Click on the Month you’d like to review. Please note prices may have changed from the time these wonderful wines were released, so please check with us for current pricing and availability.

2002 | 2003 | 2004 | 2005 | 2006 | 2007 | 2008 | 2009 | 2010 | 2011
Jan/Feb 2009	March 2009	April 2009	May 2009
June 2009	July 2009	August/Sept 2009	October 2009
November 2009	December 2009

January/February 2009

Hearty and Comforting Winter Warmers
Andrew Rich Mésalliance 2006
$19.99/$15.99 by the case.
(58% Merlot, 20% Syrah, 11% each Cabernet Franc & Malbec)
If you missed Andrew's tasting here during "Winter Storm 2008!" (as many of you certainly did since we were blanketed with over a foot of snow), you really should come by for some of this now that the snow has melted. As usual, all the wines he poured had their fans but this Mésalliance really stood out. Past vintages have been a favorite here but the 2006 seems like a huge step up. When asked why, Andrew mused philosophically "The Malbec is a new addition to the blend this vintage, and it certainly adds...something. I don't know what - a roundness, a there that wasn't there before? But I like it." Right, how about we let the slightly more precise Steven Tanzer review from International Wine Cellar sum it up: "Sweet, tactile and dense, with a noteworthy depth and sappiness to its fruit and spice flavors. Finishes long, tangy, and ripely tannic. 91 points".

Bethel Heights Pinot Noir Eola-Amity Cuvée 2006
$26.99/$21.50 by the case.
The stealth Oregon Pinot hit of the holidays, this took off in December with more customers coming back for this than any of its colleagues in the $25-$30 range. What makes this so compelling is that it marries the finesse and grace that is typical of Bethel Height's style with the richness of fruit courtesy of the warm 2006 vintage. Floral and pretty, the swirling high-toned strawberry, dark cherry and spicy raspberry flavors are clearly defined against a subtle backdrop of toast, cola and smoky minerality. A zesty personality appears from behind the medium-bodied color, adding lift and complexity all the way to a tasty sappy finish. The 2007 version is just being released, but we've snapped up the 2006 since it's drinking great right now.

Vaona Valpolicella Ripasso 2006
$20.99/$16.75 by the case.
We wanted to feature this in November after it tantalized customers' taste buds at an October tasting. Unfortunately we weren't the only ones who had discovered its charms and several restaurants were rapidly depleting the then-available stock. Now the distributor has reloaded and we can finally offer it en masse. Same vintage, same price but unfortunately same supply issue, which is low. No matter, we'll run with it until we can run no more. If you like red wine and are unfamiliar with Ripasso-style wines, now is the time to change that. It's truly one of the categories that consistently gets enthusiastic feedback from a range of never-tried-it-before customers. Ripasso is made by adding the leftover must (skins, pulp, etc.) from Amarone production (where the grapes are dried before being pressed) to standard Valpolicella. This then referments and picks up the chocolatey raisiny notes and velvety texture that makes Amarone so popular. This bottling is stellar: lush and concentrated with deep cherry fruit, cinnamon spice, and a tangy kick on the finish.

Rouge-Bleu Mistral Côtes du Rhône 2007
$18.99/$15 by the case
Call me predictable but for many of us, there's nothing more comforting than a good solid Rhône. The round fleshy mouthfeel and warm spicy flavors are a perfect match to savory soups and stews and seems to warm the soul as well as the gullet. Comforting doesn't have to be boring though, and while there are many fine Rhône choices, we're excited to share this 2007. There's plenty of buzz about 2007 being yet another stupendous vintage and after drinking this, we can't wait for more releases. It has all the rich heady fruit, slight funk and herbes de Provence spiciness that we love and more; the quality of the vintage really shows in the purity of fruit, the balance and the polished mouth-feel.

Fontanafredda Briccotondo Barbera 2007
$14.50/$11.60 by the case.
Barbera is a lot like Chianti. Not the taste, but the concept. Its role as comforting daily drinker rarely allows it to be in the spotlight. They're universally liked but rarely named anyone's favorite wine, except for a few stellar examples that can seem too pricey for just "Barbera". Also like Chianti, there are so many available that overexposure mutes their allure. That said, a really good one can become the house favorite for months, and based on recent feedback, the Briccotondo seems headed for just that. Boasting 90 point Wine Spectator reviews two vintages in a row, they summed up the 2007 succinctly: " Displays lovely plummy, chocolaty character. Full and silky smooth, this is packed with flavor. Drink now." Amen to that.

Bodegas Mustiguillo "Mestizaje" Bobal Blend 2005
$14.99/$11.99 by the case.
Although pronouncing the name is anything but comforting and wondering what Bobal means is similarly unsettling, one glass of this unique Spanish red and your mind will be put to ease. Bobal is an indigenous Spanish varietal making a comeback and when blended with other Spanish standbys like Tempranillo and Grenache, it can produce a personality-filled wine with fascinating aromatics and wild berry, almost gamy flavors. Reminiscent of the Languedoc or even Bandol, this has Mourvedre-like dark fruit notes, dusty herb loamy aromatics, and gently gripping tannins throughout. Due to its unusualness, the distributor had trouble selling it and lowered the price from $21 to $15, a real bargain for this interesting of a wine.

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March 2009

 Let's Hear It For The Left Coast!

April 2009

He Dribbles, He Shoots... Into the Bucket!

Amalie Robert Dijon Clones Pinot Noir Willamette Valley 2006
 $39.99/$31.99 by the case.
 On our travels in the Willamette Valley last Fall, this winery was the one that just blew us away. The entire lineup featured impeccably-crafted wines that were elegant, vibrant and full of personality. Smack-dab next to Freedom Hill Vineyard near Dallas, Ernie Pink and Dena Drews have turned a cherry orchard into a 30-acre vineyard and winery. The estate-bottled Pinots are 100% Dijon clone, and this one is a field blend from all seven Dijon vineyard blocks, planted on different rootstocks and soil types.
 
 "If it's not in the field, it's not gonna be in the glass," is Pink's mantra. Small lot fermentation, indigenous yeast, and moderate new oak usage display a light hand in the cellar. "Your job as a winemaker is to let the fruit develop and express itself." The result? Bright high-toned aromatics that won't quit; a creamy mid-weight texture with supple tannins and brisk minerality; and a parade of flavors: dark tangy cherry and smoky plum, sweet earth, baking spices, hints of black pepper and cinnamon. Then a long, long clean finish that leaves you smiling.
 
 Pink's assured focus on what he wants to achieve in the vineyard and cellar makes sense: he spent time hanging out with Steve Doerner at Cristom and Mike Etzel at Beaux Freres, two of Oregon's top winemakers. "With Pinot Noir I'm looking for concentration and complexity - and an interesting ride," says Pink. "Because that's what Pinot's all about." Taste this wine and you'll see that he has delivered on that promise.
 
