Golden Gate Wine Cellars
2337 Ocean Avenue
San Francisco, CA 94127
Tel: 415.337.4083
E: frank@goldengatewinecellars.com
W: www.goldengatewinecellars.com
Our Motto: Always Drink Good Wine!™
Every year when the Napa Valley Wine Auction "craze" hits, I organize a tasting of "hot, need-to-have, expensive, modestly-priced, can't buy, can't afford, need to have, high-score, no-score, and-anything-in-between" wine tasting. I also like to make a point that it doesn’t need to cost a million dollars to be spectacular.
I know that this year’s auction did not raise the funds it has in the past. I know there is a “partial” economic reason/explanation for this, but I also know that many people don’t like to pay through the roof for there wines (retail), and they might have made a big statement. I am not saying that a 100.00 is or is not any better versus a 20.00 bottle; as I know that wineries have different costs (estates, yields, winemakers, type of barrels, etc.), but some wineries have priced themselves outside the “I want to buy it” category. I am proud to offer a broad selection of variously priced wines in my showroom (and website), and work hard to always get you the right wines and the right prices.
On a quick sidebar – last call for DuMOL 2007 releases (Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Syrah), Red Car wines (big Wine Spectator scores), Fisitcuffs and Hestan Cabernets
This year's line up included:
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Chateau Margaux, Cheval Blanc, Harlan Estate, Screaming Eagle, Colgin, Phelps Insignia, Opus One, Pahlmeyer, Kamen, Ramian, Demuth Kemos (DK), Fantesca, Igneous, Caldwell, Staglin, Leonetti, Hartwell, Grace Family, Silver Oak, Diamond Creek, Chateau Montelena, O’Dwyer, David Arthur & Bucella (Cabernet and Merlot from this last producer were tasted).
Our final top 10 was amazing; as they were all small local producers! This tasted was conducted blind (30 people tasted), and all the wines were decanted and served the same way.
Top 5 2009 Golden Gate Wine Cellars/Napa Valley Auction Blind Tasting:
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1) Buccella 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
Retail 149.99 – GGWC 127.50
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Celia Welsh Masyczek (Scarecrow, 2480, etc.) is responsible for this gem of a wine. The packaging alone is worth the price of the wine, but I would never suggest you buy wine for its package. This wine has an amazing aroma of ripe, concentrated black stone fruit with a touch of chocolate and some toasty vanilla. On the palate this full-bodied, densely concentrated giant-of-a-wine displays a touch of minerality with more black stone fruit and some meatiness that intertwined with nice complexity and elegance and followed by an amazing rich and long finish. This is a wine that will be around for a good 15-20 years. We opened the bottle at 8 A.M. and decanted it before tasting it at 7 P.M. a good 11 hours later – the result awesome. The next day; the wine tasted even better. So that said, you might want to put this one in your cellar for a few years. Limited production! FYI, previous vintages have (2002-2005) have all scored 95 points in Robert Parker!
2) Ramian Estate 2006 Chapter 6, Mount Veeder Napa Valley
Retail 65.00 – GGWC $56.99
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This sixth release, thus Chapter Six is a blend of 92% Cabernet Sauvignon , 4% Merlot, 2% Petit Verdot, 1% Malbec and 1% Cabernet Franc. On the nose this wine has an old world elegance and shows dark black fruits, coffee, black liquorices, smoked meats and sweet vanilla. A big fat opulent mouthfeel of ripe blackberries, black currants, roasted coffee beans and chocolate dominate the mid-palate with a long toasty oak finish. This is an elegant, multidimensional, well balanced atypical Napa Valley red. 257 cases produced.
3) DK (Demuth-Kemos) 2005 Cabernet Clajeux, Sonoma
Retail 60.00 – GGWC $53.99
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Only 9 barrels (200 cases) were produced of this amazing wine. This hillside vineyard’s yields are very low, and it shows in the final product, as concentration and flavor are very intense! This 100% Cabernet offers a great nose of black-stone fruit and is followed on the palate by similar flavors. The wine is full in body, but very elegant! It is a true expression of the terroir in the Mayacamas Range. The wine finishes long and elegant with silky tannins. I had the wine open for several days and it only improved with time!
4) Fantesca Estate 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon, Spring Mtn.
Retail 75.00 – GGWC $65.00
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This is Heidi Barrett's latest venture! I know that many of you liked the previous vintages; this follow-up is even more amazing. Guess what; the price stayed the same, even with Heidi on board! Another winner, this only the fourth release from this winery. The nose of this wine contains notes of black cherry and molasses. There are lively hints of rosemary and crushed herbs. As you take the wine in your mouth, you taste cherry, cedar, and lively acids. The wine finishes with beautiful, dusty tannins that will become more and more elegant as this mountain Cabernet ages. 490 cases produced.
5) Kamen 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma Valley –
Retail 85.00 – GGWC 74.99
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Robert Parker 93+ Points! "The 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon has put on significant weight since last year. This seems to be a common occurrence in 2005, which do have a more European structural underpinning, but have definitely increased their intensity of fruit as they have aged in cask – always a positive sign. This wine has an inky bluish/purple color to the rim, a sweet nose of white flowers intermixed with black currants, a deep full-bodied mouthfeel, superb purity, plenty of tannin, but it is sweet, integrated, and the wine long (over 40 seconds), with stunning perfume. This wine should drink beautifully for 15-20 years. It would be hard to argue against the fact that Kamen is now producing one of the top four or five Cabernet Sauvignons from Sonoma."
#6 Igneous, # 7 O’Dwyer, #8 Caldwell, # 9 Bucella Merlot & #10 Pahlmeyer.
Some wines Margaux and Cheval did well, but only came in 11 & 12. Amazingly some wines we would have expected to have scored very high did not, but that happens.
Frank Melis
aka St. Frank - The Patron Saint of Tannins
Golden Gate Wine Cellars
2337 Ocean Avenue
San Francisco, CA 94127
Tel: 415 337.4083
E: frank@goldengatewinecellars.com
W: www.goldengatewinecellars.com
Our Motto: Always Drink Good Wine™ !
Please consider the environment before printing this e-mail
"Wine, madam, is God's next best gift to man." - Ambrose Bierce, Devil's Dictionary 1907
Monday, June 8, 2009
Saturday, May 30, 2009
This week in wine
Golden Gate Wine Cellars
2337 Ocean Avenue
San Francisco , CA 94127
Tel: 415.337.4083
E: frank@goldengatewinecellars.com
W: www.goldengatewinecellars.com
Our Motto: Always Drink Good Wine™!
Another Week in Wine Review
-------------------------------------
As May comes to an end, the wine landscape is just starting to blossom some more. I tasted a ton of wine this week, and I have some great DEALS to offer you as well. Remember FREE (ground) SHIPPING - $500.00 or more to the same address!
Canihan 2006 Pinot Noir, Sonoma Valley – Retail 38.00 – NOW 28.00 (25% OFF)
Only 300 cases of this Estate Pinot Noir were produced! Aromas of raspberry, plums, violet and floral tones fold into black cherry and cedar as the wine is swirled. The wine’s texture is rich and full, with a deep, lingering finish. A fun, easy drinking wine. So buy six bottles of this wine, and receive 25% OFF!
August West 2007 “Rosella Vineyard” Chardonnay – Retail 48.00 – GGWC 39.99
2007 was only 3rd vintage of the Rosella’s Chardonnay, and this wine benefited from the longest fermentation on record for August west: 10 months. The length of the fermentation added to the complexity of the nose and the palate. There’s a hint of the citrus fruit aromas very characteristic of the Rosella’s Vineyard Chards, and this is followed by a soft, full-bodied palate. Only 94 cases were produced.
August West 2007 “Graham” Pinot Noir, Russian River V. – Retail 55.00 – GGWC 48.00
After the prolific 2006 vintage at Graham, 2007 was back to normal at barely over 1 ton per acre. The wine has a nose of ripe Russian River Valley fruit mixed with spicy, earthy aromas that will evolve for many years to come. Only 310 cases were produced, and it will surely be sold out quickly. 300 cases produced.
Molnar 2007 “Poseidon” Chardonnay, Carneros – Retail 28.00 – GGWC 22.99
This Chardonnay has an inviting aroma of Kaffir lime and lemon custard. Upon first sip the wine is lively and fresh with the pinpoint acidity of green apples and lime. Ever-present notes of flint and minerality maintain the focused character. As the wine blossoms, flavors of crème Brule and custard fill out the palate, and a kiss of toasty vanilla adds a final touch of complexity to the wine's finish. 90 pt. Robert Parker.
Kesner 2006 Hudson Chardonnay – Retail 65.00 – GGWC 59.99
Quite possibly the best Hudson Vineyards produced to date. A simply magical growing season allowed us to pick the fruit at moderate sugar levels with a little less acid and lower yield than the previous vintage but with all of the fruit to back it up. The wine is brimming with the tones of a classic Hudson Vineyards Chardonnay. Grown in the cool and windy Carneros, where the old loam, clay and river stone foot hills meet the bay. Lifted essence of citrus, grilled stone fruit and mineral infused undertones. James Kesner has managed the Hudson vineyard for a decade and since 2008has joined Kistler Winery. He will fill Steve Kistler’s shoes when he retires as the Kistler winemaker in the (near) future.
Kazmer Blaise “Primo’s Hill” Pinot Noir, Carneros – Retail 56.00 – GGWC 49.00
This is one of the best Pinot Noir’s to come across my palate as of late. Brambly blackberry and cherry are deeply embedded in the wine's aroma but go un-noticed at first due to the dramatic overlay of campfire, leather, oils, waxes and sandalwood. This is a dark-toned wine, decidedly masculine for the absence of floral fragrance. The texture defies the expectations of the nose, and although the wine has weight, there is a rose-petal nap to the feel of the tannins. It is fine-grained, lush and wholly seductive. The wine received a 91 Point rating from Robert Parker and 94 Points from Wine Enthusiast. Only 249 cases produced!
Obsidian 2006 Cabernet Estate, Red Hills Lake County – Retail 32.00 – GGWC 27.99
The bouquet is filled with spices of bay, clove and anise amidst a core of red cherries, dried cranberries and ripe red plums. With each sip we're reminded of the terroir at Obsidian Ridge with the subtle hints of chaparral throughout. This is a rich and densely structured wine. It maintains appropriate acidity that carries forth the flavors of dark cherries finishing with espresso beans coated in dark chocolate. This is undeniable mountain Cabernet Sauvignon with ample tannin to secure its longevity for ten or even fifteen years. Under 30.00 not a bad find!
Obsidian 2006 Syrah “Estate” Red Hills Lake County – Retail 32.00 – GGWC 27.99
Only 216 cases of this gem were produced! This wine is ample to say the least. The bouquet is filled with aromas of blackberries mulled with ginger, graham cracker and spice. An undercurrent of smoke and meatiness keep this Syrah true to character. The wine is rich and surprisingly silken despite ample tannin that flesh out the mid-palate. The wine maintains appropriate acidity that works well with the fruit to keep this Syrah fresh and lively.
Last call for those who did not sign up for the 2007 DuMOL wines (see last week’s email – Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Syrah). 750’s and Magnums available!
Ramian’s Chapter Six Cabernet Blend and their Cabernet Franc are almost sold out as well. So hurry to get some of this much sought after wine!
Also, I have started a pre-order list for the 2007 Coho Headwaters Cabernet Blend. As you might recall the previous three vintages scored 94 and 95 points, and this one could be higher. I tasted the wine, and can tell you that it will leave the 200 far behind! Those of you that purchased some of the 2006 are on the “A” list for the 2007 vintage.
I suggest you sign up fast, as we have pre-sold 56 cases and we will only receive 75 cases this vintage! Retail TBA, but will be about (if not totally) the same as the 2006 vintage.
Lastly, Black Kite’s 2007 Pinot Noir “Kite’s Rest” which received a 92 point rating in Wine Spectator and 94 Points in Wine Enthusiast is almost sold out as well.
This offer is good while supplies last.
*Free Shipping is GROUND UPS and has to go to the same address - anywhere in the CONTINENTAL US!
Frank Melis
aka St. Frank - The Patron Saint of Tannins
Golden Gate Wine Cellars
2337 Ocean Avenue
San Francisco , CA 94127
Tel: 415 337.4083
Fax: 888 790 WINE (9463)
E: frank@goldengatewinecellars.com
W: www.goldengatewinecellars.com
"Wine, madam, is God's next best gift to man." - Ambrose Bierce, Devil's Dictionary 1907
Our Motto: Always Drink Good Wine™ !
2337 Ocean Avenue
San Francisco , CA 94127
Tel: 415.337.4083
E: frank@goldengatewinecellars.com
W: www.goldengatewinecellars.com
Our Motto: Always Drink Good Wine™!
Another Week in Wine Review
-------------------------------------
As May comes to an end, the wine landscape is just starting to blossom some more. I tasted a ton of wine this week, and I have some great DEALS to offer you as well. Remember FREE (ground) SHIPPING - $500.00 or more to the same address!
Canihan 2006 Pinot Noir, Sonoma Valley – Retail 38.00 – NOW 28.00 (25% OFF)
Only 300 cases of this Estate Pinot Noir were produced! Aromas of raspberry, plums, violet and floral tones fold into black cherry and cedar as the wine is swirled. The wine’s texture is rich and full, with a deep, lingering finish. A fun, easy drinking wine. So buy six bottles of this wine, and receive 25% OFF!
August West 2007 “Rosella Vineyard” Chardonnay – Retail 48.00 – GGWC 39.99
2007 was only 3rd vintage of the Rosella’s Chardonnay, and this wine benefited from the longest fermentation on record for August west: 10 months. The length of the fermentation added to the complexity of the nose and the palate. There’s a hint of the citrus fruit aromas very characteristic of the Rosella’s Vineyard Chards, and this is followed by a soft, full-bodied palate. Only 94 cases were produced.
