July 2011 by B-21 Wine Company

The Buzz

B-21 Fine Wine & S p irit s Guid e t o Win e s f ro m Aro und the Wo rld

Est. 1948

SEGHESIO VINEYARDS "Seghesio continues to set a high standard for quality and attractive value."- Robert Parker

ABSINTHE

Got you seeing Lady Gaga?

SUMMERTIME SIPPING

Spanish Albariño, Alto Adige and Refreshing Rosés from Southern France

BEER FOR ALL SAISONS

DOWN UNDER STEALS

PLUS Our Buyers'

25 BEST DEALS

SEGHESIO'S SAN LORENZO VINEYARD

July 2011

SEGHESIO: THE JORDAN OF ZINFANDELS In 1886, Edoardo Seghesio left Italy for California where he took up as winemaker for Italian Swiss Colony. Some ten years later, Seghesio and his wife Angela bought a home and 56 acres setting in motion their position in Alexander Valley. By 1902 Seghesio Winery was up and running, peddling locally from horse-drawn carts and enjoying broad distribution via rail. In the 60s and 70s, Seghesio sold its wines to large companies such as Krug, Martini, Almaden, and Roma, not bottling under its own name until 1983. By the early 90s, mounting debt and the passion of a younger generation shifted the focus of Seghesio - a longtime producer of jug wines - from quantity to quality. Under the direction of consultant Phil Freese, Seghesio slashed annual production to 30,000 cases, a move Uncle Ed espoused would make them the “Jordan of Zinfandels.” The tactic was insanely successful and today Seghesio sits atop the California Zinfandel game, producing a remarkable collection of fleshy, juicy Italianinspired wines of which Edoardo would most certainly be proud.

by Shawn Reynolds

"Seghesio continues to set a high standard for quality and attractive value." - Robert Parker 2009 SEGHESIO ZIN SONOMA 1999 Bold aromas of briary wild berry and cracked pepper lead to plush and layered black raspberry, toasty sage and espresso flavors that finish with zesty tannins. 90WA, 88CG

2008 SEGHESIO ZIN OLD VINES 3299 "Extraordinarily rich and complicated in flavors, this wine come from vineyards that are at least 50 years old. It's dry and spicy, with textbook Zin notes of wild berries and currants, but also exotic minerals that come from the soil. Yes, the alcohol is high, but that is the signature of Seghesio's marvelous Zins." 92WE

2008 SEGHESIO ZIN CORTINA 3499 Planted in gravelly, loamy soils, it again displays a Provencal, earthy, herbal, forest floor and underbrush-scented nose, with pepper and black cherry fruit. This Mediterranean style of wine is medium to full-bodied, with sweet, juicy fruit, not the depth and profound character of the Home Ranch or the up-front appeal of the Old Vine, but more elegant and tasting like a Zinfandel that wants to move into a Pinot Noir encampment. 90WA

2005 SEGHESIO OMAGGIO FOUR GENERATIONS 4999

"Elegant and refined, complex, under2009 SEGHESIO ZIN with stated loamy currant, HOME RANCH 3499 sage, anise and blueGenerous helpings of blackberry, keeping a tight berry, raspberry and other focus and ending with brambly fruit characteristic integrated tannins. of the warm Alexander Cabernet Sauvignon and Valley climate. Smelling Sangiovese. Best from these aromas heaped upon 2009 through 2015." undertones of graham crust. 90WS On the palate, these components are threaded together 2007 SEGHESIO seamlessly with subtle hints ZIN SAN LORENZO of oak, briary acidity and soft, ripe fruit tannins. ALEXANDER Winemaker notes VALLEY 4999

2009 SEGHESIO ZIN ROCKPILE 3499

2 | B-21.com 2 | B-21.com

Aromas of spice box and red fruit. Intense flavors of currant, candied apple and Zinfandel’s briary essence. Soft entry with focused acidity. Extremely long finish. - Winemaker notes

“Powerful and brooding, with blackberry and cracked pepper aromas and complex, concentrated boysenberry, sage and licorice flavors that finish with firm, minerally tannins...” 92WS

BIG

WORLD SMALL BUDGET

by Chris Sherman

Picking great value wines from our Down Under inventory is shooting fish in a barrel. Just ten? C'mon, the Aussies rewrote the world's book on value (and a companion volume on palate pleasing). That was just in the $5 to $10 entry level. Today we know that winemakers in Australia and New Zealand can make exceptional, distinctive Shiraz, Sauv Blanc and dessert wine stepping much higher for only a few dollars more. At every price point, the wines overdeliver. Good value, mate.

2009 Clifford Bay Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough (91RAS, 91SDR, 90SS, $8.99)

2007 Earthworks Cabernet Sauvignon, Barossa (88ST, 87WA, $11.99)

B-21: Marlborough's 2009 season allowed late harvesting, which resulted in robust, ripe tropical flavors and intense fruit concentration... palate is as tropical as Carmen Miranda's headdress, with lemon grass & a touch of minerality.

ST: Sharply focused cherry and black currant aromas are deepened by mocha and black tea. Zestier red fruit flavors are a bit wound up initially but gain sweetness and flesh with air...

CS: Proof Awatere Valley can make classic NZ Sauv Blanc for a pittance, without skimping on tart, flinty character.

2008 Villa Maria Riesling Private Bin, Marlborough (91WS, $12.99) WS: Light and fragrant, with pretty lime, grapefruit and elder blossom aromas and flavors that linger impressively on the extended finish. Drink now through 2013. CS: Villa Maria's Riesling is as charming as its champion Sauv Blanc. Great reason to add distinct spice to an all-SB diet.

2009 Woop Woop Verdelho, South Australia (87AWC, $9.99) AWC: A humble variety, but well made, with the usual fruit salad flavours, and just a hint of honey... –James Halliday. CS: Australia's next cool white with strong varietal stamp, a picnic of flavors for beach or boat.

2008 Pillar Box Red, Padthaway (89WA, $9.99) WA: Does not disappoint. 66% Shiraz, 25% Cabernet, 9% Merlot. It is purple-colored with an enticing nose of cherry blossom, cinnamon, blueberry, and licorice. Ripe and rich for its humble price, it has plenty of savory fruit, good balance, and a seamless, fruit-filled finish. Best Buy. CS: No complaints about blending here. When our Morse Code friends add Cab and Merlot to Shiraz you get a super-Australian. Super cheap – and super.

2008 Morse Code Shiraz, Padthaway (90AWC, 90CS, 88WS, $8.99 was $11.99) WE: Intensely fruity and fresh, with mounds of blueberries and raspberries carried by a slightly syrupy mouthfeel. Sure, Eurodrinking snobs might call it a simple fruit bomb, but it's a darn good version of that style. CS: If you own a grill, you should have a case of this. It likes steak, barbecue chicken, burgers and lamb so much it might cook them for you.

CS: Serious Cabernet, rich and deep like a Right Bank discovery in Barossa. Six years have made it delish; I bet even better with ten years in your cellar.

