C240-NT: Italy, Austria and Germany

CELLAR 240 NORTHWEST TERRITORIES ORDER BY MARCH 28, 2016

FRANCESCO BOLLA PROPRIETOR, TENUTA POGGIO VERRANO

ITALY, AUSTRIA AND GERMANY

ORDERING MADE EASY! WHAT TO ORDER Read the description or use the profile chart for each wine to help you make your selections. The profile chart features a variety of symbols; consult the legend below to discover which symbols best suit your palate.

THERE ARE FIVE WAYS TO ORDER • Order online. Go to opim.ca , sign in and select Order Wine - Show Details or Quick Order Wine.

• Email opim@opim.ca with your selection.

• Call 1-800-361-9421.

• Fax your order to 514-481-9699.

• Mail your order.

THERE ARE TWO WAYS TO REDEEM YOUR COUPON From the same Cellar Offering…

• Order a case of wine and choose your free case from the coupon wines listed on the back cover.

OR • Order two cases of wine and receive $75 off your order.

Restrictions: Coupons are non-transferrable and cannot be exchanged for cash.

See coupon for full details Exclusions: Opimian Select and Founders’ Choice Programs.

DELIVERY It takes time! The wines on this Cellar Offering are not yet in Canada. When the wine arrives at your local liquor store or distribution center, you will receive a Pick Up Notice with the specified date (the Release Date) and your pick up location. You can follow the status of your shipment at opim.ca.

Expected arrival at a Canadian Port is mid-July 2016. Release dates are dependent upon actual arrival dates, distance from port of entry to liquor board, and processing time required by each liquor board.

LET US HELP YOU! Contact us at 1-800-361-9421 or email us at opim@opim.ca CONDITIONS OF PURCHASE • Methods of Payment: Credit Card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express) or by cheque payable to Opimian.

• Prices include all applicable federal and provincial mark ups and taxes, including GST/HST #105 233 217 and QST #1000640430.

• A valid 2016 membership card is required to order and pick up.

• Bottle prices are for reference only. All orders are by the case, with no minimum required.

• Last day to order from this Cellar Offering: March 28, 2016.

As fourth generation of the Bolla family and after a long time spent expanding the family winery, in 2000 I started a new wine project on my own in Maremma, Southern Tuscany.

Poggio Verrano has 27 hectares of high-density vineyards and a fully underground gravity-flow cellar.

Dròmos L’Altro is a rich Sangiovese aged in French oak barrique and in bottle. It is a complex, age-worthy and elegant artisanal wine with a sense of place.

– Francesco Bolla, Proprietor, Poggio Verrano

LEGEND Members’ Choice

White

Aroma

Drink this year

Red

Taste

Enjoyable now; will develop 6 months-2 years

Rosé

Serving temperature

Opimian Suggests Wine meant for laying down

Ideal with

Sparkling

Bottle size Great concentration Heavy oak

Number of bottles in case Medium concentration

Light in body

Medium oak

Light oak

Less than 100 cases available Very limited quantities

Extremely limited quantities Limited quantities

Degrees of Maturity (M) (Scale of 1-10) 1 = lay down 10 = fully mature Degrees of Drinkability (D) (Scale of 1-10) 1 = needs time 10 = ready to drink

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OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 240

Medal Winner

This symbol denotes wines most ordered by Opimian members. These are consistently popular with our membership at large.

Appeared in the C232 Select Cases (2015 Season)

To help novice members, this symbol is a guide to wines that are suitable for starting a cellar, and/or for drinking within two years of delivery.

Sweetness scale gms/litre 00 0-3 01 4-6 02 7 - 12 03 13 - 20 04 21 - 34 05 35 - 50 06 51 - 74 07 75 - 100 08 101 - 139 09 140 - 179 10 180 >

Examples Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, many reds Some New World varietals, some reds Champagne, Sparklers, Rosés, few reds Mosel, some Alsace, Anjou Semi-sweet Bordeaux, some sherry Kabinett German, Late Harvest, Alsace Spätlese German, Sweet Loire, Port, Dessert Muscat Auslese, Beerenauslese Icewines, Sauternes, Barsac, dessert wines, Port Icewines, Sauternes, Barsac, dessert wines, Port Speciality sweet wines, Trockenbeerenauslese

C ELL AR OFFE RING 240

ltaly, Austria and Germany

Cellar Offering 240 has a distinctly European flavour to it, with wines from Italy, Austria and Germany. Altogether, over two hundred and twenty wines were put forward by producers. These were all tasted and whittled down to select the very best for this cellar offering of sixty-three wines, all exclusive to Opimian members.

Opimian’s Wine Consultant Jane Masters MW is a graduate of Bordeaux’s famous Institut d’Oenologie and was elected to the Institute of Masters of Wine in 1997.

Fluent in French and English, Jane is currently a member of the Council of the Institute of Masters of Wine, regularly speaks at industry seminars and is a Panel Chair for the International Wine Challenge.

Sangiovese is Italy’s most widely planted grape variety, often going by a different name in different regions, but Italy is also known for the sheer number of indigenous varieties it cultivates. In this cellar offering there are wines produced from 28 varieties grown in Italy, not to mention Austria’s Grüner Veltliner and Blaufränkisch and Germany’s exciting new red variety Regent; a diverse range of flavours and styles suitable for everyday and for cellaring. Enjoy exploring, and why not try something new?

Avenue Srl. p. 4

Calì – one family, three terroirs p. 19

Le Vigne di Sammarco SRL. p. 23

Höpler p. 25

The Wine People p. 21

Weingut Ernst Bretz p. 28

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AVENUE SRL. Termeno, Alto Adige, Südtirol

ltaly

Tenuta Il Veltro - manual harvest of Sangiovese grapes in this vineyard planted in 1974, located in the historic Brunello production area on the southern slope of Montalcino.

Alto Adige

8535 PINOT GRIGIO, DOC ALTO ADIGE, E. VON KELLER, 2015 $23.83

$143.00

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Pinot Grigio is synonymous with Italy, although some can be disappointingly neutral showing little personality.

Not so with the E. von Keller Pinot Grigio 2015; pale yellow in colour, it has nice aromatic intensity with a bouquet of fresh pears, green apples and melon. Soft and broad on the palate, it is fresh with a dry, elegant citrus finish. Fermented in stainless steel tanks with no use of oak, it makes a perfect aperitif.

OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 240

Pinot Grigio Fresh green apples, pears Melons, fresh lemon finish, [00] 6°C 2016-2017, M8 D9 Grilled halibut with orange rémoulade

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Werner Walch can trace back his family’s roots to the wine trade in Tramin 150 years. Tramin, in northern Italy’s Alto Adige region, lies close to the border with Austria and this mountain region was once part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Surrounding vineyards are stunning and the original part of the winery, once an ancient monastery, is full of traditional ornately-carved oak casks. In this impressive setting, Werner and his wife Elena produce wines and have sourced an equally impressive range of individual estates from regions around Italy.

8536 LAGREIN, DOC ALTO ADIGE, E. VON KELLER, 2014

The Lagrein grape is indigenous to northern Italy and the Alto Adige, where it is mainly to be found, other than a very limited number of plantings in California and Australia. $25.83 In Alto Adige it is often blended with Schiava Grossa, but in this case Werner has produced a wine that is 100% Lagrein. The 2014 has floral, berry fruits and cherry, almond flavours with medium weight and good balance. $155.00 It was matured in large oak vats and 20-hectolitre casks made of French Allier oak. The earliest mention of Lagrein dates back to 1318 when people living near Bolzano were told to give Lagrein to the poor or the church.

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Lagrein Floral, almonds Fresh cherries, dark fruit 16°C 2016-2019, M7 D9 Savoury pork stew and potato dumplings

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Friuli-Venezia Giulia

8537 TERRE DI GER SAUVIGNON BLANC, IGT DELLE VENEZIE, 2015 $28.00

$168.00

Friuli, in the northeast of Italy, is where many of Italy’s best white wines are produced. Terre di Ger has 70 hectares of vines planted between the Lemene and Livenza rivers. The Spinazzè family cultivates a range of varieties and has lovingly restored the historic farmhouse which now houses the winery. The Terre di Ger Sauvignon Blanc 2015 is aromatic and elegant with aromas of gooseberries, nettles and a touch of smoke. The palate is crisp and fresh with perfect balance and a lingering refreshing aftertaste. This is classy Sauvignon Blanc. The grapes came from the Baite’s vineyard on limestone and clay soils and were all harvested by hand. The fruit was gently pressed and the juice left to decant prior to a long, slow fermentation at low temperature.

