Tag Archives: pinot noir

March Bubbly Club: Iowa

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Bubbly Wine ClubChandon
Brut Rosé
California

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

The Chandon Brut Rosé is vivacious and juicy. It’s a bright, dry Rosé with a refreshing lightness – perfect for sipping all year. On the eye, it is vibrant pink with an energetic bead and mousse. The nose is extremely fruity with subtle floral, toasty, mineral and brioche notes. On the palate, there are flavors of strawberry, red cherry, raspberry tart, red currant, pomegranate and notes of pastries or scones.  The creaminess, acidity and finish are all perfectly balanced with very little sweetness.

Grapes for Brut Rosé were sourced from multiple cool-climate appellations, ensuring complexity and consistency in this vibrant, smooth style. Grapes were harvested at night to keep the fruit cool and preserve freshness. Harvest begins early August to retain acidity and capture Chardon’s signature vibrancy.  State-of-the-art presses lower pressing times, limiting the the juice’s contact with the grape skins to avoid bitterness.  Primary fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks.  The second fermentation occurs in the bottle and the aging process begins. A minimum of 12 months aging imparts a creamy complexity balanced by juicy red fruit notes.

Varietal: 57% Chardonnay, 40% Pinot Noir, 3% Meunier
Analysis: 12% alcohol / volume
Brut: 9.5 g/L
Serving Temperature: Serve between 49ºF – 54ºF
Pairing: Perfect match for a sunny day, or paired with slightly spicy dishes, grilled burgers, paella, smoked salmon, gumbo, or duck fat fries.
Critical Acclaim: 2020 Wine Enthusiast – 90 pts.

Cocktail Recommendation: The Chandon Mirosa
3 oz. Chandon Brut Rosé
3 oz. Pink Grapefruit Juice

Chandon-Brut-bottle-150x525Chandon
Brut
California

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

This Brut is the signature style of Chandon and the go-to bubbly for entertaining, sipping and gifting. It showcases the fruitiness, vibrancy and freshness of Northern California’s warm, sunny days and cool nights. On the eye, it is vibrant straw yellow in color with an energetic bead and mousse. The nose is very heavy in fruit, with medium floral and brioche notes, and light toasty and mineral undertones. The palate is intense and fruity with subtle complexity. There are key flavors of green apple, citrus, pear, biscuit, almond and white flowers. 

Grapes for Brut are sourced from multiple cool-climate appellations, ensuring complexity and consistency in the lively, juicy style. A minimum of 12 months aging imparts a creamy complexity, balanced by an elegant mouthfeel.

Varietal: 73% Chardonnay, 26% Pinot Noir, 1% Meunier
Analysis: 12% alcohol / volume
Brut: 9 g/L
Serving Temperature: Serve between 49ºF – 54ºF
Pairing: A refreshing aperitif, or an ideal match with any salty or creamy dishes such as oysters, caesar salad, fried chicken or calamari
Critical Acclaim: 

  • 2022 Women’s Wine & Spirits Awards – Double Gold Medal winner
  • 2021 SF Chronicle Wine Competition – Double Gold Medal winner
  • 2021 Santé International Wine & Spirits – Double Gold Medal winner
  • 2021 Wine Enthusiast – 90 pts.
  • 2020 Wine Enthusiast – 90 pts.

Cocktail Recommendation: Sparkling Margarita
3 oz. Chandon Brut
1 ½ oz. Tequila Blanco
1 oz. Freshly Squeezed Lime Juice
½ oz. Agave Syrup
Salt for the Rim

ABOUT THE WINERY:
Founded in 1973, by Robert-Jean de Vogüé and John Wright, Chandon is one of the first French-owned sparkling wine ventures in United States. The two carefully selected their vineyards, and are now considered to be amongst some of the best quality sparkling wines in California. Domaine Chandon is located in Yountville, within the Napa Valley, California.  With their Head Winemaker, Pauline Lhote, and her skilled team, the Chandon Winery is able to combine their skilled winemaking knowledge with French techniques to produce innovate, beautiful, vibrant wines. Learn more about their story here.

About-Domaine-Chandon-Entry

© Photo by Chandon Winery

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January Bubbly Club: Iowa

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Bubbly Wine ClubLaurent-Perrier-Cuvee-webLaurent-Perrier
La Cuvée Brut Champagne
Champagne, France

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

This wine comes from the purest grape juice and allows Laurent‑Perrier to craft “La Cuvée”, a champagne of great finesse and a beautiful freshness obtained after a long ageing process in their cellars. Laurent-Perrier’s style and personality are defined by its very high proportion of Chardonnay. Purity, freshness and elegance – essential characteristics, expressed in this champagne which embodies the spirit of the House.

