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Ice Wines and Aromatics

2007 Las Renas Macabeo (The Wine Room)
Wine made with Macabeo variety grapes, grown in the high areas of the Bullas denomination of origin. At an altitude between 400 and 1,000 metres, which flavours a slow ripening, increases the synthesis and accumulation in the berries of this cultivar's typical aromatic components and maintains a high natural acidity, perfectly integrated throughout the wine, which emphasises its youthful freshness.
Aromatic wine of medium to high intensity, with fruity notes typical of the variety. Such as green apple, citrus, hay, explosive at the start but which develop into more complex aromas after some time in the glass.

*2007 Eroica Riesling (BevMo, but really anywhere)
Eroica is the result of a special partnership of German and American winemakers to craft an extraordinary Riesling from Washington state grapes.  This is more than a blend of two estates, Dr. Loosen from the Mosel and Chateau Ste. Michelle from the Columbia Valley: It’s an inter- mingling of Old World and New World philosophy and technique.  Eroica reflects not only its variety and site, but also its heritage: bold and forward from its Washington roots, elegant and refined from German inspiration.  Named for Beethoven’s Third Symphony, Eroica is truly a concert of Old World and New World Riesling.

’05 Laurel Ridge Late Harvest Semillon (Purchased on Estate)
The fruit for this wine was hand selected and fermented, capturing the essence of the Semillon grape. This wine has intense tropical aromas and flavors with a nice round finish.

'06 Jackson-Triggs Vidal Ice Wine (BevMo)
91 PTS WINE SPECTATOR. Grapes from the same harvest but not selected for the Inniskillin

*’06 Inniskillin Vidal Ice Wine (BevMo)
91 PTS WINE SPECTATOR. The '06 Inniskillin Vidal Ice Wine has beeswax, orange peel and dried apricot notes that mark this aromatically intense dessert wine; leaves a mouthwatering impression.

Champagne Tasting

Bruno Michel Blanche Brute – NV              $29.99
This fantastic Champagne comes from the villages of Pierry and Moussy in the sud-Epernay sub region of Champagne. Bruno Michel has been organic since 1999 and 5 of his 37.5 acres are farmed biodynamically. This Champagne is composed of 53% Meunier and 47% Chardonnay, 70% from the 2004 harvest, 14% from the 2003 harvest and 16% from 2002 and is one of the most balanced Champagnes in our stock, with an effortless quality that is almost impossible to describe or resist. It has great toast and spiced apple aromas and flavors and a crisp dry finish. It is dosed at a very light 9 grams per liter. (Gary Westby, K&L Champagne Buyer)

Laurent Perrier Vintage Brut- 1999              $60
90 points Wine Spectator: "This is sumptuous and delicate, offering peach, beeswax and ginger notes. Firmly structured, with a chalklike sensation underneath that emerges on the finish. Drink now through 2015." 90 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "Light yellow, with a vigorous mousse. Pungent and ripe, showing a fresh bouquet of pear, orange, peach skin, cherry pit and honeysuckle. Brisk citrus and orchard fruit flavors offer refreshing bite, racy lift and sharp focus, with good mineral snap on the close. Gained weight, power and a pleasant citrus pith bitterness with air. I wouldn't hesitate to hold a few bottles of this in the cellar." (Nov/Dec '07) Laurent-Perrier Brut Millésimé is composed of roughly equal parts of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, exclusively from the very best crus or villages. Historically, most of these crus have formed the basis of Laurent-Perrier's Champagnes. The most prestigious among them are: Mesnil-sur-Oger, Oger, Avize, Cramant, Chouilly, Ambonnay, Bouzy, Tours-sur-Marne and Louvois. Only the cuvée (the best juice) is used from these growths. The wine is bottle-aged for a minimum of seven years.


