THE BUZZ TH CHAMPAGNE'S Heart & Soil Unwrapping
BAROLO
BURGUNDY
Wish List
WINTERBEERS
15
Wine Gifts Made Easy
Shipped FREE!
TERROIR TRUMPS BUBBLES MESNIL-SUR-OGER –This small village on the western slope is the heart of Champagne beyond the bubbles. They will come in time but first Champagne is wine, and like all fine wine it is made by place and people.
when the sparkler comes from France. Very vigorous brand protection, oui, but the real reason is that it comes from a place named Champagne, actually a large region of small places. Champagne must first be a wine with terroir. Then the bubbles are added.
There are grand cru Chardonnay vineyards outside the village and, in the case of the legendary Le Mesnil, smack inside it too. The people are hardy and traditional from The Salons and Delamottes to the dozens of less famous.
Yet, over the years of the branding of the great houses, the romance of riddling in the cellars, sabre slashing and all pop and circumstance of celebrating, the little places got lost in the massive region of Champagne.
Like centuries of growers before them, they fight a hard, cold climate that made their harvests thin, acidic and dicey until rescued by secondary fermentation. History was not kind either: Armies battling through the region have made tragic battlefield names like Ardenne and the Marne as famous as its vineyards.
As imposing as the cathedral in Reims and the mansions of the Grand Dames are, the soul of Champagne is not in the big city. It is in small villages, cold vineyards on chalky, limey soils in the shivering northeast corner of France. This Champagne stretches out in three directions from Reims.
Here and in Avize and Cramant to the north, you can find small buildings on any street emblazoned “Recoltant,” meaning the owners are growers as well as winemakers and have been for a century. This includes the families of Agrapart, Larmandier, and Moncuit. The work of these “growers" is why B-21 comes here.
We found our favorite part of it an hour south of Reims, up over the pass and beyond Epernay and down the D9 along the Cote des Blancs, the heart of Chardonnay territory. (The Pinot Noir and Pinot Meuniere lie north and west).
Like you, I’ve been told for years that Champagne gets a capital C only Reims cathedral where France crowned its kings.
3 | B-21.com
In Cramant, Avize, Oger and finally Le Mesnil sur Oger, vineyards trump cellars. The vineyards are premier cru and grand cru, Chardonnay, often single-
by Chris Sherman
vineyard or blends of local crus, and estate bottled. But all the marques (brands), great and small, are fiercely proud of their local terroir. Here in Mesnil-sur-Oger, the namesake vineyard is surrounded by houses and buildings that back up to its ancient eight foot walls. It is as if the village wrapped its arms around the vines to protect them, even if they are now owned by Krug and Salon. Yet when Salon put the name of that single vineyard on its label it made history in an industry that emphasized only the broad “Champagne” appellation. At the top of the hill is the handsome Georgian mansion shared by the sister houses of Salon and Delamotte. The old garden vineyard behind the house comes within ten feet of the rear windows. It is in the cellar where large caches of 1982 and older vintages make the Salon lover swoon (They can be disgorged to order; if you want some, give us a call). The vintages of 2002 and 2004 sit there awaiting their own magic. For me, and for now, the newest, 1999 Blanc de Blanc (93CS, $269.99), is excitement enough, almost ten years old yet young. It has a rich nose of biscuits and cream, with tinges of smoke and fat. One of the
The grand cru villages in the Cotes des Blancs.
last vintages made from the tiny Clos of Le Mesnil, it has arrived just in time for the holiday. There is far more Delamotte, and Audrey Campos, the demure export manager for the UK and US, takes us through a dozen of its cuvees. The Non-Vintage Brut (91CS, $34.99) uses all three grapes featuring the local Chardonnay; I can smell the cherry of the Pinot Noir in the nose but the Chard creates the freshness and a round fleshy texture. The Non-Vintage Blanc de Blanc (93CS, $49.99) is Chardonnay from all the grand cru villages yet each adds a different character, Avize precision, Oger warmth and minerality and Mesnil austerity. The sum is high in acid and dry with an opulent bouquet of pears and flowers and a juicy limey taste. The vintage Delamotte Blanc de Blancs from 2002 (92CS, $79.99) is balanced happily by crisp acidity, a seductive promise of what we may taste in that '02 Salon (92CS) when it emerges from the cellar. At Agrapart in Avize, the house is less formal and Pascal Agrapart is casual with a movie star stubble beard but the list of cuvĂŠes is as long and the terroir key. He has just taken a crew of Danish sommeliers through them when we arrive. The vines are in four grand cru sites and three premier cru on the Cote, each with
different mix of clay, gravel and chalk‌ always chalk. One vineyard not far from the house is so precious Agrapart farms it gently with his draft horse Venus, a success that has led him to champion reintroduction of horse power in modern farming. The vineyards come together in different measures. His 7 Cru (90CS, $34.99) using them all (from '07 and '08) spends six months in barrel and more than a year in bottle and emerges creamy with hints of grapefruit and licorice. The Terroirs (91CS, 750ml: $39.99, Magnums: $99.99) is more select, all grand cru, with more time on the lees, a fresh and suave wine with the smell and salinity of the fossilized shore of a long-gone sea. The 2005 Mineral Extra Brut (92CS, $59.99) is from Avize and Cramant, golden delicate and clean with a piercing vertical core. Loveliest for me is the pure Avizoise (93CS, $69.99), the most narrowly sourced; Fresh, fat and nutty, with a toasty aroma (buttered raisin bread) and yellow fruits, from peach to grapefruit. These flavors owe something to the cellar but most of their character is made in the vineyards. One taste of the terroir-driven wines from the winemakers here, great and small, will take you into the heart of true Champagne. A toast to the growers!
MAGNUM MAGIC No one's sure why Champagne tastes better from magnums. Surely the limited amount of air contact lets the wine age more slowly and live longer. Yet there's something else, maybe the sheer generosity or luxurious indulgence of a bottle that pours ten or twelve glasses (One drawback: You only get one cork to pop.) Whatever the reason, magnums are big and getting bigger with wine lovers and Champagne makers. Here are some of the large format bottles from our favorite small producers in the Cote des Blancs:
Agrapart Terroirs Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs Avize Scores: 94RAS, 93RB, 92WA Magnum, $99.99; Jeroboam $199.99
Guy Larmandier NV Brut Cramant Magnum, $109.99
Pierre Moncuit Blanc de Blanc Cuvee Moncuit Delos Scores: 91WS, Magnum $89.99
Pierre Moncuit 2002 Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Scores: 92WA, Magnum $159.99
The house of Salon in Le-Mesnil-sur-Oger. Grower-winemaker Pascal Agrapart in Avize.
B-21.com | 4
MEMORIES ARE MADE OF '06 BAROLO by Chris Sherman
Picking a memorable Italian wine for a gift from the many splendors of Italy is surprisingly easy.
years before tasting its cherries, plums and cedar with osso buco and truffled risotto. Or a good cigar.