August West 2007 “Graham” Pinot Noir, Russian River V. – Retail 55.00 – GGWC 48.00
After the prolific 2006 vintage at Graham, 2007 was back to normal at barely over 1 ton per acre. The wine has a nose of ripe Russian River Valley fruit mixed with spicy, earthy aromas that will evolve for many years to come. Only 310 cases were produced, and it will surely be sold out quickly. 300 cases produced.
Molnar 2007 “Poseidon” Chardonnay, Carneros – Retail 28.00 – GGWC 22.99
This Chardonnay has an inviting aroma of Kaffir lime and lemon custard. Upon first sip the wine is lively and fresh with the pinpoint acidity of green apples and lime. Ever-present notes of flint and minerality maintain the focused character. As the wine blossoms, flavors of crème Brule and custard fill out the palate, and a kiss of toasty vanilla adds a final touch of complexity to the wine's finish. 90 pt. Robert Parker.
Kesner 2006 Hudson Chardonnay – Retail 65.00 – GGWC 59.99
Quite possibly the best Hudson Vineyards produced to date. A simply magical growing season allowed us to pick the fruit at moderate sugar levels with a little less acid and lower yield than the previous vintage but with all of the fruit to back it up. The wine is brimming with the tones of a classic Hudson Vineyards Chardonnay. Grown in the cool and windy Carneros, where the old loam, clay and river stone foot hills meet the bay. Lifted essence of citrus, grilled stone fruit and mineral infused undertones. James Kesner has managed the Hudson vineyard for a decade and since 2008has joined Kistler Winery. He will fill Steve Kistler’s shoes when he retires as the Kistler winemaker in the (near) future.
Kazmer Blaise “Primo’s Hill” Pinot Noir, Carneros – Retail 56.00 – GGWC 49.00
This is one of the best Pinot Noir’s to come across my palate as of late. Brambly blackberry and cherry are deeply embedded in the wine's aroma but go un-noticed at first due to the dramatic overlay of campfire, leather, oils, waxes and sandalwood. This is a dark-toned wine, decidedly masculine for the absence of floral fragrance. The texture defies the expectations of the nose, and although the wine has weight, there is a rose-petal nap to the feel of the tannins. It is fine-grained, lush and wholly seductive. The wine received a 91 Point rating from Robert Parker and 94 Points from Wine Enthusiast. Only 249 cases produced!
Obsidian 2006 Cabernet Estate, Red Hills Lake County – Retail 32.00 – GGWC 27.99
The bouquet is filled with spices of bay, clove and anise amidst a core of red cherries, dried cranberries and ripe red plums. With each sip we're reminded of the terroir at Obsidian Ridge with the subtle hints of chaparral throughout. This is a rich and densely structured wine. It maintains appropriate acidity that carries forth the flavors of dark cherries finishing with espresso beans coated in dark chocolate. This is undeniable mountain Cabernet Sauvignon with ample tannin to secure its longevity for ten or even fifteen years. Under 30.00 not a bad find!
Obsidian 2006 Syrah “Estate” Red Hills Lake County – Retail 32.00 – GGWC 27.99
Only 216 cases of this gem were produced! This wine is ample to say the least. The bouquet is filled with aromas of blackberries mulled with ginger, graham cracker and spice. An undercurrent of smoke and meatiness keep this Syrah true to character. The wine is rich and surprisingly silken despite ample tannin that flesh out the mid-palate. The wine maintains appropriate acidity that works well with the fruit to keep this Syrah fresh and lively.
Last call for those who did not sign up for the 2007 DuMOL wines (see last week’s email – Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Syrah). 750’s and Magnums available!
Ramian’s Chapter Six Cabernet Blend and their Cabernet Franc are almost sold out as well. So hurry to get some of this much sought after wine!
Also, I have started a pre-order list for the 2007 Coho Headwaters Cabernet Blend. As you might recall the previous three vintages scored 94 and 95 points, and this one could be higher. I tasted the wine, and can tell you that it will leave the 200 far behind! Those of you that purchased some of the 2006 are on the “A” list for the 2007 vintage.
I suggest you sign up fast, as we have pre-sold 56 cases and we will only receive 75 cases this vintage! Retail TBA, but will be about (if not totally) the same as the 2006 vintage.
Lastly, Black Kite’s 2007 Pinot Noir “Kite’s Rest” which received a 92 point rating in Wine Spectator and 94 Points in Wine Enthusiast is almost sold out as well.
This offer is good while supplies last.
*Free Shipping is GROUND UPS and has to go to the same address - anywhere in the CONTINENTAL US!
Frank Melis
aka St. Frank - The Patron Saint of Tannins
Golden Gate Wine Cellars
2337 Ocean Avenue
San Francisco , CA 94127
Tel: 415 337.4083
Fax: 888 790 WINE (9463)
E: frank@goldengatewinecellars.com
W: www.goldengatewinecellars.com
"Wine, madam, is God's next best gift to man." - Ambrose Bierce, Devil's Dictionary 1907
Our Motto: Always Drink Good Wine™ !
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Mid May Wine Notes
Golden Gate Wine Cellars
2337 Ocean Avenue
San Francicso, CA 94127
Tel: 415.337.4083
W: www.goldengatewinecellars.com
E: frank@goldengatewinecellars.com
Our Motto: Always Drink Good Wine!
PAHLMEYER SPECIAL OFFER
Pahlmeyer “Jayson” 2006 Pinot Noir – Retail 65.00 NOW 49.99
Minimum order 6 bottles to secure the “big discount price”
In the years that Pahlmeyer produces awesome quality and quantities, he creates his name sake Jayson. This label is always very limited! We compared notes with the 2006 Pinot Noir, which got 94 Points in Robert Parker, and for half the price, one cannot go wrong with the Jayson Pinot Noir!
Pahlmeyer “Jayson” 2005 Proprietary Red – Retail 60.00 NOW 49.99
Minimum order 6 bottles to secure the “big discount price”
I just tasted (and compared) the Pahlmeyer Regular which received 96 Points in Robert Parker and the “Jayson” Pahlmeyer – a mere image and at less than half the price one would make a big mistake not to jump on some Jayson 2005 Proprietary Red!
2005 Mirror Cabernet, Napa Valley – Retail 85.00 – GGWC 74.99
Hourglass Fans - I have another surprise in the bag! Jeff Smith owner of Hourglass and Rob Lawson (Jeff's partner and winemaker at Fisticuffs) partnered with Rick Mirer, former NFL Quarterback to create MIRROR, a limited production Cabernet sourced from two famed St. Helena and Oakville estates. I featured the wine at our bi-monthly Wine Extravaganza and it was a BIG HIT! Only 500 cases of this gem were produced, and my crowd of almost 100 was shocked that the wine only retailed for $75.00! It tasted like Colgin, Spottswoode, etc at a much lower price! We sold a good amount of it at the event, and I do not anticipate having it around for a long time. So hurry up, and get some of this well-structured, well-balanced, Cabernet! On the nose one is greeted by lively black berries, followed on the full-bodied palate by similar flavors and a touch of toasty vanilla and anise. The wine is intense but not in your face. On the palate it delivers a lush, ripe and richly concentrated core of dark fruits (cassis, blackberries and dried cranberries). I did decant it, and allowed it to breathe for a good 2 hours prior to serving. It opened nicely, and turned many heads! That said, the finish was superb and long.
Hurry Up! As I will N.F.L. - Not have the wine For Long (NFL hahaha)
Ramian 2006 Reserve Cabernet Franc, Napa
Retail 45.00 – GGWC 36.99
This must be the BEST Cabernet Franc I have ever tasted. Cab Franc is one of those “forgotten” varietals, but with the right touch one produces an amazing wine. That is what Brian Ramian achieved with this latest release. This wine reveals a superb fragrant bouquet of red and black stone fruits and a touch of anise. The wine is full in bodied but well-balanced. Not the in-your-face, concentrated, super-tannic monster, but a well-made wine that offers ripeness, as well as excellent fruit, acid and purity. It finishes long, with subtle, silky tannins. 375 cases produced.
Ramian 2006 “Chapter 6” Proprietary Red, Napa Valley
Retail 70.00- GGWC 56.99
This sixth release, thus Chapter Six is a blend of 92% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Merlot, 2% Petit Verdot, 1% Malbec and 1% Cabernet Franc. On the nose this wine has an old world elegance and shows dark black fruits, coffee, black liquorices, smoked meats and sweet vanilla. A big fat opulent mouthfeel of ripe blackberries, black currants, roasted coffee beans and chocolate dominate the mid-palate with a long toasty oak finish. This is an elegant, multidimensional, well balanced atypical Napa Valley red. 257 cases produced.
Ramian 2007 Reserve White Blend (Viognier/Roussanne)
Retail 30.00 – GGWC 24.99
This wine is a blend of 57% Viognier and 43% Roussanne. The micro climate of this valley is perfect for growing Viognier. Warm sunny days along with a constant cool breeze yield optimum conditions for achieving perfect ripeness. Bananas and immense amounts of white tropical fruits provide a telling story on the nose that carries off perfectly onto the palate and soft long, lingering finish. Only 130 cases produced.
Bedrock “Heirloom” Proprietary Red, Sonoma Valley
Retail 38.00 – GGWC 32.49
The inaugural release of the Bedrock Heirloom Red is a classic California field blend. Composed of Zinfandel, Carignane, Petite Sirah, Syrah and Barbera. Typical of Sonoma Valley , this year’s wine features a dazzling aromatic profile of crushed red berries, kirsch, pumpkin pie spice, bright, clarified, fruit flavors and rich structural components imparted by the mixed blacks which ground the wine and indicate that it will age gracefully for 8-10 years. 185 cases produced. (92 Pt Wine Spectator)
Black Kite 2007 Kite’s Rest Pinot Noir, Anderson Valley – Retail 50.00 – GGWC 45.00
Jeff Gaffner (Saxon Brown) produces the awesome Black Kite wines! This latest release offers layers of raspberry, dark chocolate, mocha, lavender and violets with hint of clove, cassis, cedar and rose petal. On the palate this full-bodied, but elegantly structured wine offer a graceful interplay of fine-grained tannins, focused acids and ripe fruit. This is a wine that could benefit from some time in the cellar, although decanting it for an hour or two would do wonders as well.
Wine Spectator 92 Pt : 2007 Black Kite "Kite's Rest" tops the charts this week, with a ripe, fleshy offering. Very ripe and rich. Full-bodied, with tiers of black cherry, wild berry, plum and spice. Picks up a spicy, minerally edge and gains body on the finish, where the fruit is pure and fleshy. Drink now through 2014. 726 cases made." — James Laube.
Saracina 2007 Sauvignon Blanc, Mendocino
Retail 25.00 – GGWC 22.99
The Saracina folks are all about bio-dynamic, organic farming! Their 25- to 40-year-old, lower yield organically farmed vineyards produce intense fruit with excellent varietal character. The palate reveals pronounced citrus, white peach, key lime and ripe quince flavors, balanced by a crisp, dry acidity. This intense mouth-feel is enhanced by the extended lees aging and batonnage. The classic aromas of lime, grapefruit and wet river stone recall a Loire-style Sauvignon Blanc. This wine is a laser beam on the palate! 750 cases produced.
Atrea 2007 “The Choir” Mendocino
Retail 22.50 – GGWC 19.99
David Ramey produced yet another gem! This blend of 76% Roussanne, 24% Viognier offers a hugely aromatic nose of apricot, honeysuckle, orange blossoms and jasmine has become the hallmark of The Choir. The palate carries similar flavors with emphasis on pitted fruits. It sports richness without excess weight. Wine can be powerful and vibrant simultaneously when made well, as The Choir demonstrates. This wine will appeal to the "ABC" (Anything But Chardonnay) crowd. 800 cases produced.
Verdad 2008 Albarino, Central Coast
Retail 22.00 – GGWC 19.99
Albarino is a unique Spanish grape variety that makes lovely aromatic and lively wine. This wine has fresh white peach aromas and flavors, layered with hints of orange blossoms, almonds and exotic citrus with a dry, crisp finish. Only 448 cases were produced.
Walter Hansel 2006 Chardonnay North Slope
Retail 40.00 – GGWC 35.99
This wine received a 94 point rating from Robert Parker – so what else is there to say about this. The wine has a touch of minerality on the nose. On the palate this full bodied wine offers gobs of citrus and a touch of tropical fruit notes. It is a fruity wine, but well balanced with the right amounts of acid. A real crowd pleaser, and as always limited production.
Bravante 2006 Merlot, Estate, Howell Mountain
Retail 45.00 – GGWC 39.99
Bursting with huge mountain black fruit and silky tannins, this wine is a perennial sell-out. The mouthfeel shows off the luscious mountain fruit, while the silky tannins remind you of cedar, earth and chalk - typical Howell Mountain trademarks. The nose is intense, with aromas of blackberries, provincial herbs, and the usual hints of mushrooms, chalk and cinnamon that our wines always turn up. The finish tracks the aromas and palate with the addition of just a hint of spicy oak, and the wine is so firm and balanced, you only notice the oak as the gentle, "velvet glove" holding it all in place.
Chronicle 2006 Zinfandel “Gaddis” Russian River Valley – Retail 44.00 – GGWC 35.99 The Gaddis Zin possesses a brilliant red-purple hue. It is led in the nose by deep and complex aromas of raspberry and anise, highlighted by spice and chocolate ganache. The wine has a balanced attack of mouthwatering red fruit, framed by excellent acidity. Gaddis shows certain elegance in its infancy. Only 119 cases produced!!
Chronicle 2006 Zinfandel “Old Vine” Russian River Valley – Retail 35.00 – GGWC 27.99
A blend of 23% Bacigalupi, 321% Gaddis and 45% Gambogi. This old vine Zin is "bang-for-your-buck"! Charm and tons of fruit! Bacigalupi brings brambly blackberry and mid palate richness; Gaddis brings backbone and structure, and Gambogi brings intriguing chocolate and claret-like aromatics and flavor profiles. 400 cases produced.