Phillipe Gonet Brut Rosé – NV                        $34.99
Champagne Philippe Gonet is a big favorite at K&L, and this great rose is a fantastic addition to their line. Made entirely from estate grown Pinot Noir grown in Vertus, Champagnes southernmost Premier Cru, this wine is macerated all together for maximum varietal flavor. Flowers and strawberry notes come to my nose first with a lovely pinot savor beneath. This rose brings the full flavor of a maceration style without sacrificing elegance. I think it is a very impressive wine, and the price reflects a direct purchase from Ms. Chantal Gonet. -Gary Westby, K&L

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Spanish Wines

Parés Balta Brut Cava, Spain 
According to Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "Light gold. Spicy mineral and citrus peel aromas, with a hint of yellow plum. Fresh and broad on the palate, showing notes of orange, apple, white peach and floral honey. Soft and supple but has good bite on the back, the orange note repeating and lingering." (Sep/Oct 06) According to Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "Pares Balta is one of a number of wineries in Penedes with serious aspirations. It produces a wide range of wines from Cava to Rose to stratospherically priced red wines. While Pares Balta appears to be a work in progress, it is clear that their intention is to produce world-class wines. While Pares Balta makes many different Cavas, the importer only brings in their two top-of-the-line sparkling wines." (04/08)

2007 Carballal "Sete Cepas" Albariño Rias Baixas, Spain
Produced from younger vine estate grapes and purchased fruit, this delicious Albariño pulls the minerals from the soil and the sea air not far away. Very refreshing with nice bracing acidity, there are hints of exotic fruits as well as stone fruits. A perfect match with warm weather fare as well as being the absolute perfect match with fish and shellfish. 7 Cepas is a playful nod to the fact that there are seven brothers in the family that make this wine.

2006 Fillaboa "Selección Finca Monte Alto" Albariño Rias Baixas, Spain
92 points Wine & Spirits: "Golden in color and in ripe flavors of nectarine and kumquat, this wine finishes clean and long. The final impression is of a gentle rain along the coast, cool and refreshing. For mackerel sashimi." And, according to Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "The 2006 Finca Monte Alto is a single vineyard selection of Albarino. Light gold-colored, it has an alluring perfume of mineral, apple, lemon, spring flowers, and pineapple. On the palate, it has a smooth, nearly creamy texture, ripe fruit, and good balance. Drink it over the next 1-2 years with flaky fish courses and roast chicken." (02/08)

2007 Crucillon Garnacha Campo de Borja, Spain
A young red make from 100% garnacha is a fine thing. Particularly when it tastes like this Crucillon, whose red color with blue edges suggests youth in all its glory! This 2007 offers an aromatic profile of red and black fruits with a smooth, fresh and well-balaned palate impression with sweet tannins and even a touch of--gasp--complexity. This is a lot of wine for the money, offering a lot of enjoyment, too!

2004 Mitarte "Vendimia Seleccionada" Rioja, Spain
Crianza, yes, but from 60-year-old tempranillo (80%) and graciano (15%), so you can be certain this is plenty concentrated and complex! It offers very intense, complex aromas of ripe red and black fruit, with a depth of very old wine stock skins. Tasty on the palate, with a meaty component. Elegant though powerful, in short-good good stuff!

2004 Zarus Barrica Ribera del Duero, Spain
From Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "The 2004 Barrica was aged for 7 months in French and American oak. Dark ruby-colored, it exhibits a touch of smoke and vanilla from the oak treatment as well as blueberry and blackberry. This is followed by a ripe, fruity wine with fine depth and balance and a pure finish. It is an excellent value." (02/07) From Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "Dark red. Spicy cherry and blackberry aromas are brightened by baking spices and fresh flowers. Suave, silky and sweet, with deep red fruit favors, soft tannins and building sweetness. Finishes clean and persistent. This has terrific immediate appeal." (Jul/Aug '08) From Wine Spectator: "A smooth texture and well-integrated tannins give this red an appealing elegance. Cherry, vanilla and light herbal flavors are bright and lively. Drink now through 2012. 1,000 cases imported." (Nov. 15, 2007)

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Washington Wines

*Kung Fu Girl, 2007 Columbia Valley Riesling ($12.99)
From Vintner: “Single vineyard, fragmented basalt, and caliche...classic Riesling, sublime minerality.”
From K&L: “The reason we love this wine actually has … to do with (an) aspect of Kung Fu: balance. This comes from a single vineyard comprised of fragmented basalt and caliche soils. Great acidity, minerality and girl-next-door kiss of sweetness.”