Sauvignon Blanc Gooseberry, nettle leaves Smoky, gooseberry, mineral, [02] 8°C 2016-2018, M8 D9 Seafood linguini

Piemonte

8538 LE GRIVE, DOC MONFERRATO, FORTETO DELLA LUJA, 2014 $37.00

$222.00

Forteto della Luja is owned and run by the Scaglione family; Giancarlo with his son Giovanni and daughter Silvia. The estate lies close to the village of Loazzolo with nine hectares of vineyards situated at 500 metres on limestone soils producing distinctive wines with personality. Le Grive is a blend of Barbera and Pinot Noir. The area is rural, surrounded by woods and grasslands. The estate itself is affiliated with the WWF and everything is organically farmed. The old steep vineyards are surrounded by low, dry stone walls and thick juniper bushes which provide sustenance to thrushes during winter; the name for thrush in Italian is “grive”. Intense in colour, Le Grive 2014 has aromas of fresh fruits, blackberries, apples and plums combined with prunes, figs and vanilla. The palate is soft and rich with good concentration. This wine has lots of appeal, spicy vanilla and fruit compote followed by a long, bitter cherry finish. It was aged for a short time in oak.

Barbera, Pinot Noir Plums, prunes, figs, vanilla Concentrated, mellow 18°C 2016-2022, M6 D9 Guinea fowl with rosemary, red wine and porcini mushrooms

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8540 DOLCETTO D’ALBA, DOC, FIGLI LUIGI ODDERO, 2014

8539 BARBERA D’ALBA, FRANCO AMOROSO, DOC, 2015

Piedmont is planted with three main red wine grapes; Dolcetto, Nebbiolo and Barbera. If one thinks of the wide variation in hilly terrain and sun exposition, this $21.50 makes complete sense. Barbera ripens later than Dolcetto, but before Nebbiolo. Matured in a combination of new and one-year-old oak, the 2015 Franco Amoroso Barbera d’Alba has an intense clove and $129.00 coffee characteristic which dominates the restrained meaty and liquorice aromas. On the palate, it is a juicy wine with fruits, berries and vibrant acidity. Andrea and Francesca Sperone are the fourth generation to run the estate at Mombaruzzo planted in 1920.

The Oddero family has been making fine quality wines in the Langhe region for over 150 years. Luigi Oddero set up his own domaine in 2006, with his wife Lena $25.50 who now manages the estate. Dolcetto has the benefit of ripening earlier than the other traditional Piemonte grape varieties, making it suitable for cooler sites where Barbera and Nebbiolo simply would not reach $153.00 full maturity. Dolcetto grapes are sweet and low in acidity and hence produce fragrant, fruity wines, great for earlier drinking. The grapes were grown around Serralunga d’Alba on relatively shallow calcareous marl alternating with mixed sand and clay strata. Deep in colour, Luigi Oddero’s Dolcetto d’Alba 2014 has an intensely perfumed nose of damsons, blueberries and other dark fruits with some floral notes. Medium-bodied, it has good acidity and, despite its softness, some firm tannins to support it.

Dolcetto Damsons, blueberries, floral

Barbera Liquorice, meaty Dark fruits 18°C 2016-2018, M8 D9

Berry fruits, firm acidity 18°C 2016-2019, M7 D8 Caper-stuffed veal with tomato spinach sauce

Grilled pizza with spicy Italian sausage

8542 BAROLO, DOCG, FIGLI LUIGI ODDERO, 2011

8541 NEBBIOLO, LANGHE, DOC, FIGLI LUIGI ODDERO, 2012

Nebbiolo finds its greatest expression in the Langhe hills on the right bank of the Tanaro River. Location is all important in this patchwork of hills and valleys; Nebbiolo $30.00 can only be successfully cultivated on privileged sites.

In this case, the Nebbiolo vineyards at La Morra are planted mid-slope between 200 and 300 metres and benefit from both the morning and evening sun. Light $180.00 to medium ruby in colour, the Luigi Oddero Nebbiolo 2012 has a restrained, perfumed nose with aromas of incense and red apples. Light to medium-bodied with firm tannins, it is ready for early drinking and will hold for some years.

Nebbiolo Perfumed, incense, red apples Bitter cherries 18°C 2016-2022, M6 D8 Roast goose with rosemary and garlic potatoes

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Nebbiolo grapes for the Luigi Oddero Barolo come from the estate’s best vineyard sites in La Morra, Serralunga d’Alba, Castiglione Falletto and Monforte $51.17 d’Alba. Despite being a super vintage, 2011 has run the risk of being overshadowed by the concentrated, tannic 2010, but this is a good vintage in its own right.

Luigi Oddero Barolo 2011 is quite restrained on the $307.00 nose with haunting aromas of red fruits, vanilla and a hint of smoke. Medium-bodied, it is structured with delicious cranberry and sour cherry flavours. It won’t reach its peak for a couple of years, but is worth the wait. Vineyards are planted on two soils types from the Helvetian and Tortonian eras consisting of deep tuffaceous marl strata and mixed clay and reddish sand strata. Scrupulous manual harvesting was carried out and the grapes fermented between 27°C and 30°C. The wine was matured in a combination of French and Slavonian oak for 24 months.

Nebbiolo Smoke, vanilla, red fruits Cranberries, sour cherries 18°C 2016-2025, M6 D7 Roast duck breast with braised Swiss chard, rhubarb confit and smoked shallot

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8543 BAROLO, DOCG, ROCCHE RIVERA, FIGLI LUIGI ODDERO, 2010 $72.17

$433.00

The fortified village of Castiglione Falletto sits atop a hill in the centre of the Barolo region. The single-vineyard site Rocche Rivera is comprised of three hectares planted beneath the castle walls at approximately 350 metres. Soils are bluish-grey marl with loose mixtures of sand and clay from the Helvetian era, producing concentrated beefy wines with longevity. Coming from the great concentrated 2010 vintage, the Luigi Oddero Rocche Rivera Barolo is deep ruby in colour with intense aromas of smoke, tar, figs and dark fruits. Mellow and complex, this is a rich wine with firm acidity. It is elegant with ripe tannins, fine texture and a long, bitter cherry finish. The grapes were hand-picked at the end of September through early October. After passing through the sorting table, the grapes were de-stemmed and lightly crushed before fermentation between 27°C and 30°C. 2010 was one of the longest growing seasons ever with the right weather conditions at the right time throughout. At harvest, night time temperatures dropped to 5°C with warm temperatures around 20°C during the day, creating ideal conditions for flavour and phenolic development in the grapes. The wine was matured for 24 months in French and Slavonian oak barrels.

Nebbiolo Intense, complex, tar, figs Rich, bitter cherries 18°C 2016-2025, M6 D7 Rack of lamb with mushroom risotto and roasted baby carrots

BARBERA D´ALBA, DOC, BOSIO, BARRIQUES, 8544 EGIDIO 2012

$27.83

$167.00

Barbera vines were cultivated in Santo Stefano Belbo at 300 metres on calcareous clay soils. Egidio Barbera d’Alba 2012 is showing some development. Aromas of dark berries and fruit are complemented by a touch of leather and meaty notes. On the palate, smoky flavours and sour cherries emerge with good concentration and firm acidity. After fermentation in tank, the wine was aged for 12 months in new French oak barriques. Ready for drinking, it will remain at its peak for several years.

Barbera

8545 BARBARESCO, DOCG, BEL COLLE, 2012

Bel Colle at Verduno produces traditional style wines under the guidance of oenologist Paolo Torchio. The Barbaresco zone lies to the northeast of the town of $38.33 Alba on the right bank of the Tanaro River. Nebbiolo grapes for Bel Colle Barbaresco 2012 were grown around Barbaresco and the town of Treiso to the south.

Bel Colle Barbaresco 2012 is a brick ruby hue and has $230.00 mellow aromas of dark fruits, liquorice and smoke. Soft and rich on the palate, it is youthful with a concentrated mid-palate and firm tannins and acidity on the finish.

Well-balanced with the potential to develop over the coming years, it merits some time in bottle prior to drinking. It was matured for two years with some aging in large oak and chestnut casks.