You can turn to Tuscany for a topdollar luxury brand whose name and price everyone recognizes. I'd rather head to the Piedmont and into the hilltop villages of Barolo, worthy of grand cru status. While each commune and producer has strengths, you need to remember only one thing: 2006.
You might add a tag "Do Not Open until 2016: Life gets even better."
0 , 200
mas Christ
That year was absolutely one of the best to date, comparable to 1996 or 1989, one where so many wines score 95 and up. They are destined for the greatest cellars, and the luckiest Italian fans on your shopping list.
The idea that Barolo is an iron fist in a velvet glove is too simplistic. This fighter has two fists, its most forceful and strongest wines coming from the east side villages of Serralunga d'Alba, Monforte d'Alba and Castiglione Falletta. Working ancient vineyards of sandstone and limestone we find great winemakers like Paolo Scavino, Brovia and Vietti, whose muscular wines begin quite austere and will always be powerful.
Barolos are treasures of complexity, big boned and powerful yet very light and translucent in color; their aromas shift from hearty tar to delicate rose.
Christma
Barolos are a long-lived gift. More than most of the world's great wines, Barolos take time. The Nebbiolo grapes in the northern hills ripen very late, the juice ferments slowly, and the wines need a good ten years to evolve and will last many years beyond. A fine 2006 Barolo is to be appreciated with patience; you can enjoy eyeing a gilt-edged Barolo for
s, 2006
1 , 201
mas Christ
Barolo from the central valley, like the La Morra and the village of Barolo itself, swing with finesse and polish, are round and ready to drink a little sooner. That style is showcased by Fratelli Revello, Silvio Grasso and Mario Marengo. The vineyards here have more calcareous clay giving more aroma and less tannin. The earth has more minerals and the wine more flowers. Barolo is a beautiful place to give your friends in a bottle. With a 2006, they'll have wonderful dreams before drinking and fond memories long after.
Prize '06 Barolos To Have And To Give Fratelli Revello Conca $5999 (1.5L $12999)
"Another of La Morra’s top sites, beautifully captures the house style in its dark red cherries, spices and menthol... Rich and powerful, the wine offers exceptional depth and roundness." 93WA
Brovia Garblet Sue $64 (1.5L $139 ) 99
99
"Wild, musky red fruits and menthol on the nose, complicated by licorice, minerals and nutty oak. Sweet and silky on entry, then tight but smooth in the middle." 95WA
Silvio Grasso Ciabot Manzoni $6999 (1.5L $14999) "Deep red-ruby. Musky, balsamic aromas of minerals and smoke. Broader, sweeter and suppler than the Bricco Luciani." 96RAS
4 | B-21.com
Domenico Clerico Pajana $8999
"Layers of ripe dark fruit, spices, flowers, licorice and minerals develop seamlessly through to the close. I am floored by the wine’s volume, depth and length.'' 96WA
Mario Marengo Vecchia Vigna delle Brunate $8999
"Intricate fabric of dark fruit, plums, prunes, roasted coffee beans, menthol and minerals... superb intensity, inner perfume & long, exceptionally refined finish." 95WA
Paolo Scavino Bric del Fiasc $9499
"Dark red fruits, smoke and grilled herbs are just some of the nuances that come to life... impossible to ignore the sheer pedigree and class here." 95WA
Vietti Lazzarito Serralunga $11999
"Nothing short of superb. A melange of dark, mineral-infused fruit flows from the glass... Licorice, tar, smoke and earthiness add layers of complexity & nuance." 97WA
BIG
WORLD SMALL BUDGET
2007 Uppercut Cabernet Sauvignon Napa 1799 Full, ripe and truly complements a medium rare ribeye. Wine Spectator rated the 2007 Napa Cabs 99 points. Almost perfect! "Flavors of dark berries, dark cherry, currant and spicy pepper . Cedary and lush with bright black fruits leading to velvety tannins."
2007 Geyser Peak Cabernet Sauvignon Alexander Valley 999 One of the last budget priced Cabs from the touted 2007 vintage to be released. A spectacular buy from fruit sourced in Alexander Valley.
2008 Chalone Estate Chardonnay 1799
"Sleek and well-focused, with appealing cherry and tomato leaf aromas and nicely layered red currant, herb and spicy caramel flavors that linger toward ripe tannins." 90WS
100% stainless steel fermented. a wonderful compliment to the famous Ahi Burgers served at Joel Gott's Hamburger chain "Gott's Roadside" in Napa (The best burgers in the world, also).
“Offers up gorgeously intense aromas of spice box, ground pepper, black cherries, black currants, incense, and earth. The gritty, robust flavors lead to an exuberant, lively finish." 91MS
“Tropical, with pineapple, guava and peach aromas and flavors touched off by vanilla, cinnamon and clove spice with a streak of minerality. A lot of complexity for $9." 89MS
Markham continues to sell this Napa offering for a song. If you have been avoiding this varietal because of all the scrutiny, this wine will truly change your mind. Textbook Merlot!
2010 Joel Gott Sauvignon Blanc 999
Another sleeper from the Gallo clan. Robert Parker has given the previous two vintages 90 points and I think this year's version is their best to date.
The wine that put Edna Valley on the map. A combination of American, French and Hungarian oak gives this Chard really unique flavors.
2007 Markham Merlot Napa 1599
“A rich, layered style, very Burgundian in style, with complex melon, fig, tangerine, and light toasty oak. Full-bodied, deep and concentrated, yet light on its feet. Drink now through 2018." 92WS
2009 Frei Brothers Reserve Zinfandel Dry Creek 1299
2009 Edna Valley Vineyards Chardonnay Paragon 999
“Taut, with herb, cedar, tobacco, dried berry and cigar box notes. Full-bodied, ending with firm, mineral-laced tannins." 87WS
91MS
The Chardonnay BUY OF THE YEAR!
With so many regions, grapes, and climates California growers have made almost all the world's wines their own. While many top vineyards fetch $50 or more, there's a wealth of quality and variety for $10 to $20 to put extra cheer in your holiday entertaining.
"Wonderfully focused and fresh, with terrific lime zest, lemongrass, passion fruit, and lemon notes that show laserlike focus. Long, juicy finish." 89WS
2009 Rodney Strong Pinot Noir Russian River Valley 1499
The 2009 Pinots may be better than the 98-point '07's (Wine Spectator). Russian River, in my humble opinion, is the best growing area for Pinot in California. This wine is a steal! "Shows a white pepper and herbal note to the sour cherry candy fruit, and is balanced with perfect acidity. The elegance and complexity are very attractive." 91WE
2010 Ferrari-Carano Fume Blanc Sonoma 1199 Our best selling Sauvignon Blanc. Subtle oak character from barrel aging makes it truly California. Bring on the thai food! "...herbal, citrusy, tropical fruit flavors that are nicely balanced with firm acidity and have a kiss of oak and a pleasing mouthfeel; crisp finish; lingering aftertaste." 90GVS
2009 Louis Martini Cabernet Sauvignon Sonoma 1399 Robert Parker says "...one of the great buys in Cabernet Sauvignon from northern California". Always has been one of my favs. And the price is relatively unchanged for 10 years now. Unparalled consistency. "Soft, round notes of plums, black cherry jam, licorice and roasted herbs soar from the glass of this perfumed Cabernet. This corpulent, plump, juicy, delicious, hedonistic effort should keep for up to a decade." 88WA B-21.com B-21.com | 5| 5
WINE GIFTS MADE EASY Holly Jolly Bubbles Show a friend that all the world, New and Old, loves fine sparkling with our choice of the best producers.