Chronicle 2006 Pinot Noir “Cerise” Anderson Valley
Retail 55.00 – GGWC 47.99 Ace winemaker Ted Lemon (Littorai) produced 240 cases of this amazing Pinot Noir! Cerise is a low-yielding property in the Anderson Valley at 800 - 1200 feet elevation. Those familiar with Ted's winemaking and for that matter Cerise vineyard, know that he is "the" Pinot man! This wine aroma offers of a touch of barnyard with hints of black and raspberry. On the palate this medium to full bodied Pinot offers similar flavors. Well-structured and with good concentration (good balance of fruit and acid!), this wine has a modest tannic finish that will enable you to store this wine and enjoy it for many years to come!
Chronicle 2006 Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast
Retail 44.00- GGWC 34.99
Ace Winemaker Ted Lemon (Littorai, etal) produced a stellar Pinot Noir sourced from three Sonoma Coast vineyards. Only 495 cases of this little gem were produced. The Sonoma Coast Pinot shows hints of spice and sandalwood with pronounced notes of strawberry and Bing cherry. This medium to full-bodied wine offers up a dose of almost sweet cherries and strawberries. The wine is elegant and drinks amazingly well. It is structured and balanced, and finishes will silky and lively tannins.
DUMOL NEW RELEASES!!!!!!!!
I just sampled the new DuMol wines - WAW (What a "bunch of" Wines!). The 2007 Russian Valley Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Syrah were all amazing. I also sampled the designated vineyards which will not be available until this fall.
Remember, those of you on the Spring DuMol list always get first pick in the fall!
The wines will be arrive at the end of this week and we have pre-sold about 75% of them! So don't procrastinate any longer. You have to CALL or EMAIL me as we are NOT posting them on our website (yet). We want to give our regular clients first buying rights before the crowd of hungry DuMol fans "finds" us before you had a chance to buy your allocation!
2007 DuMol Chardonnay, Russian River Valley - $54.99
Light green/yellow color. Multi-layered aromas of lime zest and white flowers then cantaloupe, an edge of ginger and some exotic lychee. Initially zesty grapefruit on the palate followed by wonderful fruit richness with a core of baked apple, sweet lemon honey and nutmeg. Great snappy acidity balances the long oily-rich finish. Serve no cooler than 55 degrees to ensure full flavor development. Drink between release and 2013.
2007 DuMol Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley $65.00
Bright garnet color that darkens in the glass; Orange peel, fresh raspberry and briary aromas darken to kirsch, clove and blackberry. Great purity of Pinot fruit: sweet plum, spicy cola and wild berry flavors that are vivid and juicy lead to black tea, dried cherry and licorice complexity. At once supple then broadly structured with a long fresh expansive finish.
2007 DuMol Syrah, Russian River Valley $58.00
Bright ruby purple color; intensely floral aromas of violet with ripe plum, black raspberry and soy notes with an edge of smoked meat. Lovely ripe fruit core: blackberry and boysenberry with roast coffee and dried thyme then a plush velvety mid-palate and balanced tannins and acid on the supple finish. Maintains freshness and elegance throughout with developing complexity in the glass.
This offer is good while supplies last.
*Free Shipping is GROUND UPS and has to go to the same address.
Frank Melis
aka St. Frank - The Patron Saint of Tannins
Golden Gate Wine Cellars
2337 Ocean Avenue
San Francisco , CA 94127
Tel: 415 337.4083
Fax: 888 790 WINE (9463)
E: frank@goldengatewinecellars.com
W: www.goldengatewinecellars.com
Our Motto: Always Drink Good Wine™ !
Please consider the environment before printing this e-mail
"Wine, madam, is God's next best gift to man." - Ambrose Bierce, Devil's Dictionary 1907
This electronic message transmission contains information that may be proprietary, confidential and/or privileged. The information is intended only for the use of the individual(s) or entity named above. If you are not the intended recipient, be aware that any disclosure, copying or distribution or use of the contents of this information is prohibited. If you have received this electronic transmission in error, please notify the sender immediately by replying to the address listed in the "From:" field.
Our Motto: Always Drink Good Wine™ !
INQUIRE ABOUT OUR FREE(ground) SHIPPING OFFER
anywhere in the CONTINENTAL US!
Orders of $500.00 or more qualify (same address only!)
2337 Ocean Avenue
San Francicso, CA 94127
Tel: 415.337.4083
W: www.goldengatewinecellars.com
E: frank@goldengatewinecellars.com
Our Motto: Always Drink Good Wine!
PAHLMEYER SPECIAL OFFER
Pahlmeyer “Jayson” 2006 Pinot Noir – Retail 65.00 NOW 49.99
Minimum order 6 bottles to secure the “big discount price”
In the years that Pahlmeyer produces awesome quality and quantities, he creates his name sake Jayson. This label is always very limited! We compared notes with the 2006 Pinot Noir, which got 94 Points in Robert Parker, and for half the price, one cannot go wrong with the Jayson Pinot Noir!
Pahlmeyer “Jayson” 2005 Proprietary Red – Retail 60.00 NOW 49.99
Minimum order 6 bottles to secure the “big discount price”
I just tasted (and compared) the Pahlmeyer Regular which received 96 Points in Robert Parker and the “Jayson” Pahlmeyer – a mere image and at less than half the price one would make a big mistake not to jump on some Jayson 2005 Proprietary Red!
2005 Mirror Cabernet, Napa Valley – Retail 85.00 – GGWC 74.99
Hourglass Fans - I have another surprise in the bag! Jeff Smith owner of Hourglass and Rob Lawson (Jeff's partner and winemaker at Fisticuffs) partnered with Rick Mirer, former NFL Quarterback to create MIRROR, a limited production Cabernet sourced from two famed St. Helena and Oakville estates. I featured the wine at our bi-monthly Wine Extravaganza and it was a BIG HIT! Only 500 cases of this gem were produced, and my crowd of almost 100 was shocked that the wine only retailed for $75.00! It tasted like Colgin, Spottswoode, etc at a much lower price! We sold a good amount of it at the event, and I do not anticipate having it around for a long time. So hurry up, and get some of this well-structured, well-balanced, Cabernet! On the nose one is greeted by lively black berries, followed on the full-bodied palate by similar flavors and a touch of toasty vanilla and anise. The wine is intense but not in your face. On the palate it delivers a lush, ripe and richly concentrated core of dark fruits (cassis, blackberries and dried cranberries). I did decant it, and allowed it to breathe for a good 2 hours prior to serving. It opened nicely, and turned many heads! That said, the finish was superb and long.
Hurry Up! As I will N.F.L. - Not have the wine For Long (NFL hahaha)
Ramian 2006 Reserve Cabernet Franc, Napa
Retail 45.00 – GGWC 36.99
This must be the BEST Cabernet Franc I have ever tasted. Cab Franc is one of those “forgotten” varietals, but with the right touch one produces an amazing wine. That is what Brian Ramian achieved with this latest release. This wine reveals a superb fragrant bouquet of red and black stone fruits and a touch of anise. The wine is full in bodied but well-balanced. Not the in-your-face, concentrated, super-tannic monster, but a well-made wine that offers ripeness, as well as excellent fruit, acid and purity. It finishes long, with subtle, silky tannins. 375 cases produced.
Ramian 2006 “Chapter 6” Proprietary Red, Napa Valley
Retail 70.00- GGWC 56.99
This sixth release, thus Chapter Six is a blend of 92% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Merlot, 2% Petit Verdot, 1% Malbec and 1% Cabernet Franc. On the nose this wine has an old world elegance and shows dark black fruits, coffee, black liquorices, smoked meats and sweet vanilla. A big fat opulent mouthfeel of ripe blackberries, black currants, roasted coffee beans and chocolate dominate the mid-palate with a long toasty oak finish. This is an elegant, multidimensional, well balanced atypical Napa Valley red. 257 cases produced.
Ramian 2007 Reserve White Blend (Viognier/Roussanne)
Retail 30.00 – GGWC 24.99
This wine is a blend of 57% Viognier and 43% Roussanne. The micro climate of this valley is perfect for growing Viognier. Warm sunny days along with a constant cool breeze yield optimum conditions for achieving perfect ripeness. Bananas and immense amounts of white tropical fruits provide a telling story on the nose that carries off perfectly onto the palate and soft long, lingering finish. Only 130 cases produced.
Bedrock “Heirloom” Proprietary Red, Sonoma Valley
Retail 38.00 – GGWC 32.49
The inaugural release of the Bedrock Heirloom Red is a classic California field blend. Composed of Zinfandel, Carignane, Petite Sirah, Syrah and Barbera. Typical of Sonoma Valley , this year’s wine features a dazzling aromatic profile of crushed red berries, kirsch, pumpkin pie spice, bright, clarified, fruit flavors and rich structural components imparted by the mixed blacks which ground the wine and indicate that it will age gracefully for 8-10 years. 185 cases produced. (92 Pt Wine Spectator)
Black Kite 2007 Kite’s Rest Pinot Noir, Anderson Valley – Retail 50.00 – GGWC 45.00
Jeff Gaffner (Saxon Brown) produces the awesome Black Kite wines! This latest release offers layers of raspberry, dark chocolate, mocha, lavender and violets with hint of clove, cassis, cedar and rose petal. On the palate this full-bodied, but elegantly structured wine offer a graceful interplay of fine-grained tannins, focused acids and ripe fruit. This is a wine that could benefit from some time in the cellar, although decanting it for an hour or two would do wonders as well.
Wine Spectator 92 Pt : 2007 Black Kite "Kite's Rest" tops the charts this week, with a ripe, fleshy offering. Very ripe and rich. Full-bodied, with tiers of black cherry, wild berry, plum and spice. Picks up a spicy, minerally edge and gains body on the finish, where the fruit is pure and fleshy. Drink now through 2014. 726 cases made." — James Laube.
Saracina 2007 Sauvignon Blanc, Mendocino
Retail 25.00 – GGWC 22.99
The Saracina folks are all about bio-dynamic, organic farming! Their 25- to 40-year-old, lower yield organically farmed vineyards produce intense fruit with excellent varietal character. The palate reveals pronounced citrus, white peach, key lime and ripe quince flavors, balanced by a crisp, dry acidity. This intense mouth-feel is enhanced by the extended lees aging and batonnage. The classic aromas of lime, grapefruit and wet river stone recall a Loire-style Sauvignon Blanc. This wine is a laser beam on the palate! 750 cases produced.
Atrea 2007 “The Choir” Mendocino
Retail 22.50 – GGWC 19.99
David Ramey produced yet another gem! This blend of 76% Roussanne, 24% Viognier offers a hugely aromatic nose of apricot, honeysuckle, orange blossoms and jasmine has become the hallmark of The Choir. The palate carries similar flavors with emphasis on pitted fruits. It sports richness without excess weight. Wine can be powerful and vibrant simultaneously when made well, as The Choir demonstrates. This wine will appeal to the "ABC" (Anything But Chardonnay) crowd. 800 cases produced.
Verdad 2008 Albarino, Central Coast
Retail 22.00 – GGWC 19.99
Albarino is a unique Spanish grape variety that makes lovely aromatic and lively wine. This wine has fresh white peach aromas and flavors, layered with hints of orange blossoms, almonds and exotic citrus with a dry, crisp finish. Only 448 cases were produced.
Walter Hansel 2006 Chardonnay North Slope
Retail 40.00 – GGWC 35.99
This wine received a 94 point rating from Robert Parker – so what else is there to say about this. The wine has a touch of minerality on the nose. On the palate this full bodied wine offers gobs of citrus and a touch of tropical fruit notes. It is a fruity wine, but well balanced with the right amounts of acid. A real crowd pleaser, and as always limited production.
Bravante 2006 Merlot, Estate, Howell Mountain
Retail 45.00 – GGWC 39.99
Bursting with huge mountain black fruit and silky tannins, this wine is a perennial sell-out. The mouthfeel shows off the luscious mountain fruit, while the silky tannins remind you of cedar, earth and chalk - typical Howell Mountain trademarks. The nose is intense, with aromas of blackberries, provincial herbs, and the usual hints of mushrooms, chalk and cinnamon that our wines always turn up. The finish tracks the aromas and palate with the addition of just a hint of spicy oak, and the wine is so firm and balanced, you only notice the oak as the gentle, "velvet glove" holding it all in place.
Chronicle 2006 Zinfandel “Gaddis” Russian River Valley – Retail 44.00 – GGWC 35.99 The Gaddis Zin possesses a brilliant red-purple hue. It is led in the nose by deep and complex aromas of raspberry and anise, highlighted by spice and chocolate ganache. The wine has a balanced attack of mouthwatering red fruit, framed by excellent acidity. Gaddis shows certain elegance in its infancy. Only 119 cases produced!!
Chronicle 2006 Zinfandel “Old Vine” Russian River Valley – Retail 35.00 – GGWC 27.99
A blend of 23% Bacigalupi, 321% Gaddis and 45% Gambogi. This old vine Zin is "bang-for-your-buck"! Charm and tons of fruit! Bacigalupi brings brambly blackberry and mid palate richness; Gaddis brings backbone and structure, and Gambogi brings intriguing chocolate and claret-like aromatics and flavor profiles. 400 cases produced.
Chronicle 2006 Pinot Noir “Cerise” Anderson Valley
Retail 55.00 – GGWC 47.99 Ace winemaker Ted Lemon (Littorai) produced 240 cases of this amazing Pinot Noir! Cerise is a low-yielding property in the Anderson Valley at 800 - 1200 feet elevation. Those familiar with Ted's winemaking and for that matter Cerise vineyard, know that he is "the" Pinot man! This wine aroma offers of a touch of barnyard with hints of black and raspberry. On the palate this medium to full bodied Pinot offers similar flavors. Well-structured and with good concentration (good balance of fruit and acid!), this wine has a modest tannic finish that will enable you to store this wine and enjoy it for many years to come!
Chronicle 2006 Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast
Retail 44.00- GGWC 34.99
Ace Winemaker Ted Lemon (Littorai, etal) produced a stellar Pinot Noir sourced from three Sonoma Coast vineyards. Only 495 cases of this little gem were produced. The Sonoma Coast Pinot shows hints of spice and sandalwood with pronounced notes of strawberry and Bing cherry. This medium to full-bodied wine offers up a dose of almost sweet cherries and strawberries. The wine is elegant and drinks amazingly well. It is structured and balanced, and finishes will silky and lively tannins.
