WineLife Puerto Rico
50 Wines
Dad would love to enjoy and collect The 48 hrs deal: Take an extra 10% from the special price from Wednesday, June 17th, 10am thru Friday, June 19th 12noon
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Check our great Summer Values & Fine Selections for the Bar
Dear WineLife Members & Friends, All the wines included in this WineLife Father’s Day Edition will be on sale from June 17th until June 30th. So what’s the rush? Well, you can take advantage of the additional 10% off the total of your purchase only if you place your order anytime from Wednesday 17th through Friday 19th noon time. Use the form provided in the next pages, as a checklist. You may also fill in the quantity before the wine name, and fax the form to us. We’ll call you to confirm your order and coordinate picking or delivery.
For more information and to place your order: By phone 787.781.2070 X 1339 By web www.plazacellars.com By fax 787.783.64.75
I take the opportunity to invite you to sign up as a WineLife member since we are working on a few ‘Members Only’ perks, that will surely be attractive for wine lovers and collectors at all levels. In the meantime, we trust that you enjoy the monthly wine selections presented to you in each edition of WineLife PR, as well as the convenience of getting your daily news from a very friendly and easy to navigate website, WineLife Today, at www.winelifepr.com
WINE CHECKLIST / ORDER FORM PINOT NOIR, page 6
Reg Price Sale
48hrs
___Vision Cellars Pinot Noir Rosella’s Vineyard 2005, S. Lucia, CA 90 WS ___El Molino Rutherford Pinot Noir 2004, Napa Valley, California 92 WS | 91 WA ___Saintsbury Pinot Noir Carneros 2005, California 92 CGC | 91 IWS ___Ponzi Pinot Noir 2006, Willamette Valley, Oregon 90 RP | 90 WS ___Domaine Drouhin Pinot Noir 2005, Willamette Valley, Oregon 90 WA | 90 IWC ___Donum Estates Carneros Pinot Noir 2004 95 CGC ___Grand Detour 2005 Landmark Vineyards Sonoma Valley, CA 93 WE | 91 IWC | 90 WC ___King Estate Pinot Noir Domaine 2006, Willamette Valley, Oregon 91 WE | 90 WS
$55.67
$45.06 $39.66
$73.50
$59.67 $52.49
$39.00
$31.75 $27.79
$43.50
$35.25 $30.88
$50.67
$41.04 $36.10
$96.33
$78.03 $68.64
$34.33
$27.81 $24.46
$33.33
$27.00 $23.75
RED BLENDS, page 10
Reg Price
___Chaleur Estate Red DeLille Cellars Red Mountain 2005 94 WE | 93 WA | 93 WS ___D2 DeLille Cellars, Columbia Valley 2005 91 ST | 91 WS ___Harrison Hill DeLille Cellars 2004 94 VTS | 93 WA ___Col Solare Red Premium Antinori/ Ste. Michelle 1999 92 WE | 91 WS ___NorthStar Stella Maris 2002, Columbia Valley, Washington 90 WS ___L’Ecole #41 Merlot Columbia Valley 2004 Excellent WPNW | 90 WE | 90 W&S ___Navarro Correas Ultra Premium Tinto 2004 91 WA ___Miguel Torres Conde Superunda 2002, Curicó Valley, Chile 92 WA | 92 PT | 90 WE ___Laurona 6 Vinyes 2004, Montsant, Spain 92 RP
$77.67
$62.91 $55.34
$43.00
$34.83 $30.64
$71.00
$57.51 $50.59
$77.00
$62.37 $54.86
$36.00
$29.16 $25.65
$35.67
$28.89 $25.41
$40.00
$32.50 $28.50
$45.00
$36.45 $32.06
$62.00
$50.22 $44.18
SYRAH / SHIRAZ, page 15
Reg Price
___Clarendon Hills Hickinbotham Syrah 2004, Mac Laren Vale, AU 96 WE | 95 WA | 95 WS | 95 ST ___Elderton Command Single Vineyard Shiraz 2003 94 WA | 94 ST | 93WE ___L’Ecole #41 Syrah Columbia Valley 2003 Outstanding WPNW | Silver Medal North West Wine Summit ___Taberner Huerta de Albalá, Cádiz, Spain
$121.67
$98.55 $86.69
$96.33
$78.03 $68.64
$30.33
$24.57 $21.61
$37.75
$30.75 $26.84
Sale 48hrs
Sale 48hrs
Name: _________________________________________________________________________ Tels: _________________________________________________________________________
WINE CHECKLIST / ORDER FORM CABERNET SAUVIGNON, MERLOT & ZINFANDEL, page 17 Reg Price
Sale 48hrs
___Caymus, Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 92 WS | 90 CGC ___Ramey Wine Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon Jericho Canyon 2004 94 RP | 93 ST ___Rubicon Cask Cabernet Sauvignon 2003, Rutherford, Napa Valley 95 WE ___Spottswoode Cabernet Sauvignon 2005, Napa Valley, CA 97 WE | 96 RP ___Silverado Solo 2005, Napa Valley, California 93 RP
$89.33
$72.36 $63.65
$116.33
$94.47 $85.74
$79.00
$63.99 $56.29
$157.67
$127.71 $112.34
$86.50
$70.00 $61.51
OTHER FABULOUS REDS, page 19
Reg Price
___Clarendon Hills Blewitt Springs Grenache 2004 $87.00 “...extraordinary, exotic, flamboyant”, 93 RP ___Gei Berra Single Vineyard 2004, Lulunta, Mendoza $40.50 93 WA | 91 WS | 91 WN ___Gran Cabernet Franc 2006, Pulenta Estates, Mendoza $30.33 Gold Medals, IWC & Hyatt Mendoza Competition ___Trus 2004, Ribera del Duero, Spain $64.00 In the “super Ribera” league. ___Roda I Reserva 2004, DOC Rioja, Spain $72.33 Gold Medal, International Wine Challenge (London) | Silver Medal, Decanter
Sale 48hrs $70.47 $61.99 $32.75 $28.74 $24.57 $21.61 $51.84 $45.60 $58.59 $51.54
SPARKLING , page 20
Reg Price
Sale 48hrs
___Champagne Bollinger Special Cuvée NV 91 WS ___Champagne Laurent Perrier Grand Siecle Brut 94 ST | 94 WN
$77.00
$62.50 $54.86
$146.00
$118.50 $104.03
WHITES, page 21
Reg Price
___Chaleur Estates Blanc Columbia Valley 2006, WA 91 WA | 90 ST ___L’Ecole #41 Chardonnay 2006, WA Gold Medal, Washington State Wine Competition ___Eroica Riesling Columbia Valley 2006, WA 93 W&S | 91 WA ___Mer Soleil Chardonnay 2006, Santa Lucia Highlands, CA 93 WE ___Mer Soleil Silver Chardonnay 2006, S. Lucia Highlands, CA 92 WS ___Landmark Overlook Chardonnay 2005, Sonoma Valley, CA 90 WE | 90 RP ___Ramey Hyde Vineyard Chardonnay 2005, Napa- Carneros, CA 95 RP | 94 ST
$39.67
$32.13 $28.26
$28.33
$22.95 $20.19
$31.00
$25.11 $22.09
$39.33
$31.86 $28.03
$39.33
$31.86 $28.03
$33.67
$27.27 $23.99
$65.67
$53.19 $46.79
Sale 48hrs
Name: _________________________________________________________________________ Tels: _________________________________________________________________________
WINE CHECKLIST / ORDER FORM SUMMER TREATS, page 26
Reg Price
Sale 48hrs
___Domaine Ste Michelle NV Sparkling Brut
$19.00
$15.50 $13.54
___Navarro Correas Extra Brut NV, Mendoza, Argentina
$20.00
$16.25 $14.25
___Ch D’Esclans Whispering Angel, Provence 2007, France
$22.67
$18.36 $16.15
___Paul Jaboulet Cotes du Rhone Parallele 45 Rosé 2008, France ___Pulenta Estates La Flor Malbec Rosé 2008, Mendoza, Argentina
$17.50
$14.25 $12.35
$14.67
$11.88 $10.45
___Bonterra Chardonnay 2005, Mendocino County, California
$19.67
$15.93 $14.01
___Chateau Ste Michelle Gewurztraminer Columbia Valley 2006
$16.33
$13.23 $11.64
___Santa Rita, Sauvignon Blanc Reserva 2008, Chile
$14.00
$11.50 $ 9.98
___Plozner, Pinot Grigio, Grave Friuli, Italy
$20.00
$16.20 $14.25
___Jermann Pinot Grigio IGT, Friuli, Italy
$17.33
$14.04 $12.35
BAR SELECTIONS, page 28
Reg Price
___Ketel One Vodka
$37.00
$30.00 $26.36
___Chopin Vodka
$46.75
$38.00 $33.25
___Belvedere Vodka
$46.75
$37.50 $32.78
___Van Gogh Vodka Collection (Flavors)
$29.50
$24.00 $20.90
___Hendricks Gin
$46.75
$38.00 $33.25
___Cognac Courvoisier Napoleon
$117.67
$69.50 $61.04
___The Balvenie Doble Wood 12 Years ___Glenfiddich 12 Years
$48.75
$39.50 $34.68
$34.50
$28.00 $24.46
___Graham’s 30 Years Port
$117.67
$95.31 $83.84
___Dow’s Colheita 1994 Port
$111.00
$89.91 $79.09
Sale 48hrs
Name: _________________________________________________________________________ Tels: _________________________________________________________________________
PINOT NOIR Vision Cellars Pinot Noir Rosella’s Vineyard 2005 Santa Lucia Highlands 90, Wine Spectator A delicate style, yet with plenty of substance, showing ripe, vivid wild berry and black cherry fruit, with a touch of cedar, nutmeg and forest floor. Tight and complex, the tannins clamp down on the finish, letting just enough fruit through to tempt you. Best from 2008 through 2012. Regular Price: $55.67 El Molino Rutherford Pinot Noir 2004 OUTSTANDING ACHIEVER! 91 Wine Advocate 93 Pinot Report 92 Allen Meadows Burghound 92 Wine Spectator 90 California Grapevine 88 Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellars 91, Wine Advocate #174 The 2004 Pinot Noir comes from the Star Vineyard in Rutherford from a block of Pinot planted in 1991. Beautifully sweet currant, plum, black cherry, and floral notes emerge from this medium to dark ruby-colored wine. Expansive but light, the wine is fleshy, has wonderful acidity, beautiful aromatics, and is a classic Pinot with length, richness, and nuanced complexity. This is a beauty to drink over the next 3-4 years. -Robert Parker, December 2007 93, Pinot Report Medium ruby color; earthy, spice red cherry aromas; rich, ripe, dusty red cherry flavors with spice and earthy notes; sweet oak; good structure and balance; long finish. Earthy and spicy, this is a complex Pinot with a lot of interesting character. 