Raisins, candy floss, leather Sour cherries, smoky 18°C 2016-2020, M8 D8 Braised rabbit with olives

Nebbiolo Dark fruits, smoke, liquorice Rich, concentrated 18°C 2016-2025, M6 D7 Wild boar stew served over polenta

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OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 240

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The Bel Colle aging cellar is located six meters underground and contains large French oak “tonneaux.” Here, the Nebbiolo grape becomes Barolo and Barbaresco.

8546 BAROLO, DOCG, “SIMPOSIO”, BEL COLLE, 2012 $43.50

$261.00

Barolo is considered the king of Piemonte, producing wines from 100% Nebbiolo. Bel Colle Barolo 2012 is deep brick in colour, with restrained aromas of blackcurrants, other black fruits and spice. Medium-bodied, it has an ethereal characteristic with good concentration and balance. Nebbiolo grapes were grown around the village of Verduno in the north of the DOCG close to the Tanaro River, one of the warmer areas of the region. Wines must be aged for three years to attain Barolo DOCG status. A cold winter was followed by a summer with intense heat in 2012, reducing crop levels, but conditions at harvest were good, producing wines with less super ripe flavours than 2011, but with great balance. After traditional vinification, Bel Colle Barolo 2012 was aged in oak casks for three years.

Nebbiolo Blackcurrant, blackberries Concentrated, youthful fruits 18°C 2016-2025, M6 D7 Brasato al Barolo with truffled mashed potatoes

ITALY AVENUE SRL. >>

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Forteto della Luja is a family-run winery established in 1826 and is currently owned

by Giancarlo Scaglione and managed by his children Giovanni and Silvia. In this photo Giovanni is soft-pressing the grapes.

Veneto DOCG ASOLO PROSECCO SUPERIORE, 8547 CIROTTO, EXTRA DRY, 2015

$27.83

$167.00

This Prosecco is produced by Cirotto from Glera grapes grown high up in the Asolo hills. Vineyards are planted with 3,700 vines per hectare on quite deep, well-drained sandy clay and pebbly soils, and trained using Double Guyot. Bunches of grapes are hand-picked and the whole clusters softly pressed. The juice was fermented at low temperature in stainless steel tanks, producing creamy texture and bubbles with some residual sweetness.

Glera

8548 VALPOLICELLA CLASSICO, DOC, CA’ LA BIONDA, 2015

Located in the heart of the historic Valpolicella Classico zone at Marano, this family estate was founded in 1902 by Pietro Castellani. The fourth generation of the $26.50 Castellani family makes wines with his same dedication and search for excellence. The vineyard extends over 29 hectares of hillsides at altitudes between 150 and 300 metres. Typically Valpolicella in style, the Ca’ La $159.00 Bionda Classico 2015 is soft and light on the palate.

Intense berry aromas and flavours of raspberries and cranberries simply explode on the palate. The grapes were picked towards the end of September and were fermented in stainless steel tanks at 25°C. The wine is bottled after three months to capture the vibrant fruit and is immediately ready for early consumption.

Pear drops, fresh apples Melon, lemons, [03] 6°C 2016-2017, M8 D9 Pear, parmesan, candied pecan and rocket salad

Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella Intense red berries Raspberry, cranberries 16°C 2016-2018, M8 D9 Antipasto platter

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OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 240

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VALPOLICELLA RIPASSO CLASSICO 8549 MALAVOGLIA, SUPERIORE, DOC, CA’ LA BIONDA, 2013 The Malavoglia Valpolicella Ripasso 2013 has a spicy, cola characteristic which complements red $33.33 cherry aromas. Medium-bodied, it is mellow with good concentration, fine texture and cherry flavours. The grapes were picked and the fermentation carried out in 50-hectolitre oak vats. Amarone skins from the $200.00 previous vintage from the Ravazzol vineyard were added to the young Valpolicella wine and re-fermented in what is known as the Ripasso process to provide extra sweetness and spicy raisin characteristics. After fermentation, the wine was matured for 12 months in 30-hectolitre old oak casks.

Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella Spices, cola, red cherries

DELLA VALPOLICELLA CLASSICO, DOCG, CA’ 8550 AMARONE LA BIONDA, 2012 The best grapes from the estate’s vineyards are used to produce Amarone. Grown at an altitude of 200 $51.17 metres and facing east, the vines are on stony, rocky limestone soils and naturally produce low yields. The least compact bunches which have the best exposure to the sun are selected and picked by hand. These $307.00 are placed on drying racks and left to slowly dry out or “raisin”, losing approximately 40% of their weight in water. The highly concentrated juice is fermented in stainless steel tanks at low temperature over the winter and the wine left to age for 36 months in traditional 3000-litre oak casks with 10% in 225-litre barrels. The result is a deep ruby-coloured wine with a complex bouquet of cooked fruits and caramel. The sweet, succulent fruit flavours and fine texture are completely balanced by the natural acidity with a rich chocolate and spicy finish.

Cherries, spice, fine texture

Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella

16°C

Caramel, cooked fruits

2016-2020, M7 D8

Rich, concentrated, chocolate, spicy finish

Braised lamb shanks with roasted vegetables

18°C 2016-2022, M6 D9 Filet mignon with porcini mushroom compound butter

DI RAVAZZOL, AMARONE DELLA VALPOLICELLA CLASSICO, DOCG, CA’ LA 8551 VIGNETI BIONDA, 2011

$69.00

$414.00

Ravazzol hill has unique topographical and climatic conditions and is known for its potential to produce the very highest quality grapes. The vines, aged between 50 and 70 years, are planted at 200 to 300 metres above sea level on soils that are predominantly clay-limestone with a high proportion of rocks and stones that bring elegance and minerality to the final wine. This single-vineyard Ravazzol Amarone 2011 is a blend of 70% Corvina, 20% Corvinone and 10% Rondinella. Intensely coloured, it is youthful with a rich, mellow bouquet of blackcurrants, smoke, red cherries and slate. The palate is rich and concentrated, structured with more savoury flavours shining through. This is a wine with depth and a long, lingering finish.

Delicious to drink now, it will continue to develop more complex characteristics to be savoured in the coming years.

Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella Blackcurrants, smoke, red cherries Smooth, mellow, savoury fruits 18°C 2016-2025, M6 D8 Oxtail stew served on bed of semolina

ITALY AVENUE SRL. >>

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Toscana VERMENTINO TOSCANA, IGT, VIGNAIOLI 8552 SCANTIANUM MORELLINO SCANSANO, 2015

VIOGNIER TOSCANA, IGT, VIGNAIOLI 8553 SCANTIANUM MORELLINO SCANSANO, 2015

Vermentino has become popular in many regions the world over in recent years, but its home is Tuscany $22.50 where it produces wines with distinction and elegance.

Vignaioli Morellino Scansano 2015 Vermentino Toscano is both those things and more. Restrained on the nose, it has mineral and lime aromas. The palate is broad with $135.00 pure lemon acidity which creates balance and a long, citrus finish. A touch of Sauvignon Blanc (3%) adds an extra dimension. Vines are cultivated on sandy soils rich in silt between 100 and 300 metres.

Produced from 100% Viognier, the wine simply screams the grape variety. Aromas of passion fruit, white fruits $22.83 and fresh apples combine with a hint of vanilla. While this is a dry wine, it has more richness on the palate than the Vermentino with soft, ripe peachy flavours and great balance. The grapes were harvested at the end of $137.00 August, chilled and slowly pressed. The free run juice was fermented at a maximum temperature of 16°C in stainless steel tanks and left on lees for three months giving extra weight. The soft, aromatic style is perfect for pairing with a range of Asian dishes.

Vermentino, Sauvignon Blanc Mineral, limes Broad, lemon and pink grapefruit acidity, [00] 6°C 2016-2018, M8 D9 Linguine with saffron, tomatoes and herbs

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OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 240

Viognier Passion fruit, fresh apples Vanilla, ripe peaches, [00] 6°C 2016-2018, M8 D9 Chicken Masala

ITALY AVENUE SRL. >>

The Werner Walch property at Kastelaz hill overlooks the village of Tramin, hometown of the Gewürztraminer varietal which seems to have its origin right here.