DUMOL NEW RELEASES!!!!!!!!
I just sampled the new DuMol wines - WAW (What a "bunch of" Wines!). The 2007 Russian Valley Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Syrah were all amazing. I also sampled the designated vineyards which will not be available until this fall.
Remember, those of you on the Spring DuMol list always get first pick in the fall!
The wines will be arrive at the end of this week and we have pre-sold about 75% of them! So don't procrastinate any longer. You have to CALL or EMAIL me as we are NOT posting them on our website (yet). We want to give our regular clients first buying rights before the crowd of hungry DuMol fans "finds" us before you had a chance to buy your allocation!
2007 DuMol Chardonnay, Russian River Valley - $54.99
Light green/yellow color. Multi-layered aromas of lime zest and white flowers then cantaloupe, an edge of ginger and some exotic lychee. Initially zesty grapefruit on the palate followed by wonderful fruit richness with a core of baked apple, sweet lemon honey and nutmeg. Great snappy acidity balances the long oily-rich finish. Serve no cooler than 55 degrees to ensure full flavor development. Drink between release and 2013.
2007 DuMol Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley $65.00
Bright garnet color that darkens in the glass; Orange peel, fresh raspberry and briary aromas darken to kirsch, clove and blackberry. Great purity of Pinot fruit: sweet plum, spicy cola and wild berry flavors that are vivid and juicy lead to black tea, dried cherry and licorice complexity. At once supple then broadly structured with a long fresh expansive finish.
2007 DuMol Syrah, Russian River Valley $58.00
Bright ruby purple color; intensely floral aromas of violet with ripe plum, black raspberry and soy notes with an edge of smoked meat. Lovely ripe fruit core: blackberry and boysenberry with roast coffee and dried thyme then a plush velvety mid-palate and balanced tannins and acid on the supple finish. Maintains freshness and elegance throughout with developing complexity in the glass.
This offer is good while supplies last.
*Free Shipping is GROUND UPS and has to go to the same address.
Frank Melis
aka St. Frank - The Patron Saint of Tannins
Golden Gate Wine Cellars
2337 Ocean Avenue
San Francisco , CA 94127
Tel: 415 337.4083
Fax: 888 790 WINE (9463)
E: frank@goldengatewinecellars.com
W: www.goldengatewinecellars.com
Our Motto: Always Drink Good Wine™ !
Please consider the environment before printing this e-mail
"Wine, madam, is God's next best gift to man." - Ambrose Bierce, Devil's Dictionary 1907
This electronic message transmission contains information that may be proprietary, confidential and/or privileged. The information is intended only for the use of the individual(s) or entity named above. If you are not the intended recipient, be aware that any disclosure, copying or distribution or use of the contents of this information is prohibited. If you have received this electronic transmission in error, please notify the sender immediately by replying to the address listed in the "From:" field.
Our Motto: Always Drink Good Wine™ !
INQUIRE ABOUT OUR FREE(ground) SHIPPING OFFER
anywhere in the CONTINENTAL US!
Orders of $500.00 or more qualify (same address only!)
Friday, May 8, 2009
May Wine News
Golden Gate Wine Cellars
2337 Ocean Avenue
San Francisco, CA
Tel: 415.337.4083
Fax: 888.790.9463
www.goldengatewinecellars.com
frank@goldengatewinecellar.som
Our Motto: Always Drink Good Wine
April came and went. We tasted through tons of wines, some awesome and some awful! That said, I don't mind, as I know that the end result is important. I need to get the best wines to you, and I feel that I succeed doing that task.
We had our bi-monthly wine extravaganza last weekend; again a great turnout and about 30 excellent wines poured by the various winemakers and winery owners. Thank you to all of you for coming out. I also need to apologize as this event is always a big draw and we have a limited capacity due to fire marshall regulations. So for those who missed the tasting, sign up fast for the next one!
It is Mother's Day weekend and we need to put our best (wine) forward to make mom happy. Sorry, my wife gets the best wine 365 days a year, and she does not demand a special bottle on this special day. I buy flowers every week, so she does not demand flowers on this day either. My policy is the same - great wine, flowers, love, attention, doing the dishes, laundry every day not just on Mother's Day. But I will do something special on Mother's Day with my daughter's for "mommy!" We will make breakfast and serve it to her in bed. The girls are almost 4 and 6 and they like to help, and it makes mommy really happy.
Sunday night we will go out for a nice dinner (mother-in-law in tow - she is great I am not making fun of her!), and of course have some GREAT wine! Live is about great wine; thus Always Drink Great Wine as our motto!.
On a wine note; I had fun tasting wine the last week, and I could have written up 50 wines, but decided to keep it down to 15! I want to keep encouraging the wine public by continuing or effort to strengthen the US economy and to offer FREE SHIPPING for the rest of May!!!
*2005 Mirror Cabernet, Napa Valley – Retail 85.00 – GGWC 74.99
Hourglass Fans - I have another surprise in the bag! Jeff Smith owner of Hourglass and Rob Lawson (Jeff's partner and winemaker at Fisticuffs) partnered with Rick Mirer, former NFL Quarterback to create MIRROR, a limited production Cabernet sourced from two famed St. Helena and Oakville estates. I featured the wine at our bi-monthly Wine Extravaganza and it was a BIG HIT! Only 500 cases of this gem were produced, and my crowd of almost 100 was shocked that the wine only retailed for $75.00! It tasted like Colgin, Spottswoode, etc at a much lower price! We sold a good amount of it at the event, and I do not anticipate having it around for a long time. So hurry up, and get some of this well-structured, well-balanced, Cabernet! On the nose one is greeted by lively black berries, followed on the full-bodied palate by similar flavors and a touch of toasty vanilla and anise. The wine is intense but not in your face. On the palate it delivers a lush, ripe and richly concentrated core of dark fruits (cassis, blackberries and dried cranberries). I did decant it, and allowed it to breathe for a good 2 hours prior to serving. It opened nicely, and turned many heads! That said, the finish was superb and long.
Hurry Up! As I will N.F.L. - Not have the wine For Long (NFL hahaha)
*Ramian 2006 Reserve Cabernet Franc, Napa Valley – Retail 45.00 – GGWC 36.99
This must be the BEST Cabernet Franc I have ever tasted. Cab Franc is one of those “forgotten” varietals, but with the right touch one produces an amazing wine. That is what Brian Ramian achieved with this latest release. This wine reveals a superb fragrant bouquet of red and black stone fruits and a touch of anise. The wine is full in bodied but well-balanced. Not the in-your-face, concentrated, super-tannic monster, but a well-made wine that offers ripeness, as well as excellent fruit, acid and purity. It finishes long, with subtle, silky tannins. 375 cases produced.
*Ramian 2006 “Chapter 6” Proprietary Red, Napa Valley – Retail 70.00- GGWC 56.99
This sixth release, thus Chapter Six is a blend of 92% Cabernet Sauvignon , 4% Merlot, 2% Petit Verdot, 1% Malbec and 1% Cabernet Franc. On the nose this wine has an old world elegance and shows dark black fruits, coffee, black liquorices, smoked meats and sweet vanilla. A big fat opulent mouthfeel of ripe blackberries, black currants, roasted coffee beans and chocolate dominate the mid-palate with a long toasty oak finish. This is an elegant, multidimensional, well balanced atypical Napa Valley red. 257 cases produced.
*Ramian 2007 Reserve White Blend (Viognier/Roussanne) – Retail 30.00 – GGWC 24.99
This wine is a blend of 57% Viognier and 43% Roussanne. The micro climate of this valley is perfect for growing Viognier. Warm sunny days along with a constant cool breeze yield optimum conditions for achieving perfect ripeness. Bananas and immense amounts of white tropical fruits provide a telling story on the nose that carries off perfectly onto the palate and soft long, lingering finish. Only 130 cases produced.
*Bedrock “Heirloom” Proprietary Red, Sonoma Valley – Retail 38.00 – GGWC 32.49 The inaugural release of the Bedrock Heirloom Red is a classic California field blend. Composed of Zinfandel, Carignane, Petite Sirah, Syrah and Barbera. Typical of Sonoma Valley, this year’s wine features a dazzling aromatic profile of crushed red berries, kirsch, pumpkin pie spice, bright, clarified, fruit flavors and rich structural components imparted by the mixed blacks which ground the wine and indicate that it will age gracefully for 8-10 years. 185 cases produced.
*Black Kite 2007 Kite’s Rest Pinot Noir, Anderson Valley – Retail 50.00 – GGWC 45.00
Jeff Gaffner (Saxon Brown) produces the awesome Black Kite wines! This latest release offers layers of raspberry, dark chocolate, mocha, lavender and violets with hint of clove, cassis, cedar and rose petal. On the palate this full-bodied, but elegantly structured wine offer a graceful interplay of fine-grained tannins, focused acids and ripe fruit. This is a wine that could benefit from some time in the cellar, although decanting it for an hour or two would do wonders as well.
Wine Spectator (92 pts) wrote: 2007 Black Kite "Kite's Rest" tops the charts this week, with a ripe, fleshy offering. Very ripe and rich. Full-bodied, with tiers of black cherry, wild berry, plum and spice. Picks up a spicy, minerally edge and gains body on the finish, where the fruit is pure and fleshy. Drink now through 2014. 726 cases made." — James Laube.
*Saracina 2007 Sauvignon Blanc, Mendocino – Retail 25.00 – GGWC 22.99
The Saracina folks are all about bio-dynamic, organic farming! Their 25- to 40-year-old, lower yield organically farmed vineyards produce intense fruit with excellent varietal character. The palate reveals pronounced citrus, white peach, key lime and ripe quince flavors, balanced by a crisp, dry acidity. This intense mouth-feel is enhanced by the extended lees aging and batonnage. The classic aromas of lime, grapefruit and wet river stone recall a Loire-style Sauvignon Blanc. This wine is a laser beam on the palate! 750 cases produced.
*Atrea 2007 “The Choir” Mendocino – Retail 22.50 – GGWC 19.99
David Ramey produced yet another gem! This blend of 76% Roussanne, 24% Viognier offers a hugely aromatic nose of apricot, honeysuckle, orange blossoms and jasmine has become the hallmark of The Choir. The palate carries similar flavors with emphasis on pitted fruits. It sports richness without excess weight. Wine can be powerful and vibrant simultaneously when made well, as The Choir demonstrates. This wine will appeal to the "ABC" (anything but chardonnay) crowd. 800 cases produced.
*Verdad 2008 Albarino, Central Coast – Retail 22.00 – GGWC 19.99 Albarino is a unique Spanish grape variety that makes lovely aromatic and lively wine. This wine has fresh white peach aromas and flavors, layered with hints of orange blossoms, almonds and exotic citrus with a dry, crisp finish. Only 448 cases were produced.
*Walter Hansel 2006 Chardonnay North Slope – Retail 40.00 – GGWC 35.99 This wine received a 94 point rating from Robert Parker – so what else is there to say about this. The wine has a touch of minerality on the nose. On the palate this full bodied wine offers gobs of citrus and a touch of tropical fruit notes. It is a fruity wine, but well balanced with the right amounts of acid. A real crowd pleaser, and as always limited production.
*Bravante 2006 Merlot, Estate, Howell Mountain – Retail 45.00 – GGWC 39.99 Bursting with huge mountain black fruit and silky tannins, this wine is a perennial sell-out. The mouthfeel shows off the luscious mountain fruit, while the silky tannins remind you of cedar, earth and chalk - typical Howell Mountain trademarks. The nose is intense, with aromas of blackberries, provincial herbs, and the usual hints of mushrooms, chalk and cinnamon that our wines always turn up. The finish tracks the aromas and palate with the addition of just a hint of spicy oak, and the wine is so firm and balanced, you only notice the oak as the gentle, "velvet glove" holding it all in place.
*Chronicle 2006 Zinfandel “Gaddis” Russian River Valley – Retail 44.00 – GGWC 35.99 The Gaddis Zin possesses a brilliant red-purple hue. It is led in the nose by deep and complex aromas of raspberry and anise, highlighted by spice and chocolate ganache. The wine has a balanced attack of mouthwatering red fruit, framed by excellent acidity. Gaddis shows certain elegance in its infancy. Only 119 cases produced!!
*Chronicle 2006 Zinfandel “Old Vine” Russian River Valley – Retail 35.00 – GGWC 27.99 A blend of 23% Bacigalupi, 321% Gaddis and 45% Gambogi. This old vine Zin is "bang-for-your-buck"! Charm and tons of fruit! Bacigalupi brings brambly blackberry and mid palate richness; Gaddis brings backbone and structure, and Gambogi brings intriguing chocolate and claret-like aromatics and flavor profiles. 400 cases produced.
*Chronicle 2006 Pinot Noir “Cerise” Anderson Valley – Retail 55.00 – GGWC 47.99 Ace winemaker Ted Lemon (Littorai) produced 240 cases of this amazing Pinot Noir! Cerise is a low-yielding property in the Anderson Valley at 800 - 1200 feet elevation. Those familiar with Ted's winemaking and for that matter Cerise vineyard, know that he is "the" Pinot man! This wine aroma offers of a touch of barnyard with hints of black and raspberry. On the palate this medium to full bodied Pinot offers similar flavors. Well-structured and with good concentration (good balance of fruit and acid!), this wine has a modest tannic finish that will enable you to store this wine and enjoy it for many years to come!
*Chronicle 2006 Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast – Retail 44.00- GGWC 34.99
Ace Winemaker Ted Lemon (Littorai etal) produced a stellar Pinot Noir sourced from three Sonoma Coast vineyards. Only 495 cases of this little gem were produced. The Sonoma Coast Pinot shows hints of spice and sandalwood with pronounced notes of strawberry and Bing cherry. This medium to full-bodied wine offers up a dose of almost sweet cherries and strawberries. The wine is elegant and drinks amazingly well. It is structured and balanced, and finishes will silky and lively tannins.
