Wine Specials for the Week of July 16th
Outstanding Wine of the Week
Chateau Haut-Brion 2001
$324.99
94 Pts Robert Parker
Haut-Brion’s 2001, which was bottled late (the end of September, 2003), possesses an unmistakable nobility as well as a burgeoning complexity. Plum/purple to the rim, this blend of 52% Merlot, 36% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 12% Cabernet Franc is playing it close to the vest, having closed down considerably after bottling. Nevertheless, it reveals pure notes of sweet and sour cherries, black currants, licorice, smoke, and crushed stones. Medium-bodied with excellent purity, firm tannin, and an angular, structured finish, it requires 5-7 years of cellaring. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2020+. RP
Rick’s Picks
Twomey Merlot 2006
$29.99 was $44.99
- Appellation: Napa Valley
- Composition: 94% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc
- Release Date: September 1, 2010
Winemaker’s tasting notes:
Grapes for our Twomey Merlot come exclusively from our Soda Canyon Ranch in southeastern Napa Valley. This vineyard’s rolling hills of volcanic soils are tightly planted with French Merlot clones, selected for their low yield of small, intensely flavored berries. In this mild climate, tempered by cool breezes and morning fog, Merlot ripens slowly and develops a rich black-fruit character and extraordinary complexity.
Hedges CMS Sauvignon Blanc 2009
$12.99
Viticulture Area: Columbia Valley
Winemaker: Pete Hedges
Blend: 77% Sauvignon Blanc 20% Chardonnay 3% Marsanne
Release Date: Aug/Sept 2010
Production: 10,453 cases
Alcohol: 13.5%
pH 3.38
Titratable Acid: 6.3 g/L
Bright, lively aromas of ripe pear, grapefruit peel, caramel apple and orange blossom. The palette is lean, angular and well defined, emphasizing the virtues of structure and elegance.
Conundrum 2010
$16.99 Reg $19.99
Tasting Notes:
The wine enters round with a Chardonnay weight, then quickly lightens up as the Sauvignon Blanc adds a fresh element. The Viognier adds a spicy character with Muscat Canelli and Semillon adding to the layers of flavors. Explore this puzzling wine as rich aromas of honeysuckle escape from the glass, followed by hints of peach, vanilla and citrus notes. On the palate, lush tropical flavors of melon, pineapple and pear are matched with crisp lemon zest and hints of grapefruit. The complexity of this wine is brought into balance by a rich, round mouthfeel supported by fresh acidity, creating a stuffing, satisfying finish. Released September 2011
