 1/2 teaspoons of the spice rub. Stir in the olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
  3. Brush the steaks lightly with olive oil and grill over high heat, turning occasionally, for 7 to 8 minutes for medium-rare meat. Brush the pitas with olive oil and grill until lightly toasted, about 30 seconds. Transfer the steaks to a cutting board and let rest for 5 minutes. Thinly slice the steaks across the grain. Transfer the steaks to a platter and serve with the toasted pita, yogurt sauce and lettuce leaves.

© Recipe courtesy of Grace Parisi of Food & Wine.

OCTOBER WINE CLUB:

Mellow style logoCosta_del_Maresme_Red-Wine-2020-tech-sheet (1)Alella Vinícola
Costa del Maresme
Alella, Spain

MELLOW WINE STYLE

The Costa del Maresme is 100% Mediterranean in character. The nose and palate both highlight the ripe bunches of the Red Grenache and Syrah grapes.

Varietal: 90% Red Grenache, 10% Syrah
Vineyard: Viña Rials
Analysis: 14.0% alcohol / volume
Aging: Aged over lees around 8 months
Yield: 22 Hl/Ha
Vine aged: 35 years
Farming: Organic without herbicide, insecticide and inorganic fertilizers
Pruning: Royat doble
Height and exposition: 100 m, SE
Soil: Granites (“Sauló”)
Climate: Maritime Mediterranean
Winemaker: Xavier Garcia
Annual Production: 12,000 bottles
Aging Potential: Drink now or mature for up to 4 years
 

WINEMAKER NOTES:
“Depending on the final ripeness of the different vineyards and varieties, each harvest’s final blend is formed. Varietal base was shared by Red Grenache and complemented with Syrah.” – Alella Vinícola

Alella Vinícola logoABOUT ALELLA VINÍCOLA:
Alella Vinícola is a family winery passed down from generation to generation since 1906. Located just 9 miles north of Barcelona, the winery currently produces, makes and bottles wines and cavas in two designated origins, D.O. Alella and D.O. Cava. Now owned and operated by brothers Samuel and Xavier Garcia, they produce around 90,000 bottles each year, comprised of a dozen different wines. The brothers continue ensure they are producing all of their wines organically, free of herbicides, insecticides and inorganic fertilizers. Learn more about winery here.

© Photo by Alella Vinícola
© Photo by Alella Vinícola
© Photo by Alella Vinícola

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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October Wine Club Pairing Recipe

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Easy Goulash Recipe

© Photo by Shawn Syphus

INGREDIENTS:

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cup onion, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 2 lbs. ground beef, lean
  • 3 tsp garlic, minced
  • 2 15 oz cans tomato sauce
  • 2 15 oz cans petite diced tomatoes
  • 3 cups beef broth
  • 3 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
  • 2 tsp seasoned salt
  • 2 tbsp Italian Seasoning
  • 3 bay leaves
  • 2 cups macaroni noodles, uncooked
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
  •  

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Add olive oil to large pot over medium-high heat. Add in the onion, bell pepper and ground beef then cook until beef is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat and return pot to stove top. Add in garlic and stir until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
  2. Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, seasoned salt, Italian seasoning, bay leaves and dried macaroni noodles. Stir and bring mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to a light boil and stir occasionally until the pasta is tender, about 20 minutes.
  3. Remove the bay leaves and stir in the cheddar cheese just before serving. Enjoy!

© Recipe courtesy of Shawn Syphus from I Wash, You Dry.

OCTOBER WINE CLUB:

Bold wine Style logoIvori_Aged-Red-Wine-2019Alella Vinícola
Ivori Aged Red Wine
Alella, Spain

BOLD WINE STYLE

Cherry red in color, on the nose there are floral notes with aromas of berries, spices, licorice and smoked nuances. The palate is balanced with a polished tannin and medium structure. There are notes of red fruit with smoked and toasted nuanced in the aftertaste.