$39
Hand-pi
90-Point Tempranillo Treasures Share three versions of Spain's greatest grape from the best wineries we've discovered in Ribera del Duero and Tierra de Castillo.
$44
½½2010 Vietti Moscato d'Asti Cascinetta 91SM
½½2010 Emilio Moro Resalso (Ribera del Duero) 90RAS
½½Nino Franco Prosecco Rustico 90WA, 91B21
½½2009 Creta Roble (Ribera del Duero) 90+WA
½½Francois Montand Brut Blanc de Blancs 90B21
½½2004 Dehesa la Granja (Tierra de la Castilla) 92WA
Wine Spectator Top 100 Trio
A collection of the world's greatest wines from the last three years. You're gonna want that! ½½2009 Rex Hill Pinot Noir Williamette Valley (Oregon) 93WS, #38 Top 100 2011
$79
½½2005 Resalte Crianza Ribera del Duero (Spain) 94WS, #26 Top 100 2010 ½½2007 I Greppi Greppicante Bolgheri (Tuscany) 92WS, #46 Top 100 2009
Feliz Navidad Sampler
Around the World in 94 Points
$69
A surprise 92-94 point package from Spain introducing three of our hottest stars from regions on the rise. Made from very different but lovely Spanish grapes: Tempranillo, Monastrell, and Garnacha.
Give a ticket to ride on The Great Red Express from the Napa mountaintops to Languedoc and on to Rioja for most excellent Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, and Tempranillo.
½½2005 Resalte Crianza (Ribera del Duero)
½½ 2007 Antica
94WS, #26 Top 100 2010 ½½2007 Casa Castillo Las Gravas (Jumilla) 94RAS, 93RB ½½2008 Black Slate Porrera (Priorat) 92RB, 92RAS,
Very Merry Malbecs The full variety of a varietal that's back in full fashion; a deep dark beauty in the three pretty shades we like best. ½½2008 Catena Malbec (Mendoza) 91WA, 90WS ½½2007 Zuccardi Malbec Q (Mendoza) 91WE
Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa) 94WA ½½ 2009 Puech-Haut Prestige (France) 94WA ½½ 2001 La Rioja Alta Ardanza (Rioja) 94WA
$49
½½2008 Clos La Coutale (Cahors) 90RB
Christmas in Cali Deck their halls with the colorful variety of California, world-class Chardonnay and Cabernet and home-grown Zinfandel from B-21's preferred labels. ½½2008 Chalone Estate Chardonnay 92WS ½½2008 Franciscan Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley)
$59
½½2009 Ridge East Bench Zinfandel (Dry Creek) 92WE, 91WA 6 | B-21.com
$79
icked for every taste & budget! Rudolphs Favorite Rieslings Lead their sleigh through the Mosel and our favorite bright lights of the all-star 2009 vintage. ½½2009 Johannishof Riesling Charta 91WS, 90SR
$79
½½2009 S.A. Prum Graacher Himmelreich Spatlese 94WS
½½2009 Von Schubert Maximin Grunhauser Kabinett Abtsberg 93WS
Best Wishes from Bordeaux Pack up three superb samples of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot we selected from Left Bank and Right in top vintages. ½½2005 Chateau Cassagne
Haut-Canon (Canon-Fronsac) 91RB ½½2005 Chateau Batailley
(Pauillac) 91WA, 90WS
Champagne Dreams
½½2005 Clos Manou
Introduce your friends to the artisan growers we love to give Champagne new sparkle. ½½Agrapart Terroirs
(Medoc) 90WA
$129
Tuscan Holiday Trio
½½Guy Larmandier Brut 92WS, 92WA ½½Diebolt-Vallois Blanc de Blancs Brut
No more fruitcake; send them the full spice box of the top AOC in the southern Rhone from three B-21 choices around the magic castle.
$199
Give their taste buds the grand tour of B-21's Tuscany from Montalcino and Chianti Classico down to Maremma. ½½2006 Canalicchio di Sopra Brunello di Montalcino 94WA ½½2007 Antinori Guado al Tasso 97WE ½½2007 Viticcio Chianti Classico Riserva 93WS, Top 100 '10
Grand Cru Blanc de Blanc Extra Brut 93RAS, 90WS
Chateauneuf Christmas
$119
$119
½½2009 Clos Saint Jean Vieilles Vignes
Napa Cabs of Auld Aquaintance Celebrate the passage of the years with the vintage that remembers and preserves a great one, 2007. ½½2007 Robert Mondavi
Chateauneuf-du-Pape 93WA ½½2007 Eddie Feraud Chateauneuf-du-Pape 93ST, 92WA ½½2009 Giraud Tradition Chateauneuf-du-Pape 94WA, 93WS
$269
Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa) 95+WA ½½2002 Martin Estate Cabernet
Reserve (Rutherford) 94B21 ½½2005 Silver Oak Cabernet
Sauvignon (Napa)
Burgundian Holiday Pack Send them along B-21's Cote d'Or Trail, north and south, to savor the nuances of the best villages and cru. ½½2007 Gallois Gevrey-Chambertin
1er Combes Aux Moines 93RB ½½2008 Hospice de Nuits NSG 1er Cru
Les Vignerondes Cuvee Bernarde Delesclache 92RB ½½2006 M. Magnien
Morey St. Denis Les Millandes 1er Cru
$179
Three 97-Point Kings A wise gift of Spanish wines with high scores as rare as frankincense. They'll thank you thrice for the greatest of Rioja, Ribera, and Priorat. ½½2006 Mas Doix "DOIX" (Priorat) 97WA
$329
½½2006 Aalto PS (Ribera del Duero) 97WE, 96WA ½½2005 Benjamin Romeo Cueva del Contador (Rioja) 97WA
B-21.com | 7
NER O S I R P O T A K E N e whole field! Take th
S
S ti tt b y M a rk
One of the hottest trends in wine these days is the growing popularity of wine blends. Also known as field blends. These diverse wines consist of a mixture of grapes such as Zinfandel, Syrah, Carignane, Petite Sirah, Grenache, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon. These blends allow for more complexity and the likelihood lesser vintage variation. California red blends attracted the attention of wine lovers worldwide after the little known red called "The Prisoner," made by Orin Swift Cellars in Napa County, turned up on a Wine Spectator list of best blends. It was also the first California field blend to ever rank in the Wine Spectator's Top 100 Wines of 2005. Since that time, the popularity of these highly accessible and powerhouse wines have generated a whole new era of wine drinkers who prefer the ripe, supple, fleshy, complex, satisfying and simply easy drinking wine, period. This wine craze has generated so much attention that a simple entry level wine, Menage a Trois Red (a blend of Zinfandel, Merlot, and Cabernet) has become the largest selling red wine in the U.S. These wines are about enjoyment, sometimes forgotten lost in the wine world, where too many vintners make serious wines that aren't much fun to drink. Here is a small offering of these field blend reds that we here at B-21 encourage to break out with some friends and family for the Holidays.