CILIEGIOLO MAREMMA TOSCANA, DOC, 8554 CAPOCCIA, VIGNAIOLI MORELLINO SCANSANO, 2015

$22.17

$133.00

Here is a well-made light red wine with intense red berry aromas and flavours. This is soft, easy to drink with lots of appeal. Capoccia is a blend of 85% Ciliegiolo and 15% Alicante. The vines were planted approximately 15 years ago on rich silty soils. After picking, the grapes were de-stemmed and underwent a hot maceration at 35°C for 12 hours followed by a short fermentation at 27°C. Ciliegiolo, Alicante Intense red berries Soft, light, red fruits 16°C 2016-2018, M8 D9 Polpettone alla Toscana – Tuscan meatballs in a rich tomato sauce

MORELLINO DI SCANSANO RISERVA, DOCG, VIGNAIOLI MORELLINO 8555 SICOMORO, SCANSANO, 2012

$27.83

$167.00

The Maremma region in southern Tuscany stretches along the Mediterranean coastline from Bibbona in the north to Argentario to the south. Once a land of swamps and malaria, today the reclaimed land is one of the most exciting and dynamic wine areas in Italy. Morellino di Scansano lies towards the southern end where Sangiovese, locally known as Morellino, produces high-quality grapes.

Scansano is the hilltop village which gives its name to the DOCG created in 1978.

Sicomoro Riserva 2012 has intense blackcurrant and wine gum aromas. It is youthful and supple on the palate with intense black fruits and some chewy tannins. The Morellino vines were planted 30 years ago on deep sandy silt and clay soils at 300 metres. Sicomoro was matured for 15 months in oak with 60% new and 40% oneyear-old barrels. It is delicious to drink now and over the coming three to five years.

Morellino (Sangiovese) Blackcurrants, wine gums Dark berries, chewy finish 16°C 2016-2020, M7 D9 Pappardelle alla Lepre - fresh pappardelle pasta with wild hare sauce

ITALY AVENUE SRL. >>

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VERMENTINO SAUVIGNON, IGP TOSCANA, 8556 NEN’A CASTELLO TRICERCHI, 2014 This is a deliciously refreshing, crisp white wine with layers of flavour and sophistication. Pale yellow with $22.83 a greenish tinge, the nose is quite restrained, but has notes of fresh limes and passion fruit. Soft and elegant on the palate, it has a range of citrus, mandarins, limes and lemons, which persist long after the first sip. A $137.00 blend of 80% Vermentino with 20% Sauvignon Blanc, vines are planted at 60 to 85 metres facing northeast.

At six years old the vines are mere babies, so lots of promise for the future!

Vermentino, Sauvignon Blanc Fresh limes, passion fruit Mandarins, limes, lemons, [00] 6°C

TRICERCHI ROSSO DI MONTALCINO, DOC, 8557 CASTELLO 2014 This is a relatively pale wine, light to medium in body, but don’t let that deceive you; it’s a wine with bags of $28.50 flavour! 100% Sangiovese, the vines are cultivated behind the castle at 300 metres on sandy clay soils rich in structure with medium texture. Spicy oak with cooked apple aromas, the palate reveals more red fruit flavours $171.00 with vanilla. A wine with charm and elegance, it ends on a long, spicy finish. The grapes were harvested by hand at the end of September. After fermentation in stainless steel tanks, the wine was matured in 15 and 20 hectolitre Slavonian oak casks for 18 months. Ready for slightly earlier drinking than the Il Veltro Rosso di Montalcino of the same vintage, it will hold for several years.

2016-2017, M8 D9 Sangiovese

Chili-lime crusted sea scallops with citrus-tomato crème fraîche

Cooked apples, spicy, vanilla, oak Red fruits, lingering spicy finish 18°C 2016-2020, M7 D9

8558 $24.00

$144.00

Bacon-wrapped pork fillet with Brunello reduction saffron-laced apple purée

SERAPHICUM ROSSO TOSCANO, IGT, 2014 Produced by the young and talented Caterina Sacchet, the Seraphicum Sangiovese Cabernet Sauvignon 2014 is intense in colour with attractive aromas of fresh red fruits and spice. Soft and smooth on the palate, it has a fine texture and juicy acidity with concentration and a long red cherry finish. It is a blend of 70% Sangiovese and 30% Cabernet Sauvignon. Each grape variety was harvested and vinified separately. Towards the end of fermentation the two were blended and matured in small oak casks.

Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon

8559 SERAPHICUM CHIANTI CLASSICO, DOCG, 2014 $27.50

Red fruits, spice Smooth, red cherries, juicy acidity

$165.00

The Seraphicum Chianti Classico produced by Caterina is a more traditional style of wine, a reflection of the indigenous grape varieties that go into it; 80% Sangiovese and 20% Canaiolo. It has a meatier, animal, cedary aroma. Matured for six months in oak casks, it is medium-bodied with a long, smoky, spicy finish, perfect for drinking over the next few years. It is a good match with any gamey dish.

18°C 2016-2022, M6 D8

Sangiovese, Canaiolo

Penne all'arrabbiata

Meaty, cedar, spice Mellow, spicy, smoky 18°C 2016-2020, M7 D9 Grilled venison chop with semolina gnocchi and roasted eggplant

14

OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 240

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PIETRO IN AVENANO CHIANTI CLASSICO, DOCG, 8560 SAN 2012

PIETRO IN AVENANO CHIANTI CLASSICO GRAN 8561 SAN SELEZIONE, DOCG, 2011

San Pietro in Avenano Chianti Classico 2012 displays some complex tar, earth and smoky notes combined $25.83 with dark fruits. Mellow in flavour, it is medium to full-bodied with good structure. An enjoyable complex wine without breaking the bank, it will be drinking nicely over the next few years. Produced from 95% $155.00 Sangiovese with 5% Merlot, the grapes were picked by machine (hence the value price point), fermented and subsequently aged in Slavonian oak casks for 12 months prior to bottling.

San Pietro in Avenano Chianti Classico Gran Selezione 2011 is produced from 90% Sangiovese with 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and has an altogether more $47.33 youthful feel to it. The grapes came from selected parcels in Casi, San Pietro and Poggiarso planted in 2000 and 2003. Vibrant ruby in colour, aromas $284.00 of blackcurrants and fresh apples combine with an earthy characteristic. Soft on the attack, it is smooth and medium-bodied with juicy red fruits and acidity leading to a savoury finish with some balsamic, red cherries and vanilla. Exceptional care is taken in the vineyard with shoot-thinning and canopy management then picking by hand. The grapes were refrigerated upon arrival at the cellar and underwent a cold maceration for 24 hours before fermentation. The wine was fermented and then matured in French oak barrels for 18 months.

Sangiovese, Merlot Complex, tar, smoke, dark fruits Mellow, earthy fruits 18°C

Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon

2016-2022, M6 D8

Blackcurrant, earthy spice

Quail stuffed with wild mushroom risotto

Juicy red fruits, savoury balsamic, red cherries, vanilla 18°C 2016-2025, M6 D7 Bistecca alla Fiorentina

8562 IL VELTRO, ROSSO DI MONTALCINO, DOC, TENUTA IL VELTRO, 2014 $28.17

$169.00

The pretty hilltop town of Montalcino lies in southern Tuscany, 42 kilometres from Siena and close to the Monte Amiata lava dome. This area has been settled since Etruscan times and the location of the town of Montalcino affords stunning views of surrounding vineyards, olive groves, orchards and villages. The region is protected by Monte Amiato which peaks at 1,700 metres and benefits from a warm, dry climate. It has rockier, less fertile soils than Chianti Classico. The wines are produced from the Brunello grape, in essence local clones of Sangiovese. The grapes for Il Veltro are planted on Sant’Angelo hill at 300 metres, overlooking the Orcia River and facing south-southwest. Il Veltro Rosso di Montalcino 2014 is typically restrained on the nose with notes of black olives. The smooth palate reveals more dark fruits and bitter chocolate flavours. The wine has a fine texture with ripe tannins and good acidity leading to a long, smoky marmite finish.