*Free Shipping is GROUND UPS and has to be delivered to the same address.
2337 Ocean Avenue
San Francisco, CA
Tel: 415.337.4083
Fax: 888.790.9463
www.goldengatewinecellars.com
frank@goldengatewinecellar.som
Our Motto: Always Drink Good Wine
April came and went. We tasted through tons of wines, some awesome and some awful! That said, I don't mind, as I know that the end result is important. I need to get the best wines to you, and I feel that I succeed doing that task.
We had our bi-monthly wine extravaganza last weekend; again a great turnout and about 30 excellent wines poured by the various winemakers and winery owners. Thank you to all of you for coming out. I also need to apologize as this event is always a big draw and we have a limited capacity due to fire marshall regulations. So for those who missed the tasting, sign up fast for the next one!
It is Mother's Day weekend and we need to put our best (wine) forward to make mom happy. Sorry, my wife gets the best wine 365 days a year, and she does not demand a special bottle on this special day. I buy flowers every week, so she does not demand flowers on this day either. My policy is the same - great wine, flowers, love, attention, doing the dishes, laundry every day not just on Mother's Day. But I will do something special on Mother's Day with my daughter's for "mommy!" We will make breakfast and serve it to her in bed. The girls are almost 4 and 6 and they like to help, and it makes mommy really happy.
Sunday night we will go out for a nice dinner (mother-in-law in tow - she is great I am not making fun of her!), and of course have some GREAT wine! Live is about great wine; thus Always Drink Great Wine as our motto!.
On a wine note; I had fun tasting wine the last week, and I could have written up 50 wines, but decided to keep it down to 15! I want to keep encouraging the wine public by continuing or effort to strengthen the US economy and to offer FREE SHIPPING for the rest of May!!!
*2005 Mirror Cabernet, Napa Valley – Retail 85.00 – GGWC 74.99
Hourglass Fans - I have another surprise in the bag! Jeff Smith owner of Hourglass and Rob Lawson (Jeff's partner and winemaker at Fisticuffs) partnered with Rick Mirer, former NFL Quarterback to create MIRROR, a limited production Cabernet sourced from two famed St. Helena and Oakville estates. I featured the wine at our bi-monthly Wine Extravaganza and it was a BIG HIT! Only 500 cases of this gem were produced, and my crowd of almost 100 was shocked that the wine only retailed for $75.00! It tasted like Colgin, Spottswoode, etc at a much lower price! We sold a good amount of it at the event, and I do not anticipate having it around for a long time. So hurry up, and get some of this well-structured, well-balanced, Cabernet! On the nose one is greeted by lively black berries, followed on the full-bodied palate by similar flavors and a touch of toasty vanilla and anise. The wine is intense but not in your face. On the palate it delivers a lush, ripe and richly concentrated core of dark fruits (cassis, blackberries and dried cranberries). I did decant it, and allowed it to breathe for a good 2 hours prior to serving. It opened nicely, and turned many heads! That said, the finish was superb and long.
Hurry Up! As I will N.F.L. - Not have the wine For Long (NFL hahaha)
*Ramian 2006 Reserve Cabernet Franc, Napa Valley – Retail 45.00 – GGWC 36.99
This must be the BEST Cabernet Franc I have ever tasted. Cab Franc is one of those “forgotten” varietals, but with the right touch one produces an amazing wine. That is what Brian Ramian achieved with this latest release. This wine reveals a superb fragrant bouquet of red and black stone fruits and a touch of anise. The wine is full in bodied but well-balanced. Not the in-your-face, concentrated, super-tannic monster, but a well-made wine that offers ripeness, as well as excellent fruit, acid and purity. It finishes long, with subtle, silky tannins. 375 cases produced.
*Ramian 2006 “Chapter 6” Proprietary Red, Napa Valley – Retail 70.00- GGWC 56.99
This sixth release, thus Chapter Six is a blend of 92% Cabernet Sauvignon , 4% Merlot, 2% Petit Verdot, 1% Malbec and 1% Cabernet Franc. On the nose this wine has an old world elegance and shows dark black fruits, coffee, black liquorices, smoked meats and sweet vanilla. A big fat opulent mouthfeel of ripe blackberries, black currants, roasted coffee beans and chocolate dominate the mid-palate with a long toasty oak finish. This is an elegant, multidimensional, well balanced atypical Napa Valley red. 257 cases produced.
*Ramian 2007 Reserve White Blend (Viognier/Roussanne) – Retail 30.00 – GGWC 24.99
This wine is a blend of 57% Viognier and 43% Roussanne. The micro climate of this valley is perfect for growing Viognier. Warm sunny days along with a constant cool breeze yield optimum conditions for achieving perfect ripeness. Bananas and immense amounts of white tropical fruits provide a telling story on the nose that carries off perfectly onto the palate and soft long, lingering finish. Only 130 cases produced.
*Bedrock “Heirloom” Proprietary Red, Sonoma Valley – Retail 38.00 – GGWC 32.49 The inaugural release of the Bedrock Heirloom Red is a classic California field blend. Composed of Zinfandel, Carignane, Petite Sirah, Syrah and Barbera. Typical of Sonoma Valley, this year’s wine features a dazzling aromatic profile of crushed red berries, kirsch, pumpkin pie spice, bright, clarified, fruit flavors and rich structural components imparted by the mixed blacks which ground the wine and indicate that it will age gracefully for 8-10 years. 185 cases produced.
*Black Kite 2007 Kite’s Rest Pinot Noir, Anderson Valley – Retail 50.00 – GGWC 45.00
Jeff Gaffner (Saxon Brown) produces the awesome Black Kite wines! This latest release offers layers of raspberry, dark chocolate, mocha, lavender and violets with hint of clove, cassis, cedar and rose petal. On the palate this full-bodied, but elegantly structured wine offer a graceful interplay of fine-grained tannins, focused acids and ripe fruit. This is a wine that could benefit from some time in the cellar, although decanting it for an hour or two would do wonders as well.
Wine Spectator (92 pts) wrote: 2007 Black Kite "Kite's Rest" tops the charts this week, with a ripe, fleshy offering. Very ripe and rich. Full-bodied, with tiers of black cherry, wild berry, plum and spice. Picks up a spicy, minerally edge and gains body on the finish, where the fruit is pure and fleshy. Drink now through 2014. 726 cases made." — James Laube.
*Saracina 2007 Sauvignon Blanc, Mendocino – Retail 25.00 – GGWC 22.99
The Saracina folks are all about bio-dynamic, organic farming! Their 25- to 40-year-old, lower yield organically farmed vineyards produce intense fruit with excellent varietal character. The palate reveals pronounced citrus, white peach, key lime and ripe quince flavors, balanced by a crisp, dry acidity. This intense mouth-feel is enhanced by the extended lees aging and batonnage. The classic aromas of lime, grapefruit and wet river stone recall a Loire-style Sauvignon Blanc. This wine is a laser beam on the palate! 750 cases produced.
*Atrea 2007 “The Choir” Mendocino – Retail 22.50 – GGWC 19.99
David Ramey produced yet another gem! This blend of 76% Roussanne, 24% Viognier offers a hugely aromatic nose of apricot, honeysuckle, orange blossoms and jasmine has become the hallmark of The Choir. The palate carries similar flavors with emphasis on pitted fruits. It sports richness without excess weight. Wine can be powerful and vibrant simultaneously when made well, as The Choir demonstrates. This wine will appeal to the "ABC" (anything but chardonnay) crowd. 800 cases produced.
*Verdad 2008 Albarino, Central Coast – Retail 22.00 – GGWC 19.99 Albarino is a unique Spanish grape variety that makes lovely aromatic and lively wine. This wine has fresh white peach aromas and flavors, layered with hints of orange blossoms, almonds and exotic citrus with a dry, crisp finish. Only 448 cases were produced.
*Walter Hansel 2006 Chardonnay North Slope – Retail 40.00 – GGWC 35.99 This wine received a 94 point rating from Robert Parker – so what else is there to say about this. The wine has a touch of minerality on the nose. On the palate this full bodied wine offers gobs of citrus and a touch of tropical fruit notes. It is a fruity wine, but well balanced with the right amounts of acid. A real crowd pleaser, and as always limited production.
*Bravante 2006 Merlot, Estate, Howell Mountain – Retail 45.00 – GGWC 39.99 Bursting with huge mountain black fruit and silky tannins, this wine is a perennial sell-out. The mouthfeel shows off the luscious mountain fruit, while the silky tannins remind you of cedar, earth and chalk - typical Howell Mountain trademarks. The nose is intense, with aromas of blackberries, provincial herbs, and the usual hints of mushrooms, chalk and cinnamon that our wines always turn up. The finish tracks the aromas and palate with the addition of just a hint of spicy oak, and the wine is so firm and balanced, you only notice the oak as the gentle, "velvet glove" holding it all in place.
*Chronicle 2006 Zinfandel “Gaddis” Russian River Valley – Retail 44.00 – GGWC 35.99 The Gaddis Zin possesses a brilliant red-purple hue. It is led in the nose by deep and complex aromas of raspberry and anise, highlighted by spice and chocolate ganache. The wine has a balanced attack of mouthwatering red fruit, framed by excellent acidity. Gaddis shows certain elegance in its infancy. Only 119 cases produced!!
*Chronicle 2006 Zinfandel “Old Vine” Russian River Valley – Retail 35.00 – GGWC 27.99 A blend of 23% Bacigalupi, 321% Gaddis and 45% Gambogi. This old vine Zin is "bang-for-your-buck"! Charm and tons of fruit! Bacigalupi brings brambly blackberry and mid palate richness; Gaddis brings backbone and structure, and Gambogi brings intriguing chocolate and claret-like aromatics and flavor profiles. 400 cases produced.
*Chronicle 2006 Pinot Noir “Cerise” Anderson Valley – Retail 55.00 – GGWC 47.99 Ace winemaker Ted Lemon (Littorai) produced 240 cases of this amazing Pinot Noir! Cerise is a low-yielding property in the Anderson Valley at 800 - 1200 feet elevation. Those familiar with Ted's winemaking and for that matter Cerise vineyard, know that he is "the" Pinot man! This wine aroma offers of a touch of barnyard with hints of black and raspberry. On the palate this medium to full bodied Pinot offers similar flavors. Well-structured and with good concentration (good balance of fruit and acid!), this wine has a modest tannic finish that will enable you to store this wine and enjoy it for many years to come!
*Chronicle 2006 Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast – Retail 44.00- GGWC 34.99
Ace Winemaker Ted Lemon (Littorai etal) produced a stellar Pinot Noir sourced from three Sonoma Coast vineyards. Only 495 cases of this little gem were produced. The Sonoma Coast Pinot shows hints of spice and sandalwood with pronounced notes of strawberry and Bing cherry. This medium to full-bodied wine offers up a dose of almost sweet cherries and strawberries. The wine is elegant and drinks amazingly well. It is structured and balanced, and finishes will silky and lively tannins.
*Free Shipping is GROUND UPS and has to be delivered to the same address.
Monday, March 23, 2009
Early Spring Wine Notes
Golden Gate Wine Cellars
2337 Ocean Avenue
San Francisco, CA 94127
Tel: 415 337.4083
Fax: 888 790 WINE (9463)
E: frank@goldengatewinecellars.com
W: www.goldengatewinecellars.com
Our Motto: Always Drink Good Wine™ !
A Great Tasting Week at Golden Gate Wine Cellars
--------------------------------------------------------
I got to spend some time with Jeff Smith, the proprietor of Hourglass winery. We tasted through his entire portfolio of Hourglass Estate, Hourglass Blueline, Fisticuffs wines. The Hourglass Estate is only four acres of prime vineyard surrounded by some big names like Grace Family, Colgin's Tychson Hill, Vineyard 29, Ahern and Korte Ranch. Hourglass takes its name from the fact that the vineyard defines the "pinch," or narrowest part of the hourglass shaped Napa Valley
The unique vineyard setting provides both hillside and valley floor microclimates. Varying degrees of hillside slope create different ripening zones, yielding complexity. Eucalyptus trees flank one block delivering a mint/eucalyptus character, and wild fennel grows throughout the vineyard adding black licorice nuances.
The Hourglass 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon (139.99) is one of the best wines yet to date from the estate, and winemaker Robert Foley. The wine is very elegant, with a certain silkiness on the mid palate. The wine has an aroma of anise and black stone fruits which continue through the mid palate into a long, elegant finish.
Robert Parker (95 points) says:
“The 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Hourglass has a dense purple color and a sweet nose of licorice, black currants, smoke, cedar, and some high-class subtle oak in the background. The wine is full-bodied, avoids some of the harder tannins that sometimes arise in this vintage, and has a much layered, multi-dimensional mouthfeel and finish. This is a beauty that can be drunk now or cellared for 20 or more years.”
We also tasted his Hourglass Blueline 2006 Merlot (74.99), which is not shabby at all! As a matter a fact, tasting it blind one would say it was a Bordeaux-style blend, rather than a straight Merlot. Only a few hundred cases were produced of this baby, which Robert Parker gave a 92 point rating “Readers looking for a soft, richly fruity, mocha and coffee-infused wine with oodles of berry fruit should check out the 2006 Merlot Blue Line. This wine is hedonistic and luscious, with plenty of Merlot typicity, medium to full body, and a soft, silky-textured finish. Drink it over the next 7-8 years.
To finish up the tasting, of course the much anticipated “bargain” wine, the 2006 Fisticuffs (29.99). For those who dream of big and expensive Cabernets and don't want to pay the big bucks... I got news for you! I have a wine that taste a lot more expensive than its price point! This wine is the real deal. Intense Cabernet aromas with hints of vanilla, plum and black cherry aromas. Medium to full in body with lively and lush fruit on the palate that gives a real "punch" into a long and pleasantly flavorful almost silky finish. This is a wine that would go well with some hardy red meats, a rack of lamb or steak. Stellar job from Rob Lawson! As it was the case with 2005, very limited, 500 cases. And it will sell out in no-time!!!