92, Allen Meadows’ Burghound A distinctly ripe but not jammy and intensely spicy red berry fruit and subtly floral nose complements the fresh, rich, detailed and equally intense and medium to full-bodied flavors that culminate in a dusty finish and somewhat surprisingly, this carries its considerable alcohol with grace and almost no trace of warmth. The mostly whole cluster fermentation does reveal itself as the decidedly firm stem tannins add some needed backbone to buffer the richness and sweetness of the alcohol and the overall effect is one of real character, depth and excellent balance. Recommended and readers know that I rarely endorse pinots carrying this kind of alcohol but this one that really is worth a serious look. 92/2011+ 92, Wine Spectator A rare but highly successful Rutherford Pinot Noir. Rich and intense, with deep red currant, raspberry and wild berry flavors woven together with spice, mushroom and clean forest floor scents, which give it complexity and depth, ending with a touch of anise. 90, California Grapevine Medium ruby color; attractive, very forward, intense, sweet black cherry fruit aroma with overtones of cinnamon and vanilla; full body; forward, rich, herbal, plumy, ripe black raspberry fruit flavors with a full, rounded mouthfeel; firmly structured; medium-full tannin; lingering aftertaste. A stylish wine with intense forward fruit and overtones of spicy new oak.Very highly recommended. First place.
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88, Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar Good full red. Pungent cherry and sandalwood aromas. Juicy and spicy in the mouth, with a firm edge to the red berry and red cherry flavors. A tad dry and herbal on the back but juicy and refreshing. May/June 2007 Regular Price: $73.50 Saintsbury Pinot Noir Carneros 2005 “...an example of the deep intensity and structure that can be obtained from a single vineyard in the Carneros AVA -- Maggie Fox, Gary’s Wine and Marketplace 92 pts Connoisseurs Guide to California Wines 91 pts International Wine Cellar Merchant Reviews November 2007 Premiere Club Selection. Winemaking partners Dick Ward and David Graves began making wine in Carneros in 1981, when there was little interest in the “hard, green, slightly anemic” Pinot Noirs that plagued much of California. So they made it their goal to prove California’s potential for producing world-class Pinot, much the way other local winemakers had recently proven the state’s ability to compete in Cabernet and Chardonnay. -- Maggie Fox, Gary’s Wine and Marketplace, November 30, 2007 92, Connoisseurs’ Guide to California Wines, Feb 08 It looks like a big-time return to form for a wine that has often rated very highly with us. The first inviting sniff of sweet cherries is immediately joined by notes of pie crust, creme brulee, smoke and hints of violets, and the wine follows on the palate with full and balanced impressions of ripe cherries, creamy oak and the elusive hint of tea leaf smoke that first showed up in the nose. Tannins rise rather starkly in the latter palate, but time is on this wine’s side, and a wait of some three to six years will bring it a more inviting, velvety texture. 91, Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar, Jan/Feb 07 Good deep red. Complex and pure on the nose, with aromas of raspberry, flowers, pepper and subtle blood orange. Suave and energetic, with restrained pinot red fruits nicely framed by a positive peppery/herbal element. Firmly built but not austere. Finishes with a fine dusting of tannins. Structured, nuanced pinot that should blossom with a bit of bottle aging. Also tasted: 2005 Pinot Noir Stanly Ranch Carneros. Regular Price: $39.00 Ponzi Pinot Noir 2006, Willamette Valley, Oregon 90 pts Robert Parker 90 pts Wine Spectator “Chai tea, rose and black currant aromas lead to a mouth of classic Pinot Noir flavors; spiced cherries, coffee, chocolate and grenadine. The finish is firm and bright with good length. “ Winemaker Luisa Ponzi “On the lighter side, with floral and roasted beet aromas wafting through the cherry and red berry flavors, persisting nicely on the elegant finish. Drink now through 2013.” Wine Spector, 90 From their earliest days in barrel, the 2005 Pinot Noirs have been deep, dense wines. In contrast to the more delicate 2004, the 2005 is built on larger shoul-
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ders, with a strong backbone that will certainly reward with extended aging. Pinot Noir’s more delicate heart beats beneath, but for now the 2005 is true to the vintage. Of course, one can happily enjoy the wine now with its expressive nose of lilac and violet blossoms, and a wild array of red and black fruits, white pepper, clove and orange peel. The body is rich and the finish long and silky, suggesting a minimum aging of 7 to 10 years. Regular Price: $43.50 Domaine Drouhin Pinot Noir 2005, Willamette Valley, Oregon 90 pts Wine Advocate 90 pts International Wine Cellar From their earliest days in barrel, the 2005 Pinot Noirs have been deep, dense wines. In contrast to the more delicate 2004, the 2005 is built on larger shoulders, with a strong backbone that will certainly reward with extended aging. Pinot Noir’s more delicate heart beats beneath, but for now the 2005 is true to the vintage. Of course, one can happily enjoy the wine now with its expressive nose of lilac and violet blossoms, and a wild array of red and black fruits, white pepper, clove and orange peel. The body is rich and the finish long and silky, suggesting a minimum aging of 7 to 10 years. 90 “Medium ruby-colored, it has a fragrant bouquet of raspberry and black cherry. Medium-bodied, it has a lithe texture, a broad band of spicy, sweet red fruits, excellent balance and a pure finish. Drink it over the next 8-10 years.” Jay Miller, The Wine Advocate 90 “Medium red with a bright rim.Vibrant red currant, raspberry, rose and cinnamon aromas show striking clarity and are reminiscent of a wine from one of Burgundy’s more elegant climats. Spicy and sweet, with energetic red berry flavors deepened by suggestions of musky underbrush and tarragon. An elegant, tangy midweight, finishing on zesty notes of blood orange and minerals.” Josh Raynolds, International Wine Cellar Regular Price: $50.67 Donum Estates Carneros Pinot Noir 2005 95 pts Connoisseurs’ Guide to California Wine Depth and delicacy define the sweet black berries shaded by wild strawberries, leather and mineral. layers of lush black cherries, raspberries, and graphite entwine with graceful tannins forming a wine of massive weight and finish. 100% Carneros Pinot Noir. Burgundian cooperage 14 months in 75% new french oak. The 2004 wines have great length, full body, neither hot nor harsh as is often seen in a hot growing season. Fruit and tannins are nicely balanced. These wines will age and bring you joy in years to come”. “Concentrated black-cherry fruit is liberally seasoned with sweet, slightly toasty oak in this complete and deeply drawn opus, and the wine shows the fleshy, slightly velvety feel that comes only with the best Pinot Noir. Its complex flavors of minerals, cherries and nutmeg-like spice are firmed by the right mix of acids and tannins, and, although a touch hot, its insistent finish is very long on and generously endowed with wonderfully well-focused fruit. There is plenty to like now, but a bit of time in the bottle will see this one through to better yet.” CGCW, 95pts Regular Price: $96.33
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Grand Detour 2005 Landmark Vineyards Sonoma Valley, California 100% Pinot Noir 93, Wine Enthusiast 91, California Connoisseur Guide 90, Robert Parker Totally captivating, this medium bodied Pinot reveals no hard edges, a savory texture, and impressive purity. It reminded me of a premier cru from the Cote de Beaune. Drink it over the next 4-6 years. Robert Parker America’s 27 Best Value Pinot Noir by Food & Wine The wineyard sources of Landmark’s Grand Detour Pinot have varied, but the wine’s quality is as high as ever. Made from five well regarded properties, the ’06 is intricately detailed, with complex flavors of dried cherries, red currants, mocha, licorice, sautéed mushrooms splashed with balsamic and smoky, vanillainfused oak. The silky texture and spicy finish make it irrestible. The 2005 Grand Detour Pinot Noir is a blend of four Sonoma Coast vineyards: Kanzler, Keller Estate, Flocchini and Armagh. There is also some fruit from the Solomon Hills Vineyard in Santa Barbara. The result is a wine that exhibits great typicity and elegant balance. The initial aromas of black cherry, raspberry and cinnamon spice are underpinned by toasty French oak. Supple tannins contribute to a long, silky finish. Food Pairing: This wine will pair well with game, duck and salmon as well as mushroom accented dishes. Regular Price: $34.33
