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Click on the Month you’d like to review. Please note prices may have changed from the month they were included in the Case of the Month, so check with us for current pricing and availability.
| 2004 Jan/Feb | 2004 April | July 2004 | October 2004 |
| 2004 March | 2004 May | August 2004 | November 2004 |
| 2004 June | September 2004 | December 2004 | |
January/February
2004
This month we offer a “greatest hits of 2003”, otherwise known as the ne plus ultra case of the month. The following wines (excepting a few new releases) were steady best sellers and were therefore deemed worthy of inclusion here. Enjoy!
Nobilo Sauvignon Blanc 2002
This New Zealand white is so loaded with grapefruit flavors you’d swear they add some in. Excellent reminder of summer that is crisp and lively but has rich fruit flavors to boot. $9.99
Terroso de 2000 Douro
Traditional port grapes made in a dry unfortified style. Densely textured with boysenberry-like fruit and mild earthiness with gently nudging tannins on the finish. $9.99
Rachel’s Cellars Pinot Gris 2001
An Oregon white loaded with tropical fruit flavors, pear, pineapple, and tangerine. It might even have Vitamin C in there! Despite all that tropical business, it remains relatively dry. $8.99
Lithos Chardonnay 2001
From the oft-mentioned ocean of California wine, this medium-bodied wine is dry and clean with pear and citrus notes. Twice as good as Two-Buck Chuck? You decide. $5.99
Snoqualmie Syrah 2000
As the Wine Spectator says, “this is an outstanding price for West Coast Syrah of this quality.” Ripe, smoky, and spicy with rich fruit that stays balanced and doesn’t veer off the wine road. $8.99
Milton Park Shiraz 2002
If you couldn’t get any of their Shotfire Shiraz, here is a worthy substitute at two-thirds the price. Called an outrageous value by Parker, this is fruit bomb all the way, big, juicy, and loaded with peppery blackberry goodness. $9.50
Los Vascos Cabernet Sauvigon 2001
Consistently a top-notch Cab for the money, the new vintage is right on again. Solid blackberry and cassis fruit mingles with tea and oak notes. $8.99
Oligitum Merlot 2002
Spicy sandalwood and high-toned red berry aromatics jump from the glass. Although smooth and supple overall, there is some chewiness on the finish to give the illusion of heft. Impressive merlot for the price. $8.99
Colombelle Gascogne Blanc 2002
This Ugni blanc-based white is similar to the wildly popular Domaine des Cassagnoles from the same region. Same grapes, same snappy style: vibrant and juicy with a peach/citrus tang. The bonus is the screw-cap: it proves handy when you need to open that wine“immediately, if not sooner”. $6.99
Los Cardos Malbec 2002
A new Argentine red that is plush and thickly textured with blackberry fruit and muted black tea notes. Substantial tannin and body cry out for grilled meats. $8.50
Carmenet Merlot 2000
Everything that’s good about California Merlot without the high price. Soft supple red fruit flavors that don’t make you think too hard. A new lower-priced offering from a respected producer. $8.50
Agramont Grenache 2002
Young and yummy Spanish grenache; the nose jumps out at you and the medium-bodied fruit is fresh, pretty, and brightened by vibrant acidity. $8.50
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March
2004
The Iberian Peninsula makes a strong showing this month with delicious bargains despite the rising Euro. Style-wise we’re on the cusp; there’s a few hearty winter reds as well as some lighter harbingers of spring.