La Cuvée is pale, gold in color with fine bubbles that feed a persistent mousse. It has a delicate nose with hints of fresh citrus and white flowers, while on the palate the wine’s complexity is expressed with successive notes of vine peach and white fruit. There is a perfect balance between freshness and delicacy with fruity flavors that are very present on the finish.

Analysis: 12% alcohol / volume
Varietal: La Cuvée is a blend made from over 100 Crus selected by Laurent-Perrier

  • A majority of Chardonnay, over 50%
  • Pinot Noir, between 30% and 35%
  • Rounded out with Meunier, between 10% and 15%
  • + Reserve wines between 15% and 30% to ensure perfect consistency in style

Vinification and Aging: For blending, only the musts of the Cuvée are used, so only 80% of the grape juice is extracted from pressing. The ideal aging is around 4 years in the cellar, and its balance and freshness are enhanced by a light dosage.
Serving Temperature: Serve between 46.4ºF – 50ºF
Food Pairing: Perfect as an aperitif or paired alongside poultry or the finest fish.

ABOUT LAURENT-PERRIER:
Laurent-Perrier is a Champagne house founded in 1812. Nestled in a Grand Cru village at the crossroads of three main winegrowing areas, Laurent-Perrier is the largest female-owned, family-run, fiercely independent estates focusing exclusively on champagne. Passed down from generation to generation, Laurent-Perrier continues to offer unique experiences for champagne lovers all over the world. Learn more about their story here.

© Photo by Laurent-Perrier
© Photo by Laurent-Perrier
© Photo by Laurent-Perrier

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January Collector’s Wine Club: Iowa

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Collectors Wine ClubLaurent-Perrier_HarmonyLaurent-Perrier
Harmony
Demi-Sec NV
Champagne, France

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

Demi-Sec was the most popular style of Champagne in the 18th century. Laurent-Perrier continues to make this authentic style with the same pride and care as the rest of their Laurent-Perrier wines.

The Harmony Demi-Sec wine is rich, golden-yellow in color. The nose is robust and expressive, it opens with aromas of candied fruit, almonds and hazelnuts, followed by notes of fresh brioche. Rich on the palate, this Demi-Sec is full-bodied and generous with an elegant, clean finish.

Analysis: 12% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 45% Chardonnay, 40% Pinot Noir, 15% Pinot Meunier. More than 55 crus with an average ration of 94% are used in the Demi-Sec base wine blend. Between 10-20% of reserve wines are used to ensure perfect consistency.
Vinification and Aging: Following a minimum of three years of cellar aging, Demi-Sec receives a dosage of 45 grams of sugar per liter dissolved in wine from the same cuvée. The dosage level results in a Demi-Sec that is pleasantly sweet without being cloying.
Serving Temperature: Serve between 43ºF and 46ºF
Food Pairing: Rich desserts, especially cakes and tarts
Critical Acclaim:

  • Wine & Spirits – 91 Points

Collectors Wine ClubLaurent-Perrier_Grand-Siecle-N24Laurent-Perrier
Grand Siecle
Itération Nº24
Champagne, France

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

Launched in 1959 by Bernard de Nonancourt, Grand Siècle is Laurent-Perrier’s prestige cuvée and the epitome of the art of blending. Grand Siècle’s elegant bottle was inspired by the work of early 18th century master glassmakers. This cuvée namesake means “Great Century” from the illustrious period of French history during the reign of King Louis XIV, called the Sun King. At that time, art de vivre reached its pinnacle and French gastronomy was born, ushering in the concept of vins de terroir and the first effervescent wines from Champagne.

The Grand Siècle is bright pale, gold in color with a very fine effervescence, persistent sparkle and stead stream of fine bubbles. The nose is fresh, intense and complex with notes of candied citrus developing into aromas of fresh pastry and toasted almonds, with subtle hints of honey and gingerbread. The palate is complex, marrying structure to finesse, resulting in a perfect balance between power and delicacy. This textured wine continues to develop on the palate and in the glass, showing notes of honey, hazelnut, and toasted brioche.