King Estate Pinot Noir Domaine 2006, Willamette Valley, Oregon 100% Pinot Noir From the Estate’s Certified Organic Vineyards A beautiful blend of six outstanding pinot noir clones from nine different planting blocks. A careful decided stainless steel fermentation separated by inoculation with four distinct yeast strains. Further enhancement comes from the 16 months in French oak barrels (53% new, 33% 1 year, 14% 2 year). Cherry, floral, currant, cranberry and dried rose petal. Sweet entry with flavors of cherry, vanilla, caramel and pepper spice on exit. 91, Wine Spectator This is velvety, showing beautifully ripe flavors that focus into a lovely beam of blackberry and red plum fruit, nicely defined and lingering effortlessly on the deftly balanced finish. Drink now through 2014. 90 Wine Enthusiast The Domaine bottling from King Estate is the label with all the signatures on it; it’s a complex blend of clones and blocks from the expansive, organically farmed estate vineyard. Fragrances suggest a pleasing mix of flowers and berries, classic Oregon cherry/berry fruit, herb/spice. Balance is right to suggest medium-term aging potential. Regular Price: $34.33
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RED BLENDS Chaleur Estate Red DeLille Cellars Red Mountain 2005 “1001 Wines You Must Taste Before You Die”, Universe Publishing, 2008 Preface by Hugh Johnson, and wines selected and reviewed by “Leading International Critics”. DeLille Cellars 2005 Chaleur Estate Red (page 518): “From its inception in 1992, the partnership behind DeLille Cellars has desired nothing more than to produce exceptional wines – the powerful ones founder Chris Upchurch loves. When others focused on varietal wines, DeLille staked its claim on the synergy of blended grapes. Upchurch believes in blending not just varieties, but different vineyard sites. Although Chaleur Estate is essentially a warm-climate, Red Mountain wine, Upchurch finds balance by blending cooler-climate Merlot from Boushey Vineyard to soften the ripe, but tannic Cabernet Sauvignon. Cabernet Franc adds aromatic complexity. Petit Verdot, Upchurch says, elevates all. This is a wine that coheres harmoniously. Chaleur Estate usually ages in 100 percent French Oak barrels for eighteen months, primarily for natural clarification and fresh spice notes. The wine is fined but never filtered. The 2005 vintage is regarded as the best in Washington State for at least ten years. Even young, the seamlessly structured, complex, and rich Chaleur exhibits glorious, high-toned fruits above a concentrated core of herbs, dark fruits, and minerality. Drink to 2017+. Lisa Granik M.W.” 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Franc, 1% Petit Verdot 91+, Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar This wine exhibits a powerhouse nose of blueberries, grapes and exotic black fruits, cassis, tar and star anise. This is the most concentrated Chaleur Estate to date with currants, blueberries, flowers, sweet whiskey, black olives and cream flavors. All this pleasure with firm ripe tannins, a seamless structure and a milelong finish. Silver Medal – DeLille Cellars 2005 Chaleur Estate (red) - South Florida Fine Wine Competition Second Annual American Fine Wine Competition (AFWC). November, 2008 Bright ruby-red. Cassis, boysenberry, tar and brown spices on the nose. Sweet and sexy on entry, then powerful and a bit youthfully aggressive in the middle, with a bit of alcohol (actually 14.9%) currently muting the black fruit flavors. This solidly structured wine finishes with excellent tannic grip but is currently a bit clenched. I’d give it five years of cellaring, at which time I suspect it will merit a higher score. “Critic’s Choice Red Wine of the Year” award, Sunset Magazine (2005 Vintage) The judges are a mix of wine educators, wine buyers, chef’s, a Master Sommelier, Sommeliers, and wine writers, and the judging is conducted blindly. To receive a medal from any one of the panels is a terrific achievement. The “Double Gold Medal” winners required a unanimous vote of the panel, while a “Gold Medal” required 75% of the panel’s approval. 94 & Editor’s Choice, Paul Gregutt, Editor, Wine Enthusiast This year the competition was exceptionally stiff. Working in teams, our judges (wine writers, educators, and sommeliers from up and down the West Coast) blind-tasted more than 200 wines nominated across four price ranges - a veritable Western wine hall of fame. Chaleur Estate stood out in the lineup! The Top 100 Northwest Wines, Wine #5 - Seattle Metropolitan (2005 Vintage) Chaleur Estate is DeLille’s finest red wine; this vintage is more refined, elegant
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and precise that ever before. The 2005 is 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Franc and 1 % Petit Verdot; it’s especially ripe and expressive. Lovely details of ripe cherry, plum and cassis fruit are dappled with intriguing grace notes of sweet grass, fresh herb and cracker. The wine has grace and length, and the finish combines earth, herb, rock and light hints of toast. “Here’s a wine that gives Bordeaux’s best bottles a run for their money.” 93, Wine Spectator Smooth, round and harmonious, offering an elegant mouthful of creamy, spiceaccented black cherry currant and plum flavors, nicely fashioned to breeze through a veil of fine tannins on the beautifully focused finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. 93, Jay Miller, Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate (2005 Vintage) The flagship 2005 Chaleur Estate is sourced largely from the Red Mountain AVA and is the same blend as the Harrison Hill. It is a more structured wine with 4-6 years of aging potential and gobs of black cherry and blackberry fruit. This nicely balanced, lengthy effort will be at its best from 2013 to 2025. DeLille Cellars and Doyenne are sister labels, the former for Bordeaux-style wines and the latter for Rhone-style wines. They will be reviewed separately.-J.M. Regular Price: $77.67 D2 DeLille Cellars, Columbia Valley 2005 91, Wine Spectator Supple and generous, this seamless wine delivers a lithe mouthful of tobaccoand spice-accented black cherry and berry flavors, adding savory, minty notes as the finish sails on. Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. 91, Stephen Tanzer Deep ruby-red. Sweet black cherry, violet and graphite on the nose. Concentrated, lively and penetrating, with red fruit and mineral flavors nicely framed by ripe acidity. This combines a firm spine with an attractively pliant texture and enticing sweetness. Classy wine for the price. 51% Merlot, 38% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Cabernet Franc, 3% Petit Verdot Only grapes from the oldest and best vineyards in Washington State are acquired. They are hand picked and double hand sorted at crush, insuring that only the finest berry clusters enter fermentation. Our wines are aged in 100% new French Oak barrels each and every year and are never filtered. Concentrated black raspberries, plums and deep black cherries intertwine with a violets and pencil snap nose. The 2005 D2 is super concentrated with layers of plums and cherry pie flavors that are nicely balanced with toasty mocha, and sweet tobacco-oak nuances Regular Price: $43.00 Harrison Hill DeLille Cellars 2004 The 2004 Harrison Hill comes from a single Yakima Valley vineyard, the second oldest in the state. The wine is composed of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot,9% Cabernet Franc, and 1% Petit Verdot. Dark ruby-colored, it exhibits a fragrant perfume of minerals, leather, pepper, cedar, cassis, black cherry, and black currants which jumps from the glass. Richly textured, the wine is supple and sweet on the palate with layers of complex flavors, well-concealed tannins, and a long, smooth finish. Give this seamless effort 3-4 years of further bottle