Chambers Rosewood Vineyards Muscat, Rutherglen 375ml (93WA, $14.99) WA: Fragrant floral, honey, caramel, and raisin notes and is slightly fuller in body. Chambers Rosewood makes my short list of greatest fortified wine producers. The winery was started in 1858... Some of the material for these blends is over 100 years old. CS: For a true taste of Oz history and one of the great values on the planet, you have to try a sticky like this. You say you don't like sweet wines but do you not like a 93-pt. Parker fave for under $15?

2007 Penfolds Shiraz Bin 128, Coonawarra (93AWC, 90ST, $17.99) AWC: Considerable richness and depth to bouquet and palate alike; plummy black fruits are supported by positive oak and emphatic tannins; long-lived style sure to improve. –James Halliday. CS: Exceptional value: The longevity of Grange at a tenth of the price. The frugal man's favorite bin at Penfolds.

2008 d'Arenberg Stump Jump GSM, McLaren Vale (90WS, Top 100 #63, $9.99) WS: Light in texture and fragrant with floral, berry and beet aromas, this plays its fresh flavors against refined tannins, lingering effortlessly. Grenache, Shiraz, and Mourvèdre. CS: Down Under's classic Rhône mix, blended from McLaren Vale fruit by the mad master Chester Osborne.

WHAT DO THESE INITIALS MEAN? WS = WINE SPECTATOR WA = ROBERT PARKER'S WINE ADVOCATE AWC = AUSTRALIAN WINE COMPANION ST = STEPHEN TANZER'S IWC CS = CHRIS SHERMAN

B-21.com | 3

Bernard Lacroute with the Willakenzie Bigfoot

Willakenzie Estate

2010 Willakenzie Pinot Gris..................................$1999 2009 Willakenzie Pinot Noir, 87+ST......................$2499 2008 Willakenzie Pinot Noir Pierre Leon, 92WS ��$2999 2008 Willakenzie Pinot Noir Aliette, 88WS...........$3999 2008 Willakenzie Pinot Noir Emery, 90WS............$3999 2008 Willakenzie Pinot Noir Kiana, 91WS............$3999

BIG FOOT SIGHTING

Stellar WillaKenzie Pinots Stomped by Elusive Beast WillaKenzie Estate proprietor Bernard Lacroute grew up in France along Burgundy’s eastern fringe. Upon earning his Master’s in Physics and Electrical Engineering, he emigrated to the U.S. to pursue Plasma Physics at the University of Michigan followed by notable stints at Digital Equipment and Sun Microsystems. In 1991 Lacroute sought a change of pace. ''I enjoyed the high-tech environment,” he offers, “but it was time to do something different.'' So he procured a 420-acre parcel atop the rolling hills of the Chehalem Valley, devoting 100 or so acres to vines and the rest to pastures and Douglas fir forests, speckled with fruit trees and wandering Longhorn cattle. 4 | B-21.com 4 | B-21.com

Technology still plays a big part in Lacroute’s life. To remove human error and fatigue from the punch down process, he developed Big Foot, a 1,000-pound pneumaticallycontrolled grape stomper. ''When I don't like what I see,” Lacroute admits, “I try to come up with something better.'' He’s a fan of the screw cap and was the first in the U.S. to bottle premium Pinot Noir as such. “When you go and step back and think about it, it is fairly well recognized that somewhere between 3 and 10 percent [of bottles] are corked tainted throughout the wine industry. Ask yourself the question, how many other industries would tolerate that kind of failure rate? Imagine going to the store and getting milk. Every 12th gallon of milk you get is bad.

by Shawn Reynolds

Why are we willing to tolerate that kind of stuff? It’s crazy, it makes no sense.” WillaKenzie Estate also emphasizes sustainable viticulture, clonal and rootstock diversity, estategrown fruit, and gentle winemaking practices. It was the first winery to receive the new Low Input Viticulture and Enology (LIVE) winery certification and the first to be given Oregon Certified Sustainable Wine (OCSW) status for its entire 2008 portfolio. Add to this the distinction as one of Wine & Spirits magazine’s 2008 top 100 wineries in the world and it’s obvious that Lacroute’s success isn’t limited to pocket protectors and horn-rimmed specs. Dude’s for real.

THE B SIDES: ALSO-RANS ROCKING OUT How much difference is there between an 89 and a 90? It’s often the stuff that doesn’t make the album, songs tossed aside in pursuit of the Holy Grail of rock stardom, that end up endearing us. “Into the Groove,” “Yellow Ledbetter,” “Unchained Melody,” “I Will Survive.” The list goes on. This phenomenon isn’t exclusive to music. In an effort to amass as many hits (90+ points) as we can, we lose sight of diamonds in the not-so-rough, those wines subjugated by the demarcation of professional opinion, scored just beyond the basement threshold of the savvy wine consumer. Keep in mind that an 89 is a very good score. Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar considers 85-89 points “Very Good to Excellent,” Wine Spectator calls anything from 85-89 points “Very good: a wine with special qualities,” and Parker’s Wine Advocate regards 80-89 ”above average to very good…displaying various degrees of finesse and flavor as well as character with no noticeable flaws.” How much difference is there between an 89 and a 90? Quality-wise? Not much. Price-wise? Here’s where things get interesting. The demand for a 90-pointer often far exceeds that of an 89. And that one point makes a world of difference in a wine’s success, availability, and, of course, price. So let’s for a moment pretend that wine reviewers are fallible (madness!) and accept a margin of +/- 1 point. Close your eyes and *POOF* our 89s are 90s. Head to b-21.com. Click “Review Score”

by Shawn Reynolds

and select 89 points. Sort by price, ascending. Looky here. Twenty-seven wines under $10. Twenty-seven. And another forty-two between $10 and $15. That’s sixty…honkin’… nine 89-pointers under $15. Expand the criteria to 87 and 88 points and there exist over two hundred unique bottles under $15. This is a huge resource of extremely capable wines to which we might normally turn a blind eye. Not this guy. Not while grousing over $4 gas. Broaden your horizons, my friends. This is where values lurk in spades. Here are a few of my favorite 89s that are every bit as good as any 90 on the block:

2008 Sierra Salinas “Mo” 89SM, 89SDR.......................... 999 "Little sibling to Sierra Salinas “MIRA” that you and we both loved, this little red shows big fruit. It is a rich and spicy mouthful of Monastrell that overdelivers." 89SM

2009 Crios Rosé of Malbec 89ST, 89WA........................... 999 "Pure aromas of strawberry jam, cassis and pepper, with a minty high note. Sweet, round and fruity, with good stuffing and ripeness..." 89ST (89WA)

2008 Louis Martini Sonoma Cabernet 89+SDR.............1299 "A superbly balanced Cabernet Sauvignon. Made to accentuate the hightoned, delightful fruits of Sonoma County's vineyards..." 89+SDR

2009 Domaine de la Janasse Rouge 89WS...................1399

"Racy and dark, featuring a beam of crushed currant, blackberry and graphite notes that pushes through the toast-tinged finish." 89WS

2008 Columbia Crest H3 Chardonnay 89WS.................1399 "Ripe and generous, not heavy, but heady with spice-accented pear, honey and floral aromas and flavors, echoing nicely." 89WS

POP QUIZ: What To Pair With Shrimp? Around the country summer is shrimp time. In Florida it's year-round eating, barbecue, salad, pasta, and soup to name a few. But what to drink besides refrigerator white just because it’s cold? It depends... but don’t fret, shrimp’s always ready to pass a good time.