Avalon Cabernet Sauvignon 2000
Another rocking Cab value from the folks who brought you Blackstone, this is “glut” wine bought from some top Napa producers. Super smooth with rich black cherry fruit and luscious vanilla oak notes. $8.99
Grand Arte Alvarinho 2001
Popular in a recent tasting (maybe because it reminded us of summer) this Portuguese white is bright and vibrant with fresh flower aromatics and white fruit flavors followed by a citrus crispness on the finish. $9.99
Condesa de Leganza Reserva 1995
Rock bottom pricing made me wonder what’s wrong with this wine.Nothing. Amazingly it tastes like a ‘95 reserva should, classy and restrained, albeit not as nuanced as $30-$40 bottles. Nevertheless, it has tell-tale notes of dried cherry, cigar box, coffee, and gripping tannins. $9.99
El Paseo Valencia Blanco 2002
This bargain-priced Spanish white blend is chock-full of surprisingly ripe tropical fruit flavors as well as pear and citrus/tangelo. Bright with a slight tang, this will get your taste buds geared up for those Spring Break cocktails with the little umbrella in them. Not what I expected. (Sorry, no little umbrellas included.) $5.99
Osborne Solaz
Fruit-driven Spanish blend made in a more modern oaky style, with Cabernet adding bright red berry fruit to Tempranillo’s spicy bass notes. $8.50
Chateau Jouclary Cabardes 2001
From a lonely corner of France between Bordeaux and the Languedoc comes this hearty winter-appropriate red. Cab sauv., cab franc, and syrah. $8.50
Lennard’s Crossing Shiraz-Malbec 2002
Adding malbec to shiraz is a bit like adding bacon and a fried egg to a burger: it seems like overkill, but hey it works! Dark in color, the jammy blackberry shiraz is toned down by the more brooding malbec and laced with a tasty dose of oak. Another outrageous Australian bargain. $5.99
M. Pozzan Chardonnay 2002
Michael Pozzan is the man behind California bargain favorites such as Annabella and Lithos, and keeps the hits coming with this all-Sonoma-fruit chardonnay. Bought as finished wine from a quality (and certainly more expensive) winery that needed to move some product, this is classy California chardonnay: bright, smooth, and polished, the medium-bodied fruit has characteristic oak and butter notes that add complexity without dominating. $8.99
Porcupine Ridge Sauvignon Blanc 2002
A South African white that has the grapefruit/citrus blast characteristic of New Zealand sauvignon blanc yet with enough melot fruit to flesh it out. Clean and refreshing. $8.99
Farnio Rosso Piceno 2001
Relatively full-bodied with dense plum fruit and mocha notes. Although restrained and polished, tannins and brighter blueberry notes pick up on the finish. $7.99
Buzet Merlot Tradition 2000
Although it says merlot, this is basically a Bordeaux blend dominated by merlot. Buzet is an appellation just outside of Bordeaux and certainly benefited from the same weather conditions that made 2000 such a storied vintage there. Medium-bodied with generous plum fruit, cab franc aromatics (green olive, leather, spice), and a kiss of tannin on the finish. $8.99
Cave de Tain L’Hermitage Syrah 2000
Violets, lavender, and high-toned red fruits dominate in this northern Rhône syrah. Medium-bodied with gentle tannins, with grapefruit and mineral spice notes adding complexity.
This wine is no juice ball; it is however as the Brits like to say, correct.
$8.50
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April
2004
We’re
chasing the bargains which this month leads us to the southern
hemisphere, California’s overflowing vineyards, and once again the
undervalued reds of Spain. A trip around the world in a box. Enjoy!
Borsao 2002
This Spanish bargain favorite is back in town and just as incredible
as always. 75% grenache and 25% tempranillo add up to a rich smoky cigar
box full of fun with a great body and luscious red fruit flavors to
boot. $7.50
Matua Valley Pinot Noir 2002
Pretty, elegant, and spring-like, this New Zealand red does indeed
smell and taste like pinot noir which is not always the case in this
price range. Medium-bodied with a gorgeous garnet color and vibrantly
tangy cherry fruit. $9.99
Pascual Toso Malbec 2002
A surprise hit in a recent tasting; this Wine Spectator
review might explain why: “Smoky and bacony, with blackberry and
licorice fruit that keeps a firm grip through the finish. Thick and
burly; built for hedonists.” 88 pts. $9.50
Rabbit Ridge Montepiano 1999
A Tuscan-style blend that offers telltale sangiovese characteristics
of tangy red cherry, mild spice, lively acidity and a dry finish but
this time dressed up in that irrepressible juicy California style. $6.99
Mirassou Chardonnay 2002
Recently purchased by Gallo and all spruced up, Mirassou gets back
on track with this central coast chardonnay which is a solid value in a
crowded field. Flavorful and appealing, the often too-dominant oak and
butter notes are here tucked in the back allowing the purity of fruit to
shine through. $9.99
Cypress Cabernet Sauvignon 2001
This second label of J. Lohr is usually an awfully reliable wine,
here made more so by the sunny 2001 vintage. Soft, juicy, and
fruit-forward, the berry flavors overflow into a succulent lip-smacking
finish. Gobs of California Cab flavor for the money. $6.99
Domaine Saint-Peyre Picpoul-de-Pinet 2003– From southern France’s
Languedoc region, Picpoul is a varietal famous for its racy acidity.
This is one of the first arrivals from the torridly hot summer of 2003,
and all that heat is apparent. The acidity is still there, but with much
more fleshy white fruits than the previous vintage. Close your eyes and
inhale; it’s a dead ringer for pear juice. Deliciously plump and
seductive. $8.50
Domaine Grand Veneur Reserve Cotes du Rhone 2002
Proof that there will still be good southern Rhône reds in ’02.
Surprisingly smooth and flavorful, the medium-bodied red and black berry
fruit is rounded out by smoky garrigue herb notes and licorice.
$9.50
Val Viadero Toro 2001
Got oak? 100% Tempranillo from Spain’s Toro region, this is an
intense blast of dark spice-laden fruit cloaked in layers of new oak.