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age and drink it through 2024. The winery offered the 1994 Harrison Hill to demonstrate the aging potential of this wine. Exhibiting complexity, elegance, and power, it has the stuffing to continue its evolution for another 5-7 years. 94pts, Wine Advocate Made from Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cab Franc and Petit Verdot, with a sense of gravel or volcanic rock that is reminiscent of a young St.-Estephe wine. With its medium acid levels, this wine should be enjoyed relatively young. 93pts, VinTrust Sommeliers Selection. Regular Price: $71.00 Col Solare Red Premium Antinori/ Ste. Michelle 1999 92 pts Wine Enthusiast 91 Wine Advocate Col Solare is a winemaking partnership between Tuscany’s Marchesi Antinori and Washington State’s Chateau Ste. Michelle that began in the vineyards of the Columbia Valley with Piero Antinori’s on-going attraction to unique viticultural regions. In 1992, Piero made his first trip to the Columbia Valley. Impressed by the quality and diversity of Washington wines, Antinori began discussing a partnership with Chateau Ste. Michelle that would challenge them both to step out of their own proven perspectives to achieve something new. The idea took hold, and Col Solare was born with the 1995 vintage. 70 % Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 3% Syrah, 2% Malbec Sensational chocolate and caramel aromas join with an earthy note and a hint of tobacco to introduce a wine with generous black currant and black cherry, set off by a trace of allspice. Silky, with both abundant, soft tannins and plenty of muscle, this is a wine of significant dimension. The winery’s 30 acre estate vineyard planted predominantly of six unique clones of Cabernet Sauvignon, along with individual blocks of Merlot, Petit Verdot, Malbec, Cabernet Franc and Syrah. Col Solare wines harness the promise of Red Mountain’s climate, terroir and precision viticulture. The meticulously planned vineyard stretches out emulating rays of sun. Individual blocks were selectively planted with specifications on vine density, slope, wind and sun direction. The 1999 (Col Solare) is medium to dark ruby-colored and reveals spicy blackberry aromas. A blend 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, and the remaining 10% divided between Syrah and Malbec, it exhibits gorgeous breadth to its medium-bodied, concentrated personality. This well-extracted wine has outstanding depth of fruit. Intense, juicy, and powerful, it coats the taster’s palate with blackberries, cassis, and spices. 91pts, Wine Advocate This partnership between Chateau Ste. Michelle and Antinori is always a quality wine. The ’99 is a blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 3% Syrah and 2% Malbec. The classic cassis and chocolate aromas have an accent of caramel. Flavors include intense black currants and a touch of spice. The wine is as elegant as it is deep, with a long, complex finish. 92pts and “Editor’s Choice”, Wine Enthusiast Regular Price: $77.00
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NorthStar Stella Maris 2002 Propietary Red, Columbia Valley, Washington 90 & Highly Recommended, Wine Spectator “A well-balanced, approachable Bordeaux blend layered with attractive, ripe plum, cherry and black currant flavors and notes of vanilla, cloves and chocolate. The addition of Malbec gives this wine a lush mouthfeel and contributes to the generous finish. ” Gordy Hill, winemaker Special, very limited red blend of Cabernet and Merlot from Northstar, who also bring you superb Merlots. Just lovely- huge nose of roasting espresso bean and mocha, smooth, rich flavors of black cherry, red currant, big oaky but well integrated tannins. A worthy little sister to Northstar’s $60 Merlot. “Polished, elegant style brims with cherry and berry fruit, lightly accented with toast, coffee and green olive flavors. Merlot and Cab Sauv. Drink now through 2010. Wine Spectator Regular Price: $36.00 L’Ecole #41 Merlot Columbia Valley 2004 80% Merlot, 12% Cabernet Franc, 6% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Petit Verdot “This is a classy, sophisticated wine, blended from a wide range of Washington vineyards. It’s really a Right Bank-styled Bordeaux blend, 80% Merlot, 12% Cab Franc, and a smattering of Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot. Berries and spice, chocolate and herb, and many other lightly applied nuances make this a pleasure to sip.” 90 pts, Wine Enthusiast “Deep garnet color with a brick rim. Dark chocolate covered fruit, mocha, and roasted nut aromas. A round entry leads to a dry-yet-fruity medium-full bodied palate with baked plum, baker’s chocolate, and spicy, mocha flavors. Finishes with a long, toasty oak and fresh plum skin fade. Nice balance of fruit and wood notes with excellent structures.” Gold Medal, World Wine Championship Tasting Notes The Merlot in this blend is from several premium vineyards including: Milbrandt Vineyards; Willard Family Farms; Canoe Ridge (Ste. Michelle Wine Estates); Wyckoff Farm (Wahluke Slope); Wahluke Slope Vineyards; our Estate Seven Hills Vineyard; Weinbau; Goose Ridge and Candy Mountain. Small quantities of Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot were added to the blend for complexity. Each lot was harvested ripe and gently crushed into one-ton stainless steel fermenters. The must was inoculated with yeast and punched down by hand during fermentation to maximize fruit extraction. When the fermentation was complete or we were otherwise satisfied with the level of tannin and flavor extract, the must was gravity fed into the press. After a gentle pressing, the wine was racked to tank and allowed to settle. The wine was then racked to 100% small oak barrels, with approximately 40% new, and was barrel aged 18 months with four rackings. The final blend was bottled unfined and unfiltered to preserve its natural flavors. “This is all burled up on itself at first, giving off aromas of black coffee and mushrooms and dense, wild flavors like blackberry, spice and beef consommé. After a day, the flavors are looser and more focused on plum and blackberry fruit. Decant and serve with something savory, like turkey mole.”, 90 pts, Wine & Spirits
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“The historic freeze in Walla Walla prompted Marty Clubb to ask a big favor of Ste. Michelle, and it obliged with fruit from Canoe Ridge Estate Vineyard. The blend also included Milbrandt, Willard, Wyckoff, Seven Hills, Weinbau, Goose Ridge and Candy Mountain, creating a wine that produces more enjoyment with each sip. Dark cherries, strawberries, green peppercorns, cedar and charred oak form the aromatics. Black currants tickle the tongue from start to finish, joined by stewed plums on the midpalate and tannins that should mellow with age. Or enjoy now with a marbled steak or roast.” Excellent, Wine Press NorthWest “L’Ecole N° 41 does well with Bordeaux varietals. The 2004 Merlot Columbia Valley has 12% Cabernet Franc, 6% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 2% Petit Verdot in the blend. Drawn from a number of vineyards, the wine spent 18 months in French oak, 40% new. It was bottled unfined and unfiltered. Dark ruby-colored, it has an attractive nose of toasty red and black fruits, especially cassis and black cherry. The wine is forward and supple-textured with plenty of ripe, sweet fruit and excellent balance. It can be enjoyed now and over the next 6 years.” 88pts, Wine Advocate Regular Price: $35.67 Navarro Correas Ultra Premium Tinto 2004 50% Malbec, 36% Merlot, 14% Cabernet Sauvignon 91, Wine Advocate “Deep red with vibrant ruby highlights. Ripe red fruit and black currant imparted by the Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, underscored by delicate traces of vanilla. Full-bodied and robust, with rich fruit flavors and spicy nuances typical of Malbec. Concludes in a powerful finish.” “A tremendous wine! Bold, ripe and extremely complex. Layers of mature dark fruit, licorice and graphite blend seamlessly with spicey nuances. Watch this wine’s luxurious flavor and aftertaste unfold with time in the glass” - Juan E. Marco, Winemaker 91, Wine Advocate Purple-colored, it has an attractive perfume of pain grille, clove, smoke, pencil lead, cassis, and black cherry. Medium to full-bodied, it has a solid core of ripe fruit, a firm structure, and excellent balance. It will unfold over the next 5-7 years and drink well through 2025 Good fresh ruby-red color. Nuanced, fresh nose offers blackberry, violet, licorice, roast coffee, mint and leather. Suave, sweet and rather elegant, with harmonious acidity and a violet element giving it lovely mid-palate lift. Nicely airy wine, with nothing heavy or overextracted about it. Finishes with sweet tannins and lingering perfume. Regular Price: $40.00 Laurona 6 Vinyes 2004, Montsant, Spain Founded in 1999 as a joint venture between Christopher Cannan, owner of Europvin SA, and Rene Barbier of the famous Clos Mogador, Laurona is a pioneer in the newly appointed appellation of Montsant, which surrounds the famous Priorat zone in Catalonia. Laurona is located in the southern portion of the area. It is a mountainous region with climate and soils (silica, iron and clay) that are well-suited for growing red grapes. Laurona 2004 shows intense aromas of black currant, blueberry and ripe plum. The finish shows a touch of vanilla and a surprising floral accent. It is a blend of 55% Grenache and Carignan, 22% Merlot, 15% Syrah and 8% Cabernet Sauvignon. It is aged for 12 months in 500-liter French oak barrels.