Sangiovese (Brunello clones) Black olives, dark fruits Smooth, ripe fruit, smoky marmite, bitter chocolate 18°C 2016-2025, M6 D7 Ravioli with wild boar ragù

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15

8563 IL VELTRO, BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO, DOCG, TENUTA IL VELTRO, 2011 $40.50

$243.00

The estate’s best grapes are used to produce Brunello di Montalcino wines which are matured for an extended time in oak casks. These wines are made to be cellared and the best have potential to age for decades. Il Veltro Brunello di Montalcino 2011 was produced after a rigorous selection of the best grape bunches in the vineyard, followed by a further selection on the sorting table in the cellar. In 2011, heavy spring rains and higher than average temperatures brought the growing season forward by 10 to 15 days, leading to an early harvest. The brick ruby colour shows some development. In contrast, the nose is still youthful with intense blackcurrant, floral and sweet vanilla notes. The wine is tight with some firm chewy tannins and juicy fruits, and it will benefit from some time in cellar to mellow and develop more complex characteristics. The grapes were de-stemmed, crushed and fermented on skins for 18 to 20 days at 30°C. The wine was subsequently matured for three years in 25, 50 and 75 hectolitre oak casks from Slavonia and the French Allier.

Sangiovese (Brunello clones) Vanilla, floral, blackcurrant Juicy fruits, structured 18°C 2016-2025, M6 D8 Slow-braised lamb served with creamy polenta and seasonal vegetables

DI MARE, BOLGHERI, DOC, TENUTA ARGENTIERA, 8564 ECO 2012 Mellow red fruits, raspberries, loganberries, coconut and spice give this wine lots of tasty appeal. It is complex $34.33 and elegant with layers of flavour and a fine structure.

Bolgheri lies at the northern end of the Maremma region. While vineyards have been planted there for many years, the region only came into international $206.00 prominence in the last few decades for Cabernet and Sangiovese-based blends. Tenuta Argentiera is a point of reference within the region producing top notch wines from its 75 hectares of vines. The 2012 growing season followed a particularly long and severe winter. Summer months were hot and dry, leading to an early harvest with each of the varieties picked and vinified separately. After an extended maceration the wine was matured in French oak barrels from the Allier and Tronçais forests for 14 months.

The oak is perfectly integrated and the wine will mature in cellar reaching its optimum drinking in several years.

Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot Mellow, coconut, spices

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AL VESCOVO, VINO NOBILE DI 8565 FONTE MONTEPULCIANO, DOCG, VINICOLA BARTALI, 2013 To anyone visiting Tuscany, the hilltop town of Montepulciano in the south of the region, east of Siena $35.83 and Montalcino, is well worth a detour. The medieval town is quintessentially Tuscan, full of elegant palaces, churches and charming piazzas with panoramas and stunning views across the surrounding vineyards; not to $215.00 mention the wines it produces. Fonte al Vescovo Vino Nobile di Montepulciano 2013 is youthful with floral, red cherry and coffee aromas. Smooth and light to mediumbodied it has good depth and is well-balanced. After the first sip, it’s difficult to put down. Produced from 90% Sangiovese (locally known as Prugnolo) with a mix of other local varieties, the vineyards are around Montepulciano and the villages of Argiano and Ascianello. A long, slow maceration was followed by maturation for two years in medium-sized Slavonian oak casks and small French barriques.

Sangiovese, 10% other local varieties Coffee, red cherries, floral

Bitter cherries, red cherries, juicy fruits

Smooth, light to medium-bodied, spicy finish

18°C

18°C

2016-2022, M6 D8

2016-2020, M7 D9

Red wine-braised duck with olive gremolata

Pork and mushroom agnolotti with parmesan panna cotta

OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 240

ITALY AVENUE SRL. >>

Poggio Verrano vineyards integrated into the rural surrounding landscape of Maremma Toscana; the vineyards are planted to a density of 6,700 vines per hectare.

L’ALTRO, SANGIOVESE, MAREMMA TOSCANA, 8566 DRÒMOS IGT, POGGIO VERRANO, 2009 Francesco Bolla comes from a family of winemakers in Veneto. His personal estate Poggio Verrano, in $41.00 southern Maremma at Montiano, came into being in 2000. Francesco planted 27 hectares of vines on rugged land surrounded by dense forest. The vines are densely planted with 6700 vines per hectare, trained $246.00 low and spur-pruned. A range of international varieties are cultivated on the estate, but Dròmos L’Altro is made exclusively from Sangiovese which performs best at this end of the Maremma. The 2009 is dense in colour with a brick hue around the edges and is showing some nice development. The bouquet has vanilla, raspberry and balsamic components which lead to a soft, rich palate. Concentrated with good fruit and weight, this wine is smooth and simply lingers on the palate. The grapes were all picked by hand and underwent slow fermentation in open-top fermenters with gentle punching down of the skins. The wine was matured in oak for 12 months.

Le Marche DEI CASTELLI DI JESI CLASSICO, DOC, 8567 VERDICCHIO CASA VINICOLA S. PIERSANTI & C., 2015

$20.17

$121.00

The Verdicchio grape, planted on hilly terrain along the banks of the Esino River in the province of Ancona in Le Marche, makes some of Italy’s most interesting white wines. Piersanti’s Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi Classico 2015 is pale in colour with a nice aromatic intensity displaying fresh apples and pears. The palate is crisp with some spritz and a white grapefruit, lemon and bitter almond finish. It is a perfect match for fish and all seafood dishes.

Verdicchio Pears, fresh apples Crisp, touch of spritz, [00]

Sangiovese Vanilla, balsamic, raspberry Concentrated, rich fruits

6°C 2016-2017, M8 D9 Spaghettini with shrimp and ginger

18°C 2016-2023, M6 D9 Tagliata with arugula

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17

Abruzzo

8568 MONTEPULCIANO D’ABRUZZO, DOC, CORSI, 2014 $20.67

$124.00

The Abruzzo region in central Italy starts 50 kilometres east of Rome with the Adriatic Sea to its east. A third of this land is set aside as national parks and nature reserves and is home to Golden Eagles, Apennine wolves and brown bears. Montepulciano is the black grape of the region producing inexpensive wines with personality. Corsi’s 2014 is deep plum in colour with mellow aromas of raisins and treacle. It is medium-bodied with fresh fruit and red berry flavours with some chewy tannins. Produced from 100% Montepulciano, the grapes were harvested late September and underwent a classic vinification.

Montepulciano Treacle, raisins Red berries, mellow 18°C 2016-2018, M8 D9 Barbequed pork ribs

Sicilia LA FERLA INZOLIA, IGP TERRE SICILIANE, 8569 CANICATTÌ 2015 This indigenous variety has produced wine with nice nutty fruit aromas. Grown on limestone sandy silt soils $21.00 in the hinterlands of Agrigento and its ancient Greek temples, this is one of the largest archaeological sites in the world. The vines are cultivated between 250 and 400 metres. The grapes are picked and fermented $126.00 at low temperature resulting in a wine with lingering flavours of fresh apples, pears and white fruits. Perfect on a hot sunny day to go with octopus salad, peppered mussels or other Mediterranean style fare.

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8570 CANICATTÌ SYRAH AQUILAE, IGP SICILIA, 2014 $25.17

$151.00

While Syrah is certainly not a grape traditional to Sicily it grows well in the Agrigento hinterland and produces simple, but intensely flavoured wines. The Syrah Aquilae 2014 has flavours of jammy fruits and chocolate. It is light to medium-bodied with good acidity and a bitter cherry finish. It was aged for a short time in small French oak casks.

Inzolia

Syrah

Nutty, fresh apples

Jammy fruits, chocolate

White fruits, pears, [00]

Bitter cherries

6°C

16°C

2016-2017, M8 D9

2016-2018, M8 D9

Octopus salad

Sicilian lasagne with peas and sausage

OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 240

ITALY AVENUE SRL.

CALÌ – ONE FAMILY, THREE TERROIRS Gaiole in Chianti Tuscany

The Calì family owns both the San Sano and Poggio Maestrino estates in Chianti and Maremma, as well as Poggio Graffetta in Sicily. Calogero Calì was originally a practicing lawyer with a passion for agriculture and wine. In 1981 he purchased his first wine estate in the historic Chianti area. Today, his portfolio has grown expanding into Morellino di Scansano in 2006.

ITALY CALÌ – ONE FAMILY, THREE TERROIRS >>

Poggio Graffetta totals 27 hectares of vines at an altitude of 150 metres, in the Ragusa area close to Ispica. This structure dates back to the sixteenth century.