Syncline, 2006 “Subduction White” Columbia Valley ($19.99)
From Vinter: “The wine shows a clear pale straw character. Aromas of pears and apples with honeysuckle and orange blossom. Apple and pear skin dominate the palate with subtle hints of orange blossom and minerality. Rich and ripe, with a good jolt of Celilo Vineyard acidity, it has a long persistent finish.”

**Hedges, 2006 “Three Vineyards” Red Mountain ($17.99)
From Vintner: “The Flagship of our estate wines, The Three Vineyards is a classic Red Mountain wine showing deep, dense color, firm yet supple tannins, and well defined acidity. Intense, dark, black cherry and blackberry fruit, menthol and clove spice along with toasted oak, cocoa and cola with hints of vanilla.  The mouth-feel is full and rich with a great balance of dark fruit and toasty, spicy oak flavors.  Nice acid, firm structure and a long, slightly peppery finish make this a classic example of Red Mountain wine.”

Owen Roe, 2007 “Sinister Hand” Columbia Valley Rhone Blend ($23.99)
From Vintner: “Our vineyard locations in the Yakima Valley, Walla Walla Valley, and Horse Heaven Hills have added a beautiful elegance to this year's version of the Sinister Hand. This Rhone-styled wine has very dark fruit flavors and pepper, with an excellent texture - it will work well with a variety of foods especially spicy fare and dark meats.”

From K&L: “This is Owen Roe's Rhône blend, dominated by grenache (62%) with healthy doses of syrah and mourvèdre to round things out and add complexity. 2007 was a very cool growing season adding juicy intrigue to the wine, which is characterized by bright red fruit, spicy black pepper and smoked meat notes.”

*Abeja, 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon ($39.99)
From Vintner: “This is the varietal that we believe will increasingly be recognized as the icon varietal of Washington State and comprises the majority of our production. This Cabernet is stylish, elegant, and impeccably balanced. We accomplish this by meticulous viticultural management, utilization of a rare sorting system, gentle handling of the fruit and the wine, customized practices for every lot no matter how small, and carefully selected French oak. This wine has pretty aromas of ripe cherry, black briar berry, and a hint of fresh fig. Its sleek structure frames a layer of sweet cassis, mountain strawberry, and shaved chocolate. Wood spice and lustrous tannins are in perfect balance and lead to a magnificent finish.”

Wine Spectator: 91 Points. Rich in texture, with polished tannins framing a complex range of flavors, centering on black cherry, with hints of coffee, rare beef and clove as the finish lingers effortlessly.

If you enjoyed what you sampled tonight look for wines by these other WA wineries…
Andrew Will, Cadaretta, Cadence, Col Solare Cote Bonneville, DeLille Cellars, Isenhower, K Vintners L’Ecole, Pepper Bridge, Seven Hills, Spring Valley, Tamarack

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Demystifying Port

*Warre’s Fine White Port
Warre’s Fine White is medium dry.  It has pale straw colour with crisp flowery aromas, fresh almonds on the palate and a long tangy finish.  (It can also be enjoyed served long over ice and lemon with Indian tonic water.)

Smith Woodhouse Lodge Reserve Port
Dark and lively ruby colour.  On the nose intense red fruit aromas dominate, with some floral hints.  On the palate fresh and robust fruit flavours, with an excellent long finish. 90/100 points, Wine Enthusiast: “Medum full body .  Mild tannins medium sweetness.  Rich and soft with a cascade of deep fruit and solid length.”

Taylor’s 2003 Late Bottled Vintage Port
Powerful dark cherry and black fruit aromas.  The floral and herbal notes that come through on the nose add lovely nuances to the bouquet.  The palate shows great intense fruit flavours and fantastic depth and complexity.  The wine is harmonious, well crafted, authoritative.