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Regular Price: $62.00
Miguel Torres Conde Superunda 2002, Curicó Valley, Chile 92, Wine Advocate 90, Wine Enthusiast 92, Patricio Tapia, Best Propietary Red Blend 22% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Carmenère, 15% Monastrell, 60% Tempranillo The name of Superunda “Lord of the waves“ makes reference to the intervention of this Spanish noble in 1746 during the tragic seaquake of Callao, when wooden vessels appeared to aid te people affected by the great tidal wave. Elegant and dense aroma with hints of dark fruits (plum, cranberries) over a background of toasted bread. Complex, fleshy and nicely balanced on the palate, prolonged with hints of jam and tobbaco to a pleasant exquisite finish. Regular Price: $45.00
SYRAH / SHIRAZ Clarendon Hills Hickinbotham Syrah 2004, MacLaren Vale, Australia 96, Wine Enthusiast 95, Stephen Tanzer 95, Robert Parker 95, Wine Spectator “One of McLaren Vale’s most astonishing Syrahs is Clarendon Hills’ amazing 2004 Syrah Hickinbotham”, Robert Parker Planted in the Onkaparinga Valley in the Clarendon Hills area, this wine is always very peppery and spicy with nuances of Leather and minerals. A most individual wine - always very deeply coloured and with abundant tannin. 96, Wine Enthusiast “One of the more obviously ageworthy offerings from Clarendon Hills, the 2004 Hickinbotham Syrah boasts a wonderfully perfumed bouquet of flowers, minerals and spice. Then it backs up those captivating aromatics with rich blueberry fruit shaded with mint and cracked pepper and a long, firmly tannic and minerally finish. 95, Stephen Tanzer Inky purple. Expansive bouquet of dark fruit liqueur, with potent spicecake and coffee accents. A major mouthful, the spicy dark berry flavors threatening to blow your head off, with deeper tar and espresso tones adding a sensation of depth. Firm tannins help to maintain focus, but this is a serious, scorched-earth wine, with the concentration and sheer flavor intensity to obliterate almost any dish that I can think of. By Josh Raynolds. 95, Robert Parker “One of McLaren Vale’s most astonishing Syrahs is Clarendon Hills’ amazing 2004 Syrah Hickinbotham. Its inky/blue/purple hue is accompanied by aromas and flavors of creme de cassis, smoked meats, melted licorice, coffee beans, graphite, and bacon fat. Extremely full-bodied, powerful, and rich, with moderately high tannin, huge structure as well as massive concentration and intensity, but a sense of elegance, balance, and equilibrium, it should be cellared for 2-3 years, and drunk over the following two decades. “ 95, Wine Spectator “Dense, deep and beautifully focused. A blast of red fruits, from cherry to Santa
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Rosa plum, zips along, carried by mouthwatering acidity and superrefined tannins. An open-textured wine with breathtaking purity of flavor and extraordinary length. Best from 2008 through 2020. 500 cases imported. –HS” Regular Price: $121.67 Elderton Command Single Vineyard Shiraz 2003 94, Wine Advocate 94, Wine Spectator 93, Stephen Tanzer The Elderton Command Shiraz grapes are grown on a selected portion of the Elderton Estate vineyard, from vines planted in the early 1900’s. Grown on rich river silt soils and red brown earth over limestone, in a Mediterranean climate, with cropping levels less than 4 tonnes per hectare. 2004 was a dream year viticulturally, with mild and dry, summer conditions continuing all the way through to early late autumn. The strength and magnificence of these vines shines effortlessly through in the quality of what is in the bottle. Winemaker’s Notes: This is one of those wines that defies gravity. All the fruit is sourced from the oldest blocks on the Elderton Estate. It is unashamedly an intense and dense wine. For its power and depth of flavor, it displays a wonderful elegance. Dark dense sweet fruit, with plum, blackberry notes in abundance, mingle with hints of earth, spice, and chocolate. The wine is lush, sexy and the flavors just linger forever. A wine that will age for 10 to 15 years if you have the willpower. 94,The Wine Advocate While the deep plum/ruby/garnet-tinged 2003 Shiraz Command is slightly less nuanced than the 2002, it is just as powerful and full-bodied, offering copious quantities of fruit, glycerin, tannin, and muscle. This chewy, rich offering appears to be on a faster evolutionary track than its 2002 counterpart. Give it another 2-3 years of bottle age, and consume it over the following 12-15. 94, Wine Spectator Big, ripe and generous. This is a plush mouthful of cherry, spice and mineral flavors that rush on the finish, managing to stay in perfect balance. Has depth and grace. Best from 2009 through 2018. 93, Stephen Tanzer Saturated ruby. Rich, oak-spicy nose shows liqueur-like boysenberry, candied plum and kirsch aromas, plus a good whack of vanilla. Outsized and thick, with dense, sweet dark berry flavors and an almost viscous texture. And yet this massive wine comes across as energetic and surprisingly elegant. The long, sappy finish features powerful dark berry liqueur flavors that won’t quit. By Josh Raynolds. 93, Wine Enthusiast “The current release, 2003, is an excellent wine, but this vintage kicks it up a notch. It’s brighter, fresher and more vibrant than its amply endowed precursor, bursting with peppery raspberries. Creamy and rich, yet wonderfully balanced, and while you could drink it now, it will also cellar for 10-plus years.” Regular Price: $96.33
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L’Ecole #41 Syrah Columbia Valley 2003 98% Syrah, 2% Carmenère Silver Medal NorthWest Wine Summit 10th Annual competition, 2005 The 2005 NorthWest Wine Summit concluded its 10th Annual competition with the selection of the superlative wines in an event that evaluated over 1,000 wines. “A bit closed down at this stage of life, the wine’s savory scents of Worcestershire and mocha mask the black currant fruit that lies beneath. Give it some time in the cellar, and then serve it with smoked pork chops.” 87 pts, Wine & Spirits This Syrah is a blend of five premier vineyards including: 33% Milbrandt Vineyard; 32% Willard Family Farms; 16% Bacchus B5; 7% Candy Mountain; and 7% from our Estate Seven Hills Vineyard. “When it comes to Syrah of this quality coming out of Walla Walla-area wineries, consider this a bargain. Milbrandt and Willard Family Farms grapes account for two-thirds of this bottle, which serves up a nose of cherries, black currants, licorice, black pepper, horehound and oak. Inside, it is dense blackberries, dark black cherries and black currants with chocolate and black pepper in the finish, the latter perhaps a result of the 2% splash of Carmenere.” Outstanding, Wine Press NorthWest Regular Price: $30.33
CABERNET SAUVIGNON, MERLOT & ZINFANDEL Caymus, Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 92, Wine Spectator Insider: “Full-blown, ripe and rich, with intense and sharply focused dried currant, wild berry and blackberry fruit that’s still fairly tannic at this stage. Ends with a long, persistent finish. Best from 2010 through 2015.” 90 points and one star from the Connoisseurs’ Guide to California Wine: “Ripeness and sweet oak are the governing traits of this very rich and wide-open wine, and it is more geared to dark chocolate and caramelly sweetness than it is to classic Cabernet fruit. That said, it is positively plush on the palate with extract to spare, so much so, in fact, as to make its hard turn to tannin and heat an acceptable sin.” Established in 1972 Caymus Vineyards is one of the benchmark cabernet sauvignon producers in Napa Valley, with an enviable track record of producing some of Napa’s finest reds. The 2006 is a worthy successor in this lineage of full-bodied, fruit-forward, opulent cabs. A wine of immense size, structure and complexity the 2006 Caymus Cabernet Sauvignon is a high-octane wine that will handsomely reward the patient consumer in 5-10 years. (Alex Pross, Wine Club Director) Regular Price: $89.33 Ramey Wine Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon Jericho Canyon 2004 94 , Robert Parker The 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Jericho Canyon Vineyard has an inky dark ruby/ purple color, a wonderfully sweet nose of espresso roast, fudge, blackberry, and cassis with a hint of incense and smoke. The wine is full-bodied, broadly flavored,
