Market updates and a couple of wine tips a la Greg Vanslow

Markets

The Velocity of Money (VOM) is the number of times one dollar is spent to buy goods of services in a given amount of time. If the VOM is increasing then more transactions are occurring in the economy. The VOM has been at a multi-decade low, but there are signs it is increasing. That is a possible indication we might finally see some inflation in 2014, which would drive rates up.

 

Despite a week of very light trading the 10 year treasury broker 3% and closed at 3.02%, the highest since 7/26/2011. It closed last week at 2.89% yield.

The Dow closed at 16,478, up from last week’s 16,221.

The dollar is at $1.35/Euro.

 

The slow upward trend continues.

Most of the attached rates are up .125% over the sheet from two weeks ago.

 

Wine

Here are some items from K&L Wines most popular re-purchases list. These are the wines that people bought, liked and bought again. In order of popularity.

Many of these are repeat recommendations

 

2012 Quinta da Aveleda Vinho Verde ($8.99)

 

92 points Wine & Spirits: "Careful viticulture takes the fruit of this estate-grown wine into bright scents of lime, white rose and pink grapefruit, with a mouthwatering persistence of flavors that sets it apart. It's easy to drink a lot of this, chilled for a June wedding or July at the shore. I know of no other wine in the world that offers the fragrant pleasures of this white for anything close to $9." (08/2013)

 

90 points Wine Enthusiast: "The Aveleda estate is the source of the fruit for this dry, delicious Vinho Verde. It’s a reference for the food-friendly, lemon and grapefruit style, adding minerality and a taut texture to the forward fruitiness. Drink this summer, or hold for up to six months. Aveleda Imports. Best Buy. —R.V." (08/2013)

 

K&L Notes: A perennial staff and customer favorite, this Vinho Verde continues to deliver the goods, the fizzy, citrus-drenched, delicious goods. If you're looking for a poolside, picnic or patio sipper, this wine never disappoints.

 

2010 Chalone "Limited Release" Chalone Chardonnay (Elsewhere $25) ($12.99)

 

“This is 2010 Estate Chardonnay with "Limited Release" added to the label. Don't confuse this wine with their Monterey bottling; the "Limited Release" label was used instead of the "Estate Grown" label to give restaurants a wine that had preferential pricing. It turns out they bottled a bit too much with this label so this wine was offered to K&L at a huge discount.”

 

John Majeski | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: September 25, 2013

When the opportunity presents itself to latch on to a famous estate label at a rock-bottom, crowd-pleasing price we rarely hesitate. Which means of course, your gain, no pain! The 2010 growing season was exceptionally cool in Monterey County, allowing for longer hang time, lower sugar levels and measurable acidity that contributed to graceful, more elegant fruit. Originally intended exclusively for restaurants, this surprisingly sumptuous Chardonnay delivers enticing flavors of white pear, green apple, crème brûlée,and lemon curd with a whiff of pineapple on the supple, round, satisfying finish. Perfect for late summer parties and entertaining as the long, generous daylight draws to an end.

 

1999 York Creek Spring Mountain District Meritage ($24.99)

 

63% Cabernet (Spring House, Lake & Horseshoe) 24% Merlot and 13% Petit Verdot, all estate grown.

 

Bryan Brick | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: May 07, 2013

At some point last year I was sitting at my desk thinking about some of the wines I’ve had from what I believe to be truly great wineries in the fine state of California. One of these great wineries that kept popping into my head was York Creek. The saddest part is that I hadn’t carried the wine for a couple of years due to lack of distribution. So I picked up the phone and made a call, long story short James Beard Award winner, beer icon, owner of York Creek Vineyards and an all around great man Fritz Maytag was at my desk a couple of weeks later showing me the lineup from his estate high upon Spring Mountain. From that meeting a fruitful business relationship developed which began with us selling almost 300 cases of the highly touted 2007 Estate Cabernet, followed by the possibly even more popular 2004 Estate Cabernet that flew out the doors during the Holidays of 2012. Well we’ve gone back to the well once again and found another true gem at a completely ridiculous price. We recently tasted every vintage, minus the 1998 which they did not make, between 1994 and 1999 of the Estate Meritage. What we found was amazing, all of the wines were wonderful in their own vintage specific way but we really loved the 1999 vintage. I feel like this vintage is really at its apex right now and is a wonderful example of an old wine with plenty of freshness and life. Sure there are some secondary notes of tobacco, sandalwood and mint in the nose and of course the tannins here are polished to a fine patina but this is insanely drinkable and full of fresh red fruits and a deep set forest driven spice that only Spring Mountain can deliver. Add that all up, plus you get a wine that is almost 15 years old, for $24.99 and this maybe the bargain of the year.