*Graham’s 20 Years Old Tawny Port
Principal attributes are great complexity and harmony.  With an amber, golden tawny colour, denoting considerable age, this port has an excellent bouquet, with a characterstic ‘nutty’ character (almonds) and delicious mature fruit with hints of orange peel, exquisitely mellowed by careful ageing.  Rich, sweet and smooth on the palate, it is perfectly balanced, with a long and lingering finish. International Wine Competition 2004 Gold Medal

Quinta Do Vesuvio 1994 Vintage Port
Inky dark colour.  On the nose an outstanding concentration of floral and ripe fruit aromas, with hints of bitter chocolate.  On the palate, massive structure, with distinctive berry fruit flavours and superb grip.  Very concentrated, and a long, long finish. 95/100 points  “Greatest Vesuvio ever.  A young vintage Port that sneaks up and grabs you by the throat.  Full-bodied, featuring intense grapey, stemmy character and long, silky, firm, tannic finish.  Truly superb.”  Wine Spectator, July 1996
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Champagne Cocktails!

Sparkling Wine Sangria
1 C framboise
2 T lemon juice
2 T superfine sugar
3 C cranberry juice
1 24oz bottle sparkling wine
1 24oz sparkling water
2 C sliced strawberry
2 C raspberries
2 C blueberries
1 lemonly thinly sliced
ice cubes

Mix framboise, lemon juice and sugar. Stir until sugar dissolves. Add all remaining ingredients.

Syrah and Sparkling Wine
1 part Syrah to 2 parts sparkling wine

Bellini
1-2 T peach puree
Sparkling wine
(If puree fresh peaches, might need to add a bit of sugar)

Kir Royale
1 part Cassis liquor to 2 parts sparkling wine
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Tackling Sonoma

Gary Farrell 2006 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
So you're grilling salmon tonight, but your dinner guests only drink red wine? Fret no longer, dear hostess, a bottle of Gary Farrell Russian River Selection Pinot Noir will pair wonderfully with your fish without overpowering and delight your guests, too. A concentrated mélange of
summer berry aromas and flavors grounded by spicy oak and long, silky tannins on the finish.

Hop Kiln 2006 North Coast Sauvignon Blanc
This is the sexy girl-next-door in a gingham dress or shirtless farm boy of a wine. Sensual aromas of jasmine and honeyed figs roll around with fresh-cut hay notes. On the palate, tangy grapefruit and cantaloupe romp through to the finish. Try this with an affetatiplatter or
bruschetta!

Chateau St. Jean 2007 FuméBlanc
This crisp and refreshing FuméBlanc offers inviting aromas of honeydew melon, pear, lemongrass and hints of spice. On the palate, pink grapefruit, white tea and citrus zest flavors combine with lively acidity and lead to a long, clean finish.

Bella 2006 Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel
Fragrances of black cherry, clove and fig jam leads to flavors of currants and blackberry with hints of nougat on the palate. This Zinfandel has a wonderfully structured tannin base; layered with super ripe fruit and laced with hints of cacao and spice.

Mazzocco2005 West Dry Creek Zinfandel
Bella's 2006 Dry Creek Zinfandel is wonderfully soft and approachable, with lots of raspberry and plum fruit spiked with vanilla spice. There's plenty of mid-palate fruit and a creamy texture that makes it a classic Dry Creek zin-the kind that earned the appellation its stellar
reputation

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Top Ten Under $10
                                                                                       Card      Retail
1. Robert Mondavi Private Selection Cabernet 2006     $ 8          $ 11.50
2. Chateau Ste. Michelle Chardonnay 2007                   $ 11        $ 11
3. **Columbia Crest Grand Estates Cabernet 2005          $ 9          $ 11
4. Blackstone Cabernet 2006                                         $ 8          $ 13
5. Whitehall Lane Cabernet 2004                                   $ 39       $ 47
6. Sonoma Cutrer Chardonannay                                   $ 22       $ 30
7. Lindemans Bin 65 Chardonnay 2007                         $ 5         $ 7
8. **Colcannon Central Coast Chardonnay 2007              $ 6         $ 10
9. **McManis Chardonnay 2007                                        $ 9        $ 12
10.  Two Buck Chuck Cabernet                                      $ 2         $ 2