NORTHWEST TERRITORIES

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MORELLINO DI SCANSANO, DOCG, 8576 SPIAGGIOLE SOCIETÀ AGRICOLA POGGIO MAESTRINO E SPIAGGIOLE, 2013

8575

CASINA TOSCANA ROSSO, IGT, SAN SANO, 2014

A youthful and vibrant wine, bright ruby in colour, the aroma is bitter cherry fruit with a soft attack, good mid-palate weight and balance. It is a blend of 90% $19.83 Sangiovese with 10% Ciliegiolo. The grapes were picked and fermented at 28°C for 10 to 12 days. After fermentation the wine was aged for six months in barrel.

This is a great wine for everyday drinking that will go $119.00 nicely with a wide range of Italian pasta dishes. The Ciliegiolo grape was mentioned as early as 1600 as a variety planted around Florence. It produces long grape clusters with large berries, sweet fragrances and cherry flavours.

Poggio Maestrino estate has 20 hectares of vines on a hilly landscape in the south of the Maremma region. Produced from 100% Sangiovese, Spiaggiole Morellino di Scansano 2013 has a smoky aroma combined with dark fruits, tar and earthy notes. $143.00 It is light to medium-bodied with more red fruit characteristics on the palate, juicy acidity and a long, smoky finish. The Spiaggiole vineyard lies just inland on the rolling hills of the Costa d’Argento, at an altitude of 150 metres on volcanic soils, and looks down over the sea. $23.83

Sangiovese Dark fruits, tar

Sangiovese, Ciliegiolo

Earthy fruits, long smoky finish

Plums, cherries

18°C

Bitter cherries

2016-2018, M8 D9

18°C

Chicken cacciatore

2016-2019, M7 D9 Pici pasta with ragù alla Bolognese

8578 GRILLO, DOC SICILIA, GRAFFETTA, 2014

SAN SANO, CHIANTI CLASSICO RISERVA, 8577 CASTELLO DOCG, GUARNELLOTTO, 2009 Showing some nice notes of maturity, the Castello San Sano Chianti Classico Riserva Guarnellotto 2009 is $33.00 an intense brick ruby colour. It has a complex mellow bouquet leading to a smooth palate with smoky flavours; it is medium-bodied with some chewy tannins on the finish. Produced from a blend of 90% Sangiovese $198.00 with 10% Canaiolo, the vineyards lie around Pergoline, Podernovo and Casina at an average altitude of 450 metres. The wine was matured in traditional Chianti casks for 15 months. Named after a nobleman who lived in the 12th century, Guarnellotto was fiercely loyal to Siena and defended this land from the Florentines. In 1773, San Sano was recognized by writer Villifranchi as one of the best sites to produce Chianti wines at that time, positioned at 391 metres of altitude on a hill which dominates the valley.

Sangiovese, Canaiolo Complex, mellow

The vineyards are located at 600 metres around the area of Segesta in the northwest of Sicily. Segesta was home to the Elymian people, one of the three $24.00 indigenous peoples of Sicily. Just outside this ancient city is the Doric temple built around 420 BCE by an Athenian architect. Grillo vines are cultivated on the hills with soils high in content of skeletons and rocks. $144.00 Bright yellow in colour, the Graffetta Grillo 2014 has aromas of cooked white fruits, peaches and apricots.

The palate is quite rich with firm acidity, some spritz and a long, apricot flavour.

Grillo Cooked white fruits, peaches Apricots, [00] 6°C 2016-2018, M8 D9 Sicilian arancini di riso – rice balls

Smooth, smoky notes 18°C 2016-2020, M7 D9 Stracotto (pot roast) with porcini mushrooms

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OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 240

ITALY CALÌ – ONE FAMILY, THREE TERROIRS

THE WINE PEOPLE Trento Trentino-Alto Adige Südtirol

Having run the family Casa Girelli business based in Trento in northern Italy for many years, Stefano Girelli set up The Wine People in 2009 with Frenchman Philippe Marx and Dutchman Peter Kosten. Winemaker Stefano Chioccioli makes wines in different regions of Italy, respecting the provenance and style of each.

Stefano relishes the challenge of nurturing each and every TWP wine from grape to bottle.

Freshly hand-picked Grillo grapes grown in the area near Marsala; the variety reaches its peak of maturity in mid-September.

ITALY THE WINE PEOPLE >>

NORTHWEST TERRITORIES

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DEL MARE PROSECCO, DOP, EXTRA DRY, VINO 8579 DEA SPUMANTE

$18.75

$225.00

The world seems to have an insatiable thirst for Italian sparkling Prosecco wine; it’s fresh, fruity, easy-drinking, affordable and a treat all combined in one. Glera grapes for Dea del Mare Prosecco were grown on the gentle hillside slopes of Treviso. Picked in late September, they were gently pressed and then fermented to produce Prosecco using the Charmat method. Fresh pear flavours, gentle bubbles and refreshing crisp acidity create a perfect balance.

Glera Pears Soft, easy-drinking, [03] 6°C 2016-2017, M8 D9 Prosciutto-parmesan puffs

8580 PRECISO GRILLO, IGP TERRE SICILIANE, 2015

Grillo vines are cultivated around the Marsala area in Sicily using the Spalliera system. This is a light, elegant wine with flavours of apples, melons and lemon; $16.33 surprisingly fresh given the warm climate. After picking, the grapes were de-stemmed and pressed with a pneumatic press then fermented at low temperature.

Grillo is a classic Sicilian variety and was widely $196.00 planted across Sicily following the Phylloxera crisis in the 1880s. Today, it is found mainly in the province of Trapani to the northwest of the island and is one of the varieties used to produce fortified Marsala wine.

Grillo Melons, fresh apples Lemons, refreshing acidity, [02] 6°C 2016-2017, M8 D9 Linguini with cod and asparagus

GRILLO CHARDONNAY, IGP TERRE 8581 DENATILE SICILIANE, 2015

$16.42

$197.00

The Denatile Grillo Chardonnay has aromas of lemon and quince. Well-balanced, it has more mid-palate weight than the straight Grillo, finishing on notes of lemon and fresh apples. The Chardonnay brings smoother and rounded characteristics to the native Grillo grape.

Grillo, Chardonnay Quince, lemon Smooth, apples, lemon, [02] 6°C 2016-2017, M8 D9 Grilled swordfish with Sicilian-style relish

NERO D’AVOLA SHIRAZ, IGP TERRE 8582 DENATILE SICILIANE, 2015 A light to medium-bodied red wine for everyday drinking, the Denatile Nero d’Avola Shiraz is great value $16.42 for money with flavours of plums and black cherries. It will go well with a range of Italian food. Nero d’Avola is Sicily’s most planted red wine variety and likes heat. It is planted around Trapani with Shiraz on sandy soils rich in $197.00 minerals. Both grape varieties were carefully harvested by hand in mid to late September and vinified separately.

The grapes were de-stemmed, but not crushed and the must fermented between 28°C and 30°C. Nero d’Avola, Shiraz

opim.ca ORDER ONLINE AT

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Plums, cherries Light to medium-bodied, black fruits 16°C 2016-2018, M8 D9 Pasta alla Norma

ITALY THE WINE PEOPLE

LE VIGNE DI SAMMARCO SRL. Cellino San Marco Brindisi, Puglia Salento, in the southern heel of Italy, is a land rich in history and tradition.

Brindisi, Gallipoli, Otranto and Taranto were all important ports for the wine trade in ancient times. However, Puglia is flat and summers hot and without the impact of the cooling winds blowing in from the Adriatic and Ionian seas and modern technology, the scope for producing quality wines would be seriously limited to high alcohol blockbuster styles used for blending. The Sammarco vineyards lie around the small town of Cellino San Marco with approximately 180 hectares owned and managed by the latest generation of the Rizzello family, growing a majority of indigenous varieties.

ITALY LE VIGNE DI SAMMARCO SRL. >>

NORTHWEST TERRITORIES

23

EMAIL YOUR ORDER

opim@opim.ca

IGP SALENTO, LE VIGNE DI SAMMARCO, 8584 PRIMITIVO, 2014

$20.33

$122.00

IGP SALENTO, LE VIGNE DI SAMMARCO, 8583 ROSATO, 2015

$20.33

$122.00

Produced 100% from the indigenous Negroamaro grape, this is a rosé with lots of character. Herbal aromas with strawberry leaf, red berries and a hint of rose petal lead to a sweet, juicy palate with good acidity.