 

1999 Bodegas Puelles Gran Reserva Rioja ($19.99)

 

91 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "The 1999 Gran Reserva has an enticing red cherry, soy and cedar-scented bouquet that is reminiscent of an old Burgundy. The palate is very well-balanced with fine acidity and edgy tannin. There are notes of fresh red cherries and orange rind interlaced by leather on the tart, highly enjoyable, zesty finish. Drink now-2018." (08/2012)

 

K&L Notes: Wow--this is spectacular Gran Reserva! Made in a traditional style with earthy red fruit aromas, and in this relatively cooler, damper vintage, a slightly Burgundian profile. The wine features good acidity, minerality, and some classic aged Rioja savory woodsy character. If you're looking for a perfectly mature red wine to drink now, this is very tough to beat for the price.

 

Sarah Covey | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: July 15, 2013

Oh Gran Reserva, how I love thee...This gorgeous 1999 from Puelles is in the absolutely perfect spot for drinking! Stewed red cherry, red currant, leather, earth, spice, licorice, and mineral with silky, elegant tannin & medium plus acid. An excellent example of Gran Reserva for $20? Are you nuts!? Stock up now!

 

Ryan Woodhouse | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: December 29, 2012

A remarkable wine that has aged with grace and finesse. We tasted this at a recent Rioja dinner and I was not alone in thinking what a stunning Gran Reserva this was for the incredible price of $19.99! Not a big wine but one remarkable balance and poise. Perfect acidity to hold the wine together as the tannin fades away. Some red fruits left but lots of those classic leathery, cigar box and warm earthy components starting to show and this bottle gains bottle age complexities. Perfect for roasted game, sausage or cured meats.

 

2012 Bench Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir ($19.99)

 

‘Tremendous Pinot Noir fruit from the flawless and ideal 2012 growing season realizes this delightful Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir. Grapes were primarily harvested from the Sangiacomo Amaral Ranch Vineyard and were gently extracted during fermentation on native yeast. The wine was then aged for seven months in 30% new French oak before bottling. From the winery: "Bright ruby color, this wine offers intense floral and raspberry aromas. In the mouth the wine has a good intensity with darker earth flavors and bright raspberry fruit. Fine tannins add structure and balance to a long finish."’

Mari Keilman | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: July 09, 2013

With it's sweet tannins and bright raspberry laden palate, the 2012 Bench Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir is a clear and vibrant rendition of Sonoma Valley fruit. To complete the entire package, this party perfect pinot noir finishes with a touch of nice smokey earth and bright red fruit driven acidity.

 

Ryan Woodhouse | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: June 30, 2013

WOW! The 2011 of this wine was one of the best deals in $20 Pinot but the new 2012 beats it hands-down! I am so excited for the first of the 2012 red wines to start filling in. At last a real high quality California vintage after a couple pretty average ones. This wine is predominantly sourced from the Sangiacomo vineyard on the Sonoma Coast. It shows excellent brightness and purity and the hallmark vintage traits of great physiological ripeness and flavor development but with very moderate alcohol levels. Purely red fruited with exotic Asian spices, a touch of well integrated oak and forest floor nuances that appear with a little air. Exceptional value.

 

2012 Domaine Renaud Mâcon-Charnay ($12.99) Old world Chardonnay. It tastes like it’s made from an actual fruit, as opposed to the classic Cali profile.

 

“Once in a great while, you find wine from the Mâcon so good that when tasted blind you are forced to apply some much higher (and more expensive) appellation to it. This is such a wine. Domaine Renaud is a small domaine that produces Mâcon, Pouilly-Fuissé and St. Veran from 12 hectares of estate vineyards. Their cellar is modern, and they use upright ovals for many of the wines, along with stainless for others. Compared to the Solutré, the Charnay is richer and more generous on the palate, with good power and weight. It is supple and charming, with some floral notes on the nose and a terrific finish. This is pure, unoaked Chardonnay. “(Keith Wollenberg, K&L Burgundy Buyer)

Jim Boyce | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: August 29, 2013

Another beautiful Chardonnay from Renaud. This site is lower on the hillside, which lends to rounder green apple and pear fruit than the Macon Solutre. It still has plenty of focus, thanks to the great mineral vein and acidity present. As always, this is a tremendous deal!