 Vista Hills Vineyard Treehouse Pinot Noir Dundee Hills 2006
 $27.99/$22.40 by the case.
 Here's the other winery from the Fall that impressed us with a fine range of Pinot Noirs...and a very pretty tasting room overlooking the western slope of the Dundee Hills near Domaine Serene. A unique winemaking program features guest vintners such as Michael Stevenson (Panther Creek), Isabelle Dutartre (DePonte), Tony Rynders (formerly Domaine Serene), and several others making individual wines at their wineries for Vista Hills. Ten percent of all wine sales go to a family foundation that helps working college students through school.
 
 What about the wine you say? Like the Amalie Robert above, this bottling is a blend of all the Dijon clone blocks in the vineyard. There are classic Dijon floral notes on the nose, then take a sip and you taste sweet cherry and spicy raspberry fruit, aromatic toasty oak, mocha and a warm earthiness. A silky sappy texture balances smooth tanins, creating complexity and a long finish. The Wine Advocate gave it 90 points and noted it was "an excellent value.'' We agree.
 
 Zoot Allures Willamette Valley 2007
 $18.50/$14.80 by the case.
 In the under-$20 range, it's hard to do better than this consistent favorite from J. Christopher. We tasted it last week and it has really opened up since release. Jay Sommers did not make any single-vineyard wines in 2007, declassifying $40-range Dundee Hills fruit down to the $20 level. A lot of that ended up in this bottling, giving it complexity and class that is tough to match. Darker, richer and broader on the palate than others in the price range, the Zoot Allures has a bit of the characteristic Dundee Hills wet earth/tobacco notes before heading into black cherry fruit and clove spice.
 
 Pouillon (Pierre Noire) Cuvée en Amont" Horse Heaven Hills 2006
 $23.99/$19.20 by the case.
 Inspired by the innovative and unique wines of Provence's Domaine de Trevallon, Alexis Pouillon has created a superb northwest version of Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah (50-50). Currently undergoing a name change to Domaine Pouillon from Pierre Noire, this micro-winery in the Columbia Gorge has been under the radar but won't be for long.
 
 At a recent tasting their wines stood out from the crowd - especially this beefy red which beautifully marries the lush forward fruit of Washington with the structured complexity more typical of French wines. Sappy and tasty, bursts of tangy red berry fruit float above a river of dark Cabernet cassis flavors. A multi-faceted wine that reveals a different side with each sip, these guys are onto something.
 
 St. Innocent Pinot Blanc Freedom Hill 2007
 $15.99/$12.80 by the case.
 Many wine professionals often find Pinot Blanc more interesting than Pinot Gris despite being in the shadow of its better-known cousin. St. Innocent's version adds more ammo to the argument that with proper attention, this under-appreciated varietal can shine. A dry white with some body and flesh to it, this Pinot Blanc is ripe pear, grapes, and green apple, all accented by mild baking spices. Partially fermented in neutral oak, the texture is lush and round yet balanced by gentle acidity. Rich enough to pair with many dishes yet bright and lively enough to serve as an aperitif, this versatile and tasty white deserves another look.
 
 Renzo Marinai Chianti Classico 2006
 $22.99/18.40 by the case.
 With so many Chiantis available, it really takes a special one for us to take notice. Not only were we extremely impressed the first time we tasted this, we started to notice customers coming back for it again and again - always a good sign. Then when the Riserva stole the show in a blind tasting, we knew we were on to something. Add a 90 pt review from The Wine Spectator and it's a winner on all fronts.
 
 Put your nose in the glass and there's no mistaking it's classic Old World Chianti. Swirling floral aromatics, tangy spicy dark cherry/berry fruit, sweet earth, tobacco and minerality all harmoniously come together. Nicely structured and complex, the Marinai is also rich and accessible enough to make it easily enjoyable as well. This is a special wine that's worth getting to know.
 
 Introducing...
 Corvidae Wine Company
 Corvidae may need an introduction but the real guys behind the curtain certainly do not. Owen Roe has always excelled at delivering high quality for the price at all their levels. When they introduced the Sharecropper wines, it made total sense; different fruit sources, different prices, but the same overarching style and quality. It is the exact idea here.
 
 This new project sprouted after Owen Roe purchased the former Apex winery and 80 acre Outlook Vineyard in Yakima in 2007, giving them the consistent fruit source and space needed to produce a whole new lineup. Corvidae is the Latin family name for all the blackbirds, ravens, and crows that inhabit Yakima's vineyards. As always with Owen Roe, the quality is amazingly high given their modest prices.
 
 Taste these wines Saturday, April 18, 2-5 pm with
 Erik Brasher, Owen Roe's Director of Winemaking
 
 Rook CSM Oregon 2007
 $12.99/$10.40 by the case.
 Smooth dark and polished, it's so nice that it really tastes like you want it to. Cab Sauv makes up 77% of the blend and those are the dominant flavors: pretty plum, cinnamon-tinged cassis and luscious blackberry. The flavors are rich and intense but the overall profile is balanced and medium-weight with a silky texture that belies the craft and intention hiding behind its low price. Sourced from three distinct vineyards to achieve a harmonious blend.
 
 Lenore Syrah Columbia Valley 2006
 $12.99/$10.40 by the case.
 "Wow" when I stuck my nose in the glass, "wow" when I took that first sip. Inky black, concentrated and spicy, the waves of dark fruit are peppered with caramel toasty oak notes and chocolaty graham cracker goodness. A crowd-pleaser, a quaffer, a no-brainer, it's all these and more.
 
 Keeper Cabernet Franc Columbia Valley 2007
 $16.99/$13.60 by the case. ARRIVING MID-APRIL
 A northwest Cabernet Franc that emphasizes its generous fruit without erasing its unique varietal character, this hopefully will spark others to follow suit. Aromatically flush with notes of black tea, cedar, tobacco and mild savory herbs, the palate offers plush yet restrained blackcurrant fruit and gently gripping tannins on the finish. Something new and different without straying too far from the comfort zone, this is the best northwest Cab Franc under $20.
 