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opulent, and voluptuous, and that in itself seems to give the wine its current appeal, although I think this is a candidate for at least two decades of cellaring. 93 Steven Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar Inky purple. Graphite- and tobacco-accented cherry and cassis aromas reminded me of top-end Saint-Julien. Focused, pure red- and blackcurrant flavors are energized by impressive mineral lift. This remarkably concentrated cabernet finishes with firm but harmonious tannins and explosive sweetness. Regular Price: $116.33 Rubicon Cask Cabernet Sauvignon 2003, Rutherford, Napa Valley 95, Wine Enthusiast “This is a glamorous wine, tremendous now, and will hold and develop through 2020.” The CASK Cabernet Sauvignon epitomizes the property’s illustrious history and tradition of winemaking, and pays tribute to John Daniel, Jr. and the Inglenook Cask wines that made this property legendary. Regular Price: $79.00 Spottswoode Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 97, Wine Enthusiast 96, Robert Parker 93, Wine Spectator Gorgeous purple hue. Incredible nose—rich and vibrant. Extremely vivacious, almost boisterous.Youthful, but with great depth. Ripe fruit nose, full of blueberry, cherry, blackberry, cream, vanilla, brown sugar, cinnamon spice, and violets. Wonderful power, concentration, and balance. The tannins are elegant and refined, the finish long.Very impressive. The 1,850-case cuvee of 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate (97.3% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Cabernet Franc) boasts a deep ruby/purple color as well as a beautiful nose of lead pencil shavings, violets, blueberries, and black currants. It builds incrementally on the palate with superb purity, medium to full body, sweet tannin, and a long, 40+ second finish. This beauty can be drunk now or cellared for two decades. The prodigious 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate may be Spottswoode’s strongest effort since their superb 2002 and 2001. A deep ruby/purple color is accompanied by a classic bouquet of violets, graphite, blueberries, and creme de cassis with hints of licorice and cedar. 96, Wine Advocate Stunningly pure and elegant as well as substantial and authoritatively flavored, this is a long, rich, concentrated wine with the grace of a ballerina. Give it 2–3 years of bottle age and consume it over the following 20–25+ years. 97, Wine Enthusiast.Tasted in a big lineup of St. Helena Cabernets, Spottswoods’s magnificent 05’ stood out. It’s a massive powerhouse, explosive in black currant, cherry pie, plum, chocolate, anise and cedar flavors that are detailed and precise. However, the wine, which was blended with a little Cabernet Franc, is graceful and balanced. Drinkable now due to it’s softly refined tannins, but has the intergrity to ride out the years. Regular Price: $157.67
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Silverado Solo, Cabernet Sauvignon 2005, Napa Valley CA 93 points “A brilliant effort, the 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Solo (100% Cabernet Sauvignon) exhibits a dark ruby/purple hue in addition to a classic bouquet of graphite, licorice, black currants, dark cherries, underbrush, and fruitcake. Broad, full-bodied, and deep with moderate tannin, and terrific sweetness and length, it is an elegant, but substantial, authoritatively flavored Cabernet Sauvignon that will benefit from 2-4 years of cellaring, and should last for two decades or more.” - Robert Parker An example of classic Stags Leap Cabernet Sauvignon - intense dark ripe red fruit aromas with dried herb and spice leads to a broadly structured palate with layers of berry fruit compote, bittersweet chocolate and vanilla. Regular Price: $86.50
OTHER FABULOUS REDS Clarendon Hills Blewitt Springs Grenache 2004 93, Robert Parker, “...extraordinary, exotic, flamboyant personality”, Robert Parker This vineyard is in the Blewitt Springs area and always produces deeply coloured and very rich wine with full upfront raspberry fruit and a long aftertaste with abundant tannin in the finish. This wine repays cellaring very well. 93, Robert Parker As usual for this cuvee, the 2004 Grenache Blewitt Springs possesses an extraordinary, exotic, flamboyant personality that causes Roman Bratasiuk to say it’s his “Dolly Parton-styled wine.” Terrific notes of blackberries, raspberries, and rich kirsch liqueur are accompanied by an opulent, flamboyant wine with tremendous viscosity and richness as well as a lusty, heady finish. In short, it’s a mouthfilling, full-bodied red to drink during its first 5-7 years of life. We also have a few magnums of this beauty! Regular Price: $87.00 Gei Berra Single Vineyard 2004, Lulunta, Mendoza 93, Wine Advocate 91, Wine Spectator 91, Wine News 90, Wine & Spirits 100% Malbec The single vineyards project was designed as a tribute to their independent grape growers and an exhibition of how the character of the Malbec grape can vary at different altitudes and terroirs within Mendoza. Each year, the Trapiche team chooses the best three Malbec lots of the harvest and honors them with their own single-vineyard bottlings. The result is three of the finest 100% Malbecs available today. 93, Wine Advocate A full-bodied, juicy, and elegantly perfumed Malbec from Lunlunta, Robert Parker recently spoke of Sr. Carlos Gei Berra’s wine as having “a superb perfume of pain grille, pencil lead, spice box, black cherry and blackberry liqueur...supple texture, serious depth, and a long finish.” He finished by saying, “If I were a young collector, I’d be stashing these away in my cellar.”
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91, Wine Spectator “The 2004 Malbec Vina Carlos Gei Berra is purple/black in color with a superb perfume of pain grille, pencil lead, mineral, spice box, black cherry, and blackberry liqueur. This is followed by a medium to full-bodied wine with a supple texture, layers of fruit, spicy black fruit flavors, serious depth, and a long, slightly tannic finish. Give it 5-7 years in the cellar and drink it through 2030.” Regular Price: $39.00 Gran Cabernet Franc 2006, Pulenta Estates, Mendoza, Argentina Deep red-purple color, an intense aroma of red pepper, eucalyptus and spices. Once in the mouth, it is sweet and pleasant due to the presence of round, ripe and soft tannins. its Its 12 months aging in new French oak barrels grants it an elegant and long finish. Gold Medal, International Wine Challenge (London Fair) Gold Medal Hyatt Wine Awards in Mendoza Regular Price: $30.33 Trus 2003, Ribera del Duero, Spain A pristine winery with a single wine, single vineyard project which has been trusted to Juan Carlos Martínez (previously at Arzuaga). Less than 40,000 bottles after wine has spent 18 months on 100% new french oak vats, which tames the exchange of wood tannins as well as the rhythm of such exchange to create a wine of elegant structure embodying the strength that has made Ribera del Duero famous, the charm of the great, classic wines and the very attractives personality that fine, contemporary palates appreciate nowadays. Great press and scores also make Trus a great collectible label. In the “super Ribera” league. Regular Price: $64.00 RODA I 2004, DOC Rioja, Spain Shows big, black cherry, blackberry and wild herb aromas and dense, powerful, spicy and mineral fruit on the palate. RODA I is a wine with serious structure, harmonious, balancing acidity and ripe, soft tannins. 17.5 / 20, Jancis Robinson Very dark crimson. Wonderfully smooth and caressing – quite sweet in overall impact. A sort of Napa Valley Rioja! Lots of pleasure. Silver Medal, Decanter Magazine Gold Medal, International Wine Challenge (London Wine Fair) Regular Price: $72.33
SPARKLING Champagne Bollinger Special Cuvée NV 91, Wine Spectator
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The Spécial Cuvée is the purest expression of Champagne Bollinger’s style, prestigious brand of Champagne. All the House’s know how is required in order to create, year after year, a blend that is constant both in style and quality. It has a unique combination of power and finesse, depth and balance, and it is through Spécial Cuvée that Bollinger establishes its difference and shows its commitment to quality. It is a multi vintage blend. Thanks to its finesse and freshness, Spécial Cuvée is by essence an ideal aperitif wine, and is fine companion to seafood and fish. Its structure and power also make it a good match to a white meat.