=====================================================================================
An afternoon with Lioco. Catching up with Matt Licklider (the LI in Lioco).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
We tasted through their entire 2007 Portfolio, and I loved every single wine!
Too bad to hear that the Dermuth vineyard has succumbed to Phyloxera and has been replanted after this, the 2007, the last release.
The 2007 Lioco Sonoma County Chardonnay, the bargain in the flight, showed very nicely. This tank fermented (no oak!) is a great sipping wine on a nice Spring day. Very elegant with great crisp fruit. Retail 22.00 – GGWC SPECIAL 17.99
The Lioco Anderson Valley Dermuth 2007 Chardonnay, was lush on the both nose and palate, equally tank fermented (no oak!), but using wild yeast giving it a more buttery feel, with also had to do with the sur-lie aging this wine underwent. The wine smells of pressed white flowers, citrus oil and rock dust. The attack finds poached pears, orange sherbet, and minerals galore. A low-alcohol, age-worthy wine Retail 38.00 – Solid Case special 33.00
The 2007 Lioco Charles Heintz Chardonnay I always their flagship, and it was no different this release. Again, tank fermentation only using wild yeast. Making this wine super lush! It hints at the exotica, but is held taught by ripe, cleansing acidity. Like a kernel of sun, enveloped by a cold mountain stream. Prepare for a bouquet of orange blossoms, kettle corn, and wet sand. The flavors include lemon oil, jasmine, and a chalky minerality. Needs time to reveal its true potential. Retail 50.00 – GGWC 43.00
The last one was the 2007 Lioco Klindt Vineyard, Pinot Noir ( Anderson Valley ). Only 264 cases were produced of this baby! This wine is concentrated without being heavy. There are the signature flavors/aromas of the Anderson Valley which we love: red raspberries & rose petals. Needs time or a serious decanting. Retail 50.00 – GGWC 43.00
=====================================================================================
Baton Winery – "the" next HOT Burgundy in California!
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Bill is a Sonoma County native, and was the General Manager at Peter Michael Winery .At the time, it was a small, unknown startup. Over the next 14 years, Bill helped develop Peter Michael Winery into one of the most respected luxury winery and vineyard estates in the United States . In 2006, Bill and his wife Cathy set out to start Baton Wines. Returning to the land he knows, Bill's experience and intimate knowledge of the landscape, soil types, microclimates, fog and wind patterns in his native Sonoma County have proven invaluable in identifying vineyard sites that produce the highest quality grapes. Bill Hired Jeff Pisoni to make is wine, and the rest as they say is history.
Baton 2006 Chardonnay, Charles Heintz Retail 55.00 – GGWC 48.99
----------------------------------------------------------------------
This wine hails from what Robert Parker calls "one of the great grand cru Chardonnay sites in California ." The old vines, planted 30+ years ago on Goldridge soils, sit at nearly 1,000 feet above sea level, just a few miles inland from the rugged Sonoma Coast . Perched above the fog line on most days, the site receives a combination of sunshine and cool ocean air that lengthens the growing season and provides ideal conditions for the grapes to develop rich, complex flavors while retaining a wonderful natural acidity. Harvested by hand at the end of October and naturally fermented in French oak barrels, we employed the 'old world' winemaking practice of 'Batonage' to stir the wine by hand in each barrel once a week for nine months. Batonage is so labor intensive that typically only small wineries dedicated to producing the highest quality wines still employ it. However, hand-stirring with the baton gives the winemaker an intimate, ongoing knowledge of how the wine is evolving in each barrel. That knowledge can provide all the edge a winemaker needs to craft a truly exceptional wine. Only 271 cases produced. Wine Notes: Aromas of vanilla, apple crisp, honeyed-pineapple. Vibrant, natural acidity and minerality with flavors of mango, pineapple and hazelnuts. Good energy, length and a lingering finish
Baton 2006 Laguna Ridge Pinot Noir, Russian River Retail 60.00 – GGWC 53.99
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This wine was grown in the famed Russian River Valley appellation on a small, 4 acre hillside vineyard near Sebastopol overlooking the Santa Rosa Plain and Laguna de Santa Rosa. The vineyard’s eastern aspect ensures good exposure to the sun's gentle rays from dawn through mid- afternoon and protects it from the extreme heat of the late afternoon sun. The vineyard's well drained, Goldridge soils keep vigor in check and the array of Pinot Noir selections - Dijon 113, 115, 667, 777, 459, Swan – lend personality and complexity to the wine. Great care was given throughout the growing season managing the leaf canopy and balancing the crop load on each vine. To retain the fruit flavors, we picked the grapes in the cool of night, harvesting the tiny grape clusters into small bins to protect them and prevent dejuicing. Immediately upon their arrival at the winery, we sorted the grapes by hand to ensure that only the finest grapes went to tank, culling out any sunburned berries, under ripe fruit or leaves. Aged in French oak barrels for 9 months. Only 259 cases produced. Wine notes: Enticing aromas and flavors of sweet raspberries, sandalwood, vanilla, tea and black cherries.
Baton 2007 Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast – Retail 28.00 – GGWC 24.50
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
This is the “hidden secret” only 8 barrels produced – this is wine that did not make the cut for the Charles Heintz designation, but if Bill would not have told me that, I would have just said WOW, another awesome wine at an AMAZING price!! This wine is super clean, and elegant with a crisp clean nose of green apples and a touch of white pepper. On the palate this medium to full bodied Chardonnay is elegant with touches of minerality and some tropical fruit. A must have, and a bargain knowing that the “original is 50.00!!!
GOLDEN GATE WINE CELLARS' LOCAL WINE TASTING EVENT!
---------------------------------------------------------------
I am working on my next tasting. I had one planned for 4.11, but had to delay it (it is my wedding anniversary and my wife made plans to go out of town with our girls). So we are looking at May 2 at Lakeside Cafe's private room. My V'Day event was too large. We had almost 100 guest, and had to turn 60 away. Because of that we will limit it to 80 and RSVP only! We will have a similar format, about 8 winery owners or their winemakers will be showcasing their wines, and a "special" Golden Gate Wine Cellars selection of course!
Another gem from Orin Swift (Prisoner/Papillon, etc.)
2007 Saldo (Zinfandel) - Retail 32.00 – GGWC 28.00
-------------------------------------------------------------
As you might know 2007 is an amazing growing year for California ! That said through the success with his Prisoner (Papillon) label Orin Swift winemaker/owner Dave Phinney has gained access to some of the best Zinfandel vineyards in the northern part of our state. His latest wine “Saldo” which is Latin for from “here to there” or “balance in hand,” is a blend of 85% Zinfandel, 10% Syrah and 5% Syrah. The production is not large, so this wine will not be around for a long time! The wine has a deep, dark ruby color, and aromas of dark raspberry fruit with a touch of toasty vanilla. On the palate, this full bodied wine is loaded with lush fruit – wild strawberries, rhubarb, and sassafras. The wine is very intense and the finish does not seem to end – it reminds me of my grandmother’s cherry pie!
Coho 2007 Pinot Noir Russian River Retail 45.00 - GGWC 39.99
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Riding high after the big score with their Headwaters 2006 Proprietary Red, I am proud to share another gem that was just released. The 2007 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir from Coho is amazing. Sweet fruit intertwined with a touch of Pinot earth on both the nose and palate teases you throughout this well-made wine. It is medium to full in body, well-balanced with an elegance from start to finish! Only 357 cases were produced, this means it will sell out fast! Those of you who bought the Headwaters know how good the Coho wines really are and this Pinot is no different!
2337 Ocean Avenue
San Francisco, CA 94127
Tel: 415 337.4083
Fax: 888 790 WINE (9463)
E: frank@goldengatewinecellars.com
W: www.goldengatewinecellars.com
Our Motto: Always Drink Good Wine™ !
A Great Tasting Week at Golden Gate Wine Cellars
--------------------------------------------------------
I got to spend some time with Jeff Smith, the proprietor of Hourglass winery. We tasted through his entire portfolio of Hourglass Estate, Hourglass Blueline, Fisticuffs wines. The Hourglass Estate is only four acres of prime vineyard surrounded by some big names like Grace Family, Colgin's Tychson Hill, Vineyard 29, Ahern and Korte Ranch. Hourglass takes its name from the fact that the vineyard defines the "pinch," or narrowest part of the hourglass shaped Napa Valley
The unique vineyard setting provides both hillside and valley floor microclimates. Varying degrees of hillside slope create different ripening zones, yielding complexity. Eucalyptus trees flank one block delivering a mint/eucalyptus character, and wild fennel grows throughout the vineyard adding black licorice nuances.
The Hourglass 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon (139.99) is one of the best wines yet to date from the estate, and winemaker Robert Foley. The wine is very elegant, with a certain silkiness on the mid palate. The wine has an aroma of anise and black stone fruits which continue through the mid palate into a long, elegant finish.
Robert Parker (95 points) says:
“The 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Hourglass has a dense purple color and a sweet nose of licorice, black currants, smoke, cedar, and some high-class subtle oak in the background. The wine is full-bodied, avoids some of the harder tannins that sometimes arise in this vintage, and has a much layered, multi-dimensional mouthfeel and finish. This is a beauty that can be drunk now or cellared for 20 or more years.”
We also tasted his Hourglass Blueline 2006 Merlot (74.99), which is not shabby at all! As a matter a fact, tasting it blind one would say it was a Bordeaux-style blend, rather than a straight Merlot. Only a few hundred cases were produced of this baby, which Robert Parker gave a 92 point rating “Readers looking for a soft, richly fruity, mocha and coffee-infused wine with oodles of berry fruit should check out the 2006 Merlot Blue Line. This wine is hedonistic and luscious, with plenty of Merlot typicity, medium to full body, and a soft, silky-textured finish. Drink it over the next 7-8 years.
To finish up the tasting, of course the much anticipated “bargain” wine, the 2006 Fisticuffs (29.99). For those who dream of big and expensive Cabernets and don't want to pay the big bucks... I got news for you! I have a wine that taste a lot more expensive than its price point! This wine is the real deal. Intense Cabernet aromas with hints of vanilla, plum and black cherry aromas. Medium to full in body with lively and lush fruit on the palate that gives a real "punch" into a long and pleasantly flavorful almost silky finish. This is a wine that would go well with some hardy red meats, a rack of lamb or steak. Stellar job from Rob Lawson! As it was the case with 2005, very limited, 500 cases. And it will sell out in no-time!!!
=====================================================================================
An afternoon with Lioco. Catching up with Matt Licklider (the LI in Lioco).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
We tasted through their entire 2007 Portfolio, and I loved every single wine!
Too bad to hear that the Dermuth vineyard has succumbed to Phyloxera and has been replanted after this, the 2007, the last release.
The 2007 Lioco Sonoma County Chardonnay, the bargain in the flight, showed very nicely. This tank fermented (no oak!) is a great sipping wine on a nice Spring day. Very elegant with great crisp fruit. Retail 22.00 – GGWC SPECIAL 17.99
The Lioco Anderson Valley Dermuth 2007 Chardonnay, was lush on the both nose and palate, equally tank fermented (no oak!), but using wild yeast giving it a more buttery feel, with also had to do with the sur-lie aging this wine underwent. The wine smells of pressed white flowers, citrus oil and rock dust. The attack finds poached pears, orange sherbet, and minerals galore. A low-alcohol, age-worthy wine Retail 38.00 – Solid Case special 33.00
The 2007 Lioco Charles Heintz Chardonnay I always their flagship, and it was no different this release. Again, tank fermentation only using wild yeast. Making this wine super lush! It hints at the exotica, but is held taught by ripe, cleansing acidity. Like a kernel of sun, enveloped by a cold mountain stream. Prepare for a bouquet of orange blossoms, kettle corn, and wet sand. The flavors include lemon oil, jasmine, and a chalky minerality. Needs time to reveal its true potential. Retail 50.00 – GGWC 43.00
The last one was the 2007 Lioco Klindt Vineyard, Pinot Noir ( Anderson Valley ). Only 264 cases were produced of this baby! This wine is concentrated without being heavy. There are the signature flavors/aromas of the Anderson Valley which we love: red raspberries & rose petals. Needs time or a serious decanting. Retail 50.00 – GGWC 43.00
=====================================================================================
Baton Winery – "the" next HOT Burgundy in California!
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Bill is a Sonoma County native, and was the General Manager at Peter Michael Winery .At the time, it was a small, unknown startup. Over the next 14 years, Bill helped develop Peter Michael Winery into one of the most respected luxury winery and vineyard estates in the United States . In 2006, Bill and his wife Cathy set out to start Baton Wines. Returning to the land he knows, Bill's experience and intimate knowledge of the landscape, soil types, microclimates, fog and wind patterns in his native Sonoma County have proven invaluable in identifying vineyard sites that produce the highest quality grapes. Bill Hired Jeff Pisoni to make is wine, and the rest as they say is history.