 Fable Petit Sirah Columbia Valley 2007
 $16.99/$13.60 by the case. ARRIVING MID-APRIL
 There's very little Petit Sirah planted in the northwest; all the more reason for David O'Reilly and crew to experiment with it. This is the edgiest and wildest of the Corvidae line: heady aromatics of violets, cocoa, smoke and soy sauce are followed by dense, earthy dark berry fruit on the palate and a hearty chewy finish that's nicely sappy and mouth-coating.
 Very limited availability. Only 70 cases made.
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May 2009

Spring is Nature's Way of Saying 'Let's Party!' -Robin Williams

El Corazon First Crush Cabernet Franc Columbia Valley 2007
$19.99/$15.99 by the case.
This was our most exciting find at the recent Taste Walla Walla event - we stepped back from tasting to confer "who is this guy? that Cab Franc is delicious, and it's only $20? who distributes it?" To our dismay, the answer to the last question was "no one yet". Happily that changed last week so we re-tasted his impressive (& unique) line-up and said bring it in. "This guy" is Spencer Sievers, who taught himself winemaking in his NW Portland apartment, has worked crush at Reininger Winery for three years, has a tasting room in downtown Walla Walla but still lives in Kansas. He's moving his family back to WW soon (he grew up there), but until then it's a rough commute. How he managed to produce such captivating wines under these circumstances speaks volumes to his focus and potential. His wines are bright, pure, and unadulterated, qualities that he credits to three factors: very low sulfur use, neutral oak, and the age of the wines (young). This Cab Franc just sings, the spicy high-toned red fruit soars above an undercurrent of blueberry and the fleshy juiciness is punctuated by a current of lively acidity. Polished smooth and lip-smacking, it's such a pretty wine you want to come back for more and more. Only a mere 48 cases produced.

Orin Swift Cellars Saldo California Zinfandel 2007
$29.99 (6 bottle limit)
"Prisoner" fans, take note. Saldo is the latest and greatest from Napa Valley's cult winery Orin Swift. This inaugural release is mostly Zinfandel with 10% Syrah and 5% Petit Sirah added for good measure, and made in the same hedonistic voluptuous style as his other masterworks. "Saldo" is a Spanish word for "from here and there" and this wine represents the best of the best lots from vineyards all across Northern California. Dark and deep, the intense blackberry/raspberry fruit glides effortlessly across the palate before heading into a long finish marked by scorched earth and toasty oak. Unfortunately (but no big surprise) there is limited availability. 6 bottle limit.

Paul Autard Côtes du Rhône 2007
$11.99/$9.60 by the case.
The wave of exciting 2007 vintage Côtes du Rhône finally reaching our shores has washed up this old favorite, whose personality harkens back to the glory days of 2000-2001. Much prettier than recent vintages, my quick notes tell the tale: "refined, subtle, bright, polished, sexy, layered, very nice..." All this in addition to the expected generous wild berry fruit and herbes de provence spiciness, for just $12. In general the best 2007s offer both a powerful richness and a lively freshness that satisfy on many levels and seem complete without being overbearing. This is one such example with happily many more to come.

Croix des Pins Côtes du Ventoux 2004
$12.99/$10.40 by the case.
A nice counterpoint to the Autard in style, this under-the-radar hit has become one of our best-sellers off the shelf without any fanfare and unfortunately is at the end of its run. The Côtes du Ventoux appellation refers to Provence's largest mountain, the solitary Mt. Ventoux and the wines are extremely similar to Côtes du Rhone . A few years in bottle have gracefully mellowed this wine, and it clearly exemplifies the elegance and open-knit personality of the 2004 vintage. Decidedly more rustic in character than the fruit-driven Autard, this is country wine at its best: medium-weight and versatile with a hundred tiny flavors hiding in wait, ready to pair with almost any meal. With an exquisite spiciness and a warm strawberry-tinged fleshiness, it's easy to conjure visions of sitting in the shade of a plane tree watching the dry hills bake in the fiery Provençal sun.

Viridian Pinot Noir Oregon 2006
$11.99/$9.60 by the case.
To borrow an old exhortation from Robert Parker "run, don't walk" to snap up some of this, the rarest of wine deals: good Oregon Pinot Noir for just over ten bucks. I know, you're thinking "how good could it be? If it were that good, they'd charge more." Well, that's a long story but the short story is this: it's dark and rich (courtesy of the ripe 2006 vintage) and the juicy black cherry fruit has enough peppery spice and acidity to keep it lively. Suspicious because of its price, we tasted it five times in a row looking for flaws but found none. We suggest further rigorous study by all of you just to make sure. A good Oregon Pinot Noir priced for daily drinking? Come on down!

Exciting Northwest Summer Sippers

Abacela Albarino Umpqua Valley 2008
$18.99/$15 by the case
Who else in the Northwest would attempt to produce a world-class Albarino, one of Spain's best-known whites? Abacela is famous for being the first to plant Tempranillo (Spain's dominant red varietal) in the Northwest, and captured the wider wine world's attention when the influential British wine writer Jancis Robinson lauded the 2003 Albarino as one of the two most memorable wines on a U.S. visit. Not only is it delicious, it actually tastes like Albarino: floral yet crisp and stony, with mild white peach flavors draped over a backbone of limey acidity and little pops of chalky saline mineral notes throughout. Wines like this remind me that we're so fortunate to live in Oregon and have access to its bounty; with only about a thousand cases made, this delectable wine won't make it far from home.

J. Christopher Cristo Misto 2008
$14.99/$11.99 by the case
This perennial favorite is really really good this year and needs no introduction to many of you, but for those unfamiliar with its charms here goes: modeled after the appetite-inducing whites of northern Italy, this is 60% Sauvignon Blanc, 40% Pinot Gris with a dash of Riesling for aromatic enhancement. Offering the electric citrus raciness of Sauv Blanc and the peachy succulence of Gris, this is hard to beat for its sheer thirst-quenching ability. Wildly popular (especially once really warm weather hits), it never lasts long. Check it out while you can.

Boedecker Pinot Noir Rosé Willamette V.
$13.99/$11.20 by the case
Rosé sales are off to a brisk start as this recent burst of warmth and sun primed everyone for the promise of summer. Of course this being Oregon it might rain all through May but there's not much of this so we wanted to strike while the iron (or weather) was still hot. This rosé was a hit last year and Stewart and Athena nailed it again. Rosé can run the gamut from bone-dry delicacies to red wine look-alike bruisers; this lands winningly right in between. Fat and sassy with plenty of pinot cherry fruit, there's enough mouth-watering acidity to refresh the palate and finish clean and dry. Easy-drinking and undeniably charming, a glass of this is a festive way to welcome the long-anticipated change of weather.

Siltstone Pinot Gris Guadalupe Vineyard 2008
$14.99/$11.99 by the case
With so many Oregon Pinot Gris available it's sometimes difficult for one to rise above but this new release stands out. The fruit comes from a 20-year old block of the acclaimed Guadalupe vineyard in the Dundee Hills, a site that has only a few feet of soil on top of siltstone bedrock. The roots penetrating this siltstone suck up millennia of detritus, translating into more complexity and nuance in the finished wine. Subtle notes of Asian pear, baking spices and minerals are deftly woven into its medium-bodied frame, flavors that echo on the elegant finish.

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 June 2009

What's up in the Willamette Valley? We hit the road to find out.
 In short, 2007 looks way better than early reports, 2006s are tasty and offer great deals, and 2008 barrel samples promise excitement ahead.
 