2009 Orin Swift The Prisoner $3299 The one that started all the craze. Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Petite Sirah, Charbono, Grenache and Malbec. This is the first vintage bottled by the new owners, Huneeus Vintners, whose benchmark wine is Quintessa (you think this Prisoner has some Quintessa juice?)
2008 Banknote Vault $2999 Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. The Banknote Wine Company couldn't decide on which banknote to represent on the label so each case has 12 different labels (on average) with each bottle being individually numbered.
2009 Ridge Lytton Springs $3499 375ml - 1999 The original “red wine blends� These Zinfandel-based wines have always been a crowd favorite, with the blend varying every year. The oldest Zinfandel vines at Ridge (130 years) are used in making Geyserville; In 1972, Ridge made its first Lytton Springs from vines planted on the eastern half of the vineyard at the turn of the century.
2009 Ridge Geyserville $3499 375ml - 1999, 1.5L - 7399 "Geyserville is a gorgeous wine... exceptionally elegant red endowed with considerable finesse and fabulous overall balance. A round, sensual finish makes it impossible to resist a second taste." 94WA
2007 Erna Schein Everything But The Kitchen Sink $4999 Petite Sirah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc (who thinks of these blends?) The flavors in this bright, mouth-filling cuvee range from graphite to black huckleberry, vanilla to cherry, and the round, integrated tannins linger through the finish.
2007 Marietta Angeli Cuvee $2699 Angeli Cuvee is a proprietary blend of Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, and Carignane. The aromas are deep and rich with layers of dark berry fruits, chocolate notes, brown spices, and a nice background of toasty oak.
Marietta Old Vine Red Lot 55 $1299 B-21 brought Marietta in to Florida in the 90’s and have been perennial fan favorites since then. Robert Parker states “For over three decades one of the great values in dry California red wine has been the non-vintage kitchen sink blend from the Bilbro’s family-owned Marietta Cellars.”
2008 Bogle Phantom $1999, 3L - 9999 Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Mourvèdre. Before Prisoner made it big, Phantom was the sought after red blend that always sold out the first month of release. Now there are over 20,000 cases made but states like California and Connecticut sell out of their allocations within a month.
2008 Paraduxx $4999 Zinfandel and Cabernet Sauvignon. Duckhorn’s version of the red blend. It’s been around longer than Prisoner but saw similar interest in the late 90’s from Francophiles and “Ducks Unlimited” Collectors.
2009 Federalist Dueling Pistols $2999 On July 11, 1804 off the Hudson shore at Weehawken, the original Federalist, Alexander Hamilton was shot in a duel by Aaron Burr and died from his injuries. Since dueling is no longer socially acceptable, we suggest solving differences over a glass of this “dual” of Zinfandel and Syrah. This wine exhibits bright cherry jam aromas, with big fruit flavors enhanced by hints of spice and lively acidity. The Zinfandel comes from the old Alderbrook Vineyard site (Remember Alderbrook?)
2007 Coppola Cinema Directors Cut $2299 "54% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Zinfandel, 12% Cabernet Franc, 2% Petite Sirah. Those who are fans of Super Tuscans will enjoy the spicy, full-bodied nature of this wine as well as the rich, dark berry fruit impressions, which are layered with flavors of raspberries, cherries, cloves and cigar box." 91MS
2009 Apothic Red $899 A captivating blend of three distinct grapes, with the dark fruit flavors of Syrah, brambly spice of Zinfandel, and a smooth elegance of Merlot. Another winner from the Gallo clan. "Reveals intense fruit aromas and flavors of black cherry that are complemented by hints of mocha, chocolate, brown spice and vanilla. The plush, velvety mouthfeel and smooth finish round out this intriguing, full-bodied red blend." 88MS
2010 Primal Roots Red $899 43% Merlot, 37% Syrah, 20% Zinfandel This is the first vintage of this wine and it's already a winner. Low in tannins, rich in mouthfeel, but still fairly light-bodied, a true fruit-forward wine showing superfruity berries and jam, jam, jam. 88MS
2009 Menage a Trois Red $899 Zinfandel, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon This fun red is gentle in body, with ripe, polished berrycherry and cocoa flavors and a smattering of smoky oak. A great house red. 88MS
2008 Robert Foley The Griffin $3499 Robert Parker states "This is something California needs to do more of – creative blends that are loaded with personality and soul." 42% Petite Sirah, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Charbono, and 8% Merlot. Beautiful black raspberry, blueberry, spicy, peppery fruit jump from the glass of this dense purple wine. Foley has somehow built considerable sweet tannin into the full-bodied, fleshy mouthfeel. 93WA
B-21's CUVﾃ右 DECEMBER:
$29 de Peﾃｱafiel Crianza 2005 RESALTE
99
"Fresh and focused backed by espresso bois and mineral. O
750ml
Ribera del Duero
Wine Spectator ra TOP 100 wines in
BIRTHPLACE: Rocky, windy Ribera, hot summers and cold w
BIRTH YEAR: 2005; Parker says an outstanding year in Ribe SIBLINGS: Reserva (49.99) and Gran Reserva (79.99)
BEST FRIENDS: Winemaker Enrique Andrades and B-21's
EDUCATION: 15 months in oak (80% French, 20% Ame GPA: 94 points, Wine Spectator
ACTIVITIES: Castle climbing, rooting for Real Mad reading Don Quixote, prowling wine caves. FAVORITE MEALS: Roast lamb, suckling and lentils.
d, this firm red delivers ripe black cherry and blackberry fruit, o and licorice accents, finishing with alluring notes of sousOffers depth and drive. Drink now through 2016." 94WS
nks Resalte Crianza 2005 at #26 among the world's n 2010 and the TOP Spanish wine of the year!
winters
era del Duero
s Summer Martin
erican)
drid, pig, pigeon, beans
THIS JUST IN: TOP '09 BURGUNDIES
by Rhett Beiletti
Burgundy is the most elusive wine in the world. This subtle specter can cause a wine drinker to go mad trying to find that experience again, that delicate whisper of a dream of their first Burgundy revelation. I would have to believe that is what drove Robert Kacher, the well-known importer, to begin his quests through the vineyards of Eastern France. His portfolio has also been elusive over the years. This year we landed some '09s from his lauded producers, and we are happy to make them available to you. We have fine Burgundies, villages to top crus, from the rich 2009 vintages. Check out what just came in from four domaines that put a smile on the face of Burghound, Allen Meadows.
Domaine Albert Morot A negociant from 1820 to the early 80s, the Domaine now grows and makes its own fine Burgundies, constantly adjusting the new oak used and wines seeking the right balance. Tasting just before press, I am entirely impressed with the quality of the range, and the purity and gentle hand of the vinification.