Bollinger is a quality minded, family owned house based in Ay. Unusually they ferment their wines in barrels rather than in vats, producing an especially dry champagne which has been a long time favourite of the British. Founded in 1829 its is currently headed by Christian de Montgolfier, great nephew of the legendary Madame Bollinger. Sticking to its traditional methods, the house produces uncompromising quality. 70% of the grapes, an unusually high proportion in champagne, come from their own 144 hectares of vineyards located primarily in the Grands and Premier crus. The majority of these are planted with Pinot Noir which dominates the blends and gives Bollinger’s unmistakable full character. Lengthy aging is at the core of Bollinger’s philosophy and the equivalent of five years’ production lies in their cellars at Ay to ensure the continuity of Bollinger’s style. 60% Pinot Noir, 25% Chardonnay, 15% Pinot Meunier Regular Price: $77.00 Champagne Laurent Perrier Grand Siecle Brut 94, Steven Tanzer 94, Wine News In the 17th Century, during the reign of Louis XIV, France enjoyed its most illustrious era. Louis XIV became known as the “Sun King” for his benevolence and his patronage of the Arts, which became the foundation of France’s rich artistic heritage. At the Palace of Versailles Louis XIV was the first French King to drink Champagne. Louis XIV’s era became known as the Grand Siècle - the “Great Century”. Bottled in a replica of a 17th Century bottle evoking the radiance of that period, Laurent-Perrier’s prestige cuvées embody luxury, magnificence and elegance fit for a king. When it came to his prestige cuvée, Bernard de Nonancourt decided to highlight two of Champagne’s traditional realms of proficiency: the blending of different crus and different vintages. Grand Siècle is the epitome of Champagne cuvées, as it blends complementary wines from Laurent-Perrier’s very best growths and most successful vintage years. Grand Siècle is made with a pinot noir and chardonnay blend, with the latter being slightly dominant. Twelve of the most prestigious villages supply these grapes; all of them classified at 100% Grands Crus such as Ambonnay,Verzenay, Mailly, Avize, Cramant, Chouilly and Le Mesnil-sur-Oger. Within the vineyards of these villages, only the very best plots are selected, as are the finest musts from the pressings. It has a bright color, with a brilliant yellow hue. Its subtle aromas of honey, hazelnuts, grilled almonds and brioche, make this the perfect companion for refined dishes. It pairs just as well with poultry and truffles as it does with veal and morel mushrooms. Regular Price: $77.00
WHITES Chaleur Estates Blanc Columbia Valley 2006 Rich and Smoky, this Sauvignon Blanc-Semillon blend delivers a nose suggesting golden raisins, ripe figs, white peaches and light streaks of butter, honey and caramel. The fruit and wood are balanced and the alcohol is a moderate 13.5%.
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Everything here is in proportion, layered, smooth and seductive. More than past vintages, this is a Chaleur Estate Blanc that seems destined to age and develop over the next decade or more. 94pts, Wine Enthusiast #8, Top 100 Washington Wines, Seattle Times 61% Sauvignon Blanc, 39% Semillon Rich, smoky aromas of fig, toast and crème brulée combined with the sweet straw of the Sauvignon Blanc. This is a powerhouse white wine that is youthful and complex. Pear, straw, honeydew melons and citrus peel flavors expand in the mouth. Silky, creamy textures add to the personality of the wine. One white wine is produced under the DeLille label. The 2006 Chaleur Estate Blanc is a blend of 61% Sauvignon Blanc and 39% Semillon. The wine goes through full malolactic fermentation with lees stirring. Medium straw-colored, it has an enticing bouquet of spring flowers, melon, and fresh herbs. Toasty, complex, and mouth-coating, this full-flavored wine could easily pass for a top Pessac-Leognan like Fieuzal. It can be enjoyed now and over the next several years. 91pts, Wine Advocate Pale yellow. Aromas of lemon, toast and straw; very much in a white Bordeaux style. Ripe, dense and quite dry but with an intriguingly saline, tactile quality and a honeyed nuance giving it a subtle sweetness. Finishes ripe and persistent, with late hints of honey and herbs. Winemaker Peterson has cut back on the percentage of new oak (it’s now 80% rather than 100%), and this is all to the good. 90pts, Stephen Tanzer Regular Price: $39.67 L’Ecole #41 Chardonnay 2006, Columbia Valley, Washington Gold Medal, Washington State Wine Competition “Some of the best Chardonnays in Washington State are grown in the slightly cooler growing conditions of Yakima Valley and in the northern latitudes of the Columbia Valley. The Dunnington and Fair Acre Vineyards (Yakima Valley) provide ripe tropical fruit, while Evergreen (latitude 47 on the Columbia River) contributes crisp acidity and minerality. The old vines at the warmer Bacchus Vineyard provide a nuance of ripe pear on this sophisticated and contemporary Burgundian style Chardonnay.” 100% Chardonnay This wine is a blend of four distinguished vineyards: 42% Dunnington Vineyard (formerly part of Fair Acre), 35% Evergreen, 12% Bacchus and 11% Fair Acre. Elegantly balanced, this Burgundian style Chardonnay shows Fuji apple, Asian pear and ripe pineapple and tropical flavors with subtle mineral and spice that gain complexity on a long, robust finish. The fruit was lightly whole-cluster pressed to tank and allowed to settle. The juice was then racked off of the solids into new and second year French oak barrels where it was aged sur lie for seven months. Malolactic fermentation was introduced in barrel, resulting in a rich mouth feel and a creamy full finish. Regular Price: $28.33
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Eroica Riesling Columbia Valley 2006 “…. Since the project began, this has consistently been among the best nondessert Rieslings produced in the USA and the 2006 continues in that tradition. Light straw-colored, it offers up a lovely floral, mineral, honeysuckle bouquet, crisp flavors featuring melon and pineapple, excellent balance, and a long, pure, refreshing finish. This wine may well evolve in the manner of one of Dr. Loosen’s great Mosel Rieslings. Stashing a few bottles is a very safe bet.” 91pts, Wine Advocate 100% Riesling “With each vintage, Eroica, the joint venture between Dr. Loosen and Chateau Ste. Michelle, has grown more assured. The 2006 from joint winemakers Bob Bertheau and Ernie Loosen is simply invigorating, a mineral wine of moderate, kabinett-level ripeness that shows up the wine’s generous fruit without being sweet in the least. Aromas of golden apple with a hint of peach blossom lead; the flavors are deeper, more pearlike, finishing with a brisk, vibrant minerality.” 93 pts, Wine & Spirits and One of the 100 Best Wines of the Year “ The 2006 Eroica delivers fresh mandarin orange and lime aromas and fl avors with subtle mineral and slate notes. This Eroica shows the warm vintage through its slightly richer, bolder style than the previous vintage. Although slightly more fruit forward, the 2006 Eroica still achieves complexity from the diverse mix of vineyards we source from--including higher elevation vineyards on the fringes of the Columbia Valley, as well as the more traditional older vines from the Yakima Valley.” Bob Bertheau, Winemaker Food Pairing: Asian dishes, Indian curries, crab, scallops Regular Price: $31.00 Mer Soleil Chardonnay 2006, Santa Lucia Highlands, California 100% Chardonnay 93, Wine Enthusiast “Year in and year out, Mer Soleil’s Chardonnay is one of the biggest, most distinctive ones in California. The ‘06 is almost like a late-harvest dessert wine, rich in apricot jam, pineapple custard and new oak butterscotch flavors, but for all the opulence, it’s entirely dry and has zesty Monterey acidity. Almost a food group in itself, it will challenge chefs to rise to the occasion.” (04/09) Mer Soleil is the project of Charlie Wagner, son and protégé of Caymus founder Chuck Wagner. The winery’s Central Coast Chardonnay comes from the Santa Lucia Highlands, where the sea and the sun work in consort to create a wonderful environment for the varietal. A California-style chardonnay with lots of up front tropical fruit, spice and a buttery-rich mid-palate.” Soft gold color. Richly perfumed nose, with light notes of honeysuckle, truffle and buttery oak. Full, layered flavors of tropical fruit are balanced by a bright acidity of sweet citrus, and linger though the long, creamy finish. With this vintage, the Mer Soleil Chardonnay label now proudly displays the Santa Lucia Highlands appellation. We are pleased to be able to specify the growing area of our fruit and all it represents in the bottle. Our Chardonnay from the Mer Soleil Vineyard, located in this cool, dry part of Monterey County on land we began cultivating in 1988, is now at full maturity. Regular Price: $39.33