 Domaine Serene Pinot Noir Yamhill Cuvée 2006
 Now only $32.99/26.40 by the case. (Regular price $41.99)
 With its price rolled back to its 1999 vintage price, this is one of the best bargains of remaining 2006s. The last vintage made entirely by superstar winemaker Tony Rynders, this clocked in with 90 point reviews from both the Wine Spectator and Robert Parker's Wine Advocate who commented "Domaine Serene has turned out its most successful set of Pinot Noirs in several vintages." It is drinking spectacularly now but has the stuffing to last for years. A smattering of key descriptors from these reviews sums up the wine nicely: "Supple, ripe, generous, refined tannins, focused finish"-WS. "Expressive nose, red cherry and raspberry, velvety-textured, ample sweet fruit, good depth"-WA. What a great opportunity to nab some benchmark Oregon Pinot Noir at a steal of a price.
 
 Lemelson Pinot Noir Willamette Valley Thea's Selection 2006
 Now only $29.99/$23.99 by the case. (Regular price $36.99)
 Hello! Speaking of killer deals, this one was a thrilling surprise. This was a top pick in two blind tastings last fall, despite being the second least expensive out of ten wines. Tasters loved it for its prettiness, its precise capture of Pinot Noir's elusive sensuality, and simply put, its sheer deliciousness. It was popular all winter long and it's about to get much more so. Beautiful aromatics reveal a beguiling spiciness and the palate is open-knit, juicy and inviting. There's enough structure to provide depth and enough acidity to keep it lively, while the tangy dark cherry and vibrant boysenberry fruit caresses the palate and heads toward a seamless finish. With all this going for it, it was already one of our favorites in that price range, now, dare I say, it's a no-brainer.
 
 Cameron Pinot Noir Dundee Hills 2007
 $24.99/$19.99 by the case
 John Paul kept telling us, "You wait. The '07 Dundee Hills is the best Dundee Hills I've ever made." A wild and crazy guy he is, yes, but not a BSer. So we waited; "best" being a relative term, we weren't sure what to expect. Well, our verdict is in and we have to agree: this definitely transcends its simple appellation and price. "Best" in this case means incredible complexity, nuance and depth. With piercing high-toned aromatics of red fruits, tobacco and wild herb, it's unmistakably Cameron Pinot Noir. Silky and long on the palate, the reticence of the fruit allows the secondary flavors to pop and shine. Why so good? Rigorous blending and merciless declassifying of single vineyard grapes was based on a memorable yet simple approach: "We wanted to make a $25 wine that tasted like a $40 wine. If it didn't taste like $40 wine, we put it in the Willamette Valley [bottling]". Can't argue with that. The Cameron crew's faith in the 2007 vintage and their working overtime to showcase its quality delivers. As usual, this will sell out quickly.
 
 Acme Pinot Noir Rosé NV
 $11.99/$9.60 by the case
 A John Thomas Pinot Noir for $12? Well, that's overstating it a bit but technically, yes. The Pinot master appeared recently with this, an intriguing summer drinker whose quality and seriousness go far beyond its ridiculously modest price. While being lovely to look at and offering typical mild strawberry citrus-tinged fruit, this is more a food wine than porch sipper. Non-vintage in name, the fruit is mostly from 2007, and has been resting in neutral barrel for a year. Barrel you say? Fear not, it's not oaky; John thinks a touch of wood tannin allows it to pair with food much better than without, something he loves about southern French rosé - the way their slight bitter herb notes play off a stinky cheese or an oily garlicky salad. Like most "serious" wines, it takes a few minutes to open up, but once it does, you're in for a treat.
 
 Martina Prieto Pariente Verdejo 2007
 $16.99/$13.50 by the case
 Ok, so this isn't from Oregon but boy, this was one of the most scintillating wines we tasted last month. Verdejo is a white varietal indigenous to Spain's Rueda region (in the northwest) and was almost lost to history if not for the foresight and tenacity of a handful of wineries. In the last decade, it has resurfaced as a darling of the international wine scene; taste this and you'll see why. Stunning aromatics mix lime pineapple fruit with nettle and mint herb notes, the wine on the palate is as pure and clean as the driven snow whose stony intensity is softened by a bed of fleshy just-ripe pear. I know what I'm taking to my next dinner party, I can't wait to share it.
 
 Kermit Lynch Revisited
 Kermit Lynch was the original what's-at-the-end-of-this-road French importer. His landmark book Adventures on the Wine Route published in 1988 inspired countless wine drinkers as well as started a cottage industry of would-be Kermits eagerly sniffing out the next new undiscovered gem, all of which has brought an amazing bounty of cool wines to our shores. A recent rooftop tasting (with 12 French winemakers) at the swanky bar Departure reminded us that his picks still deliver on his original vision: wines that offer a true sense of place with no manipulation. Here are a few favorites.
 
 Domaine Achard-Vincent Clairette de Die
 $20.99/$16.80 by the case
 The tiny Rhône appellation of Clairette de Die is pretty obscure, even to most wine professionals. Surprisingly, this is sparkling wine country, where the indigenous varietal Clairette produces gently fruity and fragrant wines with a wealth of tiny bubbles. Domaine A-V have been at it for five generations, organic since 1979, and are heading toward bio-dynamic certification. Clearly they know what they're doing as this is a real bubbly treat at a blessedly reasonable price. Creamy smooth yet lively, there's a starburst-cornucopia quality to the fruit flavors but it finishes dry clean and again, creamy. A unique non-vintage bubbly for your wedding or graduation parties, this pleases the palate and the pocketbook.
 
 Domaine du Salvard Sauvignon Blanc "Unique" 2008
 $13.99/$11.20 by the case
 Another fifth-generation domaine, Salvard has been a favorite around here for years but this bottling is pretty new. Appellation rules for Cheverny cap Sauvignon Blanc at 85%; the remaining 15% must be Chardonnay or Chenin which softens the raciness of Sauvignon. A lot of people prefer the raciness so the brothers Delaille created this 100% Sauvignon. It can't be called Cheverny because of the "rules" but no matter, it's delicious. Vibrant pure and yes, racy with a backbone of chalky minerality and pretty white fruit. Salvard + a dozen oysters = bliss.
 
 Domaine de Terrebrune Terre d'Ombre 2007
 $14.99/$11.99 by the case
 Five minutes with Terrebrune winemaker Reynald Delille would be enough to convert anyone to Bandol but we need no converting. Already true believers, our five minutes were nevertheless revelatory. His enthusiasm is virulent and when he compared the mouth-feel of an old Bandol to that of old well-polished furniture, you could almost feel the waxy patina in your hands. Not one to merely talk about how well his wines age, he brought proof: 2006, 2004, 1999, 1987 reds and a 1994 rosé! Bandol reds are not the easiest to understand young but this bottling is a great intro. Declassified from the estate's younger vines, it's essentially Bandol (in all its Mourvedre glory) that is accessible now. Redolent of juniper, black olives and anise, the deep dark black fruit is lightly tinged with a savory earthiness. Chemical-free vineyards, hand-harvested fruit, all natural yeasts, no fining or filtration, simply the essence of Bandol.
 