Like oak? We got it; delivers a load of oomph for the money as it was
$12.99 but has been reduced to make way for the new vintage. $8.99
Di Lenardo Lis Maris 2001
A classic no-nonsense inexpensive Italian white (with no-nonsense
label to match) meant for apértifs and light meals and to be forgotten.
Crisp, clean and refreshing, it would taste beyond marvelous were you
sitting at a trattoria overlooking the Mediterranean. Here in Portland,
it just tastes marvelous. $7.50
Montesierra Tinto 2002
Another Spanish red unlike the others, this more restrained and
leaner structured. High notes of blueberry and cherry are balanced by
darker fruit notes and gently gripping tannins. 50% tempranillo, 25%
cabernet, and 25% moristel. $8.99
Veramonte Sauvignon Blanc 2003
The wines from this Chilean winery seem to get better every year.
Medium-bodied and richly fruity with refreshing lemon-lime notes and a
clean zesty finish. $7.99
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May
2004
As the weather heats up, we offer classic outdoor selections to cool you off or help wash down tonight’s grill offering. Light refreshing whites, a delicate rosé, and smoky, spicy, BBQ reds, priced to party.
Rosenblum Zinfandel Cuvee XXV -
Extremely well-done version of this top producer’s everyday line, this has all the rich juicy plummy zin flavors without overdoing it. Not overly alcoholic or jammy sweet, instead offering balance, focus, and an inviting spiciness. $9.99
Domaine du Poujol Rosé 2002 -
The weather outside is frightful(ly hot) but this rosé is refreshing and delightful. In the Languedoc style, this is pale salmon colored, light, crisp, and dry with hints of pretty strawberry fruit. $8.99
Montpellier Syrah 2001 -
Rocking California syrah for the price, neither overly fruity nor insipid, it’s fresh, bright, and vibrant, the medium-bodied fruit layered with pretty red flavors and peppery spice. $5.99
Covey Run Fumé Blanc 2002 - Zippy and clean, the white fruit and citrus flavors are preceded by floral aromatics that are as inviting to us as they are to a bee. Difficult to beat for a Washington white at this price. $7.50
Crucillon Garnacha 2002 -
This super-popular steal of a wine is back in stock and makes for great warmer weather drinking. Medium-bodied and easy-going, the red fruit flavors are joined by enough earthy spice and tannin to keep it awfully interesting at this price. $5.99
Codice 2001 -
This old Spanish (Tempranillo) favorite is back in town with its soft luscious dark fruit profile accented by creamy oak notes. Medium-bodied, it finishes dry, picking up some food-welcoming structure and tannin on the finish. $8.99
Leasingham Magnus Shiraz
Cabernet Sauvignon Clare Valley 2001
Leasingham is one the Clare Valley’s rising stars and this new low-priced offering proves that they are on the right track. Clare Valley fruit is generally more structured and less overtly fruity, offering more finesse and complexity which is the case here. Tobacco and mint notes from the cab mingle with the high-toned red fruits of shiraz. $9.99
Marques de Caceres Blanco 2002 -
Made from 100% Viura, an indigenous Spanish varietal, this is young, fresh and all-too-easily quaffed; the ripe juicy fruit is balanced by vibrant acidity. $6.99
Christian Moueix Merlot 2000 -
Usually the names Moueix and merlot together refer to one of the world’s most expensive wines, Chateau Pétrus of Bordeaux. From the same region and the same family, you can have 150 bottles of this for the same price as one Pétrus. The quality of the 2000 vintage shows through here in this elegant and balanced wine that offers aromatics of dried cherry and an underlying juiciness. Although very French in style (firm and aristocratic) its allure is hard to deny. $9.50
ERA Montepulciano 2002 -
Made from organically grown grapes, this popular red sells well and with good reason. Chock full of dark fruits verging toward mocha, and a telltale Italian-ness of earthy spice. Plump and forward, the mild tannins hold it all together. The official wine of the women’s rights movement. $9.50
Castelvero Cortese 2002 -
This rarely seen white from the Piedmont region of Italy is exactly what one would expect. Clean and bright with racy acidity, it’s so fresh tasting that there is a green just-picked quality to it. $7.50
Agenais 2002 -
This Bordeaux-style red comes from the wild reaches southwest of Bordeaux and is comprised of merlot, cabernet sauvignon, and cabernet franc. Dominated by soft dark plum fruit, it’s a fairly typical country red: dry, medium-bodied, meant to wash down the evening’s meal without taxing the brain. $6.99
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Frantic deal-searching kept June’s case price low and ready to go. Chock full of lighter-bodied easy summer drinkers, the emphasis is on easy: a variety of cool whites and a range of reds so you’re ready when the need strikes.