Analysis: 12% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 55% Chardonnay, 45% Pinot Noir:

  • Grand Siècle Iteration Nº24 is made exclusively with 100% grand cru grapes from eleven of the most outstanding villages. These grapes are from exclusively hand-picked plots, selected from exceptional years and chosen for their complementary traits to provide structure, freshness and finesse in perfect harmony; Chardonnay always being the majority, with the balance being Pinot Noir:
    • Chardonnay Grands Crus: Avize, Cramant, Chouilly, Oger and Le Mesnil-sur-Oger.
    • Pinot Noir Grands Crus: Ambonnay, Bouzy, Verzy, Verzenay, Tours-sur-Marne and Mailly
  • Grand Siècle Iteration Nº24 is always a blend of three complementary years, which have been declared vintages by Laurent-Perrier: 2007 (60%), 2006 (20%), and 2004 (20%) vintages:
    • 2007: noted for its freshness, the Chardonnays are complex with aromas of white fruits and citrus and the Pinots Noirs open and fruity with a dominance of yellow fruit
    • 2006: noted for its finesse with rich, complex Chardonnays and Pinots Noirs with red fruit aromas
    • 2004: noted for its freshness and structure with fine, balanced Chardonnays and high quality Pinots Noirs

Vinification and Aging: The best Chardonnay and Pinot Noir wines are kept in reserve tanks in the dedicated Grand Siècle cuverie at Laurent-Perrier. After the base blend is crafted, it is put into bottles that will mature for up to 11 years on the lees in the cellar before disgorging.
Serving Temperature: Serve between 50ºF – 53.6ºF
Food Pairing: The creaminess and complexity of Grand Siècle perfectly complements refined dishes such as noble fish and lobster, or any dish with truffles or mushrooms.
Critical Acclaim:

  • James Suckling – 97 Points

ABOUT LAURENT-PERRIER:
Laurent-Perrier is the largest independent, family-owned, woman-owned House in Champagne. Passed down from generation to generation, the house is now managed by Alexandra Pereyre de Nonancourt and Stéphanie Meneux de Nonancourt, daughters of the emblematic Bernard de Nonancourt. In 2014, Stéphane Dalyac joined the daughters as Chairman of the Management Board, and in 2019, Alexandra’s daughter, Lucie Pereye de Nonancourt joined the team representing Grand Siècle in France and worldwide. This successful hand-over between generations has given the winery the ability to craft traditional and elegant champagnes for over two centuries. Laurent-Perrier suits every occasion and offers a unique experience for all senses through their innovative and comprehensive range of champagnes. Learn more about their history here.

© Photo by Laurent-Perrier
Chef de Caves, Michel Fauconnet: © Photo by Laurent-Perrier
© Photo by Laurent-Perrier
Stephanie & Alexandra de Nonancourt © Photo by Laurent-Perrier
© Photo by Laurent-Perrier
© Photo by Laurent-Perrier
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Maison Louis Latour Pinot Noir Les Pierres Dorées

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Rack of LambGarlic-Crusted Roast Rack of Lamb

INGREDIENTS:

  • 1 head of garlic (cloves peeled)
  • ¼ cup rosemary leaves
  • ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 racks of lamb, frenched (2 pounds each)
  • salt and freshly ground pepper

DIRECTIONS:

  1. In a mini food processor, combine the garlic, rosemary and olive oil and process until the garlic is finely chopped. Season the lamb racks with salt and pepper and rub the garlic-rosemary oil all over them. Set the racks fat side up on a large rimmed baking sheet and let stand for 1 hour.
  2. Preheat the oven to 450°F. Roast the lamb in the upper third of the oven for 15 minutes. Turn the racks and roast for 10 minutes longer for medium-rare meat. Transfer the racks to a carving board, stand them upright and let rest for 10 minutes.
  3. Carve the racks in between the rib bones and transfer to plates. Serve right away.

© Recipe courtesy of Kenny Rochford from Food & Wine.

DECEMBER WINE CLUB:

pinot noir les pierres dorees
Louis Latour
Pinot Noir Les Pierres Dorées
Burgundy, France

MELLOW WINE STYLE

The Les Pierres Dorées Pinot Noir has an intense, bright red color with red-garnet hues. On the nose, there are notes of flowers, red berries and soft spices. On the palate, it is round and full-bodied. It has a great deal of freshness with long under notes of black fruits.

