Zardetto Prosecco Brut Congeliano (Italy) – Glera/Prosecco grape“Zardetto’s Non-vintage Prosecco Brut is one of the most consistently delicious Proseccos on the market. It is also made in sufficient quantities to guarantee that it will be available in most, if not all, major markets. This exuberant, extroverted wine is full of flowers, pears and spices, and is sure to deliver much pleasure. Zardetto is a reliable source for tasty Prosecco, one of Veneto’s many contributions to Italian wine culture.” Rated 88 by The Wine Advocate
2007 Basserman Jordan Riesling Trocken Pfalz (Germany) – Riesling grape
“In 1718, the Jordan family immigrated from Savory to the Palatinate. Soon after the move, the family started wine growing. This young & fresh white offers notes of fresh apple, citrus and peach, along with a fabulous wealth of other aromas. The palate surrounds your mouth with kiwi, quince and grapefruit flavors and a dry finish. “Plump, with peach, nectarine, lemon and grapefruit notes. Has good cut, keeping it fresh and resonant through the finish.” Rated 88 by Wine Spectator
2007 Cline Cashmere (California) – blend of Mourvèdre, Grenache, and Syrah grapes
“As rare as the goats in the Gobi Desert, this silky rich blend is a special treat. Cashmere is one of the most precious gifts of nature. It evokes quality, luxuriousness, and something that is a labor of love to produce. Our Cashmere is a silky and wonderful blend of Mourvèdre, Grenache, and Syrah. Just as with the processing of cashmere, the production of these meticulously farmed grapes and the blending of the components that result in this wine is something achieved only with extraordinary time and skill. Enjoy with foods and friends of distinction. Cline Cellars is a proud sponsor of Breast Cancer Network of Strength’s Ride to Empower.” clinecellars.com
2005 Mas Belles Eaux Les de Coteaux Languedoc (France) – blend of 70% Syrah, 20% Grenache & 10% Mourvèdre grapes
“Les Coteaux is an outstanding value in serious dry red wine from the South of France. It is a dark, intense color, with aromas and flavors of black fruit and spices. Its warm and rich fruit is balanced by a wonderful structure that keeps you returning to the glass. 2005 was the first vintage of this wine, and it is blend of 70% Syrah, 20% Grenache and 10% Mourvèdre. The Wine Spectator wrote about this inaugural release: “This refined, elegant red from the south of France has an enticing aroma of pepper and sage, with flavors of raspberry, kirsch, red cherry and hints of garrigue. The pure, minerally finish ends on a meaty note.” Rated 91 Wine Spectator, Smart Buy
2006 Cedro do Noval Duriense Duoro (Portugal) – blend of 30% Syrah, 30% Touriga Nacional, 30% Touriga Franca & 10% Tinta Roriz grapes
“Very pure-tasting, with elegant cherry, plum and smoked meat flavors. Raspberry, olive and savory herb fill the chiseled finish. Shows real pedigree, with fine tannins and plenty of power.” Rated 92 by Wine Spectator
Noval Black Porto (Portugal) – blend of Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz, Tinta Barroca, Touriga Nacional, Tinto Cão & Tinta Amarela grapes
The biggest news in the port world in several decades was the launch in January of this year of NOVAL BLACK. This port has made such a splash because of its tremendous quality, and more important, its versatility – it’s not your grandfather’s port, it’s more balanced and refreshing while still being rich and delicious. Have it before dinner slightly chilled, after dinner alone, as part of new-wave cocktail, or with a piece of chocolate or dessert. “The aromas are purple-black while the flavors are pure black cherry. Acidity spices it up and adds to the juiciness of the finish….this wine may become a staple for a new generation of Port drinkers.” Rated 91 Wine & Spirits Magazine