**Favorites
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Nos Encanta Argentina!

**Mil Piedras Viognier 2007
Mil Piedras Viognier 2007 is made from estate-grown grapes nurtured in Valle de Uco, a sub-region of Argentina's famous Mendoza region. The young Viognier vines here are planted in an expansive valley over 3,000 feet above sea level, with a backdrop of the peaks of the Andes. Light, fresh, and dry Viognier is a perfect wine to accompany casual dining.
Mil Piedras is a line of wines from Argentine producer Benvenuto de la Serna. Silvio Benvenuto who founded an built the winery with his family is an Itlaian immigrant. Angel Mendoza who is a large piece of what Trapiche has achieved is the enologist. In essence the winery has joined together the wine making tradition of Italy and Argentina. Lush fruit flavors such as apricot, peach and subtle mango fill the nose and palate of this wine. The mid palate is fruity with a hearty acidity. On the finish fruit notes linger along with subtle white pepper and a hint of honey. This wine is refreshing and crisp making it a good bet as an aperitif or welcome wine. It will also pair well with all manner of Asian cuisine as well as other full flavored foods. Grilled chicken topped with mango chutney comes to mind as a perfect compliment.

2005 Monteviejo "Petite Fleur" Mendoza, Argentina  - $22.99
From Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "Saturated bright ruby. Aromas of crushed blackberry, licorice, meat and spicy, nutty oak, with a violet topnote providing lift. Sweet and quite primary, with roasted dark berry and chocolate flavors framed by ripe acidity. Broad, mouthcoating, supple black fruit flavors show a grapey aspect but there's plenty of fruit here. Finishes firm and dry, with slightly coarse tannins. Still a bit reserved, even youthfully stunted: this may yet unfold with a year or two of patience." (Jan/Feb '08).
   
2007 Bodega Noemía de Patagonia "A Lisa" Malbec Rio Negro Valley, Argentina  - $21.99
90 points from Wine Spectator: "Racy and delicious, with vibrant raspberry and blueberry fruit stretched over sweet vanilla and graphite notes. Has a really fresh finish. Malbec and Merlot. Drink now through 2009. 2,500 cases made."

Bodega Noemia 'A Lisa' Malbec Patagonia 2007 comes from vineyards in the remote Rio Negro Valley of Patagonia Many vines in this isolated part of Argentina are grown on pre-phylloxera root stock planted in the 1930's. The Malbec grapes planted here are fermented with native yeast and the wine is aged in new French oak. No pumps are used, chemicals and sulphur are avoided, bottling is by gravity only. The result: truly authentic, small production, handmade Argentine Malbec wine that has layers of flavors and real individuality.

2005 Monteviejo "Lindaflor" Malbec Valle de Uco, Argentina - $39.99
94 points from Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "Monteviejo’s flagship is the Lindaflor Malbec. The 2005 was aged for 18 months in 100% new French oak. It offers up an ethereal perfume of pain grille, vanilla, pencil lead, espresso, blueberry, black cherry, and a hint of dark chocolate. Quite massive on the palate yet light on its feet, the wine exhibits thick, intense flavors, gobs of sweet fruit, concealed tannin, and a very long finish. It should easily age for a decade and drink well through 2030. Bodega Monteviejo, owned by Catherine Pere-Verge (also the proprietor of Pomerol’s Le Gay), is located at the foothills of the Andes, next to Vista Flores, south of Mendoza. The globe-trotting Michel Rolland is in charge of winemaking." (12/07) 92 points from Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "Full saturated ruby. Brooding aromas of black fruits, gunflint, game, violet and sexy new oak. Lush and sweet on entry, then seamless, suave and rich in the middle, with smoky soil tones adding complexity to the dark berry and chocolate flavors. Wonderfully layered, broad wine that should benefit from bottle aging. Finishes with suave tannins and excellent lingering sweetness." (Jan/Feb '08

2005 Alta Vista "Alto" Mendoza, Argentina
Easily one of the best wines Argentina has to offer. 94 points from Wine Spectator: "Totally packed, with warm fig cake, raspberry ganache, black licorice snap and pure, dark cocoa notes that power across the palate yet stay fresh and riveting thanks to fine-grained tannins and well-embedded acidity. Has a long, authoritative finish. This winery has quietly been getting better and better. Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon. Best from 2009 through 2015. 70 cases imported." (Web Only 2008) 17+ Jancis Robinson: "75% Malbec, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon from Valle de Uco and Luján de Cuyo; aged for 15 months in 100% new French oak Black core. Concentrated dark fruit. Bags of tannic grip but with the dense fruit to match. Young and with lots more to come. Just needs to relax a bit. Plenty of spicy oak on the finish and a whopping 15.5% alcohol.”