Chris Sherman: Montes Cherub Rosé of Syrah, Chile $1399

At my house shrimp is usually paired with grits; the sauce has tomatoes, garlic and spinach (if I feel Italian; okra if I‘m Cajun for the night). I’ll always have Crystal hot sauce, so I want a wine that’s bright and spicy, not wimpy. A big, dry rosé, especially from Shiraz, Grenache or Mourvedre, has the fun to match. That pudgy angel on the bottle is a mischief maker and no wimp.

Rhett Beiletti: 2009 Louis Metaireau Domaine du Mouton Muscadet Sevre et Maine Black Label, France $1599 Ripe and rounder than what you think traditionally with Muscadet, somewhat softer fruits, peach, nectarine, clover like presence and lees depth of flavor. An excellent companion to the (desired) tenderness you want from shrimp. (89RB)

Summer Martin: 2009 Shaya Verdejo Old Vines, Spain $1399

I love summertime (my name was no coincidence), and this summer I plan on eating lots of shrimp. After all I live in Florida right? Verdejo has been calling my name and this baby from Juan Gil and Jorge Ordoñez is perfect to match with fresh Florida seafood. It has got hints of melon, kiwi, grapefruit, and orange, kind of like a Jamaican grapefruit. Shaya is refreshing, crisp, and dry – a perfect match for shrimp ceviche! (90SM, 91WA)

Shannon Sprentall: 2008 Pernot Bourgogne Blanc, France $1799 Whether drizzled in a delicious white wine sauce or on the barbie this Bourgogne blanc both complements and shines. It’s rich, creamy, balanced, and a perfect pairing for any seafood dish. Pop them skrimp tails! (90+SS)

Shawn Reynolds: 2009 Clifford Bay Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough, New Zealand $899 It’s too hot out. The low the other night was 83˚. Whose decision was it to move to Florida anyway? But we do have seafood. Lots of it. And since it’s so crazy hot out I’m going with well-iced cocktail shrimp, red sauce so uncomfortably chunked with horseradish it burns my nose and makes me cry. Clifford Bay’s ‘09 Sauvignon Blanc is the ideal antidote, conveying a bouquet of fresh mango and lemon zest. And a palate as tropical as Carmen Miranda's headdress, papayas and mangoes commingle with lemon grass and a touch of minerality. The acidity pairs well with cocktail sauce and balances the sweet flavor of fresh shrimp. Be sure to chill two bottles. You never know if someone else might want a glass. (91SDR, 91RAS, 90SS) 6 | B-21.com

5 AWESOME ALBARIÑOS 2009 BURGANS

1399

"Light gold-colored with a lovely bouquet of white flowers, hazelnut, peach pit, and mineral. On the palate it is surprisingly complex for its bargain price with a viscosity bordering on opulence. If you enjoy Albariño, this is one to buy by the case. Burgans Albariño is an annual Best Buy in this journal but the superb 2009 vintage in Rías Baixas has carried it to new heights." 90WA

2010 LAGAR DE BOUZA

1499

"Lagar de Bouza is one of the coolest, just right to kill the humdrum summer doldrums -- already upon us in Florida. You get a bouquet of stone fruit, melons and flowers as big as Viognier, the fullness of a ripe Chard and the refreshing mineral edge of Riesling. That got the 2009 vintage on to the Top 100 of Wine Spectator and I've lassoed the first of the 2010 which is just as lovely." 91RAS, 90SM

2009 LA CAÑA

1299

"This one hits the spot! The winemaker is Alistair Gardner, a New Zealand native who knows his white wines. The vineyards are in Salnes Valley in the most northern part of Rías Baixas near the Atlantic ocean. One whiff from the glass takes your senses to a Galician beach with aromas of sea shells, salt water and freshly cut pineapple and lime. It is full of energy on the palate with flavors of pears, apples, oranges and honey dancing around on a bed of slightly roasted almonds. ¡Delicioso!" 90SM

2009 MAR DE FRADES

1899

"A gorgeous Albariño with notes of tropical fruits and citrus that meld into a punch of passionfruit. A great one to pair with pork." 89SM

2009 PAZO DE SEÑORANS

1999

"No Spanish white prepares you for Pazo. One whiff told me it was the best Albariño can be: peaches and apricots for sure, and lemons and wet stones in mountain streams. Somehow it's both crisp and clean while round and creamy, intense stuff not a frilly quaffer." 93RAS, 93WA

Complimentary Albariño tasting: Saturday, July 30th 1pm - 3pm at B-21.

I HEART ALBARIÑO: SPAIN'S BELOVED WHITE Some people think their white wine choices are Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, or Riesling if they're feeling zingy. But, if you are in the northwest of Spain, in the area called Galicia, Albariño is what you drink.

Rías Baixas (pronounced Ree-ahss buy-shuss) and meaning "lower rivers" is in Galicia, and is the home of Albariño (pronounced Al-bah-reen-yo). That comes easy to some people around Tampa Bay whose ancestors emigrated from there years ago and were called "gallegos". It is a gorgeous, lush, green area along the Atlantic seacoast, directly above Portugal. Albariño is also cultivated in the Vinho Verde region of Portugal only there it is called "Alvarinho" or "Cainho Branco". No matter how it's pronounced, Albariño has made a name for itself in Spain and is their finest and most loved white wine grape.

by Summer Martin So what does it taste like? It has been compared to a Sauvignon Blanc, a dry Riesling, and even Viognier. I personally think it stands apart from all of those as its own unique style. I typically find it crisp, refreshing, and surprisingly very aromatic with beautiful aromas and flavors of apricot, peaches, apples and citrus fruits. It's very dry and lively with great acidity which makes it a perfect match for a variety of foods. Of course it is exceptional with seafood (lucky for us in Florida) and with shrimp its fantastic. But, it is also very good with chicken or pork dishes like the croquetas the Spanish love to snack on. Most people think cool refreshing whites are only for summertime, however Albariños have the structure, weight and fruit intensity to be enjoyed year round.

RECIPE: SHRIMP IN SPICED BROTH Grand Prize Winning Recipe From RiasBaixasWines.com • 1 tablespoon olive oil • 1 medium yellow bell pepper, seeded and diced • 1 medium onion, chopped • 3 garlic cloves, crushed • 2 teaspoons ground cumin • 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper • 1 teaspoon saffron threads, crumbled DIRECTIONS: In a 5-quart saucepan over medium heat, heat oil until hot. Add yellow bell pepper and onion; cook until softened, about 5 minutes, stirring frequently. Stir in garlic, cumin, crushed red pepper and saffron threads; cook 1 minute to release flavors. Add stewed tomatoes, tomato juice, water, salt and pepper. Bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to low; cover and simmer 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in shrimp and Swiss chard; cover and simmer 3 to 4 minutes until shrimp turn opaque, stirring frequently. To serve, ladle shrimp into serving bowls. Serve with a glass of Rías Baixas Albariño and crusty bread.