Norton Malbec 2002
We’ve had a string of great Argentine malbec recently and add this one to the list. “Nice sweet fruit, with lots of black cherry, blackberry and mocha, with a round, easy texture. Ripe and very forward, this focuses on clean, modern fruit. Pure and delicious.” 89 pts
- Wine Spectator $8.50
Cortecillas Rosado Rioja 2002
A very pale and delicate style rosé made predominantly from Tempranillo, this eschews obvious red fruit flavors aiming instead for a refreshing bracing crispness. $6.99
Castillo del Baron Monastrell 2002
100% Spanish mourvedre from relatively old vines offers dark fruit flavors of plum and blackberry and a variety of spices, including anise, licorice, and cracked pepper. $8.99
Barnard Griffin Fumé Blanc 2002
A quintessential summer sipper that is light, crisp, and pleasantly refreshing with citrus notes and a mild grassiness. Clean and straightforward so as not to get in the way of cooling you off. $8.50
Ferngrove Shiraz 2001
A quiet contender of quality, this comes from the isolated western region of Australia, a continent away from the brash brawny south Australian shiraz that is mostly available. Quiet shouldn’t suggest light, however, as this packs a wallop of spicy shiraz fruit that is rich and dark without being soft and gooey. $8.99
Rachel’s Cellars Pinot Gris 2003
The new vintage is in, and happily as tasty as the last batch. Exuberantly overflowing with ripe peach fruit and citrus notes, with an obvious crisp freshness. $9.99
Durius Tempranillo 2001
Another new vintage of an old favorite, this Spanish red is more complex than many in this price range; the structured spicy dark black fruit is balanced by racy acidity, fine tannins, and bright berry notes. $8.99
Falesco Est!Est!Est! Poggio dei Gelsi 2002
Drink!Drink!Drink! this delicious Italian which is bursting with clean white fruit flavors, mouthwatering richness, and a charmingly vibrant personality. Dull and insipid? No! Flavorful and complex? Yes! $8.99
Borgo dei Miracoli Montepulciano d’Abruzzo 2002
With its tell-tale mocha notes and dark fruit flavors, this medium-bodied Italian is a winner for the money. Enough richness to sink your teeth into but clean and fresh enough for the summer. $6.50
Dry Creek Chenin Blanc 2003
Light to medium bodied, this works the sweet/tart angle with limey citrus notes bouncing off the riesling-like floral fruitiness, then finishing dry and lip-smacking. $8.50
Montpellier Cabernet Sauvignon 2001
These guys are on a streak. Last month, their syrah sold like popsicles on a hot day, and this Cab should do the same. Juicy bright berry fruit that is smooth and supple and a mere $5.99.
Cheap Red Wine
Everyone’s favorite gag gift wine is actually perfectly serviceable for the money. Medium-bodied and aromatic with red berry fruit reminiscent of zinfandel or a lighter petite sirah, this makes for easy BBQ party drinking— not to mention the gushing thanks you are sure to receive from the host. $5.99
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July
2004
And
the hits just keep on coming. Fierce competition in the under-$10 market
and near-incessant tasting on our part brings you a stellar mixture of
summer drinkers. The quality of wine in this price range just keeps
getting better and better; Drink up!
Felsner Gruner Veltliner 2002
This Austrian white is remarkably full of flavor and complexity for
the money; crisp, dry and refreshing with floral aromatics and a clean
gooseberry fruitiness. $9.99Tin Roof Chardonnay 2002
Tin Roof is the second label of Sonoma vintner Murphy-Goode, and
it’s clear that this is excess yet high-quality Sonoma fruit.
Fermented half in oak barrels and half in stainless steel, the ripe
fruit is layered with hints of pineapple, papaya, and pear and balanced
by a mild oak spiciness. $9.99
Alberti 154 Tempranillo 2002
Argentina is the one New World country that is doing a good job with
tempranillo in any large quantity. Besides being a little more fruit
forward, this is classic tempranillo: slight dusty notes, medium-bodied,
touch of tannin, and blue/boysenberry fruit. $8.99
Chateau Recougne Bordeaux Blanc 2002
From a good producer and a great vintage, this 100% sauvignon blanc
has a zippy grapefruit intensity balanced by an intriguing grassy bitter
note (like gin) on the finish. Although racy and firm, the viscous
fullness will stand up to most light summer meals. $9.50
Protocolo Rosé 2003
Fresh off the boat and ready for immediate consumption. Amazingly
fresh and delicious for the money, this garnacha/tempranillo blend is
medium-bodied, medium-fruited, and 100% tasty. $6.99
Rex Goliath Merlot NV
Cock-a-doodle-doo cries this Rooster: Wake up and taste this juicy,
full-flavored California red that is screaming with mouth-filling red
fruits and oaky spice. $6.99
Trimbach Pinot Blanc 2001
Dry and weighty with apple/pear notes, mild allspice, and that
hard-to-mimic Alsatian minerality. From an excellent producer, this is a
pretty serious wine for the money. $9.99
Rabbit Ridge Zinfandel 2000
This winery is a staple in the under-$10 range producing a variety
of quality fruit-forward reds. Their zin is probably the best of the
bunch with ripe raspberry fruit and smoky plum notes, all wrapped up in
a soft, drink-me-tonight-at-your-barbeque style. $8.99
Santa Rita Carmenere 2002
Carmenere is an old, mostly forgotten varietal of Bordeaux now
showing a resurgence in Chile. Similar to cabernet franc, it has a soft
velvety mouth-feel studded with black fruit flavors, mild bell pepper
notes, and a healthy dose of herby spice. $5.99
Domaine de la Mavette Vin de pays (Vaucluse) 2001
Charmingly rustic and chewy (the Rhone excels at such an odd
juxtaposition), this is old-world country wine: big and brawny with
intense blackberry fruit that turns supple and smooth on the finish.