Varietal: 70% Red Grenache, 30% Syrah
Vineyard: Viña Rials
Analysis: 14.5% alcohol / volume
Aging: French oak barrels 12 months (500 l)
Yield: 22 Hl/Ha
Vine aged: 35 years
Farming: Organic without herbicide, insecticide and inorganic fertilizers
Pruning: Royat doble
Height and exposition: 100 m, SE
Soil: Granites (“Sauló”)
Climate: Maritime Mediterranean
Winemaker: Xavier Garcia
Awards: Guía Peñín 2018: 91 pts. | Robert Parker: 89 pts.
 
WINEMAKER NOTES:
“Depending on the final ripeness of the different vineyards and varieties, each harvest’s final blend is formed. Varietal base was shared by Red Grenache and complemented with Syrah. All these varieties were produced separately until they were aged in casks in which the final blend was made. Aging lasted 12 months in 500 liter French oak casks.” – Alella Vinícola
 
Alella Vinícola logoABOUT ALELLA VINÍCOLA:
Family owned and operated, brothers Samuel and Xavier Garcia perform all of the tasks of managing the winery from planting the vineyards to the commercialization of their wines. Alella Vinícola has been operating in the heart of the D.O. Alella, Spain since 1906. A little over 9 miles north of Barcelona, the winery’s wines are characterized by the Mediterranean climate. Both the winery and the vineyard are committed to minimizing environmental harmful effects. Their vineyards are free of herbicides, insecticides and inorganic fertilizers. Learn more here.
 
© Photo by Alella Vinícola
© Photo by Alella Vinícola
© Photo by Alella Vinícola
 
 

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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Marfil Blanc Sec

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Paella-7

© Photo by Lauren Allen

Spanish Paella

INGREDIENTS:

  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive Oil (Spanish EVOO if you have it)
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced (or try ½ red and ½ green)
  • 4 cloves Garlic
  • 3 Roma tomatoes, very finely diced (or 8 oz. tomato sauce)
  • bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (sweet or smoked)
  • 1 pinch saffron threads*
  • salt and pepper
  • ¼ cup white wine
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into pieces*
  • ¼ cup flat leaf parsley chopped, divided
  • 2 cups Spanish Rice*
  • 5 cups chicken broth*
  • ½ cup frozen Peas
  • ½ lb. jumbo shrimp or prawns , about 12 – peeled, tail on
  • ½ lb. mussels (about 10-12), cleaned properly (beards off)
  • 8 oz calamari rings
  • lemons, for garnish

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Add olive oil to a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, bell peppers and garlic and cook until onion is translucent. Add chopped tomato, bay leaf, paprika, saffron salt and pepper. Stir and cook for 5 minutes. Add white wine and cook for 10 minutes. Taste and add salt if needed.
  2. Add chicken pieces, 2 tablespoons chopped parsley and rice to the pot. Cook for 1 minute.
  3. Pour the broth slowly all around the pan and jiggle the pan to get the rice into an even layer. (Do not stir the mixture going forward!).
  4. Bring mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to medium low. Give the pan a gentle shake back and forth just once or twice during cooking. (We don’t ever stir the rice, so that a crispy crust forms at the bottom, called a socarrat).
  5. Cook for about 15-18 minutes (uncovered), then nestle the shrimp, mussels and calamari into the mixture, sprinkle peas on top and continue to cook (without stirring) for about 5 more minutes. Watch for most of the liquid to be absorbed and the rice at the top nearly tender. (If for some reason your rice is still not cooked, add ¼ cup more water or broth and continue cooking).
  6. Remove pan from heat and cover pan with a lid or tinfoil. Place a kitchen towel over the lid and allow to rest for 10 minutes.
  7. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices. Serve.

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

OCTOBER WINE CLUB:

Crisp Wine StyleAlella Vinicola Marfil whiteAlella Vinícola
Marfil Blanc Sec
Alella, Spain

CRISP WINE STYLE

The Marfil Blanc Sec is bright straw and light golden in color. It has an intense nose with herbal notes of mint, lime and fresh apple. The palate has good length and a bold texture with fine extract, acidity, herbal spiciness, and notes of crispy fruit.