Varietal: Pinot Noir
Analysis: 13-13.2% alcohol / volume
Region: Beaujolais, France
Village: Les Pierres Dorées
Appellation: Burgundy
Average Vine Age: 7 years
Soil: Clay and limestone with Iron-oxide
Harvest: Mechanical
Fermentation: Traditional in open vats
Aging: 10 to 12 months aging in stainless steel vats and oak barrels
Barrels: Louis Latour cooperage, French oak, medium toasted
Cellaring Potential: 5-7 years
Serving Temperature: 57.2-60.8ºF
Food Pairing: Rack of lamb, quail with grapes, red tuna tartare, sea bass, goat cheese, red fruit soup
Critical Acclaim: James Suckling 2018, 89 pts

WINERY NOTES:
Maison Louis Latour once again exports its Burgundian know-how outside of the Côte d’Or. After the great successes of Ardèche and Var, they decided to repeat the experience in the heart of Beaujolais with the planting of 20 hectares of Pinot Noir. The calcareous soil rich in iron oxide gives a very particular ochre color, and the high altitude contribute to produce a surprising wine which associates richness and freshness with a beautiful aromatic complexity. This region offers beautiful argilo-calcareous soils, the plots selected by Maison Louis Latour form two islands and are situated on the villages of Morancé and Theizé. With a continental moderate climate, vineyards benefit from an ideal period of sunshine but the temperatures are relatively fresh due to an elevation between 280 and 400 meters.

ABOUT MAISON LOUIS LATOUR:
Founded in 1797, Maison Louis Latour has been apart of Burgundian history for more than two centuries. Authentic and independent, the winery is now run by the 11th generation of the founding family. The family is determined to preserve the winery’s unique heritage. Today, the Latour’s family Domaine spreads over 50 hectares of exceptional vineyards. Learn more about their history here.

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September Bubbly Club: Iowa

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Bubbly Wine Clubroederer-estate-brut-multi-vintage-bottleRoederer Estate
Brut
Anderson Valley, California

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

The Roederer Estate Brut is crisp and elegant with complex flavors of pear, spice and hazelnut and is fresh, yet has great depth. It is lightly fruity with great finesse.

Analysis: 12.5% alcohol / volume
Appellation: Anderson Valley
Varietals: Approximately 60% Chardonnay, 40% Pinot Noir
pH: 3.1
Residual Sugar: 12 g/L
Aging: Aged a minimum of two years on the yeast
Awards:

  • 93 Points – Wine Enthusiast, December 1, 2020
  • 93 Points – The Wine Advocate, September 2020
  • 93 Points – Decanter, July 2020
  • 92 Points – Decanter, January 2020 
  • 92 Points, Smart Buy – Wine Spectator, August 31, 2019
  • 90 Points – Wine & Spirits, August 2019
  • 92 Points, Best Buy – Wine & Spirits, August 2018
  • 93 Points, #27 Top 100 Wines for 2018 – Wine Spectator, July 31, 2018

ABOUT ROEDERER ESTATE:
Founded in 1982, Roederer Estate is among a very few California sparkling wine houses that only sources estate-grown fruit and builds upon a centuries-old tradition of winemaking. Nestled in Mendocino County’s Anderson Valley, the Estate’s proximity to the Pacific Ocean allows the grapes to mature slowly on the vine and develop full varietal character. Learn more about the Estate here.

Cremant-dAlsace-Lucien-Albrecht-Brut-Rose_eLucien Albrecht
Le Crémant d’Alsace Rosé Brut
Alsace, France

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

The Crémant Rosé has nice pink reflections and salmon tones supported by an elegant effervescence. On the palate, there are notes of delicate red fruit that bring roundness and body together to make a complete wine.

Analysis: 11.98% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
Residual Sugar: 9.8 g/L
Total Acidity: 3.18 g/L
Vinification: 100% hand harvested, extended and soft pressed, 6-8 weeks controlled fermentation in stainless steel, then laid on racks for a minimum of 12 months.
Aging Capacity: Enjoy it now or keep it up to 3 years
Serving Temperature: 44.6ºF-46.4ºF
Pairings: Excellent for festive occasions.
Awards:

  • Silver Vinalies Internationales 2020
  • 90 points – Wine Enthusiast 2020

ABOUT CRÉMANT D’ALSACE APPELLATION D’ORIGINE CONTRÔLÉE:
“Crémant d’Alsace Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée was created in 1976 to distinguish the wines obtained by the sparkling champagne method. The term “crémant” comes from Champagne where it was fallen in disuse. It was the recognition of the efforts made by several Alsatian winemakers, including the Maison Lucien Albrecht.” – Lucien Albrecht

ABOUT THE WINERY:
The Maison Lucien Albrecht’s origins can be traced back to 1698 when Balthazar Albrecht settled in Orschwihr, a small Alsatian village ideal for it’s growing conditions. Eight generations later, the family continues to work in these same unique terroirs creating world renowned wines. Passed down from father to son, each generation has adapted its wine-growing and wine-making methods gradually to get the very best out of the terroir, while still producing authentic wines, characteristic to Alsace. Learn more about the family history here.