$6.99
Il Bastardo Sangiovese 2002
The label is worth the price alone but the sappy red-fruit filled
wine is no slouch either. Classic spaghetti red with an easy-going
medium-bodied personality, touch of cedary spice, and slight tannins to
hold it all together. $6.99
Mas de Lairole Languedoc 2002
High-toned red berry fruit and a peppery kick highlight this
softer-style southern French red. Viscous and fruity up front, dry and
clean on the finish. $9.50
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The dog days of summer need easy-drinking uncomplicated wines that refresh, revive, and charm in simple ways. Chill ‘em all, we say; in this heat, these fruit-driven reds will taste amazingly better after 30 minutes in the fridge, brighter and more vibrant. Enjoy the heat!
Nobilo Sauvignon Blanc 2003 -
Dripping with that hallmark of New Zealand sauvignon blanc, grapefruit and more grapefruit, this is crisp and lively yet retains a smooth medium-bodied lushness. $9.99
Daroca Grenache Syrah 2003 -
This bargain red is back in a new vintage and is as rock solid as ever. It fit in perfectly in a recent $12-$16 Spanish red tasting where I (conveniently) forgot to put on a price tag. Bright red fruits and a mild spiciness are framed by gentle yet firm tannins. $6.50
Los Cardos Syrah 2003 -
From Argentina via France, this old-world style syrah is full and thick with hints of the beloved “funky” aromatics and a spicy peppery finish. Fragrant lavender notes and dark berry fruit complete the picture. Fire up the grill, get some meat, drink the wine. $8.50
Arteo Bianco di Sicilia 2003 -
Not to sound too much like the back label (very bad form) but it does sum it up nicely. Clean and floral with white fruit flavors and a tropical citrus finish. Think sauvignon blanc tartness with pinot blanc/gris richness. $6.50
Casa Gualda Cencibel 2003 -
This 100% tempranillo from La Mancha is young bright and fresh, a lovely medium-bodied summer red whose dark blueberry fruit is round and giving, with a kiss of tannin on the finish. $7.50
Arca Nova Vinho Verde 2003 -
To reprise an old ditty:
A Portuguese white that is zippy and bright,
and ever-so-slightly spritzy,
the citrus peach tang
makes one come back again;
Low alcohol will not make you dizzy.
$8.50
Painter Bridge Zinfandel 2002 -
Super bright boysenberry jamminess screams Zinfandel in all its glory, with characteristically Californian oaky notes echoing in the background. Medium-bodied, smooth and supple, this unrepentant juice-ball is like a summer beach novel: less than challenging but a guilty pleasure nonetheless. $7.50
Duboeuf Beaujolais Morgon (Jean Descombes label) 2001 -
Quality Beaujolais can be such the perfect summer wine. Chill it slightly, and you have a fruity, no tannin thirst quencher that will still stand up to most foods. This is one of Duboeuf’s “better” labels, from the village of Morgon. Violets, plums, black cherry and a surprisingly Pinot Noir-like spice and richness. $8.99
Colosi Rosso 2002 -
Located on the tiny island of Salina, where the movie “Il Postino” was filmed, Piero Colosi’s winery uses Nero d’Avola with a touch of other indigenous grapes, ferments in stainless steel, then ages the wine for six months in Slovenian oak. The result is a charming wine with a bright ruby red color, terrific aromas, and expressive fruit flavors of plums, cherries and raspberry as well as an intriguing mineral earthiness. $7.99
Jest White NV -
A California blend of chenin blanc, viognier, and pinot blanc, this is flavorful, refreshing, and easily quaffed. Medium-weight and juicy tropical fruit notes dominate with no oak or butter in sight. $9.99
Domaine Saint-Jean L’Arbousier Coteaux du Languedoc 2001 -
A consistent producer of fruit-forward modern-styled reds, this four- varietal blend (grenache, syrah, mourvedre, and carignan) is full of black fruits and pepper, wrapped in a soft voluptuous style. $8.99
Colombelle Cotes de Gascogne 2003 -
A year-round favorite known for its snappy citrus peachy tang, lilac-colored label, and easy-to-remove screwcap. $6.99
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September
2004
Summer’s swan song has arrived yet again, but no worries; that just gives us an excuse to dip back into some fuller-bodied reds that may have been neglected during the heat. A smattering of refreshing whites and an optimistic rosé round out this month’s offering.