 Saint Martin de la Garrigue Bronzinelle 2006
 $17.99/$14.40 by the case
 An old favorite from the Languedoc, this 2006 is layered and multi-faceted, tasting at times like a Rhône, then Bordeaux, then...Languedoc. With concentrated black fruit flavors accented by wild herb spice, it's firm and structured one minute then juicy the next making it an awesome match with Texas BBQ (we just drank it with Podnah's brisket). Kermit describes it well: "His intense, refined, barrel-aged Bronzinelle is one of our Old Reliables...Tightly constructed, the wine's form reminds me of the classic pre-1982 clarets from the Médoc, but the flavors are of Provence."

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July 2009 

 Just Kickin' Back!

Chateau Fortia Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvée du Baron 2007
$41.99/$33.60 by the case
As the 2007 CDPapes have rolled in, we've been pulling corks, praying that the final product delivers on the hype and promise. One blind tasting with a group of customers quickly buried our fears. So far, so so good. The "Baron" was one of the stars of the tasting. Besides the Burle Gigondas (see below), this was the least expensive wine- and was rocking delicious. Sexy and opulent, this is layered with sweet cherry and tangy raspberry fruit, peppery cinnamon spice, and a lively, exuberant personality. Offering "lots of pleasure," this showcases beautifully the balance, vitality and expressiveness found in the best of the 2007s at a fraction of the price of the big names.

Burle Gigondas 2007
$21.99/$17.60 by the case
This orange-labeled longtime Portland favorite also shines brightly in 2007. The lone non-Chateauneuf du Pape in our blind tasting, it more than held its own, offering similarly inspiring intensity, purity of fruit, and complexity. With just a trace of that rusticity for which Burle is famous, the aromatics leap from the glass: high-toned just-ripe red berry, a zesty herbes de Provence wildness, even citrus notes; the wine is so lively, it's like the glass can't contain it. Medium-weight and juicy, the flavors are classic rustic Rhône but the delivery is so smooth and bright, the palate delights at the incongruity. Still incredibly priced at just over $20, it drinks as well as most wines twice its price.

O'Reilly's Pinot Noir Oregon 2008
$16.99/$13.60 by the case
For those of you who can't wait to try a 2008 Oregon Pinot Noir, here we go. Usually the first out of the starting gate, the O'Reilly's aims for immediate (and well-priced) pleasure. Once it opens up, this is pillow-soft and fleshy yet pretty and light on its feet, with hard cherry candy aromatics, beefy red/black fruits on the palate and a peppy spicy finish. It actually tasted better the second day so give it some breathing room, then dive in and wallow in its youthful charm.

Sheridan Vineyard Kamiakin Yakima Valley 2007
$15.99/$12.75 by the case
A big luscious NW red blend is de rigueur for summer. It works so well with burgers on the grill, plus it's perfect for out of town guests tired of Pinot Noir (gasp!). This old favorite nails it with their new 2007 release. The 60% Cabernet Sauvignon gives it a beefy black fruit richness, 30% Merlot adds red fruits and a lush mouthfeel, while 10% Caberent Franc adds aromatics and zesty mild herb notes. There's plenty of blends like this out there-this one delivers lots to like for it's modest price.

Wm. Fevre Chablis Champs Royaux 2007
$19.99/$15.99 by the case
Chablis fans in the know keep an eye out for this bottling when a classic vintage comes around, and 2007 has delivered the goods. Fevre owns over 100 acres of vineyards in Chablis; much of the Champs Royaux comes from their own vineyards with the rest from purchased fruit. This is the little brother that could: crackling lemon and lime citrus, green herbal hints, zippy acidity and gobs of limestone minerality that screams classic Chablisian Chardonnay. It was the big hit at our Friday night Chablis tasting, especially since it's one-third the price of the Dauvissat and Fevre's Grand Cru brothers. An awesome wine at a great price.

August/September 2009

Bone Up on the Classics

Owen Roe Abbot's Table 2008
$19.99/$15.99 by the case.
The crack is back! After the usual months-long dry spell, Portland's favorite addictively delicious Northwest red is back and this new vintage is a knockout. Already ferociously displaying its come-hither aromatic charm and seductively supple mouth-feel, the excitement really kicks in when you realize that it is just going to get better. These guys are masterful blenders, and a huge part of its allure is the myriad flavors and layers your taste buds can access. The aromatics alone are a delight: floral violet and rose mixed with crushed black raspberry and cured tobacco. On the palate it's silky and lusciously vibrant: the flavors are dark yet tangy with marionberry and blueberry giving lift to the spicy dusty blackberry bass notes below. Shades of caramel and toast round out the powerful finish. No surprise, but they've done it again; crafted an incredibly sexy wine whose rich and sappy fruit belies the elegance and balance woven in. 24% Zinfandel, 22% Sangiovese, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Syrah, 10% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Franc, 6% Blaufrankish, and 4% Malbec.

Castello di Verduno Barbaresco Faset 1999
$39.99/$32 by the case.
I know, August weather doesn't exactly scream "Barbaresco" (it's blisteringly hot as I write this) but those Oregon rains will soon return. Besides, this deal is too cool to pass up. Last October we got our hands on Verduno's 2001. We were thrilled to have an aged Barbaresco from a great vintage for a great price. Imagine our delight when our Verduno connection dropped this on us- ten cases of another great vintage, even more ready to drink and the same great price. Faset is a hilltop vineyard next to the famed Asili that is known for producing earthy and complex wines. This 1999 is drinking beautifully right now: with its silky mouth-feel and pretty perfume, it is all about subtle charm with a wealth of secondary flavors that only an aged wine can deliver including dried flowers, mushroom, tarry spice and dried cherry. What a great opportunity to enjoy all that aged Nebbiolo offers.

Adelsheim Pinot Noir Willamette Valley 2007
$28.99/$23.20 by the case
As with children, sometimes I need to be reminded again and again of something before I learn the pattern and realize the obvious. Such as this wine is gorgeous. We have been tasting (as usual) as many 2007 Oregon Pinot Noir as possible, seeing how they are developing and evolving. Some that were bright and open are now shut down and vice versa. This one has tasted great every time: upon release, Memorial Day and most recently at an after-hours Pinot tasting in July. It finally hit me: wow, this is quintessential Oregon Pinot - pretty, focused, spicy, balanced and utterly charming. 2007 was a vintage where experience was pivotal; Adelsheim's 38 years (!!) in the Willamette Valley gives them a wealth of accumulated knowledge to handle any challenges. But kudos must also be given to David Paige, the winemaker, who since 2001 has produced an impressive roster of beauties, both red, white and rosé.