(Al-bah-reen-yo)

• 2 16-ounce cans stewed tomatoes • 1 cup tomato or vegetable juice • ½ cup Albariño wine • ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper • 12 ounces medium shrimp, shelled and deveined • 4 cups chopped Swiss chard (Can substitute spinach)

BUYERS' REPORT 2006 CANALICCHIO DI SOPRA BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO: Lowest U.S. price on best vintage of the most sought corner of Tuscany. COLLECTOR ALERT. 94WA $59.99 2009 TAMELLINI SOAVE: B-21 discovery of a suave old favorite at its best. Cool, clear and bright for pasta night. 91SDR, 90SS $13.99 It takes a crew of 16 to launch the Hangar One 2008 FALESCO Blimp with its pilot, 3 passengers VITIANO ROSSO: and bold advertising message.

CHRIS SHERMAN, AUSTRALIA & ITALY 2010 PETER LEHMANN LAYERS WHITE: A rare five-grape mix that makes a big delicious white. Fill summer with Semillon! 91CS $14.99 2008 TWO HANDS SHIRAZ, GNARLY DUDES: Top-rated Shiraz for the price. A keeper for the next ten years. CELLAR BUILDER. 92AWC, 91WS, 91ST $22.99

"Cabernet, Merlot and Sangiovese, luscious superUmbrian for everyone." STOCK UP. 89WA $8.99

SHAWN REYNOLDS, WEST COAST 2008 COLUMBIA CREST MERLOT H3 HORSE HEAVEN: "Ripe, supple and seductive, delivering a plush mouthful of red berry, floral and pomegranate flavors... deftly balanced finish. " 91SDR, 90WS $13.99 (10% off btc) The grandson of legendary “Shoemaker to the Stars,” Salvatore Ferragamo Jr. swung by B-21 in June to pour wine and chat.

MARIETTA OLD VINE RED LOT 54: Gutsy, fullthrottle, earthy ...largely Zinfandel but with other varietals thrown into this kitchen sink blend, loads of black cherry and berry fruit, as well as hints of earth, oak and spice. STOCK UP 90SDR, 88WA 12.99 2009 SIDURI PINOT NOIR: Firm and wellstructured, with a complex band of wild berry and blackberry, spice and floral notes. Full-bodied, gaining depth, richness and nuance. B-21 FIND 92WS, 91SDR $24.99 2009 SEGHESIO ZINFANDEL: "Bold aromas of briary wild berry and cracked pepper lead to plush and layered black raspberry, toasty sage and espresso flavors." 90WS, 90SDR $19.99 2008 LOUIS MARTINI CABERNET SAUVIGNON: Layers of red cherry, blackberry and fresh sage with an underlying dry creek dustiness. Subtle herbal notes complemented by layers of chocolate and vanilla, complex, yet easy to enjoy. SOLID. $12.99

SUMMER MARTIN, SPAIN & SOUTH AMERICA 2001 LA RIOJA ALTA RESERVA ESPECIAL VIÑA ARDANZA: "A deeply colored wine with a lovely perfume of cinnamon, lavender, incense, balsamic, and black cherry. Mediumbodied, velvety-textured, and already complex." COLLECTOR ALERT 94WA $27.99 2007 URBAN RIBERA BY O.FOURNIER: Wine Advocate calls it "a strong candidate for the best new release in Ribera del Duero under $25." I agree, this wine is a smooth and silky Tempranillo with all the dark fruits you could ask for. 91SM, 91WA $13.99 2009 RAFAEL PALACIOS LOURO DO BOLO: Looking for a different white to try this summer? Godello hits the spot and Rafael Palacios makes the best. A beautiful white with aromas of honey and spring flowers plus great minerality and balance. Parker says 90, I give it an extra point! 91SM $17.99

2009 AMANCAYA: When we opened the first bottle of 2009 Amancaya, the staff went wild. This Malbec/ Cabernet blend comes from Barons (Lafite) de Rothschild and the Catena family. With Argentina's excellent fruit in 2009, and 30 year-old vines in the best vineyards this is a no-brainer. BEST BUY 92SM $14.99 2006 MONTEVIEJO PROPRIETARY RED: 60% Malbec, the rest Syrah, Merlot, and Cabernet. Parker says 91 points and suggests it should provide immense pleasure through 2026. Why wait? Beautiful wine with all the blackberries and black cherries you could want and yet exceptional complexity. Drink up now! 91SM, 91WA $24.99

Panamerican girl's night out: Susana Balbo of Crios with Summer and Shannon on Balbo's last stop before a return flight to Argentina.

2008 CLOS LA COUTALE (CAHORS): The next vintage has been released and it is 25% higher in price. Enough said, but I cannot say enough about what a value this is. $12.99

Shannon taking it back to the old school in a 1948 model on our 63rd anniversary.

SHANNON SPRENTALL, SOUTH AFRICA & GERMANY 2010 MAN VINTNERS CHENIN BLANC: "Bright yellow. Cool aromas of melon, kiwi, lime zest, dusty herbs and licorice. Juicy and densely packed, with a bit of sweetness balanced by brisk acidity. A crisp, clean mid-weight with a dusty texture and a ripe nectarine flavor on the lively finish. Terrific value." 88ST $7.99 2009 P2 TWO PRINCES RIESLING: "Flavors of apricot and nectarine, with a lovely, crisp finish. “P2” can be drunk with all sorts of starters, seafood and white meat or simply on its own." 90SS STOCK UP $9.99 2009 HAMILTON RUSSELL CHARDONNAY: “Bold, boasting lots of grilled hazelnut, fig and pear tartine aromas and flavors, but fresh minerality drives through on the finish, adding length and definition and bringing you back for more. Drink now through 2011.” 92WS $24.99

2008 BOUKENHOUTSKLOOF CHOCOLATE BLOCK: Syrah, Grenache noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cinsault, and Viognier. On the nose, bold pepper Syrah characteristics, intense red and black fruit tones enhanced by violet, mocha and clove aromas. Medium fuller body, dark chocolate, ripe black fruit and beautifully integrated tannins. COLLECTOR ALERT 93SS, 92RAS $29.99

2007 CH. DE LA NEGLY ‘LA FALAISE’ (COTEAUX DU LANGUEDOC): The wine for the buyer wanting $24 Chateauneuf-du-Pape. $23.99 2008 CH. GRAVILLE LACOSTE (GRAVES): Where would I be without the perfect wine to drink while cooking? Not cooking! That chalk and mineral and citrus gathering of the Graves... $16.99

2009 JOHANNISHOF RIESLING CHARTA: A deliciously dry, high-quality wine made from 100% Riesling. Medium straw color with aromas of ripe peach, apricot and melon. On the palate, spice, herbs and vibrant acidity with underlying notes of tropical fruit and grapefruit ... 91SS, 91WS $15.99

2000 CH. BEL AIR OUY (SAINT-EMILION GRAND CRU): Shows pedigree and is at the perfect place to drink and will be there for the next 5 years, we bagged this big game on a buying spree in January and it has just landed. $39.99

UT O D SOL

RHETT BEILETTI, FRANCE 2005 CHATEAU CHAPELLE SEGUR (MONTAGNE SAINTEMILION): Finesse and fineness really should have all the same letters, and CCS displays both. $17.99

Ask the expert: Spain's CYTV interviews BBielletti about 21's Rhett wine from Ribe ra del Duero.