Varietal: 100% Pansa Blanca
Vineyard: Viña Rials
Analysis: 13.5% alcohol / volume
Aging: 6 months on lees
Yield: 25 Hl/Ha
Vine aged: 22 Years
Farming: Organic without herbicide, insecticide and inorganic fertilizers
Pruning: Royat doble
Height and exposition: 100 m, EST
Soil: Granites (“saulo”)
Climate: Maritime Mediterranean
Aging Potential: Drink now or mature for up 4 years
Annual Production: 11,000 bottles
Winemaker: Xavier Garcia
 
WINEMAKER NOTES:
“Marfil SEC is one of our white wines that has been sold worldwide for one hundred years. In the past, it used to be produced and aged in large capacity wooden casks for more than three years, so Pansa Blanca acquired a very unique bouquet which was highly valued during most of the 20th Century. In the last few decades, the market tendencies have gradually had an influence on the vinification techniques of this wine, and the aging in wood slowly but surely disappeared.  This paved the way for giving prominence to the fruit, Pansa Blanca, which, without losing its fullness on the palate, gained in primary freshness and aromas of fresh white, aniseed-flavored, floral and sweeter fruit.” – Alella Vinícola
 
Alella Vinícola logoABOUT ALELLA VINÍCOLA:
Alella Vinícola is a family winery established in 1906, and Marfil has been the symbolic brand of the cellar since the 1920’s. In the 20th century, it was considered ‘the’ white wine of Barcelona and was exported worldwide. Today, most of the vineyards used are located in the town of Alella, about 9 miles north of Barcelona. The winery works to minimize the environmental harmful effects that many food and beverage companies can generate. For 20 years, all grapes that enter their cellar are free of herbicides, insecticides and inorganic fertilizers. Learn more here.
 
© Photo by Alella Vinícola
© Photo by Alella Vinícola
© Photo by Alella Vinícola
© Photo by Alella Vinícola
© Photo by Alella Vinícola

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Duca Carlo Guarini Burdi Negroamaro

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© Photo by Half Baked Harvest

Caprese Pesto Pasta Bake

INGREDIENTS:

  • 3 cups cherry tomatoes
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic minced or grated
  • 1/3 cup fresh chopped herbs, such as thyme or oregano (I like a mix of both)
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • kosher salt and black pepper
  • 1 pound short cut pasta
  • 3/4 cup basil pesto, homemade or store-bought
  • 2–3 cup fresh baby spinach
  • 8 ounces shredded or torn mozzarella or burrata cheese
  • 3 ounces thinly sliced prosciutto (optional)
  • fresh basil, for serving

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Spray a 9 x 13-inch Pyrex deep baking dish with cooking spray.
  2. Cover the bottom of your Pyrex dish with olive oil. In the pan, toss together the cherry tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, herbs, crushed red pepper flakes, and a large pinch of salt and pepper. Transfer to the oven and roast for 10-15 minutes or until the tomatoes collapse.
  3. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and add the pasta back to the pot. Immediately toss with the pesto, spinach, and half of the cheese. Add the tomatoes and all the juices from the tomatoes and gently toss to combine. Season with freshly ground black pepper and salt. Transfer the pasta back into the Pyrex dish used to roast the tomatoes.  
  4. Evenly sprinkle the remaining cheese over top the pasta, arrange the prosciutto, if using, over the cheese. Transfer to the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the prosciutto is crisp. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil. Enjoy!  

© Recipe courtesy of Tieghan from Half Baked Harvest.

JUNE WINE CLUB:

Bold wine Style logoBurdiRosso_1000x1300Duca Carlo Guarini
Burdi Negroamaro Rosso IGT Puglia
Scorrano, Italy

BOLD WINE STYLE

A red wine made from Negroamaro organic certified grapes. It is deep ruby red in color. On the nose it is intense of red fruits and berries, while on the palate it is well balanced and fruity. It is suited to all courses, but pairs exceptionally well with roasts, cheeses and pasta.

Varietal: 100% Negroamaro
Analysis: 13% alcohol / volume
Description: IGT Red Puglia
Yield: 100,000 kg. per hectare
Vinification: Nine days maceration with skins, temperature controlled fermentation

ABOUT DUCA CARLO GUARINI:
For centuries, Guarini has cultivated their vineyards in the Puglia region of Italy. Their mission is to protect the heritage of the wines in this region, with organic, native grapes vinified in red, rosé and white. All of their wines are mono-varietal, organic and expertly made to respect and express the land where they grow. Learn more about their history here.