Clos du Caillou Côtes du Rhône 2007
$24.99/$19.99 by the case
It's no surprise that this Portland favorite is an outright over- achiever in 2007. What delights about the vintage is what Caillou excels at: purity of fruit, intense aromatic expressiveness, and a lively vibrant characteristic that makes it sing. We've had the opportunity to pull out some 2001s recently and the staying power is amazing. All the fruit and complexity is there, balanced and seamless, almost eight years later. Very few Côtes du Rhône bottlings can boast of that. But who wants to wait eight years to drink it when it tastes this good? If you drink it now, this is what you'll get: a heady bouquet of wild herb, fragrant purple flowers, and concentrated cherry fruit. The palate is suave, voluptuous and loaded with goodies: waves of ripe wild berries, cocoa, grilling meats, anise candy and cracked pepper. For fans of decadent Chateauneuf du Pape style wines, this is not to be missed.

Las Rocas Vinas Viejas 2006
$15.99/$12.80 by the case
Speaking of being bitten by the Grenache bug, those Spaniards know a thing or two about old vine "Garnacha". We featured the "regular" Las Rocas in March to much applause. This, the "old vines" takes that fun to a whole other level. "Purple-colored with a cedary, spicy, cherry and cranberry bouquet and more structured than the "regular" bottling, it has layered fruit, savory flavors, excellent depth, and a fruit-filled finish." With 91 points from Parker and a new lower price, this is sure to fly.

"Other" Whites You Gotta Try Redux

Summer is the perfect time to escape that white wine rut and explore new varietals and exciting flavors. We tickled many a palate last year with some exotic treats, and here's four great finds that will blow the rust out of those tastebuds.

Domaine Des Huards Cour-Cheverny 2006
$20.99/$16.75 by the case
This mouth-filling, complex wine knocked us out from the first taste. Incredible aromatics and flavors of almonds, sweet floral notes, Meyer lemon and a hint of sweet lemon balm is matched with a subtle earthiness. A creamy mid-weight texture pairs perfectly with vibrant acidity and startling minerality. The crowning achievement is a remarkable finish that is deep, wide and goes on forever. Cour-Cheverny is a small Loire Valley village where Romorantin rules - an ancient varietal that has been ripped out elsewhere. Michel Grendier at Dom. Huards has focused on this rarity, and using biodynamic methods, has created an intense and flavorful wine that pairs well with classic summer and fall foods.

Selbach-Oster Riesling Graacher Domprobst Spätlese Halbtrocken 2007
$24.99/$19.99 by the case
That's a long mouthful - but it perfectly explains why this wine is so much fun to drink. Follow the bouncing ball: Germany's Johannes Selbach is a Mosel master who produces Rieslings that are focused and complex, yet full of flavor. Graacher Domprobst is a steep vineyard studded with chunks of blue slate that provide classic minerality. Spätlese designates wines made from riper grapes that provide more intensity, depth, body and layers of...everything. Halbtrocken means "half-dry," which says this wine tastes crisp and dry - more than most Northwest whites. Vintage 2007 in the Mosel was classic, with perfect ripening of the grapes for excellent traditional Spätlese.

Bottom line: This alluring gem is refreshing and intense, yet balanced by delicacy and fine acidity. Bold fruit flavors of spicy pear, green apple and lemon/lime, plus spring yellow flower and green herb aromatics are balanced and delicious. As Mr. T says, "I pity the fool!" who doesn't try this awesome food wine and great warm-weather sipper (it's delicious all year long too).

Alma Godello 2008
$14.99/$11.99 by the case
You've had Albarino and even Verdejo, but how about Godello? Another "almost forgotten" white varietal from Spain's Galician coast, Godello is tricky to grow and finicky in the cellar but in the right hands can be more inspiring than either of those two more familiar whites. As the importer notes "Godello, like Riesling, has an enhanced ability to express terroir" and this bottle delivers loads of complexity for a mere $15. Sourced from a single 30-year old vineyard full of black slate, it reeks of the site. Wildflowers, peach blossom and tangerine fruit are set off by a bracing minerality that borders on saline. Still all-purpose enough to serve as a basic dry crisp white but way more interesting.

Principi di Butera Insolia 2006
$9.99/$7.99 by the case
A wildly flavorful varietal from the Mediterranean's largest island at a great sale price.
See Case of the Month for description.
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October 2009

Evesham Wood Pinot Noir Willamette Valley 2008
$17.99/$14.40 by the case.
This is always so popular, I almost feel that writing it up is superfluous. That said, like any great Oregon value (and this ranks right up at the top), it always sells out quickly so it's best to get the word out. No big surprise, this 2008 totally over-delivers quality considering its price. So much about good wine is its texture, how it feels on the palate, how it interacts with food and changes as the bottle empties. This has that elusive textural quality that is soft but not lush, firm yet gently yielding, a trait akin to al dente pasta. Your palate moves through different levels of flavor, each revealing a new and different nuance: black cherry, bright strawberry, damp earth notes, and more. Although lovely now, Russ Raney's wines always get better with age; so many times over the years customers have come back after drinking an older bottle, blown away by what a mere $18 (or less) could get them.

Cameron Arley's Leap Pinot Noir Dundee Hills 2007
$34.99/$27.99 by the case.
Speaking of perennial best-sellers and winemakers who over-deliver, John Paul's younger vine Abbey Ridge cuvée (Arley's Leap) has long been the secret best buy in his line-up. With all the pretty sweet cherry perfume and tobacco-y spice typical of the Abbey Ridge site, the aromatics alone are swoon-worthy. The palate has that same layered texture as the Evesham Wood with a trace of the famous "Cameron funk" and a host of nuanced flavors before sliding into gently gripping tannins on the finish. Cameron fans know this, but if you've never tried one, you're missing some of Oregon's best Pinot Noir. No exaggeration, every year new converts come in after finally drinking the bottle they bought (or were given as a gift, etc.) only to be "totally bummed out, dude" that its long gone.

Diamondback Cabernet Sauvignon
Mendocino 1999
$14.99/$11.99 by the case
No that is not a typo! In celebration of our ten-year anniversary we have pulled out a well-aged Cab and are selling it for a song (preferably not disco). Made by the winemaker at southern Oregon's RoxyAnn Winery (back when he was in California), this is a rare treat in today's release-it-immediately market. The fruit is mellow, the flavors developed, the balance superb. Broad and fleshy on the palate with a warm generous personality, this has the myriad subtle secondary aromas and flavors that make drinking older wines such a joy. Red plum, dried black currant, cinnamon stick, savory herb and more are woven into the wine's texture, whose richness reflects the ripe 1999 vintage. For even more fun, pair it with a bottle of the 2000 vintage (which we also have, same low price) and take a tasty trip back in time. While the 1999 is open and generous, the 2000 is more structured and reserved, hallmarks of that vintage. Lots of fun to be had for a song (remember, no disco!).