25 WINES YOU MUST TRY!

CUVEE JULY:

Casa Castillo Las Gravas

$19

99 750ml

Born: 2007 Hometown: Jumilla, Spain Education: Limestone soil, 18 months in new French oak Major: Monastrell, minors in Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon GPA: 92.3 (94RAS, 93RB, 90ST) Family members: Casa Castillo Monastrell, Rhone grandparents Neighbors: Clio, El Nido, Juan Gil, Wrongo Dongo Favorite things: Mediterranean breezes, mountain climbing, solar power, diving in Mar Menor, visiting Casino Real and Santa MarĂa Cathedral in Murcia

"A regal wine with a Bordeaux-like solidity. Quite pure and restrained for J is a touch of that lead pencil and blue-black fruits and earth. Full-bodied delineation, a limestone drive and a very long finish." Rhett Beiletti, B-2

Jumilla, there d with great 21 (93RB)

POINTS

ON THE DARK SIDE

by Chris Sherman

New Zealand Pinots Take on Burgundy A country whose national rugby team is the beloved "All Blacks" has to grow more than white grapes. Has to. While New Zealand has won its place in your heart and cellar for Sauvignon Blanc, won over the world in fact, for Sauvignon Blanc, it does grow black grapes, specifically Pinot Noir. It is now the second most widely planted grape in the country and getting increasing attention as a New World colony of Burgundy. To be honest, competing with France's Pinot Noirs in Burgundy is the most major of the big leagues, much tougher than winning the Sauvignon Blanc championship. There are many aspirants to the title of Next Best to Burgundy and the fans are fickle. Australian critic James Halliday bets his neighbors' Pinot can best the other rivals. New Zealand has strong resources, including the distinctive terroir that underwrite those Sauvignon Blancs. While sunny Sauv Blanc and refined

12 | B-21.com

Pinot are not good neighbors in much of the world, what distinguished New Zealand SB was that it came from cool, breezy climates more like Burgundy than Bordeaux. Those low temperatures, high altitudes and cooling fogs are, no surprise, classic conditions for Pinot Noir. On the surface, NZ is no Cote d'or of gentle hills, but the dramatic moon scape of Middle Earth (which it played in the movies). Underneath, the soils are more Burgundian, glacial, and stony. And as in Burgundy, the Pinots of New Zealand are not monolithic; there are regional differences that Pinot connoisseurs seek out. Waipara produced wines that are full-bodied and dense with rich, dark plum, and chocolate flavors. Marlborough and Nelson are more elegant, complex, tightly structured with bright cherry flavors. Waipara has more pepper and spice.

So are vintners like the Donaldsons at PEGASUS BAY ($34.99), who start fermentation in open tanks, punch the cap manually, and age in French barriques to make Pinot that reminds Robert Parker of Morey-Saint Denis. And their Waipara is big enough that the 2004 still drinks well. VILLA MARIA is the long-standing champion of Pinot, from a mainline blend to careful single vineyards, all meticulously crafted. The medal winner for me is the 2008 CELLAR SELECTION ($24.99), which is hand harvested, cold soaked, and smooth out with a secondary fermentation. It has all the bright fruits, and so rich it goes well beyond salmon to a juicy lamb chop. As proof that New Zealand's Pinot gets more polished every year, check out the 2009 MARLBOROUGH PINOT FROM THE CROSSINGS ($12.99). This exciting young label puts clean bright Pinot with a savory edge of smoke and spice in your cellar for less than $15. That's something Burgundy (or Oregon) rarely do.

ALTO ADIGE:

Alpine heights of Italian whites

Don't stop exploring northern Italy at Venice. A spectacular secret lies beyond: Alpine Italy. Italy's best white wines are here in the northeast where the country pitches up against Switzerland, Austria, and Slovenia. This border region, just as Alsace does, fuses two languages and cultures, here Italianate style and Germanic precision. Gnocchi and dumplings as well as noodles, speck as well as prosciutto, fricco crisps of fried cheese, and sometimes bands in lederhosen and tyrolean hats. Above it all the Alps: high, massive, cool and snow-capped. In the glasses you'll find crisp white wines of exceptional aroma, body, and longevity. The northernmost patch is Alto Adige or Sud-Tyrol, where the altitudes are higher, the climate cooder, the terroir rockier, and the wineries smaller and closer to soil and family. It is the home of fine Pinot Grigio, and mightily embarrassed by its cheap imitations. "It's very sad but there is nothing we can do about it. They are nothing like ours,'' one winemaker from Bolzano/Bolsen told me last month. Taste a true one like the 2009 TERLANO (90RAS, $17.99) and the delicacy is stunning, all the aromas of Riesling and remarkable acidity. The P.G. you drank before isn't even a poor relation. Terlano Kellerei has made wine here for more than a century, 100 small growers banded together to capture the distinctive micro-climates and mineral soils of the mountain valleys and high terraces. Pinot Grigio is just begins the range of whites, and

each gets an extra oompah. PINOT BIANCO is perhaps the star, creamy, tropical, and so complex Terlano has three distinct cuvees. Among classic German varietals, the 2009 GEWURZTRAMINER shines like a gorgeous Italian movie star taking over for a tired cabaret performer. (92WA, 92RAS, $22.99) Like others in Alto Adige, Terlano readily take up Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc too. The SAUV BLANC from the WINKL VINEYARD (92RAS, $24.99) is crisp and yet so full and aromatic it leaps over Sancerre and New Zealand. Only faint grapefruit and rich enough to answer the toughest winefood riddle: What to serve with asparagus? It's a prized crop here and the Sauvignon Blanc matches easily. Growers are not afraid of red wine despite the high altitude and cool weather; indeed it helps. For a sample of Terlano's reds (the winery makes a half dozen), try the PINOT NERO RISERVA from MONTIGLI (91WA, $29.99) (as silky as premier cru Burgundy and yet bigger and richer.) The heights of Alto Adige's wines are the easiest and most rewarding mountains to climb. Terlano makes a charming, surefooted guide to the top. B-21. B-21.com | 13

ROSÉS

by the Dozen! LOIRE

2009 Charles Joguet Chinon: The rose of Balzac country lively and flirtatious. 90CS $1599 2009 Lucien Crochet: Strawberries with spice and minerality 91ST $2999

COSTIERES DE NIMES

2009 Chateau Guiot: Fresh and frisky as the mistral, best buy. 89WS $899

TAV E L

2007 Guigal Tavel: Firm and bold from a Rhône powerhouse $1999 2009 Chateau de Manissy Cuvee des Lys: Juicy fun with a long finish 90ST $1799