© Photo by Lucien Albrecht
© Photo by Lucien Albrecht
© Photo by Lucien Albrecht

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September Premium Wine Club

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Mellow style logoLong Meadow Ranch 2016 Anderson Valley Pinot Noir Tech Sheet[54]Long Meadow Ranch
2016 Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
California

MELLOW WINE STYLE

“Deep ruby red color. A bewitching nose, complex with dried earth, musky roses, and spice aromas. This shows a refined and silken texture, and remains fresh and lively across the palate with great intensity of fruit and length. Intriguing, balanced and complex, it is a great picture of the finesse and intensity of Pinot Noir in Anderson Valley.” – Winemaker, Stéphane Vivier

Analysis: 13.5% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
Estate: Anderson Valley
Maturation: 12 months in 25% new French oak, 75% neutral French oak
Food Pairing: Pair with duck breast and a cherry mostarda, or grilled salmon with chanterelle mushrooms. Try the winery’s pairing recipe for Chicken and Adouille Sausage Jambalaya here.

GROWING SEASON:
The 2016 Anderson Valley Pinot Noir had an early bud break, wet spring soils, and a long growing season. There was rapid growth in the spring, which slowed as it was met with average summer temperatures; producing reduced yields. The result was a moderate crop of well-concentrated, fully ripened fruit, creating a high quality vintage.

Bold wine Style logoLong Meadow Ranch 2016 Napa Cabernet Sauvignon Tech Sheet[44]Long Meadow Ranch
2016 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
California

BOLD WINE STYLE

“Classic in style and always respectful of varietal character, the 2016 Napa Valley represents everything you expect from a Long Meadow Ranch Cabernet. This balanced blend of fruit from our mountain and valley estates has an inviting nose of fresh black cherry, marionberry, and plum. More subtle notes of vanilla, cedar and green tea leaves bring nuance to a palate bright with the mountain fruit acidity and rich in the valley fruit’s velvety tannins. This wine is lovely to drink now and for years to come.” – Winemaker, Justin Carr

Analysis: 13.5% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
Vineyard: Estate Grown at Mayacamas & Rutherford Estates
Food Pairing: Long Meadow Ranch Grass-fed beef, braised lamb shanks or roasted game. Try the winery’s pairing recipe for Balsamic Braised Grass-fed Lamb Shanks here.

GROWING SEASON:
Growing season for the Cabernet Sauvignon was very similar to that of the Pinot Noir. The wet spring started a fast and rapid growing season, which was then met with average summer temperatures that slowed the development and reduced yields. This produced a moderate crop of excellent quality, and well-concentrated fruit that were fully ripened.

ABOUT LONG MEADOW RANCH:
Owned by Ted, Laddie, and Christopher Hall, Long Meadow Ranch (LMR) uses all integrated, organic and sustainable growing methods. LMR is home to wine making, olive orchards, cattle and horse breeding, egg-laying poultry, and organic vegetable gardens – each contributing to the overall health of the ranch. All crops are certified organic by California Certified Organic Farmers (CCOF) and are grown without using any herbicides, pesticides or chemical fertilizers. Learn more here.

© Photo by Long Meadow Ranch
© Photo by Long Meadow Ranch
© Photo by Long Meadow Ranch
© Photo by Long Meadow Ranch
© Photo by Long Meadow Ranch
© Photo by Long Meadow Ranch
© Photo by Marin Agricultural Land Trust, Michael Woolsey

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Winery Spotlight: Stoller Family Estate September 22nd

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Wine Tasting Event

Stoller_Family_Estate_Logo_SFE_Full_Text_BLACK_w_COPPER-FE

Stoller Winery Tasting Room

Stoller Family Estate
Willamette Valley AVA
Dundee Hills, Oregon

Wednesday, September 22, 2021
6:00pm CST / 7:00pm EST

Join us for a wine tasting event, featuring Stoller Family Estate wines and sister winery Chehalem, from Willamette Valley, Oregon.