Domaine Cros de Romet Cairanne 2007
$20.99/$16.75 by the case
We pre-sold a lot of this in our spring 2007 vintage Châteauneuf du Pape offering and are thrilled (and relieved) to report the bottled product tastes as good as the barrel sample, probably better. Sexy is the first word that comes to mind followed by luscious, voluptuous, gorgeous...you get the idea. Bursting with all the trimmings that make 2007 such an exciting Rhône vintage, this offers an irresistible blend of precocious fruit and lively acidity. The ripe raspberry fruit that dominates is electrifyingly juicy and come-back-for-more tangy while the hard candy and peppery spice aromatics are the most sensual of perfumes. I know we have been pumping these 2007 Rhônes a lot lately, but when they are this delicious, we should be punished if we didn't.

Owen Roe Sinister Hand Columbia Valley 2008
$23.99/$19.20 by the case
The Hand is back! Sultry and succulent as ever, this 2008 is probably the closest one yet to David O'Reilly's original goal- a NW red reminiscent of Châteauneuf du Pape. A chameleon of a wine (the raison d'être of most blends) with intoxicating aromatics of sweet strawberry and floral spice and a mouth-feel that alternates between taut chewy black fruit and incredibly supple and sensual red berry. A beautiful marriage between richness and power with elegance and suavity.

Sineann Old Vine Zinfandel Columbia Valley 2008
$38.99/$30.99 by the case
Calling all Zin fans! The annual release of the Northwest's most celebrated Zin is upon us and as always, the flavor explosion has us drooling on the counter. Produced from vines originally planted in the late 1800s, the flavors run deep, broad and intense and Peter Rosback's experienced hands give us a wine that is silky smooth, seductively soft yet full of wild thick brambly chewiness. With ripe red berry, dried cherry, baking spice, and leather, there's lots going on already and even more to come for those who can wait. Wait to drink it, that is; don't wait too long to get some because it's only available for a short while.

El Corazon First Crush Cabernet Franc Columbia Valley 07 REDUX
$20.99/$16.75 by the case
Here's a fun one! This was our most exciting find at the spring Taste Walla Walla event...sort of. Actually, the bottling we featured in May was a beautifully pure red that was fresh, lively and lip-smackingly delicious. Spencer Sievers (El Corazon) only released 48 cases; the other 25 were still in barrel, until now. Enter the same wine, only it's been aged a year longer in neutral wood. Darker and more structured, with concentrated cherry kirsch and mocha flavors, it's still delicious but definitely different. If you tried the earlier version, it makes a cool comparison tasting; if you didn't get a chance, this is still rocking well all on its own.

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November 2009

 Better Tasting Than A Flu Shot

Parson's Flat Shiraz/Cabernet Sauvignon Padthaway 2004
$18.99/$15 by the case. Regular price $39.99!!!
We interrupt our regularly scheduled program of Zinfandel for Thanksgiving to bring you this breaking news flash, a Zinfandel-esque close-out deal so good, it's silly. With a 93 point review from Robert Parker, we sold plenty at its original price, $40. Then it switched distributors, got lost in the warehouse, yadda yadda, and now they just want it gone. Let's help them out. From Parker: "a blend of 70% Shiraz and 30% Cabernet Sauvignon aged in 100% American oak, of which 80% is new. It is an in-your-face, exuberant, flamboyant Aussie red boasting loads of espresso roast, toasty oak, blackberries, cassis, and licorice. Full-bodied, opulent, and voluptuous, with oodles of glycerin and depth, this hussy requires drinking during its first 7-8 years of life, although it may last even longer." Hussy? Wow, that's some wine.

Alloro Pinot Noir Estate Willamette Valley 2007
$19.99/$15.99 by the case. Regularly $39.99!!!
We're doing what we can to keep the great deals flowing, so here's another one from much closer to home. Alloro Winery: newer, small, certainly high-quality - but how do you get your name out in a crowded marketplace? With deals like this, baby! Looking to make friends and move some product, they aimed big. It's been selling at its original price because it's good, no doubt about it. At this price? Back up the truck! Taut and balanced with pretty Pinot perfume, the black cherry/blueberry fruit is spicy and plush with hints of cola and black tea. Definitely worth checking out.

Mauro Molino Barbera d'Alba 2008
$15.99/$12.80 by the case
"Very Barbera-ish" is my first comment; Gee, what does that mean? Well, it's tangy and bright with swirling aromas of roses and candied spice, and like a great reduction sauce, that balsamic caramel note. The fruit is high-toned wild berry that electrifies the palate and rides high through the long spicy finish. Super smooth, youthful and zesty, it's one of those wines someone might call "fun to drink" in that it has life, sparkle and a hard-to-explain festive vibe - like sangria at a raucous party, only much better tasting. Sharing many traits with such Turkey Day favorites as Zinfandel and Beaujolais, it would make a lively and classy addition to your Thanksgiving table.

Adelsheim Auxerrois Willamette Valley 2008
$19.99/$15.99 by the case
We're big fans of Alsatian Auxerrois, especially this time of year. Although considered a minor varietal in Alsace, the wines can be immensely satisfying; lacking star power they typically offer great value as well. From old vines in the right hands (Albert Mann, Kientzler to name a few), it can transcend its humble stereotype. With only about 500 acres planted worldwide, should we be surprised that the pioneers in Oregon decided to give it a try? As for old vines in the right hands, Adelsheim began to experiment in the mid-1980s; now twenty-odd years on, they produce enough of this captivating white to sell commercially. Reminiscent of Alsace yet distinctly Oregon, it's big-boned and has presence, with softer honeyed pear notes and a touch of citrus zing draped over its firm frame. Rich enough to stand up to all sorts of dishes (in Alsace they drink white with everything) yet crisp and lively enough to drink on its own.

William Hill Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley '05
$21.99/17.60 by the case
An old-school estate with a long history, the new winery and label haven't sabotaged their classic style. Located on the rocky Silverado Bench in southern Napa, their style was always more about finesse and elegance than just ripe fruit. One taste and you know it's Napa; With shades of tobacco cedar and clove, the fruit is subtle and multi-faceted. The black plum, berry and cassis flavors are well-integrated and the whole package is smooth and refined before finishing with a classic dusty Napa Cab note.

Schloss Gobelsburg Grüner Veltliner Kamptal '08
$16.99/$13.50 by the case
OK, so you enjoy the 1 Liter Grüner bottlings a lot: well-priced, nicely-made and easy-drinking, an extra 250ml free! Plenty to like there, but maybe it's time to step it up a bit, as they say. Well, we can't think of a better step up than this. Possessing much of what makes higher-priced Grüners more interesting while remaining accessible and straightforward, it's a logical next move. Besides, it's just so Grüner-ish, capturing its essence at a great price. Floral apple blossom, flinty minerality and white pepper aromatics cue up the precise green apple fruit on the palate where it fleshes out before sliding into a dry chalky finish. Not familiar with Grüner? If you're looking to fill a "dry white wine" niche, why not try something new?