BANDOL

2009 Domaine Gros Nore: Ripe, creamy and kissed with chocolate 91WS $2799 2009 Domaine Pradeaux: Grown-up Rhône: earth, spice and flowers, ageworthy 91ST $2999 2010 Domaine Tempier: Not yet rated but always Kermit Lynch's best $3999

COTES DE PROVENCE

2009 Commanderie de Peyrassol: Fleshy, spicy and peppery, tinge of orange 90ST $1699 2009 St. Andre de Figuiere Magali: Cab and Syrah add rich fruit, big flavor 89RB, 89ST $1499 2010 Domaines Ott Chateau de Selle: Grand Provence, Alsatian precision plus Cabernet, high ratings expected $3999

BORDEAUX

2009 Chateau Larcis Ducasse: Rare rose of St. Emilion from Stephane Derononcourt next door to Pavie 90SR $1399 | B-21.com 1414| B-21.com

Riviera Summer: Delicious Rosés by Chris Sherman The south of France is more than a direction and less than a clearly defined region. It is a department of the mind. Ideally it is a place where you can smell the Mediterranean on the breeze or lavender growing in the rocks. But it can be anywhere you are at ease and your senses connected to the sun, the earth and simple pleasures. One of those is a cool glass of dry rosé, sparkling clear and bright with fruit and spice, perfect with a sandwich, Nicoise salad or cold ratatouille. Rosé is one of the great discoveries wine lovers make when they leave Bordeaux and Burgundy. In the Rhône, Provence and the Loire, wine growers take the same dark grapes they use for robust reds, and turn the color pastel without losing the spice. Wonderful alchemy if you can lose your fear of pink. Even before White Zin, we American wine drinkers never thought rosé could be serious. The French knew better. Rosé was at least serious fun, well made. Across the South of France to Nice and up the Rhône through the mountain villages, rosé was the wine of Provence. Summertime, lunchtime and laid-back NICE, FRANCE

downtime, in a sidewalk cafe is rosé time. If the wines were younger, brighter and less expensive than the grander crus, all the more to enjoy not to dismiss. So what if they are pink, salmon, or tangerine? Toujours gai. The color is not French fashion but the natural effect of pressing the big black skinned Mediterranean grapes gently and quickly. You get the spice, pepper, berries, and cherries with less tannins. It's old technique practiced carefully and proudly for generations in places from Tavel and Bandol, to Sancerre in the Loire that set aside some of their best vineyards. In France, grapes range from Cinsault, Mourvedre and Grenache in the south to Cabernet Franc and even Pinot Noir in the north. The lighter vinification the grapes show an intriguing spectrum of flavors beyond strawberries and cherries. In a good rosé you can taste oranges, peaches, pears, spices and honey that are hidden under red and black fruits in more full-blooded versions. B-21 has assembled two dozen, with more arriving every week. And remember 2009 and 2010 were grand vintages across the south. Try them all. You've got time and a long hot summer to beat.

The Fresh, The Moderate and The Decadent The White Wines of Châteauneuf-du-Pape

by Rhett Beiletti

The white wines of Châteauneuf-du-Pape are very rare, comprising only 7% of the appellation’s production, and probably even more misunderstood. It is a common perception that the wines will last 3 or 4 years but I have many times drunk 10-15 year old white CdPs and been completely knocked out by their lusciousness and longevity. There are 3 styles of the wine: clean and crisp, fermented and aged entirely in stainless steel, becoming rarer as the wine increases in price; partly barrel-aged, the most popular style in which Roussanne is often raised in oak, and the third fully fermented and aged in oak, also becoming less visible.

About the Grapes: Roussanne-- berries are distinguished by their reddish brown color when ripe… Russet or Roux, both French for reddish brown are thought to be the roots of the varietal’s name.

Grenache Blanc – contributes

roundness and low acidity to a blend.

Bourboulenc – a late-ripening grape

giving good acids and assertiveness to a blend, it is susceptible to rot though and sometimes a hazard in the vineyard.

Clairette blanc – gives body to

a wine as it has high alcohol – and for that reason is often used in the production of French Vermouth.

DOMAINE GIRAUD (Equal parts Grenache Blanc, Roussanne, Bourboulenc, and Clairette.) Comes from the South facing Gallimardes slope. ’07 and ’08 being a bit more of the precise and mineral style, ’09 being ripe and lush.

2007 CDP Blanc 2008 CDP Blanc

$39.99 (reg $47.99) $44.99

"Intensely perfumed aromas of pear nectar, lemon zest, beeswax and white flowers. Round, fleshy citrus and orchard fruit flavors are given a bitter edge by notes of green tea and licorice, with dusty minerals adding cut..." 90ST

2009 CDP Blanc

$49.99

“Very ripe and lush, with gorgeous white peach, persimmon, creamed pear, spring ginger and salted butter flavors that all glide seamlessly together through the lengthy, pure finish.” 93WS

CLOS SAINT JEAN

(Grenache Blanc, Clairette & Roussanne.) My favorite, ripe upfront and gentle and expansive on the palate with a clear, clean and long finish. 92+RB

2009

$49.99

"Copious notes of rose water, honeysuckle, marmalade, poached pears and lemon blossom in a medium to fullbodied style...possesses lots of acidity, flesh and texture." 91WA

DOMAINE DE LA JANASSE 2009 CDP Blanc $59.99

(50% Grenache, 25% Roussanne, 25% Clairette) "Notes of white peaches, honeysuckle, quince and white currants. The sumptuous perfume is followed by a medium to full-bodied wine with excellent texture, good acidity and superb purity as well as character." 91WA

DOMAINE DE MARCOUX (70% Roussanne, 30% Bourboulenc, Clairette, and Grenache Blanc)

2005 CDP Blanc

$32.25 (reg. $42.99)

Terrific rose petal and honeysuckle notes in the nose along with some tropical fruit and apricot as well as peach jam. It is full-bodied, has zesty acidity, and wonderful freshness and presence. This is seriously stuffed white Châteauneuf-du-Pape." 91-93WA

2008 CDP Blanc $56.99

"Offers lovely floral, honeysuckle, and rose petal aromas intermixed with notions of pears, white peaches, and quince. The expressive aromatics are followed by an intense, full-bodied wine displaying terrific acidity and minerality." 92WA

VIEUX TELEGRAPHE (40% Clairette, 30% Grenache Blanc, 15% Bourboulenc, and 15% Roussane) "Exhibits an exotic tropical fruit scent interwoven with notions of spring flowers, crushed rocks, and white peaches. Fruit-driven, with good minerality in the background as well as surprising structure, this lovely white competes favorably with the estate’s brilliant 2005." 92WA

2008 CDP Blanc $49.99

"A ripe, honeyed style, with grilled hazelnut and heath notes up front, followed by bitter orange, nectarine and lemon zest. This has nice length and drive." 92WS

CHATEAU DE BEAUCASTEL 2004 CDP Blanc $79.99

(80% Roussanne and 20% Grenache blanc) “Dramatic notes of honeysuckle and apricot jam, beautiful full body, an expansive texture, good underlying acidity (a hallmark of this vintage), and a long, persistent finish.” 92WA

