Delmas 2020 IGP Haute Vallée de l’Aude Pinot Noir Domaine Delmas has long been considered a reference point for Limoux bubbles, and now still wines. The house is operated by Bernard Delmas, his wife Marlene, and their son Baptiste. From a small parcel of vines farmed organically by the Delmas family in the steep mountains that tower over the village of Limoux, this wine is Burgundy’s twin – it looks like Bourgogne Rouge, it smells airy and fragrant like Bourgogne Rouge, and it tastes balanced and delicious like Bourgogne Rouge!
Chateau Jacques Noir 2020 Saint-Emilion Large works were accomplished both in the vineyard and in the cellar to restore this historic property bought in 2001. Located east of the appellation, its terroir reveals all the finesse of the Merlot, a king’s grape on the right bank. According to the legends, this castle was originally the lair of a war and unscrupulous Hobereau, which owed its nickname “the black” to its armor and its night abuses. It was there that he lived with his henchmen, winegrowers or soldiers during the day and brigands at night. The 2020 vintage is structured, firm, and has juicy fruit, rich tannins, and crisp acidity, with hints of spice from wood aging. Delicious with Christmas ham!
Vignerons de Saumur 2022 Bourgueil Beauregard This underdog Saumur vineyard is located on a plateau with gently sloping north-facing hills. The large nearby forests serve as a windbreak and have an influence on the microclimate. There are two main soil types here; shallow, pebbly soil called terre à silex (flinty soil) and less pebbly soil with more clay due to the deterioration of Jurassic limestone (“silification” if you want to get all geeky). Why it works with Christmas: The earthy and meaty quality of the wine accentuates the savory quality of turkey and gravy. Enjoy this medium-bodied number at cellar temperatures with anything else high in fat.
Valle Martello 2019 Villamagna DOC The Valle Martello winery was founded by Giuseppe Masci in 1956. It is located in the village of Villamagna in the Abruzzo region on the southeastern coast of Italy. It lies just about seven miles from the Adriatic Sea and is flanked on the southwest by the Majella Mountains. The name “Villamagna” means “great mansion.” It refers to the 16th-century Archbishop Palace that overlooks the valley. This primarily Montepulciano blend is characterized by a lively ruby red color and purple hues. A robust 2019 features bold tannins and flavors of dark berries and leather. Aged to perfection, it’s suited for hearty meals and discerning palates.
Generazione Alessandro 2021 Croceferro Etna Rosso DOC Many of you have been asking us for Etna, our staff had been begging for Etna, and we went on a mission of sorts, hoping to make something beautiful happen. After sampling (or simply drinking) three or four dozen new releases from Etna, the Croceferro was amongst our favorites in a lineup of category classics. The Generazione Alessandro Etna Rosso Croceferro is 100% Nerello Mascalese grown on the northeast side of the Volcano at 2100 feet above sea level. Floral and elegant with roses, green strawberry, pomegranate and rising from the glass while the palate is bright and lively, with a beguiling lightness offset by more red fruit and a mineral edge. A beautiful and classic example of what Sicily and Mount Etna can do.
Lone Birch 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon For four generations, Lone Birch has been devoted to farming in the Yakima Valley. A pinnacle landmark on the farm is the 70-year-old Lone Birch Tree, standing tall amidst their vineyard. Beyond offering shade and directional guidance, this tree serves as an inspiration to all to be stewards of the land. Planted by their great-grandfather, who had a fond love for nature, the Lone Birch Tree reminds us of our commitment to reduce our carbon footprint and utilize sustainable farming practices to ensure the lasting vitality of farms for many generations to come. This wine is a blend of different Cabernet Sauvignon blocks from our estate vineyard. Each block was carefully selected to produce a wine that is fruit-forward with soft tannins. Aromas of red currant, pie cherry, and blackberry along with underlying hints of sandalwood. Lush tannins and balanced acidity lead to an impeccably smooth, lingering finish.