2009 Beaune 1er ‘Les Aigrots’ (Blanc) $4999 “aromas of pungent straw, grass, citrus and discreet floral notes slide seamlessly into crisp, minerally and vibrant middle weight flavors that possess a delicious, intense and solidly persistent finish.” 89-91AM
2009 La Bataillere Beaune 1er Cru $4499 “…notably ripe nose of red currant, blue berry and plenty of Savigny-style earth” 88-91AM
2009 Beaune 1er ‘Les Bressandes’ $5999 (375ml $29.99) “Cassis and plum aromas are nuanced by hints of minerality... This should be excellent in time as it has everything that it needs to improve for up to a decade.” 90-93AM
2009 Beaune 1er ‘Les Marconnets’ $5999
Geoffroy Choppin de Janvry, proprietor of Domaine Albert Morot
Bertrand Ambroise The family has long produced wine en metayage (sharecropping) from some sites and has increased their own holdings to a quite considerable sum in recent decades.
2009 Cote de Nuits Villages $2999 “A brooding and reserved yet complex nose of ripe dark berry fruit, violets and plum notes complements the earthy, supple and delicious flavors” 88AM
2009 Nuits-Saint-Georges Vieilles Vignes $7999
“Ripe black berry and cherry aromas cut with plenty of earth and underbrush…” 90-92AM
“ripe and densely fruited aromas of mostly black berry and cassis along with ample amounts of pungent Nuits style earth.” 90-92AM
2009 Beaune 1er ‘Les Teurons’ $5999 (375ml $29.99 1.5L $119.99)
2009 Corton Grand Cru Le Rognet $8999
“…good energy and tension to the classy, pure and refined middle weight flavors focused power on the serious and very ripe finish…” 91-93AM
2009 Beaune 1er ‘Toussaints’ $4999 “A beguiling nose features black berry and red currant liqueur that merges into rich, generous and opulent flavors.” 90-92AM 12 | B-21.com
“…a huge, rich and powerful wine yet it's quite round and supple as the structure is completely buffered by all of the midpalate sap” 92-95AM
Domaine Fernand Lechéneaut et Fils Lechéneaut started the firm in the early 1960s; his two sons took over in the 1980s and focused on domaine bottlings. Burghound's Allen Meadows cites Vincent Lechéneaut as one of his top sources of historical recording in Burgundy.
2009 Nuits St.-Georges ‘Les Damodes’ $8799 “...strongly reduced and impossible to fairly assess. The mediumbodied flavors possess a dense and textured, even opulent mouth feel as there are ample amounts of dry extract as well as a fine minerality that imparts a sense of lift to the firm but balanced finish. 89-92AM
2009 Morey St.-Denis $6499 "There is a minor amount of reduction which suppresses the fruit but not the earth and animal character of the nose. The rich, generous and fleshy medium-bodied flavors possess a velvety mouth feel." 87-89AM
Robert Kaacher at Lechéneaut
2009 Chambolle-Musigny 1er $8999 "A discreet touch of wood frames the plum, cassis, and blackberry suffused nose that marries into rich, refined and admirably pure middle weight flavors that display an attractive dollop of minerality..." 90-92AM
2009 Morey St.-Denis ‘Clos des Ormes’ $79
99
"...nose features notes of plum, cassis and rose petal that give way to earth, rich and generous medium-bodied flavors that brim with dry extract and a lovely intensity and verve on the extract-rich finishes." 89-91AM
Stained Glass in the cave at Claude Dugat.
2009 Clos de la Roche Grand Cru $24999 "...cassis, black Pinot fruit, earth and spiced plum aromas that are in keeping with the quite rich and ripe big-bodied flavors blessed with superb concentration on the powerful, driving and palate staining finish." 92-94AM
Domaine Claude Dugat This family is one of the top specialists in Gevrey-Chambertin and has holdings throughout the appellation, from villages wines to 1er cru.
2009 Bourgogne (rouge) $4499 “…opens with a super-ripe, exotic bouquet that leads to a generous core of fruit. This is a sensual and totally beguiling wine, especially at this level.” 88WA
2009 Gevrey-Chambertin $9999 “…sweet, powerful and inviting. Hints of smoke and licorice develop in the glass, adding complexity to the dark, sensual fruit.” 90WA
2009 Gevrey-Chambertin 1er $17999 “…made from parcels in Craipillot and Perriere vinified together. Floral, minty notes lead to sweet spices and licorice as this delicate, layered wine shows off its class.” 91WA
2009 Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Lavaux St. Jacques $22999 “…another of the more explosive, heady wines in the line-up. A melange of minerals, dark cherries, spices and flowers comes to life in this textured, beautifully delineated wine.” 93WA
2009 Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru $32999 “...weeps across the palate with endless layers of fruit. Smoke, tar and incense hover on the palate, adding further complexity. Silky tannins support the fruit all the way through to the classy, round close.” 95WA B-21.com | 13
STUCK ON STICKIES
The Aussie gift for world-beater dessert wines “Stickies” may be the most delicious word in wine. And accurate, the best dessert wines have undeniable viscosity in the mouth if not on the fingers. Not surprisingly, we owe the lusty candor of the term to Australia’s plain speaking wine lovers. Australia has loved sweet wines since colonial days when the first winemakers and wine drinkers tried to re-create the old world ports, sherries, and fortified wines they’d left behind. Maybe they were salvaging tough vintages or the odd mix of Muscat, Semillon, and Shiraz they grew. Or they wanted an extra kick, which had medicinal appeal, or so thought the early medics who were also vintners. The legacy continues today at many Oz wineries, big and small, in far greater supply than you find on U.S. shelves. Too bad, they are jewels. The old colonial habits now
by Chris Sherman
have world class refinement that regularly brings Australia close to 100 points and up. Yet the prices are far less than their European models.
Consider a 99 point sweetheart, the TOKAY ISABELLA FROM CAMPBELL’S ($49.99) made from Muscadelle in Rutherglen, the heart of the Australian dessert country. So magnificent, the Wine Advocate lost control while describing it: "Syrupy, raisiny, pruny, candied toffee, and caramel characteristics intertwined with marmalade, fig, soy, and God knows what else.’’ For a tawny, you have to try the BURGE FAMILY WILSFORD PORT ($69.99, 98WA), Rick Burge doesn’t know how old this lovely stuff he found in the family cellars is. Just calls it VO, Parker calls it 98.