Acme Rosé 2003 -
Despite the recent unseasonal downpours, I’m playing the optimist with hope for a beautiful Indian summer. Acme is the understated brain-child of John Thomas, one of Oregon’s most talented winemakers. 100% pinot noir made by
saignée, it has all the lively juicy drink-me-now deliciousness that you want in rosé but goes one step further with a red fruit spicy complexity. $9.99
Di Majo Norante Sangiovese 2002 - As popular as ever and with good reason. Plush and velvety blackberry cherry fruit whose round fullness is tempered by a vibrant liveliness. $8.99
Blackwing Shiraz 2002 - This is another label from the Thorne-Clark family (Shotfire Ridge, Milton Park) that once again proves them masters of their craft. Luxuriously textured and loaded with smoky black fruit flavors with vanilla oaky notes lurking just below. Bacon fat, a prized French syrah characteristic rarely seen in inexpensive Australian shiraz surprisingly makes a value-added appearance. Surprising in a good way. $9.50
Vina Alarba Old Vine Grenache 2003 - Back in town and stuffed with that Spanish Grenache goodness: medium-bodied yet chewy with strawberry cherry fruit and a tobacco herb spiciness. $7.50
Di Lenardo Refosco 2002 - Refosco is a little-known varietal from northeastern Italy that offers that “Italian” red wine flavor dimension yet is different enough for a nice change of pace. Delightfully juicy, medium bodied and smooth with bright raspberry cherry fruit and a touch of that rustic earthiness. $8.99
Lennard’s Crossing Chardonnay 2003 - A consistent, if quiet, performer that is remarkable for the money. Yes, it has the expected tropical fruit notes but overall is clean and vibrant, the ripe fruit being balanced by refreshing acidity. $5.99
Teruzzi & Puthod Vernaccia 2002 - From one of the top producers of this favored Tuscan white, this made friends at a recent tasting. Delicate and floral with fresh apple and honeydew melon notes, fresh herb aromatics and a zippy minerality. $9.99
Veramonte Sauvignon Blanc ’03 - Another winner vintage; Wine Spectator
sums it up nicely: “Nice richness, with straw, peach, lemon verbena and lime notes that are bouncy and fresh, with a refreshing finish.” $7.99
Altos las Hormigas Malbec 2002 - Very fragrant and inviting, full of bright red fruits and oaky wood spice. Although still dark and rich, it is more juicy and forward than the more edgy 2001. $9.99
Vina Reboreda Ribeira 2002 - Poor man’s albarino from the same region (Rias Baixas) whose blend offers up fresh flower aromas and white peach flavors. Medium-bodied with some lushness, the crispness still cries out for summer. $8.99
Jewel Petite Sirah 2002 - Gripping dark berry fruit and a pleasantly earthy spiciness are the hallmarks of good petite sirah and this new release delivers surprising quality for the money. Californian in style with vanilla oak and soft tannins framing the lush fruit, this will prove popular for end-of-the-season BBQs. $9.99
La Vernède Languedoc 2000 - This style falls somewhere between modern and traditional which may explain its popularity. Traditional offers the spicy barnyard garrigue quality where modern adds the sappy blackberry fruit. $8.50
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October
2004
The rosé is gone but a couple of lighter-bodied reds and crisp whites keep the hope alive for one last Indian summer meal. Otherwise, hearty reds are back; robust wines to take the chill out of a wet autumn evening.