Thomas Pinot Noir Dundee Hills 2007
$49.99/$39.99 by the case
It comes, it goes, it rarely actually makes it to the shelf, and every year I feel guilty to those who miss it. So while it lasts we have one of Oregon's most gracious and pure expressions of Pinot Noir. Demure, enigmatic at times and hauntingly beautiful, it is arguably one of Oregon's best wines, period. No reviews, no winery visits, no advertising (god forbid), John Thomas makes it seem so effortless. The effort often is even finding a bottle; here's your chance.  

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December 2009

Sale Champagne and Sparklers
Chartogne-Taillet Cuvée Ste.-Anne Brut NV
Retail: $50 December price: $39.99 Sale: $31.99*
A gorgeous bubbly that offers a wealth of nuanced complexity in a racy sinewy style, this is one of the most captivating basic NV bottlings we tried this year. After our visit there this August, we are not surprised. Two hours spent with young Alexander Chartogne made a huge impression on us, an impression that the future holds great things for him and that the future may already be here. In addition to being a blast to hang out with, Alexander (who recently took over from his father) is a conscientious and talented winemaker and his wines have personality and soul yet remain deliciously accessible. Roughly 50-50 Pinot Noir-Chardonnay with a dose of Pinot Meunier, the flavors run from classic minerality to hot buttered toast to spicy Asian pear, all riding a wave of creamy richness enlivened by a core of focused acidity that keeps it vibrant. Although we have loved Chartogne-Taillet for years, the wines are clearly getting better. As his importer Terry Theise said "I have always liked these Champagnes but in the past two years I've started getting way excited about them." So have we.

Piper Heidsieck Brut NV
Retail: $44 December price: $37.99 Sale: $29.99*
For fans of rich full-flavored Champagne, Piper Heidsieck once again delivers. This jumped out of our blind tasting as an over-achiever in the adjective department. Rich in texture with flavors of caramel apple, vanilla and toasted nuts, this is sappy and immediately appealing with enough brightness, zip, and finesse to balance out its heady flavors. Piper has really come on strong these last few years with a string of glowing reviews, great customer feedback and first-place votes in our blind tastings. Come check out what the fuss is all about.

J Wine Co. Cuvée 20 Brut NV
Retail: $32 Dec. price: $21.99 Sale: $17.50*
This great sparkling deal was too good to pass up, especially after it smoked the competition when tasted blind. Produced from a range of cool-climate vineyards in Sonoma's Russian River Valley, this exhibits a flashy festive vibe and an exuberant personality that makes the best California wines so hard to resist. Mouthwateringly tangy, the lemon zest and tangerine liveliness turns creamy and lush on the palate with ripe apple/pear fruit and pie crust notes that linger on the expansive finish. Once again a class act.

Langlois Crémant de Loire Brut NV
Retail: $28 Dec. price: $18.99 Sale: $14.99*
If the "J" shouts flash and casual charm, this whispers pedigreed French elegance while quietly delivering loads of nuanced complexity. "Baby Bollinger" may be stretching it, but seeing as Bollinger took over this historic estate in 1973, there's no denying the quality and flavor similarities. Refined and graceful, the dazzling array of flavors are so well integrated, they never overwhelm. Toasted brioche gives way to nutmeg-spiced hazelnuts and mild peach before honeyed pear and shortbread take over. The flavors hang gently on the palate as they melt into a creamy dreamy finish. I guess organic viticulture, hand-harvesting and four years aging (two on the lees, two in bottle) actually helps! Never available before in Portland; at this introductory price, it is an amazing deal for such beautifully crafted French bubbly.

Delmas Blanquette de Limoux Brut 2006
December price: $11.99 Sale: $9.50*
Three years in a row? Are we getting lazy? Not at all; believe me, we tried to find something new. We tried about thirty to be precise. Brown-bagged, lined-up, may the best wine win. And not surprisingly, here's the winner. It again clearly out-classed everything else we tasted in this price range. It has a delicate mousse, rich yet subtle flavors of fresh green apples, and a floral lemony finish. Although Limoux is a stone's throw from hearty-red territory (Corbières, Minervois) in southern France, its vineyards are a bit higher and consequently cooler, allowing them to produce fresh and vibrant sparkling wine which has been done here since 1531 (the locals claim Blanquette was being crafted here long before Dom Pérignon arrived in Champagne). Made mostly from the local favored varietal Mauzac blended with some Chardonnay and certified organic.

Irresistible Holiday Gems

Patricia Green Cellars Pinot Noir Reserve 2008
$24.99/$19.99 by the case.
Bursting with the promise of excitement that the 2008 vintage brings, this is one sexy Pinot Noir. According to the winery "this is far and away the best bottling of this [they] have ever done". Alarmingly supple and lip-smackingly juicy, the waves of fresh strawberry cherry fruit are surfed by heady aromatics of floral iris and lavender. Expertly blended from a range of top single vineyards, this captures beautifully Patricia Green's deliciously accessible style and displays the prettiness and purity of fruit that is the essence of Oregon Pinot Noir.

Basel Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon "M" Columbia Valley 2007
$23.99/$19.20 by the case.
It's back! Last December's runaway hit Mirage Cab now features four renowned vineyards (Pepper Bridge, Cold Creek, Canoe Ridge and Mirage) and delivers the same flavor intensity usually found in wines twice the price. Dark, full-flavored, complex and spicy, it also boasts highlights of tangy red currant/dark berry fruit, smoky oak and a hint of earth - all in a decadently lush package.

Domaine des Chanssaud Châteauneuf du Pape 2005
$29.99/$23.99 by the case.
With all the hoopla surrounding the 2007 vintage in the southern Rhône, it's a great time to revisit previous classic vintages, made all the more easy by this great deal. Wanting to make room for the new vintage, the local distributor dropped the price, so you can dive into the lake of Châteauneuf du Pape goodness for less than $30. Chanssaud is a small producer who makes traditionally-styled wines; after a few years in bottle this shows loads of pepper and herbes de Provence notes as well as a chewy dense texture. Concentrated black cherry fruit and loamy earthy notes are followed by ripe tannins on the finish. Old school and hearty, this'll put some meat on your bones. A great gift for the hard-to-please Francophile on your list.

Owen Roe Cabernet Sauvignon Dubrul Vineyard 2007
$69.99/$55.99 case.
And for that certain someone special on your list (including yourself), the time has come. Although every vintage produced has been impressive, this new release may be the most stunning yet. Growing conditions in 2007 were according to winemaker David O'Reilly "near perfect"; after a moderately warm summer that fully ripened the fruit without destroying the acidity, autumn brought four weeks of cool stable weather. These four weeks of additional hangtime greatly developed flavor complexity while keeping sugars and acids in near-perfect balance. The result: a powerful monster of a wine that beneath its luscious black fruit veneer harbors structure, intensity and a bounty of complexity. Only 400 cases produced.

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