2006 Roussanne V.V. $179.99

"A wonderful honeysuckle note interwoven with marmalade, tropical fruit, peaches, and buttery pastry characteristics, and zesty acidity despite a thick, full-bodied, rich texture. It is difficult to find a better white CdP than Beaucastel." 98WA B-21.com | 15

THE STINGER

ABSINTHE EXPOSÉ

The green fairy, the green goddess, the green muse, the glaucous witch, the green torment, the green oblivion, the queen of poisons. Nicknames for absinthe range from adulatory to nefarious. Known for its high alcohol content and reputation for unraveling many a consumer, absinthe’s legend and mystique persist into the 21st century. Popular opinion attributes French physician Dr. Pierre Ordinaire for its creation as an all-purpose remedy in the 18th century. Many associate the anise- and fennelinfused treat with artists such as Toulouse-Lautrec and

by Shawn Reynolds

In late 19th century Paris, absinthe squared off with wine as the drink du jour. Wary of competition, French winemakers played on the fears of the temperance movement, highlighting the spirit’s purported dangers, and secured a ban on it in 1915. The United States too passed legislation forbidding the sale of absinthe prior to Prohibition, but quietly lifted regulations before the onset of World War II. Absinthe experienced an initial renaissance in the 1990s and, by 2008, some two hundred offerings from nearly a dozen countries flooded the market.

“After the first glass, you see things as you wish they were. After the second you see things as they are not. Finally you see things as they really are...” Oscar Wilde Vincent van Gogh; the former was so wedded to the quaff that he had a custom cane fashioned specifically for the concealment of his glass. The lure of absinthe was not exclusive to Paris; America’s Ernest Hemingway and Ireland’s Oscar Wilde regularly enjoyed its unique effects. Of his experiences Wilde asserted, “After the first glass, you see things as you wish they were. After the second you see things as they are not. Finally you see things as they really are, and that is the most horrible thing in the world.” Robert Jordan, of Hemingway’s For Whom the Bell Tolls, carried a flask of the "opaque, bitter, tongue-numbing, brain-warming, stomach-warming, idea-changing liquid alchemy…”

Absinthe’s unique ritual further enhances its magic. Pour a shot into a ceremonial glass; lay a special, vented spoon across the top as a sugar cube rests in its hold; gently trickle ice-cold water over the sugar and into the absinthe. Insoluble components such as fennel and wormwood slowly cloud the drink in a milky opalescence known as the louche, while the other botanicals bloom in symphony. So what is it all about? Will it make me hallucinate? Will I wake up missing an ear? My pants? Part of my responsibility with The Stinger is to play guinea pig. Thankfully I’m not writing on the viscosity of Peruvian sea bird guano, so my task is not only helpful to you, but enjoyable for me. Let me begin with the assertion that I am no stranger to the effects of booze, but after only one drink I was elevated mentally, more aloof. Around midway on glass two I was standing in my living room - alone, mind you - bouncing to Lady Gaga and scrolling furiously through my Blackberry recruiting a task force for an impromptu gathering downtown. By the time I drained the last drop from my second glass I was completely wired for sound. The effects were palpable; I was the wittiest and most charming guy in my own mind. What an excellent way to open the night. After my thoroughly enjoyable experience, I suggest you begin a night out with a couple glasses. The allure is undeniable. Invite the green fairy over and jumpstart the conversation. Indulge your curiosity.

DEATH IN THE AFTERNOON

TWIST: 3 KEYS TO

ABSINTHE TASTING Sat. July 23rd 1-4pm

Sexier Cocktails

ABSINTHE'S AT B-21

Le Tourment 106°................ 2999 Absente 110°....................... 3999 Fenom 80°........................... 3999 Kubler 106°...........................4999 Artemisia 120°..................... 4999 Green Fairy 120°................. 4999 Lucid 124°............................ 4999 Pernod 136°......................... 5999 Grand Absente 138°........... 5999

Generation X and the younger tipplers who succeed us subsist in a new world rife with green terminology - organic, carbon footprint, renewable, hybrid – in which cable TV supplies a never ending onslaught of celebrity chefs melding the freshest and most exotic ingredients. Additionally, there exists a certain modicum of nostalgia toward our grandparents and the romanticized eras of Prohibition and World War II. Add a deep-seated desire to be fabulous DOMAINE DE CANTON and we can see why mixology has gained GINGER LIQUEUR $2499 such a tremendous head of steam over Strawberry Ginger Martini the past decade. We celebrate this 1/12 oz. Canton Large strawberries renaissance of tradition and attention ¾ oz. Gin Lime to individuality with three brilliant Muddle 3 strawberries in shaker. Squeeze the juice of 1 additions to any proud liquor cabinet. lime wedge. Fill with ice. Add Canton and gin. Shake well. Strain into chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with sliced strawberries.

Domaine de Canton Sidecar 1 oz Canton 1 oz cognac

Lemon Crystallized ginger

Combine spirits with juice of 1 lemon wedge in shaker filled with ice. Shake well and strain into chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with crystallized ginger.

Ginger Mojito 2 oz Canton ½ oz white rum

Mint

Club soda 3 lime wedges

Drop a few mint leaves into a tall glass. Squeeze in the juice of 3 lime wedges. Gently muddle mint leaves. Fill glass with ice then add spirits. Stir well. Fill with club soda. Garnish with mint sprig.

Stir with ice and strain into a coupe glass. Garnish with grapefruit.

Elderflower Iced Tea 1 ½ oz. Earl Grey-infused gin* 1 oz. St. Germain ½ oz. lemon juice Lemon wheel

1 ½ oz Dry Gin ½ oz fresh lemon juice ½ oz Créme de Violette 1 tsp Maraschino Shake with ice and strain into chilled cocktail glass ½ oz Créme de Violette

Shake with ice and strain into chilled cocktail glass

Shake w/ ice and strain into a highball glass over ice. Garnish w/ lemon. *Infuse 750ml gin w/ 1 cup loose leaf Earl Grey tea at room temp for 7 days. Strain out tea before using.

Brass Flower 1 oz. London dry gin 1 oz. fresh-squeezed ruby red grapefruit juice ¾ oz. St. Germain Champagne

Aviation

2 oz Dry gin ½ oz Fresh lemon juice

The Cheap Detective 2 oz. St. Germain 1 oz. Cynar ($24.99) ¾ oz. Campari ($23.99) Grapefruit wedge

ROTHMAN & WINTER CRÉME DE VIOLETTE $2199

Blue Moon

ST-GERMAIN ELDERFLOWER $3199 96-100 Points, Wine Enthusiast

Shake everything but the Champagne with ice and strain into a flute. Top with Champagne.

SUBSCRIBE TO "THE STINGER" AT B-21.COM FOR THE LATEST ON SPECIALTY SPIRITS!