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Bottlenotes.com - Around the World in 80 Sips

Caposaldo Prosecco
Veneto, Italy  - $15.00
Pale straw with greenish undertones; fruity aroma with citrus, green apple and acacia flowers.  A pleasant acidity, freshness and full-bodied flavor make this a perfect wine to drink as an appetitive or with an antipasto or dinner.

Louis Jadot Beaujolais Village Blanc 2004
Burgundy, France – $15.00
Fresh, lively and elegant, the aromas are vivid and marked by pear, white peach and floral fragrances underscored by discreet mineral notes which carry onto a firmly structured, balanced palate.  The finish is long, crisp and finely tuned.

St. Francis Chardonnay 2006
Sonoma, California – $16.00
This ripe, lush, direct Chardonnay is a classic Sonoma expression of the grape, with overt tropical fruit and apple flavors, rich toasty oak notes and a crisp, supple finish.

Craggy Range Te Kahu Merlot 2005
 Hawkes Bay, New Zealand  - $50.00
Opaque garnet core with youthful crimson hues.  Aromas of ripe plum and fruit cake characters neatly meshed with sandalwood and spicy cinnamon overtones.  The overall aromatic impression is one of brooding complexity. 

St. Francis RED 2005
Sonoma, California $13.00
Red, ripe and robust fruit flavors with spicy aromas make this a wine that pairs well with a variety of foods.  Great with grilled foods and pizza or pasta d

Barrua Isola dei Nuraghi 2004
Sardinia, Italy - $49.99
Barrua is deep crimson red in color with violet highlights and aromas of crushed fresh blackberries and a suave, silky palate supported by sweet, refined tannins and a fine note of acidity.  Together, the color, fragrance, extract and alcohol achieve a degree of richness which yields wine of opulent suppleness, elegant tannins and finely tuned acidity: a textbook expression of the Carignano grape. 

Bodegas Roda Reserva 2003
Rioja, Spain - $44.99
Shows big, black cherry, blackberry and wild herb aromas and dense, powerful, spicy and mineral fruit on the palate.  RODA is a wine with a serious structure, harmonious, balancing acidity and ripe soft tannins. 

Sequoia Grove Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2004
Napa, California - $55.00
With a deep, dusky dark-red color, the wine has expressive aromas of characteristic Rutherford dust, black cherries, currant and herbs, with intriguing red cherry cocoa powder and dried herb notes.
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Wine Industry 101

**Chateau Souverain Sauvignon Blanc (2006), $16
The Alexander Valley Sauvignon Blanc offers just the right balance between bright, crisp varietal character and a gentle touch of barrel influence from the winemaker’s hand. Inviting aromas of Meyer lemon, grapefruit and lemon pudding lead to juicy flavors of citrus, lime and vanilla cream on the palate. The finish is supported by a crisp acidity that accentuates the classic Sauvignon varietal flavors.

Chateau St. Jean Robert Young Chardonnay (2006), $22
Fresh aromas of yellow fruit, citrus zest, hints of honeysuckle and smoke introduce the nose of this single vineyard Chardonnay. A medium-bodied entry fills the mouth with notes of pear, citrus, honey and nutmeg. Balanced acidity and lingering notes of Meyer lemon make this an excellent food wine.
Classic winemaking techniques of barrel fermentation and sur lie aging in small French (100%) oak cooperage for 14 months was used. The barrels are tasted, and those of great fruit intensity and texture are selected by Winemaker Margo Van Staaveren to create this Chardonnay.

**Stags' Leap Coyote Run Merlot (2003), $50
Aromas of blackberry, cassis, currant, and dark chocolate are enhanced by cinnamon, cardamom and clove spice nuances. Stags' Leap's signature brambly character is immediately recognizable in this elegant, rich wine. On the lush midpalate, black fruit flavors are highlighted by a bright, well-integrated acidity. The seamless, long, full-bodied finish suggests liquid velvet.