Baton 2006 Chardonnay, Charles Heintz Retail 55.00 – GGWC 48.99
----------------------------------------------------------------------
This wine hails from what Robert Parker calls "one of the great grand cru Chardonnay sites in California ." The old vines, planted 30+ years ago on Goldridge soils, sit at nearly 1,000 feet above sea level, just a few miles inland from the rugged Sonoma Coast . Perched above the fog line on most days, the site receives a combination of sunshine and cool ocean air that lengthens the growing season and provides ideal conditions for the grapes to develop rich, complex flavors while retaining a wonderful natural acidity. Harvested by hand at the end of October and naturally fermented in French oak barrels, we employed the 'old world' winemaking practice of 'Batonage' to stir the wine by hand in each barrel once a week for nine months. Batonage is so labor intensive that typically only small wineries dedicated to producing the highest quality wines still employ it. However, hand-stirring with the baton gives the winemaker an intimate, ongoing knowledge of how the wine is evolving in each barrel. That knowledge can provide all the edge a winemaker needs to craft a truly exceptional wine. Only 271 cases produced. Wine Notes: Aromas of vanilla, apple crisp, honeyed-pineapple. Vibrant, natural acidity and minerality with flavors of mango, pineapple and hazelnuts. Good energy, length and a lingering finish
Baton 2006 Laguna Ridge Pinot Noir, Russian River Retail 60.00 – GGWC 53.99
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This wine was grown in the famed Russian River Valley appellation on a small, 4 acre hillside vineyard near Sebastopol overlooking the Santa Rosa Plain and Laguna de Santa Rosa. The vineyard’s eastern aspect ensures good exposure to the sun's gentle rays from dawn through mid- afternoon and protects it from the extreme heat of the late afternoon sun. The vineyard's well drained, Goldridge soils keep vigor in check and the array of Pinot Noir selections - Dijon 113, 115, 667, 777, 459, Swan – lend personality and complexity to the wine. Great care was given throughout the growing season managing the leaf canopy and balancing the crop load on each vine. To retain the fruit flavors, we picked the grapes in the cool of night, harvesting the tiny grape clusters into small bins to protect them and prevent dejuicing. Immediately upon their arrival at the winery, we sorted the grapes by hand to ensure that only the finest grapes went to tank, culling out any sunburned berries, under ripe fruit or leaves. Aged in French oak barrels for 9 months. Only 259 cases produced. Wine notes: Enticing aromas and flavors of sweet raspberries, sandalwood, vanilla, tea and black cherries.
Baton 2007 Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast – Retail 28.00 – GGWC 24.50
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
This is the “hidden secret” only 8 barrels produced – this is wine that did not make the cut for the Charles Heintz designation, but if Bill would not have told me that, I would have just said WOW, another awesome wine at an AMAZING price!! This wine is super clean, and elegant with a crisp clean nose of green apples and a touch of white pepper. On the palate this medium to full bodied Chardonnay is elegant with touches of minerality and some tropical fruit. A must have, and a bargain knowing that the “original is 50.00!!!
GOLDEN GATE WINE CELLARS' LOCAL WINE TASTING EVENT!
---------------------------------------------------------------
I am working on my next tasting. I had one planned for 4.11, but had to delay it (it is my wedding anniversary and my wife made plans to go out of town with our girls). So we are looking at May 2 at Lakeside Cafe's private room. My V'Day event was too large. We had almost 100 guest, and had to turn 60 away. Because of that we will limit it to 80 and RSVP only! We will have a similar format, about 8 winery owners or their winemakers will be showcasing their wines, and a "special" Golden Gate Wine Cellars selection of course!
Another gem from Orin Swift (Prisoner/Papillon, etc.)
2007 Saldo (Zinfandel) - Retail 32.00 – GGWC 28.00
-------------------------------------------------------------
As you might know 2007 is an amazing growing year for California ! That said through the success with his Prisoner (Papillon) label Orin Swift winemaker/owner Dave Phinney has gained access to some of the best Zinfandel vineyards in the northern part of our state. His latest wine “Saldo” which is Latin for from “here to there” or “balance in hand,” is a blend of 85% Zinfandel, 10% Syrah and 5% Syrah. The production is not large, so this wine will not be around for a long time! The wine has a deep, dark ruby color, and aromas of dark raspberry fruit with a touch of toasty vanilla. On the palate, this full bodied wine is loaded with lush fruit – wild strawberries, rhubarb, and sassafras. The wine is very intense and the finish does not seem to end – it reminds me of my grandmother’s cherry pie!
Coho 2007 Pinot Noir Russian River Retail 45.00 - GGWC 39.99
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Riding high after the big score with their Headwaters 2006 Proprietary Red, I am proud to share another gem that was just released. The 2007 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir from Coho is amazing. Sweet fruit intertwined with a touch of Pinot earth on both the nose and palate teases you throughout this well-made wine. It is medium to full in body, well-balanced with an elegance from start to finish! Only 357 cases were produced, this means it will sell out fast! Those of you who bought the Headwaters know how good the Coho wines really are and this Pinot is no different!
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Sanguis, the next Sine Qua Non!
GOLDEN GATE WINE CELLARS
2337 Ocean Avenue
San Francisco, CA 94127
Tel: 415 337.4083
Fax: 888 790 WINE (9463)
E: frank@goldengatewinecellars.com
W: www.goldengatewinecellars.com
Our Motto: Always Drink Good Wine™ !
I just tasted with Matthias Pippig who owns Sanguis winery. Matthias worked for many years with Manfred Krankel (Sine Qua Non) at the "famous" La Brea Bakery in Southern California. Matthias got the wine bug as well and created some wines (the actual wine, the packaging and the names) in the genre of Sine Qua None - a little more palatable price point!
We tasted his two latest releases:
2006 Novillero (94% Syrah, 4% Grenache, and 2% Viognier). This is a wine made in the Chateauneuf-du-pape style. Elegant, not over the top! The wine is very complex on the nose and palate with gracious amounts of blackberry and a touch of anise with some smoky characters. With a production of only 200 cases this wine will not be around for a long time! $69.99
2006 Infidels (66% Syrah, 23% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 11% Grenache). This is a much more intense wine, with a somewhat more herbaceous character to it. Very intense, on both nose and palate with a good whiff of bacon-fat and spicy aromatics and flavors. This youngster will and should improve nicely. I recommend putting it down for a good amount of time! $79.99
I clearly lean towards the Novillero and that is the wine that gets my vote today!
Frank Melis
A.k.a. St. Frank - The Patron Saint of Tannins
Golden Gate Wine Cellars
2337 Ocean Avenue
San Francisco, CA 94127
Tel: 415 337.4083
Fax: 888 790 WINE (9463)
E: frank@goldengatewinecellars.com
W: www.goldengatewinecellars.com
Our Motto: Always Drink Good Wine™!
Please consider the environment before printing this
"Wine, madam, is God's next best gift to man." - Ambrose Bierce, Devil's Dictionary 1907
2337 Ocean Avenue
San Francisco, CA 94127
Tel: 415 337.4083
Fax: 888 790 WINE (9463)
E: frank@goldengatewinecellars.com
W: www.goldengatewinecellars.com
Our Motto: Always Drink Good Wine™ !
I just tasted with Matthias Pippig who owns Sanguis winery. Matthias worked for many years with Manfred Krankel (Sine Qua Non) at the "famous" La Brea Bakery in Southern California. Matthias got the wine bug as well and created some wines (the actual wine, the packaging and the names) in the genre of Sine Qua None - a little more palatable price point!
We tasted his two latest releases:
2006 Novillero (94% Syrah, 4% Grenache, and 2% Viognier). This is a wine made in the Chateauneuf-du-pape style. Elegant, not over the top! The wine is very complex on the nose and palate with gracious amounts of blackberry and a touch of anise with some smoky characters. With a production of only 200 cases this wine will not be around for a long time! $69.99
2006 Infidels (66% Syrah, 23% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 11% Grenache). This is a much more intense wine, with a somewhat more herbaceous character to it. Very intense, on both nose and palate with a good whiff of bacon-fat and spicy aromatics and flavors. This youngster will and should improve nicely. I recommend putting it down for a good amount of time! $79.99
I clearly lean towards the Novillero and that is the wine that gets my vote today!
Frank Melis
A.k.a. St. Frank - The Patron Saint of Tannins
Golden Gate Wine Cellars
2337 Ocean Avenue
San Francisco, CA 94127
Tel: 415 337.4083
Fax: 888 790 WINE (9463)
E: frank@goldengatewinecellars.com
W: www.goldengatewinecellars.com
Our Motto: Always Drink Good Wine™!
Please consider the environment before printing this
"Wine, madam, is God's next best gift to man." - Ambrose Bierce, Devil's Dictionary 1907
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
March Wine New Releases part I
Golden Gate Wine Cellars
2337 Ocean Avenue
San Francisco, CA 94127
Tel: 415 337.4083
Fax: 888 790 WINE (9463)
E: frank@goldengatewinecellars.com
W: www.goldengatewinecellars.com
Our Motto: Always Drink Good Wine™ !
MARCH NEW ARRIVALS - FREE SHIPPING*!
-----------------------------------
PAUL LATO four new releases
I just sampled Paul Lato’s four new releases for the Spring 2009 offer, and wow, I don’t think I have ever had that many awesome wines in one flight. All three Pinot Noirs and his one Chardonnay blew me away. Unfortunately, the production of Paul’s “first class” wines are non-existent. So I suggest you jump on this offer immediately. Paul was nice enough to sell me one more case of the 2006 Syrah “Cinematique” which Robert Parker gave 96 points! I am sure this offering will get big scores as well, but if you wait until then it will be too late!
*Fiddlestix Vineyard “Cine Sera” 2007, Santa Rita Hills – Retail 80.00 – GGWC 72.00
Intense hue and aroma, this 2007 Pinot Noir Fiddlestix Vineyard from the Santa Rita Hills . It showcases dense concentrated fruit, meat juices, cinnamon and a touch of barnyard. Full in body with great structure and balance. A first class wine, one would think it is a high-end Premier Cru Burgundy . This is a must buy, only 125 cases produced.
* Solomon Hills Vineyard “Suerte” 2007, Santa Barbara – Retail 75.00 – GGWC 67.00
This is one of the best wines I have ever run across my palate! This seductive wine ( Dijon clone 115) showcases ripe, luscious black stone fruit, a touch of fig and earth. Incredible balance and texture, lush, broad with an intensity that jolts your palate. One would believe to be enjoying some Premier Cru Red Burgundy from a high-end producer. This is Pinot with class, and one should respect it. Seductive and lush is the 2007 Pinot Noir Suerte Solomon Hills Vineyard. Made from Dijon clone 115, this wine displays ripe plum, black cherry, blackberry, and fig notes with notions of damp earth and loamy soil. Its gorgeous texture, beautiful purity, broad, savory mouthfeel with no hard edges, and a certain floral quality are all reminiscent of a top-notch Cote de Nuits premier cru or grand cru. Drink it over the next 7-8 years. 100 cases produced.
*Gold Coast Vineyard “Duende” 2007, Santa Barbara – Retail 70.00 – GGWC 62.00
This is a real beauty, and like the other releases limited and a must have. The wine’s purple hue is followed by a strikingly complex aroma of sweet black and red fruits, with a touch of spice, toasty vanilla and wild flowers. The wine is lush and full in body and has an amazing texture and balance with a touch of smoke, amazing sweet fruit, a touch of silkiness and a long lasting finish. Only 100 cases produced
*Sierra Madre Vineyard “Le Souvenir” Santa Maria – Retail 54.00 – GGWC 47.00
Paul’s first Chardonnay, one would think he has been doing it for 20 years! This limited production fashioned from an old Wente clone is amazing. Unfortunately, there are only 75 cases of this exceptional effort produced. The wine’s aroma greats us with notes of orange blossom, nectarines and a touch of limestone reminiscent of a (yet another) great white Burgundy . This wine is so intense, one cannot control him (her) self and burst out a cheer of w.a.w. (what a wine!)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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TEXTBOOK 2006 CABERNET “ MISE EN PLACE ” - Retail 55.00 - GGWC 48.99
The Textbook "Mise en place" Cabernet Sauvignon comes from two very special single vineyard sites located on the extreme eastern side of the Oakville District abutting the rugged and dry Vaca Mountain Range. This sub-section of the Oakville AVA is renowned for superb, richly-textured Cabernet Sauvignon, including the likes of Screaming Eagle, PlumpJack and Rudd. Terrain is characterized by steep hills which bask in warm, sunny afternoons offering an ideal growing environment. The "Mise en Place" is real gem, and for those of you who bought the previous vintages know that this wine will cellar nicely. The wine is terrific! I recommend you open it in the morning when you brew your java, decant it and enjoy it at night with a great rack of lamb or steak. The wine is loaded with ripe blackberries, black cherries and currants. It if full in body, lush and densely concentrated with some tannic backbone, although not overpowering. As it was the case with the 2005 only a few hundred cases were produced, and it will sell out FAST!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Palazzo Proprietary Red blend = The next "First Growth" from Napa Valley !
The 2006 vintage received a 94 Point rating from ROBERT PARKER.
Palazzo 2006 Proprietary Red Blend, Napa Valley - Retail 65.00 - GGWC 54.99
I just tasted through the wines with owner and winemaker Scott Palazzo, and I was flabbergasted. The wine is a blend of Merlot (68%), Cabernet Franc (22%) and Cabernet Sauvignon (10%). The wine is very aromatic, and elegant with lots of finesse and substance at the same time. On impact it is silky, but it grows on you. The finish is long and elegant!
Robert Parker 94 Points: "This serious, small, artisinal operation is owned by Scott Palazzo, who, along with his consultant, Peter Franus, is turning out some complex, French-inspired offerings. Palazzo’s deep ruby/purple-tinged, full-bodied 2006 Proprietary Red (68% Merlot, 22% Cabernet Franc, and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon) reveals a sumptuous perfume of white chocolate, fruitcake, black cherries, black currants, and subtle toasty oak. Displaying a luscious texture, a broad, savory mid-palate, and gorgeous length, it should drink nicely for 10-15+ years. "
Palazzo also produces an AMAZING Cabernet Franc, that is so NOT “Francish” in style, flavor and aroma (i.e. NOT Green!!) Parker, equally loved his wines and gave it a "modest" 93 Point rating.
Palazzo 2006 Cabernet Franc "Truchard" Napa Valley , Retail 75.00 - GGWC 65.00
Parker 93 Points: "There are only around 200 cases produced, but readers who are lucky enough to find a few bottles will enjoy the 2006 Cabernet Franc Truchard Vineyard. This 100% Cabernet Franc reveals beautiful aromas of cedar, herbs, raspberries, black currants, and a touch of toasty oak. The wine exudes complexity, medium to full body, stunningly sweet fruit and tannins, and an ethereal sense of airiness with no heaviness. Its velvety texture and burgeoning complexity are seductive. Drink this lovely Cabernet Franc over the next 8-10 years. "
Orin Swift 2006 Papillon Prorpietary Red, Napa Valley -- Retail 60.00 - GGWC 54.99
The long awaited release of Papillon has arrived. This latest release is a blend is 65% CS, 27% Merlot, 4% PV, 2% CF, and 2% Malbec. I just tasted the wine and it is amazing, with a bit more richness Orin Swift fans have come to expect. The glass on this vintage is also custom made with a butterfly inside the punt of the bottle. As it was the case with the 2005, this wine will sell out very fast, so HURRY
REMEMBER F R E E S H I P P I N G on orders of $500.00 or more.