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Peacock Wild Ferment Cabernet Sauvignon

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Grilled Steak

© Photo by Steve Giralt

Perfectly Grilled Steak

INGREDIENTS:

  • 4 1 1/4-to-1 1/2-inch-thick boneless rib-eye or New York strip steaks (about 12 ounces each) or filets mignons (8 to 10 ounces each), trimmed
  • 2 tablespoons canola or extra-virgin olive oil
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper

DIRECTIONS:

  1. About 20 minutes before grilling, remove the steaks from the refrigerator and let sit, covered, at room temperature.
  2. Heat your grill to high. Brush the steaks on both sides with oil and season liberally with salt and pepper. Place the steaks on the grill and cook until golden brown and slightly charred, 4 to 5 minutes. Turn the steaks over and continue to grill 3 to 5 minutes for medium-rare (an internal temperature of 135°F), 5 to 7 minutes for medium (140°F) or 8 to 10 minutes for medium-well (150°F).
  3. Transfer the steaks to a cutting board or platter, tent loosely with foil and let rest 5 minutes before slicing.

© Recipe courtesy of Bobby Flay for Food Network Magazine.

MAY WINE CLUB:

Bold wine Style logoPeacock_CABSAVNV (1)False Bay Vineyards
Peacock Wild Ferment Cabernet Sauvignon
Stellenbosch, South Africa

BOLD WINE STYLE

A wine that portrays typical varietal character along with a lot of elegance and accessibility. On the nose you can enjoy subtle red berries, a hint of chocolate and green spices. The palate has a lifted freshness and soft tannins which are well integrated- the fruit also carries through well to the aftertaste. It’s great enjoyed on its own, but also pairs well with a variety of dishes ranging from a simple tomato-based pasta dish to a juicy sirloin steak.

Varietal: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
Analysis: 13.4% alcohol / volume
TA: 6.3 g/l
pH: 3.46
RS: 2.6 g/l

“Cabernet Sauvignon has always been seen as a big, bold and very tannic wine…the king of the reds. It is traditionally marketed as a wine to keep for at least three years before even thinking of opening a bottle. But at Waterkloof we believe it does not necessarily have to be big and gutsy to make an impression. We look for vineyard sites that are able to produce wines with notable elegance and freshness, allied with a fine texture.” – False Bay Vineyards

© Photo by False Bay Vineyards

HARVEST AND PRODUCTION:
The grapes for our Peacock Wild Ferment Cabernet Sauvignon are sourced from the cooler slopes of the Helderberg ward on the coastal outreaches of Stellenbosch. Deep red soils provide moisture and nutrients, which give this Cabernet its supple, dark berry character. This cooler area also allows a longer ripening period, which imparts balanced flavors and elegant tannins to this red varietal. False Bay Vineyards use very minimal intervention during their winemaking process. The grapes are tasted regularly to determine the optimal ripeness and taste. Wines are hand-harvested after the grapes are de-stemmed. The juice is naturally fermented using “wild yeasts”, allowing for the flavors of the vineyard to be further expressed in the bottle. The skins are juice are mixed using two punch-downs or two pump-overs per day. The wine is aged in older 225L barrels for 9 months, after which it underwent a light filtration and a small dosage of sulphur is added before finally bottled. No other additions such as tartaric acid or enzymes were added.

ABOUT FALSE BAY VINEYARDS:
Named after South Africa’s most iconic bay, which frames much of the country’s premium wine-lands, False Bay Vineyards, was born from a desire to make ‘real’ wine affordable. The sister company of Waterkloof Winery, False Bay Vineyards, produces two collections: the earlier drinking, yet refined Peacock Wild Ferment range, named after the brightly plumed birds conspicuous in and around Waterkloof’s vineyards and the False Bay wine range of easy-drinking yet quality driven wines. Learn more about False Bay Vineyards here.

© Photo by False Bay Vineyards
© Photo by False Bay Vineyards
© Photo by False Bay Vineyards
© Photo by False Bay Vineyards

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