SFE-WebsiteAVAMap-2Wines Tasted:

  • Stoller Rosé Pinot Noir
  • Stoller Dundee Hills Chardonnay
  • Stoller Dundee Hills Pinot Noir
  • Stoller Reserve Pinot Noir
  • Chehalem INOX Chardonnay
  • Chehalem Mountains Pinot Gris
  • Chehalem Mountains Pinot Noir

To reserve a table and attend the wine tasting in person, please call your local WineStyles store. Or if you prefer to attend remotely, from the comfort of your home, pre-order a wine tasting kit-to-go and watch on Zoom.Sept 22_Stoller Wines

About Stoller Family Estates:

Stoller Family Estate is one of the most highly regarded vineyards and wineries in Oregon. Pioneering Oregonian and Founder Bill Stoller purchased his family’s second-generation farm in 1993 with the vision of cultivating an enduring legacy for the land and Oregon wine industry. Over the last 25 years, he transformed the 400-acre property into the largest contiguous vineyard in the Dundee Hills that has become synonymous with producing exceptional wines. Stoller Family Estate features the world’s first LEED® Gold certified winery and named the Best Tasting Room in the Nation by USA Today. Learn more >

Sustainability:
Stoller Family Estates is committed to leadership in sustainable environmental practices. They have planted cover crops and wild flowers to encourage a healthy environment of beneficial insects and natural wild life – allowing them to forgo many chemical sprays. The first Northwest winery to produce solar energy, their vineyard became LIVE (Low Input Viticulture and Enology) certified in 2006 and the winery in 2009. They built their Reserve Winery and Tasting Room from high percentages of recycled materials, and their efforts in the vineyard focus on energy efficiency, safety, and wastewater treatment. Learn more here.

About Chehalem Winery:

Stoller’s sister winery, Chehalem, translates to the “Valley of Flowers” in the Native American language Calapooia. In 1993 Bill Stoller became co-owner and in early 2018 he became the sole owner of Chehalem. By July of 2018, the winery achieved the rigorous certification of B Corp status, ensuring they meet the highest standard of verified social and environmental performance, transparency and accountability. Learn more about his story here.

© Photo by Stoller Family Estates
© Photo by Stoller Family Estates
© Photo by Stoller Family Estates
© Photo by Stoller Family Estates
© Photo by Stoller Family Estates

Let’s Taste, Learn and Enjoy® together! 

Contact your local WineStyles to RSVP for this tasting event.

Stoller Family Estate
Dayton, Oregon

September 22, 2021
6:00pm CST/ 7:00pm EST

Cheers!

WineStyles.com

 

July Bubbly Club: Iowa

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Bubbly Wine ClubChampagne_Taittinger_Brut_La_Francaise-bottleTaittinger
Brut La Française
Champagne, France

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

The Taittinger Brut La Française is pale gold in color with fine, persistent bubbles. On the nose, there are delicate aromas of peach, white flowers, vanilla pods, and brioche and the on the palate there are flavors of fresh fruit and honey. Excellent with foods such as seafood and white meat.

Analysis: 12.3% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 40% Chardonnay, 35% Pinot Noir, 25% Pinot Meunier
Appellation: Champagne, France
Aging: 3-4 years on lees
Winemaker: Alexandre Ponnavoy

WINEMAKER NOTES:
Taittinger Brut La Française is a blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier wines from at least 35 villages. The high proportion of Chardonnay (40%) is unique among fine nonvintage Champagnes. The presses are located in the vineyard for immediate pressing of the fruit after the manual harvest, and the resulting must is cold fermented under temperature-controlled conditions. After resting until the end of winter, the wine is blended, and then the final cuvée undergoes a second fermentation in the bottle in Taittinger’s cool cellars. The aging of Brut La Française on the lees for almost 4 years, more than double the legal minimum of 15 months. This extra time in the cellars allows the wine to reach the peak of aromatic maturity, and the result is a delicately balanced Champagne, known for its consistently excellent quality.

ABOUT THE WINERY:
The Taittinger family has managed the Champagne House for nearly a century. Pierre-Emmanuel Taittinger, grandson of the founder, has maintained this commitment for 40 years and today he shares it with his son, Clovis and his daughter, Vitalie who both work beside him. Their aim is to always achieve excellence with their work. “Having our family name on a bottle places demands and responsibilities on every minute. It conveys both the skills and knowledge of the past and a commitment to the future,” Clovis Taittinger.  Champagne Taittinger is one of the few remaining family owned and operated Champagne houses. The firm is distinguished for its extensive vineyard holdings of 752 acres, including prestigious Grand Cru vineyards in the Côte des Blancs and Montagne de Reims regions. Unlike most large houses, Champagne Taittinger relies primarily on estate grapes for its portfolio of Champagnes. Also unique are the higher proportion of Chardonnay in its wines that gives Taittinger its signature style, and the time devoted to aging the wines before release—most often greatly exceeding the legal requirement, in a practice that also has become a Taittinger hallmark. Learn more about the family business here.