Frank Melis
a.k.a. St. Frank - The Patron Saint of Tannins
Golden Gate Wine Cellars
2337 Ocean Avenue
San Francisco, CA 94127
Tel: 415 337.4083
Fax: 888 790 WINE (9463)
E: frank@goldengatewinecellars.com
W: www.goldengatewinecellars.com
Our Motto: Always Drink Good Wine™ !
Please consider the environment before printing this e-mail
"Wine, madam, is God's next best gift to man." - Ambrose Bierce, Devil's Dictionary 1907
2337 Ocean Avenue
San Francisco, CA 94127
Tel: 415 337.4083
Fax: 888 790 WINE (9463)
E: frank@goldengatewinecellars.com
W: www.goldengatewinecellars.com
Our Motto: Always Drink Good Wine™ !
MARCH NEW ARRIVALS - FREE SHIPPING*!
-----------------------------------
PAUL LATO four new releases
I just sampled Paul Lato’s four new releases for the Spring 2009 offer, and wow, I don’t think I have ever had that many awesome wines in one flight. All three Pinot Noirs and his one Chardonnay blew me away. Unfortunately, the production of Paul’s “first class” wines are non-existent. So I suggest you jump on this offer immediately. Paul was nice enough to sell me one more case of the 2006 Syrah “Cinematique” which Robert Parker gave 96 points! I am sure this offering will get big scores as well, but if you wait until then it will be too late!
*Fiddlestix Vineyard “Cine Sera” 2007, Santa Rita Hills – Retail 80.00 – GGWC 72.00
Intense hue and aroma, this 2007 Pinot Noir Fiddlestix Vineyard from the Santa Rita Hills . It showcases dense concentrated fruit, meat juices, cinnamon and a touch of barnyard. Full in body with great structure and balance. A first class wine, one would think it is a high-end Premier Cru Burgundy . This is a must buy, only 125 cases produced.
* Solomon Hills Vineyard “Suerte” 2007, Santa Barbara – Retail 75.00 – GGWC 67.00
This is one of the best wines I have ever run across my palate! This seductive wine ( Dijon clone 115) showcases ripe, luscious black stone fruit, a touch of fig and earth. Incredible balance and texture, lush, broad with an intensity that jolts your palate. One would believe to be enjoying some Premier Cru Red Burgundy from a high-end producer. This is Pinot with class, and one should respect it. Seductive and lush is the 2007 Pinot Noir Suerte Solomon Hills Vineyard. Made from Dijon clone 115, this wine displays ripe plum, black cherry, blackberry, and fig notes with notions of damp earth and loamy soil. Its gorgeous texture, beautiful purity, broad, savory mouthfeel with no hard edges, and a certain floral quality are all reminiscent of a top-notch Cote de Nuits premier cru or grand cru. Drink it over the next 7-8 years. 100 cases produced.
*Gold Coast Vineyard “Duende” 2007, Santa Barbara – Retail 70.00 – GGWC 62.00
This is a real beauty, and like the other releases limited and a must have. The wine’s purple hue is followed by a strikingly complex aroma of sweet black and red fruits, with a touch of spice, toasty vanilla and wild flowers. The wine is lush and full in body and has an amazing texture and balance with a touch of smoke, amazing sweet fruit, a touch of silkiness and a long lasting finish. Only 100 cases produced
*Sierra Madre Vineyard “Le Souvenir” Santa Maria – Retail 54.00 – GGWC 47.00
Paul’s first Chardonnay, one would think he has been doing it for 20 years! This limited production fashioned from an old Wente clone is amazing. Unfortunately, there are only 75 cases of this exceptional effort produced. The wine’s aroma greats us with notes of orange blossom, nectarines and a touch of limestone reminiscent of a (yet another) great white Burgundy . This wine is so intense, one cannot control him (her) self and burst out a cheer of w.a.w. (what a wine!)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TEXTBOOK 2006 CABERNET “ MISE EN PLACE ” - Retail 55.00 - GGWC 48.99
The Textbook "Mise en place" Cabernet Sauvignon comes from two very special single vineyard sites located on the extreme eastern side of the Oakville District abutting the rugged and dry Vaca Mountain Range. This sub-section of the Oakville AVA is renowned for superb, richly-textured Cabernet Sauvignon, including the likes of Screaming Eagle, PlumpJack and Rudd. Terrain is characterized by steep hills which bask in warm, sunny afternoons offering an ideal growing environment. The "Mise en Place" is real gem, and for those of you who bought the previous vintages know that this wine will cellar nicely. The wine is terrific! I recommend you open it in the morning when you brew your java, decant it and enjoy it at night with a great rack of lamb or steak. The wine is loaded with ripe blackberries, black cherries and currants. It if full in body, lush and densely concentrated with some tannic backbone, although not overpowering. As it was the case with the 2005 only a few hundred cases were produced, and it will sell out FAST!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Palazzo Proprietary Red blend = The next "First Growth" from Napa Valley !
The 2006 vintage received a 94 Point rating from ROBERT PARKER.
Palazzo 2006 Proprietary Red Blend, Napa Valley - Retail 65.00 - GGWC 54.99
I just tasted through the wines with owner and winemaker Scott Palazzo, and I was flabbergasted. The wine is a blend of Merlot (68%), Cabernet Franc (22%) and Cabernet Sauvignon (10%). The wine is very aromatic, and elegant with lots of finesse and substance at the same time. On impact it is silky, but it grows on you. The finish is long and elegant!
Robert Parker 94 Points: "This serious, small, artisinal operation is owned by Scott Palazzo, who, along with his consultant, Peter Franus, is turning out some complex, French-inspired offerings. Palazzo’s deep ruby/purple-tinged, full-bodied 2006 Proprietary Red (68% Merlot, 22% Cabernet Franc, and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon) reveals a sumptuous perfume of white chocolate, fruitcake, black cherries, black currants, and subtle toasty oak. Displaying a luscious texture, a broad, savory mid-palate, and gorgeous length, it should drink nicely for 10-15+ years. "
Palazzo also produces an AMAZING Cabernet Franc, that is so NOT “Francish” in style, flavor and aroma (i.e. NOT Green!!) Parker, equally loved his wines and gave it a "modest" 93 Point rating.
Palazzo 2006 Cabernet Franc "Truchard" Napa Valley , Retail 75.00 - GGWC 65.00
Parker 93 Points: "There are only around 200 cases produced, but readers who are lucky enough to find a few bottles will enjoy the 2006 Cabernet Franc Truchard Vineyard. This 100% Cabernet Franc reveals beautiful aromas of cedar, herbs, raspberries, black currants, and a touch of toasty oak. The wine exudes complexity, medium to full body, stunningly sweet fruit and tannins, and an ethereal sense of airiness with no heaviness. Its velvety texture and burgeoning complexity are seductive. Drink this lovely Cabernet Franc over the next 8-10 years. "
Orin Swift 2006 Papillon Prorpietary Red, Napa Valley -- Retail 60.00 - GGWC 54.99
The long awaited release of Papillon has arrived. This latest release is a blend is 65% CS, 27% Merlot, 4% PV, 2% CF, and 2% Malbec. I just tasted the wine and it is amazing, with a bit more richness Orin Swift fans have come to expect. The glass on this vintage is also custom made with a butterfly inside the punt of the bottle. As it was the case with the 2005, this wine will sell out very fast, so HURRY
REMEMBER F R E E S H I P P I N G on orders of $500.00 or more.
Frank Melis
a.k.a. St. Frank - The Patron Saint of Tannins
Golden Gate Wine Cellars
2337 Ocean Avenue
San Francisco, CA 94127
Tel: 415 337.4083
Fax: 888 790 WINE (9463)
E: frank@goldengatewinecellars.com
W: www.goldengatewinecellars.com
Our Motto: Always Drink Good Wine™ !
Please consider the environment before printing this e-mail
"Wine, madam, is God's next best gift to man." - Ambrose Bierce, Devil's Dictionary 1907
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Long time no talk!
Golden Gate Wine Cellars
2337 Ocean Avenue
San Francisco, CA 94127
Tel: 415.337.4083
E: frank@goldengatewinecellars.com
W: www.goldengatewinecellars.com
Our Motto: Always Drink Good Wine!
Dear Friends
My apologies. Time gets the best of me - thus no blog time.
In a nutshell; I have been tasting a LOT of wine, some better, some worse, some outstanding, some ..... (fill in the blanks).
People are still drinking wine, so I am not complaining at all. My five cents to ALL of you, especially those who are working. Go out to eat, shop, buy! Really, what people don't realize is that by not buying that fancy coffee drink and buying regular coffee instead they KILL the economy. A quick fact - One SF coffee shop owner told me that he sells 600 coffee drinks per day, still does! Until 6 months ago 500 were the "fancy" drinks, 100 regular coffee. Today mostly coffee - what happens here, his sales drop $1,500.00 per day in coffee sales alone, that is FIVE HUNDRED THOUSAND DOLLARS per year! Just one store!!! Imagine the entire city of SF, the state of CA, the entire US. You don't buy that coffee and you think "I am saving 2.00 per day" NOT, you are KILLING the US economy. I don't know how many coffee shops there are in the US, but at this rate the local populus has taken billions away from the coffee shop owners, not to talk about other businesses. I know some people lost their jobs, but it is our duty, the ones working to keep spending. It will create jobs for those who lost them. No, I am not talking politics here (I never will go there!). Just common sense. Go spend!
Now on a quick wine note. We are offering FREE SHIPPING throughout the month of March on purchases of $500.00 or more going to the same address. GREAT SAVINGS!
Give me a call to catch up sooooon, OK.
I promise, more wine notes will adore my blog this week.
Frank
2337 Ocean Avenue
San Francisco, CA 94127
Tel: 415.337.4083
E: frank@goldengatewinecellars.com
W: www.goldengatewinecellars.com
Our Motto: Always Drink Good Wine!
Dear Friends
My apologies. Time gets the best of me - thus no blog time.
In a nutshell; I have been tasting a LOT of wine, some better, some worse, some outstanding, some ..... (fill in the blanks).
People are still drinking wine, so I am not complaining at all. My five cents to ALL of you, especially those who are working. Go out to eat, shop, buy! Really, what people don't realize is that by not buying that fancy coffee drink and buying regular coffee instead they KILL the economy. A quick fact - One SF coffee shop owner told me that he sells 600 coffee drinks per day, still does! Until 6 months ago 500 were the "fancy" drinks, 100 regular coffee. Today mostly coffee - what happens here, his sales drop $1,500.00 per day in coffee sales alone, that is FIVE HUNDRED THOUSAND DOLLARS per year! Just one store!!! Imagine the entire city of SF, the state of CA, the entire US. You don't buy that coffee and you think "I am saving 2.00 per day" NOT, you are KILLING the US economy. I don't know how many coffee shops there are in the US, but at this rate the local populus has taken billions away from the coffee shop owners, not to talk about other businesses. I know some people lost their jobs, but it is our duty, the ones working to keep spending. It will create jobs for those who lost them. No, I am not talking politics here (I never will go there!). Just common sense. Go spend!
Now on a quick wine note. We are offering FREE SHIPPING throughout the month of March on purchases of $500.00 or more going to the same address. GREAT SAVINGS!
Give me a call to catch up sooooon, OK.
I promise, more wine notes will adore my blog this week.
Frank
Friday, January 30, 2009
FREE SHIPPING ANNOUNCEMENT
Golden Gate Wine Cellars
2337 Ocean Avenue
San Francisco, CA 94127
Tel: 415 337.4083
Fax: 888 790 WINE (9463)
E: frank@goldengatewinecellars.com
W: http://www.goldengatewinecellars.com/
Our Motto: Always Drink Good Wine™ !
FREE SHIPPING ANNOUNCEMENT*!
---------------------------------------------------
Golden Gate Wine Cellars President Frank Melis announces FREE SHIPPING from today (1.30.09) until April 15, 2009. Shipments of $500.00 or more shipped to the same delivery address qualify for this offer. We thought that this would be a great pre-tax time incentive. Out-of-state shipments are also exempt from California sales tax, which saves you an additional 8.5% (10% shortly).
New Hampshire customers will be billed the mandatory 8% excise tax that we pay on their behalf to the NH Liquor commission. Make sure to check for all our latest releases and special offers.
We know that some areas in the US are experiences very cold temperatures. For those clients we offer FREE STORAGE until temperatures are more "wine friendly" to ship your order. Even if the order ships after 4.15, you will still receive the shipping.
Yours Truly,
Frank Melis
*offer can be cancelled or amended at any time, without any notice.
2337 Ocean Avenue
San Francisco, CA 94127
Tel: 415 337.4083
Fax: 888 790 WINE (9463)
E: frank@goldengatewinecellars.com
W: http://www.goldengatewinecellars.com/
Our Motto: Always Drink Good Wine™ !
FREE SHIPPING ANNOUNCEMENT*!
---------------------------------------------------
Golden Gate Wine Cellars President Frank Melis announces FREE SHIPPING from today (1.30.09) until April 15, 2009. Shipments of $500.00 or more shipped to the same delivery address qualify for this offer. We thought that this would be a great pre-tax time incentive. Out-of-state shipments are also exempt from California sales tax, which saves you an additional 8.5% (10% shortly).
New Hampshire customers will be billed the mandatory 8% excise tax that we pay on their behalf to the NH Liquor commission. Make sure to check for all our latest releases and special offers.
We know that some areas in the US are experiences very cold temperatures. For those clients we offer FREE STORAGE until temperatures are more "wine friendly" to ship your order. Even if the order ships after 4.15, you will still receive the shipping.
Yours Truly,
Frank Melis
*offer can be cancelled or amended at any time, without any notice.
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