Chard No Way Chenin Blanc ’03 -
We’re not into exclusion here, but these guys produce a convincing argument to drink more California Chenin Blanc versus Chardonnay. A fragrant nose of floral and spice leads to a lush palate-coater whose richness is balanced by great acidity. Enough minerality to trick us into thinking it was Loire. Just in time for Halloween. $9.99
House Wine 2002 -
From the wild man at Washington’s K Vintners who calls ‘em like he sees ‘em, the aptly named house wine aspires to just that. A blend of cab, syrah, merlot, and cab franc, it’s big and jammy with black/boysenberry fruit, moderate toasty oak and light tannins. It’s not rocket science, but it’s loaded with flavor for the money, and goes down easy. $9.99
Parrett Mountain Pinot Noir ‘01 -
No delusions here, we and the Saturday tasting crowd agreed: it’s light, but it really tastes like pinot noir. Pretty and pure, the sweet cherry fruit is bright and inviting, and the silky texture is beyond expectation. Pinot noir this inexpensive is usually suspect; not here. $7.50
Oxford Landing Shiraz 2002 -
An everyday quaffer, the medium-bodied berry fruit is juicy without being over-ripe or heavy, and the bouncy notes of oak and spice keep it rolling right along. $6.99
Chateau Bonnet Entre-deux-Mers 2002 -
Once a popular favorite, this has been unavailable in Portland for several years and we’re happy to see it back. Sauvignon blanc from the spit of land between the two rivers of Bordeaux, this is crisp and racy with a fresh grassiness countering its clean white fruit flavors. $9.99
Domaine Sorin Côtes de Provence 2000 -
Bold and dense, this brings back thoughts of cold weather and hearty meals. Notes of lavender and violets try to pretty it up a bit, but it’s mostly about the brooding dark fruit, chewy tannins, and peppery spice. $9.99
Deloach Zinfandel 2002 -
Deloach recently ran into some rough times but is back and wants you to know it: this ‘02 zinfandel somehow seems shiny, polished, and ready to go onstage. Bursting with jammy berry fruit and brambly spice, it’s supple, lush, and just plain fun to drink. $8.99
Domaine Maurel Chenin Colombard 2003
Following in the footsteps of the wildly popular Cotes du Gascogne whites, this is a similar style: little peachy, little tangy, zippy and thirst-quenching. $8.50
La Vieille Ferme Rouge 2003 -
A new and improved label but same reliable quality from the Cotes du Ventoux. Kramer sure liked it: “this is a fruity red wine with real backbone, courtesy of the syrah. Fresh tasting, smooth and beautifully balanced, a better red wine for less money you'd be hard-pressed to find... it's a contender for best cheap red of the year.” $6.99
Egiarte (Tempranillo/Garnacha) 2002 -
Another outrageous Spanish wine bargain in a drink-me-now style. No oak here, just clean vibrant red and black fruit flavors to wash down the evening meal. $5.99
Torre di Luna Pinot Grigio 2002 -
Fresh, smooth, and creamy with melon and mild citrus notes, delivered in a medium-bodied thirst-quenching package. A trusted stand-by. $8.99
Urban Oak 2002 -
No one knows what the name is supposed to refer to (If you do, please tell us), but who cares when it tastes this good. A full-blooded red blend from Argentina that is lush and velvety on the surface but hides a surprise of depth and structure lurking beneath. Tempranillo, malbec, merlot, and syrah. $9.99
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The wet cold gray days are upon us, which wine-wise is fine with us. Summer whites are great, but it’s such a pleasure to return to the flavors of autumn: heady and robust wines with which to greet family and friends round the table and hearth. Happy Thanksgiving.
Sant’ Elena Merlot 1999
This superb Italian drinks like $20 Bordeaux or better. Full bodied with excellent depth and length, the rich smooth smoky plum fruit is shot through with a dark mineral backbone. Amazing complexity for the money. $9.99
Dry Creek Vineyard Pinot Noir Russian River Valley 2002
Rich robust California pinot style; lush dark fruits and spice hang on a well-structured frame. Blowout deal to clear out the warehouse, regular price was around $20. $9.99
Trullari Primitivo 2001
Lovers of Zinfandel will find a lot to like in this wine, since Primitivo is a close relative of the “classic” American grape. From old head-trained vines in Apulia, this displays clean and bright cherry, raspberry and plum fruit flavors that mingle with an earthy spiciness supported by a round and smooth texture. A big, chewy wine great for damp fall days. $8.99
Talmard Macon-Chardonnay ’02
White Burgundy, ‘02 vintage, under $10? I’ll take it. It’s not Montrachet but it does taste like it should, with layers of honeyed nuts, asian pears, and a distinct stoniness embedded in its clean medium-bodied profile. $8.99
Montellori Chianti 2002
Fresh and vibrant, this is a deliciously quaffable Italian red for everyday drinking. Medium bodied and fragrant, with open-knit plum flavors and mild wood spice. $8.99
Domaine Du Pre Baron Touraine Sauvignon 2003
This delicious bargain reminds us of why we love France’s Loire Valley whites so much. The chalky soils around Tours provide an intriguing minerality which perfectly complements the racy acidity of sauvignon blanc. Together they are the yin to the yang of ripe citrus and peach fruit. Add mild grassy floral notes and stir; the result is a complex wine that is crisp, fresh and most importantly, tasty. $9.99