SAINT SOMEWHERE'S STORY Behind the Scenes of a Local Tarpon Brewery by Joey "Skates" the Beer Dude There once was a man who worked as a retail suit salesman by day and a home brewer by night. Eight years had passed as a home brewer, and he decided to start his own brewery to make Belgian style ales. This man is Bob Sylvester. Establishing his company in 2006, he started beer production in early 2007. Today Saint Somewhere boasts only two employees, but enjoys the support of some one hundred and fifty volunteers and is located only 3 miles from B-21. Saint Somewhere produces three beers; Saison, Lectio Divina, and Pays du Soleil. The ingredients used in their beers are so fresh you could smell the delightful aromas of fresh hops and malts from a block away. Also, Saint Somewhere is one of the few breweries that still use open fermentation and whole hops as opposed to hop pellets. These noble hops and the malt used by Saint Somewhere are imported from Europe. Bob Sylvester, Head Brewer

Starting with their SAISON; it is a spiced Saison always fresh in aroma and an easy drinker. Second, LECTIO DIVINA (Latin for "Divine Reading") is a great hybrid between Saison and a Belgian dobbel. Third is a quite interesting beer of its own called PAYS DU SOLEIL, or land of the sun (a nod to the Sunshine State) which is brewed with whole hibiscus flowers and palmetto berries. These beers go through a two month fermentation process in fermenters and a two week fermentation process in the bottle before it is sent out to the buyers. These bottles are good to age for 5 to 6 years!!!

Ingredients for Saint Somewhere's Spiced Saison

SUMMERTIME ALES

by Joey "Skates" the Beer Dude

It’s obvious that summer is pretty much here and we are all looking for that perfect, refreshing beer to hit the spot. Here are some ales that really add to the summer fun! 18 | B-21.com

Portable regulated pump to fill fermenters (a.k.a skateboard w/ pump!)

Berliner Weisse 1809 16.9oz. ��599 Saison Dupont 25.4 oz. ��699 Schlenkerla Lagerbier 16.9oz ��399 Karmeliet Tripel 25.4 oz ��899 Shipyard Summer Ale 6pk ��899 Widmer Hefewezen 6pk ��499 North Coast Red Seal Ale 6pk ��999 Anderson Valley Summer Solstice 6pk �� 1099

W H AT ' S H A P P E N I N ’ AT B - 2 1 ?

JULY 2011 SUN

MON

TUE

WED

THU 1

SAVE THE DATE!

Look for news on our Burgundy & Pinot Noir Tasting coming soon! October 9: Spain & South America Grand Tasting and Sale November 20: Grand Holiday Tasting & Sale Complimentary Wine Tasting Complimentary Spirits Tasting

Est. 1948

11:30am-2:30pm: 60 Second Cocktails by Bacardi, Grey Goose, Bombay

FRI

*$195 minimum order required **$500 minimum order required

**B-21 Express to Jacksonville

12-3pm: Ty-Ku Vodka and Ty-Ku Cordial 2-5pm: Thatcher's Organic Liqueurs

*B-21 Express to Pinellas, Pasco, Tampa counties

*B-21 Express to Orlando

*B-21 Express to Tampa & Polk and East Hillsborough

*B-21 Express to **B-21 Express to Pinellas County Miami and Sarasota & Bradenton Ft. Lauderdale

dence Indepen ! Day 11

2 1-3pm: America's best Zinfandels 12-3pm: Local spirits by Empire Distillery in New Port Richey 1-4pm: Greek Cocktails by Metaxa 3-5pm: Cruzan 9 Rum

9 1-3pm: Great Rieslings Under $12

12-3pm: Firefly Skinny Sweet Tea Vodka 2-5pm: Mount Gay Rum Extra Old

12-3pm: Local spirits by Empire Distillery 1-4pm: Green Cocktails by Metaxa

*B-21 Express to *B-21 Express to **B-21 Express to Tampa, Citrus, Pinellas County Naples & Ft. Myers Hernando and West Sarasota & Bradenton Pasco

*B-21 Express to Pinellas, Pasco, Tampa counties

S AT

1-3pm: A taste of the French Riviera: Summertime Rosés

12-3pm: Local spirits by Empire Distillery 12-3pm: Ed Hardy Vodka 1-4pm: Greek Cocktails by Metaxa 2-5pm: Jack Rum 3-5pm: Cruzan 9 Rum (New Flavor)

*B-21 Express to Pinellas, Pasco, Tampa counties

*B-21 Express to Orlando

*B-21 Express to Tampa & Polk and East Hillsborough

25 *B-21 Express to Pinellas, Pasco, Tampa counties

1! 2 n o 2 1

**B-21 Express to Vero & West Palm

1-3pm: Sparkling Prosecco from Italy 12-3pm: Local spirits

12-3pm: Cupcake Vodka by Empire Distillery *B-21 Express to 1-4pm: Death in the 2-5pm: Mount Gay Pinellas County Afternoon: Absinthe Sarasota & Bradenton Black Rum

*B-21 Express to *B-21 Express to Tampa, Citrus, Pinellas County Hernando and West Sarasota & Bradenton Pasco

30 1-3pm: Cool and refreshing Albariño whites from Spain!

12-3pm: Local spirits by Empire Distillery 12-3pm: Cupcake Vodka 1-4pm: Margaritaville 2-5pm: Chi Chi Skinny Skinny Margaritas Margarita 3-5pm: Cruzan 9 Rum

43380 U.S. 19 N P.O. Box 849 Tarpon Springs, FL 34688-0849 888-B21-WINE (221-9463) 727-937-5049

Est. 1948

facebook.com/b21wine twitter.com/b21wine b21wineblog.com

B-21 Wine Company • www.B-21.com • CS@B-21.com • Monday-Saturday 9am-9pm • Sunday 11am-9pm

DISCOVER UMBRIA

The Sagrantinos of Giampaolo Tabarrini You know Tuscany, the Piedmont and the Veneto, but if you have not drunk in a rich swallow of Umbria, life is incomplete. Giampaolo Tabarrini is the man to correct that with great pleasure, yours and his; he's the clown prince of Umbria and yet passionately serious about his terroir. He loves this secret valley east of the Apennines that's filled with gems found no where else. For years,

savvy outsiders came here for the rare black grape Sagrantino to boost their flimsy wines with instant color, gumption and backbone. Tabarrini was one of the pioneers to elevate Sagrantino to a distinctive polished wine on its own and from single vineyards. It is earthy and complex, deeper and darker than any Nero, as sturdy as a Right Bank Cab Franc and as warm as a Giampaolo bear hug. The power is as polished and friendly. Among his vineyards the Campo alle Cerqua is exceptional, producing less than 2,000 bottles. These

are among the richest and most distinctive reds in Italy and win high awards in Italy and abroad every vintage. All scored 91 and up with Wine Spectator. An essential taste in the great Italian mosaic. You’re gonna want that!

TABARRINI'S SAGRANTINOS: 2003 Colle alle Machie 93SR $6999 2004 Colle alle Machie 94SR, 93WA $5999 2005 Colle alle Machie $5999

2004 Colle Grimaldesco 95RAS $3999 2005 Colle Grimaldesco 92WA $3999 2006 Colle Grimaldesco 91WA $3999