The grapes, harvested in the second half of September, were lightly crushed and left on skins to macerate for 12 to 14 hours.

Deep in colour, the Primitivo 2014 has intense dark fruits and smoke aromas. The palate is rich and smooth with soft tannins and sweet fruit flavours. The grapes are cultivated on vineyards in Cellino San Marco and San Pietro Vernotico around Brindisi. Primitivo is the same grape variety as California’s Zinfandel. Traditionally widely planted in Puglia, it is suited to lower fertility, well-drained soils and enjoys the Puglian climate in the heel of Italy.

Primitivo Dark fruits, smoke Rich palate, sweet plums, chocolate 16°C 2016-2018, M8 D9

Negroamaro

Eggplant rollatini

Herbal, strawberry leaf, rose petal Juicy red fruits, [02] 6°C 2016-2017, M8 D9 Baked Italian cheese sandwiches

DOP SALICE SALENTINO RISERVA, LE VIGNE DI 8586 BISSO, SAMMARCO, 2012

$25.17

IGP SALENTO PRIMITIVO, LE VIGNE DI 8585 SOLEMNIS, SAMMARCO, 2013

$24.67

$148.00

Solemnis 2013 has an intense cedar and pencil lead characteristic; it underwent malolactic fermentation and was aged for six months in French Allier oak barrels.

The spicy oak is complemented by black cherry aromas from the grapes. The soft, sweet palate is smooth and rich with flavours of vanilla, bitter cherry and menthol.

This is a wine with lots of southern personality reflecting hot summers and porty flavours.

$151.00

Intense in every way, colour, aroma and body, the Bisso Riserva 2012 has aromas of blackcurrant chews and lint. The sweet palate has flavours of black fruits with a smooth, full viscosity and firm acidity. It is a blend of 80% Negroamaro and 20% Malvasia. The grapes were picked in early September and left to macerate on skins for five to eight days. After fermentation the wine was transferred to Allier oak barrels for the malolactic fermentation and matured a further 12 months.

Negroamaro, Malvasia Blackcurrant, spice Smooth, sweet black fruits 16°C

Primitivo

2016-2019, M7 D9

Cedary spice, black cherries

Grilled flank steak in a garlic, balsamic and red wine marinade served with grilled vegetables

Vanilla, dark fruits, cherry menthol 18°C 2016-2019, M8 D9 Pan-simmered capretto (baby goat) with tomatoes, onion, parsley and herbs

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OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 240

ITALY LE VIGNE DI SAMMARCO SRL.

Austria

Höpler vineyards lie scattered piecemeal around the HÖPLER town of Winden, in Austria’s Burgenland, on gentle rolling next to Lake Neusiedl. This, the second largest steppe lake in Europe, covering 315 square kilometres, Breitenbrunn slopes straddles the border between Austria and Hungary. than one metre deep, one can walk across the 36 Burgenland Less kilometres from one side to the other. This natural wildlife habitat has an immense effect on the climate in the surrounding vineyards. This is Austria’s warmest region allowing red wine grapes as well as white to ripen fully. In autumn the lake is enveloped in mist allowing grapes to retain natural acidity. Young winemaker Christof Höpler inherited the running of the estate from his father Jost in 2008 and is certainly making his mark. The wines are made at a new winery and Christof created Höpler’s Wine Rooms in the historical property where visitors can explore each of the senses.

The Tasting Room at the unique wine experience world in Höpler’s Wine Rooms located in Winden

AUSTRIA HÖPLER >>

NORTHWEST TERRITORIES

25

GRÜNER VELTLINER, QUALITÄTSWEIN, 8587 HÖPLER BURGENLAND, 2015

$26.00

$156.00

Austria’s signature grape variety has gone from relative obscurity to world-renown in a couple of decades. It’s surprising really that it is not more widely planted outside Austria. Christof’s 2015 Grüner Veltliner has fresh springtime aromas of apple blossom, limes and green apples. The palate is dry and zesty with delicious, crisp citrus acidity and a long finish. The grapes were handpicked between September 15th and October 13th, gently pressed, and the juice fermented at 15°C to 16°C.

PINOT BLANC, QUALITÄTSWEIN, 8588 HÖPLER BURGENLAND, 2015

$27.50

$165.00

The Pinot Blanc is a soft wine with broad structure on the palate. Aromas and flavours of apples, melons and other ripe fruits combine to give the wine weight, ending with lingering notes of grapefruit pith and lemons. Harvest took place on September 14th and 15th with grapes picked by hand, pressed, and the juice slowly fermented at low temperature in stainless steel tanks. Christof ferments a small proportion (7%) of his Pinot Blanc in oak barrels from Turkey and Armenia to add extra pizazz.

Grüner Veltliner

Pinot Blanc

Limes, green apples, apple blossom

Apples, melon

Limes, herbs, [01]

Grapefruit, lemons, [01]

6°C

6°C

2016-2019, M8 D9

2016-2018, M8 D9

Sushi

Green papaya salad

Christof Höpler at the office in Breitenbrunn — the International Food Standard certificate confirms Höpler’s high standards having earned the accreditation by meeting the requirements on all levels concerning product safety, quality and legality.

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OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 240

AUSTRIA HÖPLER >>

RIESLING, QUALITÄTSWEIN, BURGENLAND, 8589 HÖPLER 2015

$29.33

$176.00

Riesling produces some of the finest white wines in the world. Christof’s 2015 demonstrates restraint and poise.

Pale in colour, it has delightful aromas of lime and apple blossom. The palate is dry, medium-bodied with firm acidity. Lime and mineral flavours give it depth, structure and elegance finishing with crisp acidity. It is a wine with the potential to age. 2015 was a relatively warm year with slightly above average temperatures during the summer, but not too dry.

ROSÉ CÉLESTIA, QUALITÄTSWEIN, 8590 HÖPLER BURGENLAND, 2015

$26.17

$157.00

A rosé with delicious appeal and layers of complexity; this is one that should please all wine drinkers. Pale pink in colour, it is produced from a blend of Pinot Noir, St. Laurent and Blaufränkisch grapes. Nutty fruit aromas lead to a soft, succulent palate with red fruits and pink lady apple flavours complemented by crisp acidity. It has a layered creamy texture with red berry finish and will be perfect for drinking late summer.

Pinot Noir , St. Laurent, Blaufränkisch

Riesling

Red fruits

Limes, apple blossom

Pink lady apples, red berries, [00]

Structured, limey finish, [01] 6°C

6°C 2016-2018, M8 D9

2016-2020, M7 D9 Sesame chicken salad with ginger-lime dressing

Ham, leek and Gouda soufflé

8591 HÖPLER BLAUFRÄNKISCH, QUALITÄTSWEIN, BURGENLAND, 2012 $29.33

$176.00

Blaufränkisch is the leading red grape variety of the Burgenland region.

This vigorous, early-budding and late-ripening variety does well in the region’s warm climate. Coming from the warm and ripe 2012 vintage, Höpler’s Blaufränkisch 2012 is medium ruby in colour. Herbal and cherry aromas lead to a soft, spicy palate, light to medium-bodied with good acidity and a long, red cherry finish. The grapes were harvested by hand between September 17th and October 6th. Beautiful weather conditions during 2012 produced healthy, ripe grapes with moderate acidity. 10% of the final blend was matured in old French oak barrels for 14 months and the wine bottled in April, 2015.

Blaufränkisch Herbal, dark fruits, caramelized sugar Red cherry 18°C 2016-2019, M7 D9 Beef goulash with spaetzle and roasted peppers

AUSTRIA HÖPLER

NORTHWEST TERRITORIES

27

Germany WEINGUT ERNST BRETZ Bechtolsheim Rheinhessen is currently one of Germany’s most dynamic and interesting wine regions. In the south of the region at Bechtolsheim the Bretz family has been growing grapes for the best part of three hundred years; the estate was founded in 1721 initially to grow grapes for the convent nuns in Mainz. Today, Harald tends the vineyards and his brother Horst makes the wines. Together they produce a range of wines typically and uniquely Germanic in style.

Horst (left) and Harald Bretz (right) on the Bechtolsheimer Petersberg hill

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OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 240

GERMANY WEINGUT ERNST BRETZ >>

WEISSER BURGUNDER, QBA, TROCKEN, 8592 BRETZ RHEINHESSEN, 2014

$22.33

This is a soft, approachable wine with appealing aromas of almond blossom, lime cordial and marzipan. The palate is soft with a touch of residual sweetness and fruit flavours of peaches, pears and citrus.