And his OLD TAWNY ($49.99, 97WA) from Barossa is only one point less. Even Penfolds can’t be sure of the FINE OLD TAWNY THEY CALL GRANDFATHER (95WE, $69.99), Portugal may brag on 20 and 30 yearold tawnies, but this cuvee probably averages at least 40 years. Best guess is the old cuvee is Rhonish: Shiraz, Grenache, and Mourvedre. And maybe apricot jam and golden raisins. Honey of a tawny. The Australian tradition of high quality, very old stickies extends down to everyday prices under $20. The solera system at CHAMBERS ROSEWOOD VINEYARDS ($14.99, 93WA) contains Muscat 100 years old of luscious 93-point richness today. Doesn’t have to be that old. Dutschke has a fresh tawny, made from a wild Iberian array, Verdelho, Palomino, Grenache, and Shiraz to create a polished glass of toffee and molasses. The solera’s ten years old but the inspiration goes back to an old-timer in the vineyards who shared a daily glass with young Dutschke. He calls it affectionately, THE OLD CODGER ($14.99, 90WA). There aren’t many of these stickies but you should make their acquaintance. Anyone of them has much to share. Respect your elders. They’ve been having a good time for a long while.
Add a 'lil Argentina Spice to your Café by Summer Martin with Malamado Port from Familia Zuccardi Every dinner in Argentina ends with a small glass of Malamado Port. As it should! This stuff is delicious! The name, “Mal-Amado” means “bad love” in Spanish. That reminds me of the old John Mellencamp song that says, “something this bad shouldn’t feel so good”. If you like port, or just like sweet reds, you need to try this stuff. There is a reason it is on every wine list in Argentina and many restaurants here in the US. That reason is because it is the perfect ending to any meal, all by itself. But, if you want to get creative Malamado has a ton of cocktail and coffee recipes on their website. Here’s one I plan on trying on a cold winter’s night!
MALAMADO A LA ANTIGUA ½½1 oz. of Malamado Malbec ½½1 double coffee cup (about the size of a “Tall” at Starbucks) ½½1 spoonful of cream ½½Grated chocolate
b21wineblog.com
½½Stick of cinnamon
Strain the Malamado Malbec into a cappuccino cup, add the coffee, drizzle with spoonful of cream. Finish it with a grated chocolate rind and a stick of cinnamon.
Look for more recipes on our blog:
$2299 750ml
TIS’ THE SEASON
for Christmas Beer! by Shannon Sprentall
Beyond the season's typical libations like spiked eggnog and mulled wine is frosty Christmas beer! Winter ales and Christmas beers are an old brewing tradition from centuries past and are again a full-fledged trend, thanks to the past decade's explosion of fine craft beers. The winter and holiday season is when we see a lot of really good, small production seasonal brews appear in the form of Christmas beers and winter warmers from European and U.S. brewers. Christmas beer has a reputation for big, malty, spicy complex flavors, but it comes in hundreds of variations as there are no rules for how they should be brewed. The artful malt and/or hop combinations offer wonderful complexity. Fruit and spice and everything nice! Most are large format bottles that fill most of a stocking with good cheer. Remember, these beers are only available from November to February or until supplies run out, so get some before I do! Delirum Noel, Belgium............................................................ $899 Gouden Carolus Noel, Belgium............................................ $899 St. Bernardus Christmas Ale, Belgium............................ $999 Cigar City Auld Alliance, Tampa......................................... $999 Cigar City Big Sound, Tampa................................................ $999 Samichlaus, Austria...............................................................$1599 Samichlaus Helles, Austria.................................................$1599 B-21.com | 15
AGE IS NOT JUST A NUMBER: 21 CLUB We all have a friend, family member or co-worker who is a Scotch aficionado, Irish advocate, rum expert or Cognac connoisseur. It can be difficult to find the perfect gift for these buffs so I have selected some of my favorite aged spirits and at B-21, 21 just so happens to be the magic number! As a general rule, I stick to 21 year-olds with the occasional exception of 18 year-old gems and try my hardest to keep the bill under $300. After any scotch, whiskey, rum or cognac spends 21 years in quality barrels you’ll get your money's worth; full maturity, vitality, charisma, smoothness and a healthy amount of wood…everything a spirited connoisseur could wish.
21-YEAR-OLD SPIRITS ZAFRA MASTER RESERVE, PANAMA
GLENGOYNE, SCOTLAND
From the same guys that first marketed the Ron Zacapa this excellent panama rum is at a special introductory rate and will most likely make its way up the price ladder as it becomes more popular. Rich toffee, exotic fruit and spice, the Zafra 21 year has $4499 everything you're looking for in a sipping rum. It's attractively packaged and price to move. All rum lovers deserve to treat themselves to a bottle of this great new rum.
Glengoyne 21 Years Old has scooped a prestigious gold award at the highly respected Scottish Field Whisky Challenge for the third year in a row underlining its consistent, exceptional quality. Appearance: Deep Copper, Meandering Legs. Nose: Red $14999 apples, toffee, sherry, spicy strudel. Mouthfeel: Coating. Initial Taste: Lots of Sherry, honey, oak with a developing aromatic sensation. Ends with a heavenly cinnamon nip. Finish: Long, sherry, spicy, warm and dry.
EL DORADO, GUYANA $7999 "Copper color. Rich mocha, toffee, pipe tobacco, and brown spice aromas. A rich, satiny and vibrant entry leads to a smooth, dryyet-fruity full body of toffee, coffee, and brown spice flavors. Finishes with a seemingly endless, sweet nutty fade with evolving layers of tobacco, chocolate, and spice...one of the world's greatest rum drinking experiences." 98-points and a Platinum Medal, International Review of Spirits
GLENFARCLAS, SCOTLAND $9999 Nose: Sherryish, nutty aromas predominate. Then malt (slightly buttery), and peat. Each seems to manifest itself as a separate hit. Palate: Lively expression of classic Speyside flavours: sherry, malt and slight smokiness. Finish: Lightly peaty. Appetising. Comment A straightforward Speyside classic. Also big enough to benefit from considerable age. - Michael Jackson
APPLETON, JAMAICA $9999 The bouquet is floral, bean-like and pleasantly nutty. The palate entry is acutely astringent; the midpalate is baked nut-like with bitter tastes of oak and molasses. The aftertaste is long, desert-dry, sugary and sap-like. Not as overly woody as many old rums are; delicious in an old-guard style. — P.P. (2/1/2008) — 90-95: Superb/Highly Recommended
BUSHMILLS, NORTHERN IRELAND
$9999 16 | B-21.com
An extremely rare single malt Irish whiskey. Only a very limited number of bottles are available each year. The whiskey is first aged in American bourbon barrels and Spanish Oloroso sherry casks for 21 years and upwards. The malt whiskey is then vatted and married for months in Madeira drums. The end result is a rich and smooth old malt whiskey with a wonderful combination of aromatic malt, gentle wood and rich spiciness - a wonderful and intriguing complexity on the palate, and perhaps the finest expression to date of malt distilling that is Bushmills.