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July Wine Club Pairing Recipe

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Wild Mushroom Risotto

Wild Mushroom Risotto

© Photo by Matt Armendariz

INGREDIENTS:

  • 1 pound wild mushrooms torn or sliced
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 shallots diced
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup Arborio rice
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine
  • 2 1/2 cups chicken stock
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
  • 1/3 cup Mascarpone cheese
  • chives to garnish
  • lemon wedges
  • kosher salt and white pepper to taste

DIRECTIONS:

  1. In a large skillet over medium high heat, melt the butter. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for 7-9 minutes until they are soft and starting to caramelize. Season with salt and transfer to a clean plate.
  2. In the same skillet heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shallot and sauté until translucent. Add the garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. Add the Arborio rice to the skillet, making sure to stir it around in the olive oil so that each granule is coated with it, and toast it for about 90 seconds.
  3. Add the white wine and stir the rice until all the wine has been absorbed and then start adding the chicken stock ½ cup at a time, making sure not to add more until the previous addition has been absorbed.
  4. Once the rice is tender, add the Parmesan and Mascarpone cheese and combine. Add the previously sautéed mushrooms and carefully combine into the risotto. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper. Garnish with chives and a squeeze or two of lemon juice and serve.

© Recipe courtesy of Gaby Dalkin from What’s Gaby Cooking.

JULY WINE CLUB:

Mellow style logoPersnickety Pinot NoirEola Hills Wine Cellars
Persnickety Pinot Noir
Oregon

MELLOW WINE STYLE

A collaboration by Head Winemaker, Steve Anderson, and Assistant Winemaker, Steve Richards, of Eola Hills Wine Cellars. The Persnickety Pinot Noir is violet in color. The nose highlights aromas of black cherry, raspberry and toasted oak; while on the palate there are flavors of black fruits, toast and caramel. This is a full-body wine, that is rich and expressive with a polished finish.

Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
Analysis: 13.8% alcohol / volume
TA: 0.56
PH: 3.6
Residual Sugar: 0 g/L
Brix At Harvest: 22.5-24.5
Production: 800 cases
Sourcing: Premium vineyards throughout the Willamette Valley, Eola-Amity Hills, Umpqua Valley and Rogue Valley AVAs.

Food Pairing: It is recommended to pair this Pinot Noir with earthy dishes such as a creamy wild mushroom risotto. For cheeses, look for a selection of Camembert, Gruyere or Goat Cheese.

Eola-Hills-Steve-Anderson-winemaker-1-600x900

Head Winemaker, Steve Anderson

WINEMAKER NOTES:
“Forecasts for end of season rains in Northern Oregon had some growers worried about early picking, but others took their chances and were rewarded with longer hang time and a great finish. Southern Oregon vineyards balanced out lower yields making our Classic Pinot another premium representation of this distinctive grape in Oregon. A dark-fruited, juicy profile is balanced by toasty spice and vanilla notes from an oak regime combining time spent in both French and American barrels.” – Steve Anderson, Head Winemaker.

ABOUT EOLA HILLS WINE CELLARS:
In the early 1980’s, Oregonian Tom Huggins found himself intrigued by the notion of creating great regional wines in the heart of the Willamette Valley. With close friends and family members, they invested in purchasing 35 acres that Tom thought was ideal for growing grapes. Today, Eola Hills Wine Cellars is still locally owned and operated and one of Oregon’s largest wineries, farming over 325 acres of prime vineyard land. They produce over 80,000 cases of fine wines that are enjoyed across the country and internationally, capturing the spirit and flavors of Oregon. Learn more here.

 

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July Premium Wine Club

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Old Vine ZinEola Hills Wine Cellars
Reserve Old Vine Zinfandel
Oregon

Bold wine Style logoBOLD WINE STYLE

The Reserve Old Vine Zinfandel is garnet red in color. On the nose, there are flavors of plum, cranberry and strawberry jam. It is medium-bodied with notes of craisins, cedar and spice on the palate.