$134.00 Pinot Blanc Lime, almonds

1-800-361-9421 CALL IN YOUR ORDER

RIESLING SPÄTLESE FEINHERB, 8593 BRETZ RHEINHESSEN, 2014

Peaches, pears, citrus, [01] 6°C

$23.50

2016-2017, M8 D9 Asian salmon and zucchini noodle salad

$141.00

Riesling is synonymous with Germany and represents approximately 20% of the country’s vineyards, producing a range of wines from bone dry to sweet dessert styles. The Riesling Spätlese Feinherb is a medium dry wine, pale in colour with subtle aromas of apple blossom and spice. The sweetness is balanced by firm acidity and relatively low alcohol. It finishes with lingering flavours of green apples.

Riesling Apple blossom, spice, resin White fruits, fresh apples, [03] 6°C

8594 $24.33

BRETZ RIESLING SPÄTLESE, RHEINHESSEN, 2014

2016-2018, M8 D9

This is a medium-sweet wine with intense mellow aromas of honey and spice. The sweet attack on the palate is followed by a crisp green apple crunchy acidity.

Quite light in alcohol at 8.5%, this is unmistakably German in style. The Riesling grapes are grown at Bechtolsheimer Petersberg.

Chicken Korma

$146.00 Riesling Honey, spice, cooked apples

GEWÜRZTRAMINER TROCKEN, RHEINHESSEN, 8595 BRETZ 2013

Green apples, limes, [06] 6°C

$25.33

2016-2020, M8 D9 Curry chicken skewers with lime

$152.00

This is a new addition to the range of wines produced

by Bretz and a successful one. Pale lime yellow in colour, it has a delicious aromatic perfume with fresh lemon and other citrus fruits. The palate is fruity and dry with a touch of spritz and long, floral finish. It is crisp and elegant.

Gewürztraminer Aromatic, fresh lemon Citrus fruits, some spritz, [01] 6°C 2016-2018, M8 D9 Shrimp Pad Thai

GERMANY WEINGUT ERNST BRETZ >>

NORTHWEST TERRITORIES

29

The Bretz family – from left to right: Harald Bretz, Victoria, Valentin, Heike and Horst Bretz

CHARDONNAY SPÄTLESE TROCKEN, 8596 BRETZ RHEINHESSEN, 2014

$25.50

$153.00

If big, buttery, oaky Chardonnay is what you are looking for then this is not the wine for you! This is an altogether more understated, yet complex style of wine. Bretz planted Chardonnay over twenty years ago on the limestone soils of Bechtolsheimer Klosterberg.

Restrained on the nose, Chardonnay Spätlese Trocken 2014 has subtle aromas of white fruits, limes, nuts, earth and spice. The dry palate has depth with a steely mineral characteristic and a stone fruit finish.

Chardonnay White fruits, lime, nutty Steely mineral, stone fruits, [01] 6°C 2016-2019, M8 D9 Pan-fried trout with almonds and parsley

REGENT, QBA, IM BARRIQUE GEREIFT, 8597 BRETZ RHEINHESSEN, 2014 I raved about the Regent 2012 last year and obviously wasn’t the only one as those of you who ordered it will $29.33 know that demand was so high at the winery that they ran out and members were switched to the 2013. All I can say is that once again the Regent was my favourite wine in the line-up of wines tasted from Bretz. The 2014 is $176.00 deep ruby in colour with intense and complex aromas of spice, vanilla, cloves, incense and dark fruits. The palate is concentrated and structured with persistent ripe fruits and clove flavours. Regent is a relatively new variety bred in the 1960s. It was planted experimentally in 1985 and released for cultivation in 1996. Its high resistance to disease also means that it is easy to grow with no use of sprays – a vigneron’s dream – and is being rapidly planted in Germany.

Regent Intense spices, dark fruits Cloves, vanilla, black fruit 18°C 2016-2020, M8 D8 Sauerbraten – German pot roast with red cabbage and potato dumplings

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OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 240

GERMANY WEINGUT ERNST BRETZ >>

The children of Horst and Heike Bretz, Victoria and Valentin, at the Bechtolsheimer Petersberg vineyards; Victoria studied Viticulture and Oenology in Geisenheim and Valentin still goes to school; both also help at the winery.

8598 BRETZ KERNER BEERENAUSLESE, 2011 $22.17

$133.00

For those with a sweet tooth and who enjoy a glass of dessert wine with their dessert, this is perfect. Deep amber in colour, it has a complex bouquet of dried apricots, nuts and earth. Germany’s continental climate, with hot summers, cold winters and long warm autumns, makes it perfect for late harvest wines. Kerner grapes were grown on limestone marl soils and left for extended ripening and the development of noble rot or botrytis. The grapes were picked berry-by-berry in the late autumn under beautiful sunny skies. After pressing, the rich sweet juice slowly and naturally fermented to produce a sweet wine with 9% alcohol.

Kerner Dried apricot, nuts, earthy Sweet, rich, balanced acidity, [08] 10°C 2016-2020, M7 D9 Roquefort cheese

GERMANY WEINGUT ERNST BRETZ

NORTHWEST TERRITORIES

31

A NEW MEMBER, and upon joining, both you and the OUR COUPON PROGRAMS REFER new member will receive a coupon for one of two great rewards.

Your coupon gives you options! Opim.ca or 800-361-9421 ORDER ANY CASE OF WINE & CHOOSE YOUR FREE CASE FROM THE CHOICES BELOW

or

ORDER ANY TWO CASES OF WINE & RECEIVE $75 OFF YOUR ORDER

VERMENTINO TOSCANA, IGT, VIGNAIOLI 8571 SCANTIANUM MORELLINO SCANSANO, 2015

CILIEGIOLO MAREMMA TOSCANA, DOC, 8572 CAPOCCIA, VIGNAIOLI MORELLINO SCANSANO, 2015

Vermentino has become popular in many regions the world over in recent years, but its home is Tuscany where it produces wines with distinction and elegance. Vignaioli Morellino Scansano 2015 Vermentino Toscano is both those things and more. Restrained on the nose, it has COUPON mineral and lime aromas. The palate is broad with pure lemon acidity which creates balance and a long, citrus finish. A touch of Sauvignon Blanc (3%) adds an extra dimension. Vines are cultivated on sandy soils rich in silt between 100 and 300 metres.

Here is a well-made light red wine with intense red berry aromas and flavours. This is soft, easy to drink with lots of appeal. Capoccia is a blend of 85% Ciliegiolo and 15% Alicante. The vines were planted approximately 15 years ago on rich silty soils. After COUPON picking, the grapes were de-stemmed and underwent a hot maceration at 35°C for 12 hours followed by a short fermentation at 27°C.

Vermentino, Sauvignon Blanc

Ciliegiolo, Alicante

Mineral, limes

Intense red berries

Broad, lemon and pink grapefruit acidity, [00]

Soft, light, red fruits

6°C

16°C

2016-2018, M8 D9

2016-2018, M8 D9

Linguine with saffron, tomatoes and herbs

Polpettone alla Toscana – Tuscan meatballs in a rich tomato sauce

OUR WINE PROGRAMS

Opimian Select

Expand your horizons, cellar, taste — it doesn’t matter what it is. Opimian Select will provide you with several different wines to try from eight different wine regions. You can sample and taste the great, everyday selection of wine from our suppliers… find a few favourites and discover what characteristics you love. Over the course of the year, members enrolled in this program receive eight mixed cases of wine, one from each Cellar Offering.

Founders’ Choice

Invest in your cellar, palate, experience – the Founders’ Choice program will enrich many aspects of your life… it will refine your palate and develop your cellar. Over the course of the year, members enrolled in this program receive eight cases of premium wine, one for each Cellar Offering. This program is for members who are looking to expand their cellars and refine their palate.

Founders’ Choice is a hidden jewel among Opimian’s wine selection – rare with many unique facets that reveal something new with each case.

Avenue Srl. is the Founders’ Choice feature supplier on this Cellar Offering.

#420 - 5165 Sherbrooke West, Montreal, QC H4A 1T6 T: 514-483-5551 or 800-361-9421 F: 514-481-9699 opim@opim.ca www.opim.ca