GLENLIVET, SCOTLAND $11999 Opening bouquet offers sedate fragrances of dried flowers and malted barley; aeration stimulates marginally bigger aromas of dried yellow fruit (baked banana), toasty oak barrel and still-vigorous spirit. Palate entry is succulent, honeyed and luscious; midpalate tastes of dates, figs, S’mores, cocoa butter, nougat and dark fudge. Finishes oily, buttery, honey-sweet and focused. — P.P. (12/15/2009) — 96-100: Classic/Highest Recommendation
COURVOISIER, FRANCE
Emanates sweet scents of dried apri$24999 cots, fig, hazelnut and Christmas cookies. Swirl and inhale again…honey and coriander. Take a nip and lead it around your mouth…the aromatics intensify, joined by soft, warm ginger bread and candied oranges. The warmth of 80 proof cascades down your shoulders and inches to your toes. Ponder for a few minutes as it twists and blooms, revealing hints of cranberry, cherry, marzipan and butterscotch. This stuff is absolutely stunning. ~ 98 points Shannon Sprentall
by Shannon Sprentall
ABERFELDY, SCOTLAND $14999 Initial sniffings detect tart, yeasty aromas of barley malt and bread dough. Palate entry is off-dry and a touch bittersweet in caramel; at midpalate, the taste profile tends to the toasted cereal and toasted bread side of the scale. Finishes gracefully, dry, tart, crisp and clean. — P.P. (9/1/2008) — Very Good / Recommended
MACALLAN FINE OAK, SCOTLAND $24999
CHIVAS ROYAL SALUTE, SCOTLAND $17999 "Soft floral and honeyed malt aromas. A soft gentle entry leads to a dryish, oily mediumbodied palate with toasty malt, roasted nuts, and dried autumn fruit flavors. Finishes with a lingering peppery wave of spice and round, grainy malt flavors." The Beverage Testing Institute
The early bouquet is round, biscuity, and a touch spicy; further aeration reveals a deep aroma of butterscotch, cream, vanilla, marzipan, and candied almond. The palate entry is vividly spirity as the alcohol slightly pricks the tongue; the midpalate stage displays solid flavors of dried orange rind, white raisins, marmalade, and figs. Finishes elegantly and sweet. — P.P. (12/31/2004) — 96-100: Classic/ Highest Recommendation
TIPS FOR ENTERTAINING! When entertaining it is better to enjoy yourself than worry about having enough for everyone to drink. Here is a quick guide to quantities to buy when entertaining: Per 50 people + 3hr duration = 150 drinks total (figure 3 drinks per person and you will be pretty safe in most cases – this is for a casual walk and talk situation. Serious sitdown go to 200 drinks – will mean more wine consumed if it is over the course of a dinner). Serving beer, wine and liquor for 50 people (Liquor is a variable, many do not serve it. It does make a party nice for that reason and also a nice gesture. A bottle of liquor will often survive a few gatherings.):
WINE = 1/2 75 (5oz.) glasses = 15 (750ml) bottles 1 case wine (12 bottles if 750mls or 6 bottes if 1.5L) will give you 60 (5oz.) glasses or 75 (4oz.) glasses. At a table a 5 oz. pour reigns. The walk and talk party can be sustained with 4 oz. pours—in these gatherings people often strand their drink and get another fresh when they can’t find it.
Break it down to 1/2 apiece red and white and most of the time you will be good. If you know your crowd likes red more go to 2/3 red, 1/3 white.
BEER = 1/4 At a party of 50 people half of the crowd will probably drink beer. Count on 3 bottles person, call it 3 cases. Buy an import, a domestic non-light, and a light. This is the basic party for the homebrew association of course.
by Rhett Beiletti
LIQUOR = 1/4
Stay basic again, don’t worry about upside down margaritas. Vodka, Scotch, Bourbon, and maybe a blended whiskey. Rum and Brandy are popular and in season to mix with egg nog. You most likely have gin leftover from the last party. Buy a liter apiece and be done with it. Err on the side of generosity and people will enjoy your party.
MIXERS Soft drinks, dark and clear, sugared and sugar free. For liquor, have some tonic water, club soda, lemons, and limes for garnish. BUY ICE. Bottled water. If you choose not to serve liquor, go to 3/4 wine, 1/4 beer. If you hire a bartender it will help to let them know the level the glasses should be filled to, not only to control the flow but to make it nice—the glasses should not overflow when brought toward the mouth. Not only is it wasteful to overfill the glass, its gauche. If they are at your party I bet they can have another glass.
SIMPLE. HAVE FUN. B-21.com | 17
P O P Q U I Z : What are we giving this year? MARK STITT (MARK@B-21.COM)
There are always two sets of friends and family that I have to sort out with my holiday wine gift giving... the one's who are content with mainstream and recognizable labels and the ones that look for a surprise wine that I find of great quality and value at the time. So for my "conservative" friends, I will give a red... 2007 ROBERT MONDAVI CABERNET SAUVIGNON NAPA VALLEY ($19.99) which I consider one of the best Napa Cabs Mondavi has ever produced; and for a white...2008 FERRARICARANO CHARDONNAY ALEXANDER VALLEY ($17.99) which is always so creamy and subtle,
the way Chardonnay should be made. As for my more adventurous friends, I will give for the red...2008 RAVENSWOOD ZINFANDEL TELDESCHI VINEYARD ($24.99) for I think people are still confused with what real Zins are all about, full-bodied yet lush and concentrated enough to stand alone or with more everyday fare such as burgers, barbeque or spaghetti with red sauce; and for the white... 2010 PONZI PINOT GRIS WILLAMETTE VALLEY ($14.99) where Pinot Grigio grows best in this country, Oregon. 2010 is shaping to look like another fabulous vintage from here. I know I would be happy to share any of these "gifts" with all my recipients because isn't that's what wine and the holidays have in common... giving and sharing. RHETT BEILETTI (RHETT@B-21.COM)
The impromptu visit or visitor can be startling during the holidays. I enjoy visitors but I don't like being caught unprepared, and it is exactly the same when I visit. So I always buy a case of something that is distinctive and affordable to have on hand for the surprise on the fly occasion. This year I have mixed it up and will be plying my way into and out of hostage I mean guest gift situations with a couple of jewels I have consumed many times over the last year. 2005 CHATEAU CHAPELLE SEGUR ($19.99) from the limestonelaced terrain of Montagne Saint-Emilion and made from 70% Merlot, 20% Cab S and 10% Cab F. Deftly balanced, medium weight and showing black cherry and plummy ripe flavors with red shimmers. Supple and sinewy and drinking perfectly now. 2008 CLOS LA COUTALE ($11.99, 90RB) from Cahors is in the other hand and gives fresh darker fruits and some earth and almost cocoa touches – I should know, it is my house wine. 2 wines I can afford to drink myself and to give and know that they I will be kept on the guest list. 18 | B-21.com
SUMMER MARTIN (SUMMER@B-21.COM)
For most of my relatives a little Evan Williams Egg Nog will do the trick, but others require a more delicate choice. I remember when one of my uncle’s moved into his new house that had a wine fridge he asked me, “How am I supposed to fit these boxes in there?” So this year I think I’ll buy him a bottle of 2009 AMANCAYA ($14.99) made by Lafite Rothschild, it’s a great Malbec/Cab blend and a good wine that speaks to every level of wine appreciation and sophistication. My other uncle is “the man who has everything,” literally. It’s always hard to know what to get someone of his stature. He likes vodka, but being in North Carolina, a wine will have to suffice. Since I can’t afford Petrus, Latour, or Vega Sicilia I’ll pick something that is really good for the price. For uncle Jim I’m thinking either 2005 RESALTE CRIANZA (94WA AND TOP 100, $29.99) or 2009 PUECH-HAUT PRESTIGE (94WA, 17.99). SHANNON SPRENTALL (SHANNON@B-21.COM)
For the ex-boyfriend that got lost in translation I would gift MORSE CODE SHIRAZ ($8.99, 90CS). This wine is deep garnet-purple in color and is intensely scented of warm blackberry, blueberry and eucalyptus. Smooth and spicy. An Aussie ace for under $10. Don’t need to spend too much on Mr. Wrong. The perfect gift to send the “let’s be friends” message. Beep-beep-bee-bee-beeeeeep. Just kidding old lovers! On a serious note, I am a last minute shopper so when it comes down to the wire gift cards are my go to… better yet E-GIFT CARDS! B-21 now offers endless options for those planners looking for the perfect wine or spirit to the slackers like me. CHRIS SHERMAN (CHRIS@B-21.COM)
Zinfandel is the perfect wine for the All-American holiday. If it wasn't born here its actual origins were lost before Ellis Island. It's a hard working grape, beloved by immigrant pioneers in the vineyards and built much of California's early bottles. It has the spice to match my kind of stuffing and a sprinkle of red pepper on the bird, smooth enough for young'uns and elders, and so affordable you can have 3 or 4 bottles. If you're pouring for a big crowd (as at my wedding) CLINE ($9.99) is my choice. Otherwise any Seghesio is a delight; try the stunning 2007 SAN LORENZO ZINFANDEL ($49.99).