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Mer Soleil Silver Chardonnay 2006, Santa Lucia Highlands, California 100% Chardonnay 92, Wine Spectator Delicious, with pure, rich, concentrated pear, citrus, honeysuckle and spicy apple flavors that are complex and well-focused, with a long, juicy aftertaste. Owned by the Wagners of Caymus fame, the Mer Soleil Silver is an un-oaked wine that shows tremendous richness and complexity. The amazing thing is that the wine’s richness and depth is entirely from the fruit. A perfect white to enjoy with food! This “Silver” Chardonnay from Mer Soleil is, as the name suggests, an alternative to the gold label. There is no oak on the Silver and not much that is heavy, or rich and buttery either. What there is is plenty of refreshingly clean and minerally Chardonnay fruit. Delicious poolside! Regular Price: $39.33 Landmark Overlook Chardonnay 2005, Sonoma County, CA The 20 plus separate vineyards that comprise this year’s Overlook include such distinguished growers as Sangaciomo, Bien Nacido, Martinelli, Lorenzo and Heintz. All the wine in the Overlook bottling is barrel fermented using indigenous yeasts and undergoes full malolactic fermentation. The wine is aged sur lie for ten months in Burgundian barrels and racked to tanks for blending. 90, Wine Enthusiast The aromas of toasted almonds, caramel and coconut are followed by crisp green apple and lemon rind flavors that convey certain minerality. This wine will pair well with seafoods and shellfish, and complement pastas with cream sauces, as well as roast chicken and pork roast with fruit. 90, Wine Advocate “A reliable winery with a realistic pricing policy, one of California’s finest Chardonnays for the money is Landmark’s Chardonnay Overlook. The 2005 (74% Sonoma, 16% Santa Barbara, and 10% Monterey fruit) exhibits a light green/straw color as well as attractive aromas of honeyed citrus, tropical fruits, and spices. Excellent acidity, a lovely texture and mouthfeel, and medium body suggest this complex Chardonnay will drink well for several years. It represents a hypothetical blend of a classic white Burgundy and a California Chardonnay.” Regular Price: $ 33. 67 Ramey Hyde Vineyard Chardonnay 2005, Napa- Carneros, California Located in gently rolling terrain north of Carneros Highway, the soils are quite heavy clay.Vine selection is Old Wente, Robert Young and Long Vineyards - each a Wente selection themselves-ranging in age from 7 to 26 years old. The Wente is marked by very small grape clusters, with small berries, and the so-called “hen-and-chick”--large and small berries within the same cluster. The Wente produces a classic, Burgundian-style wine, without the tropical fruit tones of some California Chardonnays. The Long Vineyards selection adds a floral note, and the Hyde Vineyard wines often seem charming and feminine. High natural acidity plays a prominent role.
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95 Robert M. Parker Jr.’s The Wine Advocate December 2007 A stunning effort, the 2005 Chardonnay Hyde Vineyard boasts great intensity along with huge tropical fruit notes interwoven with notions of spring flowers,
orange marmalade, white peaches, and steely minerals. Its abundant fruit conceals any evidence of wood. Well-delineated, with outstanding acidity as well as a layered, sumptuous finish, it should age nicely for 4-5 years, possibly longer. 90 California Grapevine,Vol. 332, No. 6, Dec 2007-Jan 2008 Medium-light golden yellow; attractive, floral, ripe pear and spiced apple aroma with hints of nut meg and toasted hazelnut; full body; forward, rich, spicy, ripe pear and green apple flavors with notes of citrus and creamy oak; well balanced and structured; lingering aftertaste.Very appealing to taste now though deserving of several more years of bottle aging.Very highly recommended. 94 Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar May/June 2008 Yellow-gold. Stunningly nuanced aromas of smoky lemon, lime, poached pear, licorice and iodine complicated by dusty talc and white flowers. Impressively chewy and deeply concentrated, offering strong citrus and orchard fruit flavors underscored by smoky minerals and succulent herbs. This extremely complex wine has the concentration and balance to reward patience. Regular Price: $65.67
Special Prices are valid until June 30th, 2009, while supplies last. The “48 hrs deal” begins on Wednesday, June 17th and ends on Friday June 19th at noon. No further discounts are applicable. For more information, please contact our Telephone / Online Sales Executive at 787.781.2070 X 1339.
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Summer Treats Summer officially starts on June 21st, right on Father’s Day Weekend. Which means we still have 100 days to take it a bit easier, enjoy our friends and family and celebrate the gorgeous summers we are world famous for. To kick off the season, here are 12 lay back wines that can also match local cuisine and turn a just so so afternoon into a real sunset treat! 26
Domaine Ste Michelle NV Sparkling Brut Bright acidity and effervescence cleanses the palate, while the delicate flavors compliment a wide array of dishes. Sip with bagels and lox for a relaxing weekend brunch.” Regular Price: $19.00 Special Price: Navarro Correas Extra Brut NV, Mendoza, Argentina Made with 60% Chardonnay and 40% Pinot Noir. Medium structure. Good finish. Excellent with scallops and light risottos. Well-integrated, toasty, nutty and straw notes. Methode champenoise. Regular Price: $20.00 Special Price: Ch D’esclans Whispering Angel 2007, Provence, France This wine is a blend of Grenache and Rolle.Very light pink in color, truly vin gris in color. An aromatic nose with herbaceous plants and flowers. Strawberries, lavendar, minerals on the palate with a dry, clean finish. Regular Price: $22.67 Special Price: Paul Jaboulet Cotes du Rhone Parallele 45 Rosé 2008 Classic Grenache Rosé. Excellent for sunset just by itself. Pairs great with tuna, carpaccio, chistorra, prosciutto. Regular Price: $17.50 Special Price: Pulenta Estates La Flor Malbec Rosé 2008, Mendoza, Argentina A delightful wine! One ofthe few Malbec Roses available in Puerto Rico. the intense color is an advance note of its noticeable fruit fresh berries character. Regular Price: $14.67 Special Price: Bonterra Chardonnay 2005, Mendocino County, California “The Bonterra 2005 Mendocino County Chardonnay brings the fragrance of lemon and the freshness of green apple to the nose, with some back notes of tropical pineapple and a distinct mineral presence. Regular Price: $19.67 Special Price: Chateau Ste Michelle Gewurztraminer Columbia Valley 2006 Bright, refreshing medium-dry wine with inviting aromas of lychee nuts nutmeg and clove spice. This Gewürztraminer is nicely balanced between fruit and the grape’s natural crisp character, while still being lush. Regular Price: $16.33 Special Price: Santa Rita, Sauvignon Blanc Reserva 2008, Chile Excellent choice for “chillo a la plancha”,.Very crisp, clean finish. Regular Price: $14.00 Special Price: Plozner, Pinot Grigio, Grave Friuli, Italy Crisp, medium bodied with mineral undertones and clean finish. Focused apples, fresh figs and dry fruit accents. Regular Price: $20.00 Special Price: Jermann Pinot Grigio IGT, Friuli, Italy Full bodied Pinot Grigio, with balanced acidity, great aromatics and persistent, long finish. Regular Price: $17.33 Special Price:
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BAR
A fine cocktail or very special liquor is like giving a rose. Because nothing else will do! a Check out these selections for those moments in life.
Ketel One Vodka
Chopin Vodka
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Belvedere Vodka
Van Gogh Collection Vodka
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Hendricks Gin Regular Price: $ Special Price:
Cognac Courvoisier Napoleon Regular Price: $117.67 Special Price:
The Balvenie Double Wood 12 Years Regular Price: $ Special Price:
Glenfiddich 12 Years Regular Price: $ Special Price:
Graham’s 30 Years Port
Dow’s Colheita 1994
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