Oroppas (2004), $70
In the nose, this wine starts with aromas of raspberry, blackberry and cassis and ends with a back note of spice and vanilla. The mouth is filled with bright, fresh and rich fruit flavors of cassis and cherry layered with cedar, star anise, nutmeg and hints of smoky bacon that last throughout a long finish.  This red Bordeaux blend is comprised of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot and 7% Cabernet Franc.

**Stags' Leap Cabernet Sauvignon (2005), $49
Rich ruby red in color, luscious aromatics of black cherry, blackberries, and plum greet the nose with a slight back note of earth, leather, and bittersweet chocolate. Flavors of plum compote, spice, green tea, and cocoa are the introduction to this wine as velvety, unctuous tannins blend with a juicy, naturally balanced mid-palate of complex structure. Layers of spice, coffee and cream integrate with fruit notes to the end.Elizabeth Rose 2007 Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc

**Rosemount Old Benson fine old tawny port - ~$25-30
A rich tawny with great depth of color. The palate is full bodied and rich with clean fruit flavors of chocolate, raisined fruit and spice and an almost butterscotch mouth feel. The age of this wine adds a nutty complexity and more rancio characters before a drying finish balances the fruit sweetness.
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California Reds and Whites: SO Kickoff

Elizabeth Rose 2007 Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc
The fruit for our Sauvignon Blanc comes from our 30 year old Anchorage Vineyard in Yountville, Napa Valley. The 32 acre vineyard, like all our vineyards, is 100% Certified Organic. The family purchased the vineyard in 1986. Admiral Willey, an American Naval Officer who called the beloved land his "anchorage", originally owned it. Fresh and fruit-forward, this Sauvignon Blanc exhibits beautiful tropical aromas with gooseberry, guava and kiwi fruit. Medium-bodied with flavors such as melon and citrus linger on the refreshing finish of this mouth-watering read more...wine. Winemaker: Kristi Koford Grape Variety: 100% Sauvignon Blanc Alcoholic Content: 14.5%Total Acidity: 0.62%pH: 3.48Residual Sugar:0.027%Fermentation: 30% barrel fermented in French oak 70% cold fermented in stainless steel   $14.99

2007 Lioco Sonoma Chardonnay
LIOCO is the joint vision of Matt Licklider, an import specialist, and Kevin O'Connor, the Wine Director at Spago-Beverly Hills to create wines of place. The 2007 Sonoma County Chardonnay is a great follow-up to the 2006 vintage. Using top-notch, concentrated fruit and a state-of-the-art facility, this un-oaked gem is fermented using native yeasts. While the wine uses fruit from a number of different Sonoma vineyards that all have the same "creek bed soil" found along the Russian River. A stellar, crisp and food-friendly chardonnay (O'Connor is a Wine Director at one of the nation's top restaurants, after all). According to Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "Light yellow. Stony lemon, lime and pink grapefruit aromas display a tightly focused, uncompromising personality. Dry and minerally, with vivid citrus, green apple and quince flavors. Nervy acidity drives a tangy finish." $17.99

TEIRA 2005 SONOMA COUNTY ZINFANDEL
Ripe black cherry, blueberry and black currant with hints of vanilla and black pepper on the nose. On the palate, elegant flavors of ripe black cherry, currant and creamy spice are complimented with hints of dark chocolate. These flavors are well integrated without being overpowered by the alcohol - balance and finesse are the key descriptors for this wine. $14.99

Chateau Ste. Michelle Indian Wells Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 - Columbia Valley, Wash.
“The Indian Wells Cabernet is our warm climate ripe, jammy Cabernet. The 2005 bottling is no exception. The wine exudes sweet blackberry pie and vanilla aromas and flavors with loads of complexity. This is our big bold, obvious Cabernet and after just two vintages, it has quickly become a fan favorite. Wonderful Cab from such esteemed growers as Indian Wells, Jones, Washington Fruit and even Cold Creek Vineyard are woven together with a little Syrah to make a wine that says boldly 'I'm from Washington." $15.99
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