W H AT ' S H A P P E N I N ’ AT B - 2 1 ?
DECEMBER 2011 SUN
MON
TUE
WED
THU 1
FRI 2
*B-21 Express to **B-21 Express to Pinellas County Jacksonville Sarasota & Bradenton *$195 minimum order required **$500 minimum order required Complimentary Wine Tasting Complimentary Spirits Tasting
4
5
*B-21 Express to Pinellas, Pasco counties, & Tampa
6 *B-21 Express to Orlando
7
*B-21 Express to Tampa & Polk and East Hillsborough
S AT 3
1-3pm: Wines from The Buzz and emails!
1-3pm: Fulton's Pumpkin Pie Cream
12-3pm: Alize (Gift Sets) 2-5pm: Jagermeister
12-3pm: Exclusiv Vodka
8
9
10
**B-21 Express to *B-21 Express to Miami and Pinellas County Sarasota & Bradenton Ft. Lauderdale
1-3pm: Wines from The Buzz and emails!
11
12
13
*B-21 Express to Pinellas, Pasco counties, & Tampa
14
12-3pm: Van Gogh Vodka - Gift Sets
2-5pm: Don Julio / Bailey's / Ketel One Oranj
12-3pm: 360 Double Chocolate\Tequila Rose 1-4pm: Smirnoff vs Grey Goose Mix Off
15
16
17
*B-21 Express to Tampa, Hernando Citrus and West Pasco
**B-21 Express to *B-21 Express to Naples & Ft. Myers Pinellas County Sarasota & Bradenton
12-3pm: Kracken Hangar One: Chiplote, Citrus, Mandarin
12-3pm: Appleton Rum Gift Sets
12-3pm: Bacardi Family
12-3pm: Exclusiv Vodka
12-3pm: Ron Abuelo Gift Sets
18
19
20
21
22
*B-21 Express to Pinellas, Pasco counties, & Tampa
*B-21 Express to Orlando
1! 12 on 2
*B-21 Express to Tampa & Polk and East Hillsborough
12-3pm: Hangar One Chiplote, Citrus and Mandarin / Kracken 2-5pm: Don Julio / Bailey's / Ketel One Oranj
23
**B-21 Express to *B-21 Express to Vero & West Palm Pinellas County Sarasota & Bradenton
12-3pm: Plomari Ouzo 2-5pm: Crown Royal Engraving
12-3pm: DiAmore Gift Sets
12-3pm: Russian Standard Moscow Mules
12-3pm: Mr. Boston's 11-2pm: Grey Goose Flavors Egg Nog Martini's
25
27
28
29
y Merr s! tma Chris
26 *B-21 Express to Pinellas, Pasco counties, & Tampa
12-3pm: Pucker Vodka Closed Today!
12-3pm: Caravella Limoncello
*B-21 Express to *B-21 Express to Pinellas County Tampa, Citrus, Hernando and West Sarasota & Bradenton Pasco
12-3pm: Bacardi Family
12-3pm: Courvoisier Rose
30
1-3pm: Wines from The Buzz and emails! 12-3pm: Devils Cut/ Jim Beam Black 2-5pm: Smirnoff vs Grey Goose Mix Off
24
Close at 6pm!
1-3pm: Wines from The Buzz and emails! 9:30-11:30am: Jack Daniels Honey, Chambord Vodka and SoCo Pepper 12-3pm: St. Brendan's Irish Cream 2-5pm: Smirnoff vs Grey Goose Mix Off
31 Open New Year's Eve and New Year's Day! 1-3pm: Wines from The Buzz and emails!
12-3pm: Devils Cut/ Jim Beam Black 3-6pm: Bacardi Family
12-3pm: Cruzan Strawberry & Cruzan 9 1-4pm: 360 Double Chocolate\Tequila Rose
43380 U.S. 19 N P.O. Box 849 Tarpon Springs, FL 34688-0849 888-B21-WINE (221-9463) 727-937-5049
b21wineblog.com facebook.com/b21wine @b21wine
B-21 Wine Company • www.B-21.com • CS@B-21.com • Monday-Saturday 9am-9pm • Sunday 11am-9pm
'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE ... You still haven't figured whether cousin George would like that great 2009 Chateauneuf-du-Pape, or maybe a case of that darn good $8 Shiraz would suit him just fine. Or what to get the doctor who brought your twins into the world? Champagne surely but which one. Would she like Dom Perignon or that '99 Salon? Your brother in San Francisco claims he gets all the wine he needs, but how about the Mas Doix "Doix" from Priorat. Aunt Josefina is so fickle. Two years ago she would drink only white Burgundy, last year she was all Argentine Malbec. And Darien, your college buddy? You forgot him completely and you can't possibly get anything to New York in 24 hours. Relax and be of good cheer. B-21 has the answer...
THE PERFECT GIFT! The new B-21 Gift Card and virtual eGift Card makes giving wine as easy as drinking it. With B-21's state of the art website and our peerless shipping, our new cards make your giving and their getting all the merrier: ANY AMOUNT: You set the limit, $10 to $1000. ANY WINE: They choose from 6,000 labels (and, if they live in Florida, spirits too). ANY TIME: Buy eGift Cards 24/7, up to the last minute at B-21.com. Send an eGift Card at midnight on Christmas Eve just in the nick of time! ANYWHERE: B-21 ships to almost 40 states ANY WAY: Get your B-21 gift card on-line or in-store. GIVE THE GIFT OF B-21.