Les Heretiques 2003
This old standby shines in ‘03, helped by all that insufferable heat. A modern style French red from the Languedoc region, the dark fruit is big, lush, and spicy with enough tannic backbone to hold it together. $7.99
Mandrarossa Fiano Sicilia 2003
A Sicilian white that is refreshing and clean, its linear stony quality balances the medium-bodied tropical fruit. Very dry and classy, it’s an elegantly interesting
apéritif. $7.50
Pazen Riesling 2003
Zippy and bright, the lush, honeyed white fruit flavors are intertwined with fresh tangy lime custard notes. Medium-bodied and balanced; not too sweet, not too dry. Very similar to the always popular Dr. L Riesling. $9.99
Kenwood Vintner’s Red Wine ‘02
Sonoma’s Kenwood Winery has an excellent reputation for robust and flavorful red wines, and this entry-level bargain reflects that lineage. A blend of Zinfandel with a bit of Carignan, the Vintage Red packs a lot of spicy, dark fruit flavors and toasty oak into a lush package with well-balanced acid and light tannins. A great match for roasted meats and other hearty dishes. $7.50
Domaine des Alysses Solane ‘03
Another hearty winter warmer wine from the Var/Provence region,which despite its sunny reputation, can get windy/cold/nasty in the winter months. Floral violet aromatics are followed by bold dark fruit flavors. Structured and dense, this is mostly syrah and grenache. $8.99
Red Diamond Merlot 2001
A pleasantly medium-bodied quaffer whose mouthwatering tangy cherry fruit goes down easy and smooth. Juicy and appealingly straightforward, people have returned for this for months. $8.99
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December is maybe the month you need a mixed case like this the most: last minute party or hostess gifts, unexpected (& thirsty) carolers, or just a cold rainy night alone to relax from the general craziness of the holidays.
Castle Rock Zinfandel 2000
A consistently excellent producer of reasonably-priced California wines, Castle Rock has delivered a winner with their current Zinfandel from Sonoma’s Dry Creek Valley. Bursting with bright raspberry and berry fruit, a touch of toasty oak, classic Dry Creek minerality, and sporting a lush texture, this wine whips challengers at twice the price. An excellent choice for holiday parties and get-togethers. $9.99
Tres Ojos Old Vine Grenache 2003
Yet another laughable deal from Spain (laughable in a good way; it’s so good, it’s so cheap!) where the euro-dollar exchange rate hasn’t had such a deleterious effect. Sweet strawberry fruit is forward, lush, smooth and delicious. Modern enough but holds on to some of its old world charm. $6.50
Colonia Las Liebres Bonarda ‘03
A rather rare varietal, this wine comes from Argentina’s Altos Las Hormigas. Possibly related to Italian Dolcetto (depending on who you ask), it sure tastes like it. Fragrant violet aromatics lead to a cherry berry tangy plushness with slight dusty tannins on the finish. Exuberantly fruity, this crowd-pleaser is a perfect party wine. $6.99
Oligitum Merlot 2002
This popular Spanish red is a steady seller and with good reason. Redolent of spicy sandalwood and high-toned red berry, its richness is belied by a smooth and supple mouth-feel. Impressive and interesting merlot for the price. $8.99
McManis Viognier 2003
There is not much good inexpensive California viognier out there, but this is one of them. Lush peachy fruit is very nicely balanced by refreshingly vibrant acidity. This, their first bottling, is already winning awards and good reviews. $9.99
Domaine Deshenrys Coteaux du Languedoc ‘01
Solid, brooding, hearty and comforting, this is wine to put meat on your bones. Although the fruit is dark and intense, it’s long on the palate and not as rustic as it first seems. So spicy and meaty, it’s like chili! $9.99
Azagador Pago de la Jaraba 2002
Mostly Tempranillo with splashes of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, this medium-bodied and lively Spanish red has plenty of tangy fruit (from boysenberry to strawberry) and a mild peppery earthiness. $7.99
Domaine des Rieux Cotes du Gascogne Blanc 2002
An old favorite from southwestern France, this Ugni blanc-based white is medium-bodied and delicious with a lip-smacking tangy peachiness. $8.50
Maryhill Fort Rock Red 2002
From right up there in the Gorge, this is what Lewis and Clark may have drunk when they passed through here. Done in the currently popular style, this blend of cab sauv, cab franc, and merlot is packed with ripe red fruit flavors, vanilla oaky notes and enough structure and herb nuance to balance the first two out. Fun, flashy, and maybe even historic. $9.99
Domaine Sortheilo St. Chinian 2002
Aromatics of wild herbs and lavender lead to a blend of cranberry and dark berry on the palate. Medium-bodied and supple, it’s more pretty than rustic. 70% syrah, 20% grenache, 10% carignan. $8.99
Villa Mt. Eden Chardonnay 2000
This winery is discontinuing this Coastal line so the price is dropped until gone. This is ripe tropical fruit gone wild: pineapple and even apricot are in ample supply as well as smaller doses of buttery nuts. If fruity California chardonnay is your thing, this is for you. Was $10, now just $5.99.
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