Analysis: 14.43% alcohol / volume
RS: 4 g/L
TA: 0.52
pH: 3.89
Brix At Harvest: +27.3
Production: 420 cases
Food Pairing: This wine pairs well with roasts, grilled game and turkey. Enjoy alone, or try it with an orange marinated smoked duck, or chanterelles and sage.

WINEMAKER NOTES:
“This Zinfandel was picked from young vines on the Mohr-Fry ranch. Fermented at cool temperatures to extract soft tannins, then barrel-aged in older American Oak for 13 months. A minimum of handling, a maximum of fruit expression. A spiced entry, jammy mid-palate, followed with a balanced smoothness.” – Eola Hills Wine Cellars

Bold wine Style logoCabernet ReserveEola Hills Wine Cellars
Barrel Select Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon
Oregon

BOLD WINE STYLE

Black Cherry in color, the Barrel Select Reserve Cabernet showcases aromas of cola, oregano, and smoke. It has a medium body with a bright mid-palate, highlighting flavors of cassis and smoke with a velvety finish.

Analysis: 13.9% alcohol / volume
RS: 0.0 g/L
TA: 0.75
pH: 3.45
Brix At Harvest: 22.5-24
Production: 625 cases
Food Pairing: This wine pairs well with anything from chocolate cake, pudding, and chocolate chip cookies, to smoked pork chops with green beans, asparagus, or your favorite BBQ recipe.

WINEMAKER NOTES:
“With this bottle of reserve cabernet, winemaker Steve Anderson aged the grapes for 33 months in 6% new oak and ultimately decided to let the grapes speak for themselves.” – Eola Hills Wine Cellars

Mellow style logoWedding BlockEola Hills Wine Cellars
Wedding Block Pinot Noir
Oregon

MELLOW WINE STYLE

If discovering a great wine feels a bit like falling in love, this Pinot Noir delivers. Exuberant red currants and lush layers of dark bramble fruits surrounds a structured palate rich with cola, baking spices and a resonant finish. The perfect pairing for any special day.

Analysis: 14.2% alcohol / volume
RS: 0 g/L
TA: 0.55 g/L
pH: 3.71
Brix At Harvest: 23.8-24.5
Production: 150 cases
Vineyards: Eola Hills’ Wolf Hill Vineyard – Eola Amity Hills AVA
Elevation: 283 feet
Vine Age: 22.8 years (average)
Acres: 43
Soil Profile: Jory, Nekia, Hazelair, Woodburn, Willamette, Dupee, Concord
Food Pairing: This Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with a seared tuna rolled in peppercorns, or any dish with notes of ginger, thyme and fresh rosemary. Try with a garlic stuffed pork roast marinated in red wine, vinegar and rosemary.

WINEMAKER NOTES:
“If you follow Eola Hills closely, you know Steve Anderson is our longtime winemaker. What you may not know is that he and his lovely wife, Nancy, said their vows under the great oaks at our Wolf Hill Vineyard on July 9th, 2005. In honor of love and saying their “I do’s”, Steve designated the name “Wedding Block” to this special plot of land in the Eola-Amity Hills, which is planted to Pinot Noir Dijon clones 114 and 667, and Pommard. With rich notes of bramble fruits and baking spices, our big, structured 2019 Wedding Block Pinot Noir will age beautifully – much like a good love story.” – Eola Hills Wine Cellars

ABOUT EOLA HILLS WINE CELLARS:
In the early 1980’s, Oregonian Tom Huggins found himself intrigued by the notion of creating great regional wines in the heart of the Willamette Valley. With close friends and family members, they invested in purchasing 35 acres that Tom thought was ideal for growing grapes. Today, Eola Hills Wine Cellars is still locally owned and operated and one of Oregon’s largest wineries, farming over 325 acres of prime vineyard land. They produce over 80,000 cases of fine wines that are enjoyed across the country and internationally, capturing the spirit and flavors of Oregon. Learn more here.

© Photo by Eola Hills
© Photo by Eola Hills
Winemaker Steve Anderson
© Photo by Eola Hills
© Photo by Eola Hills
© Photo by Eola Hills

Boozie Banter PodcastPODCAST WITH EOLA HILLS WINERY:
Our WineStyles team recently hosted special guest Brett Huggins of Eola Hills Winery on our Boozie Banter podcast. We talk about his family winery, Oregon wine, gleaning, moving to the Midwest and taste eight of his wines from their expansive portfolio. Attend our July 21st Winery Spotlight tasting event with winemaker Steve Anderson and experience Eola Hills yourself!  Meanwhile, listen to the full podcast on Spotify here >

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 >