 

2012 Angeline Pinot Noir ($11.99)

 

‘Angeline is made by Martin Ray Winery in the heart of Sonoma County. A perennial value, this is not your 96-point Pinot, let's be clear about that, but it's been named an "Editors' Choice" by Wine Enthusiast Magazine in 2012, earned gold medals at the San Francisco Chronicle wine competition, and is often described in terms such as "this is surprisingly good for the price." The appellation is California, the fruit coming exclusively out of Sonoma County, Santa Barbara County and Mendocino County. With a big crop and a healthy dose of sunshine, 2012 was an ideal year for turning out this kind of magic combination of flavor and value in Pinot Noir. From the winery: "Perfumed aromas of rose petal, cranberry, raspberry and spice box continue as flavors in the bright, juicy mouth. Try our Angeline Pinot Noir with Portobello mushroom burgers or a lightly seared salmon fillet or pasta with a tomato-based sauce."’

 

 

2010 Celler de Capcanes "Mas Donis" Barrica Montsant ($9.99)

 

92 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "Produced from 85% Garnacha (70-year-old vines) and 15% Syrah (30-year-old vines) aged nine months in new and older American and French oak, it is another under-the-radar wine that dramatically over-delivers. A custom cuvee made for Eric Solomon, it exhibits notes of rose petals, raspberry jam, crushed rocks, spring flowers and kirsch. Stunningly rich and medium to full-bodied, with wonderful vibrancy, precision and minerality, this beauty could easily pass for a grand cru Burgundy – it’s that complex and interesting. I am blown away by what’s in the bottle, but you be the judge. It should drink well for 5-6 years. " (06/2012)

 

K&L Notes: Southwest of Barcelona in the Priorato hills, Celler de Capcanes also makes Kosher and organic wines, although this cuvee is neither.. "Mas Donis" is first in their line of fruity, ready to go Garnacha-based wines. Quoting Wine Advocate: "When I was covering all the Spanish wines, this was one of my great value picks in the early days, and I am thrilled to see there are now 8,000 cases of this 'baby Priorat' from nearby Montsant available in the American market." (06/2012)

 

Sherman & Hooker's Shebang! "Sixth Cuvée- Old Vine Cuvée" Red Blend ($11.99)

 

90 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "*Best Buys* Shebang! is the appealing project of Morgan Twain Peterson, son of the long-time Ravenswood winemaker Joel Peterson. His objective is to fashion innovative, old vine cuvees that satisfy the most demanding wine enthusiasts. (Distributer) Doug Polaner is his name, and high quality wines in all price ranges is his game. I have been tasting with Polaner over a number of years, and these notes represent his very finest value selections." (08/2013)

 

Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "Inky purple. Assertive aromas of candied dark fruits and violet, with a peppery topnote. Juicy and open-knit, offering plump blackberry and bitter cherry flavors that show a slight jamminess. An emphatically fruity blend with good finishing lift and gentle tannins. Morgan Twain-Peterson told me that some old-vine zinfandel from the Bedrock Vineyard wound up in here, adding that he made 7,500 cases of it this year." (06/2013)

 

K&L Notes: Shebang is a project of Bedrock Wine Co.'s Morgan Twain-Peterson, who happens to be one of only 30 Masters of Wine in the United States and son of Ravenswood founder Joel Peterson. While Bedrock's focus is on small-lot, single-vineyard expressions, Shebang is an exuberantly juicy, multi-vintage red blend with a lot of pedigree as well. The Sixth Cuvée is designated as an Old Vine Cuvée for the first time, as 92% of the fruit was sourced from vines more than 90 years old. This includes some declassified fruit from the 100+ year old Bedrock vineyard in Sonoma Valley, as well as other particularly fine old vineyard discoveries. The blend of the Sixth Cuvée is 60% Zinfandel with a primary balance of Carignan, Alicante Bouchet, Syrah, and other assorted old vine, field blend grapes. The wine was fermented on native yeasts, aged in French oak (15% new), and entirely made with the same attention that is given to Bedrock's wines. Shebang has become very popular as a by-the-glass bistro wine, and imagine restaurant-goers delight when they discover that the whole bottle can be had for under $12!

 

2006 Bodegas Casa Juan Señor de Lesmos Crianza Rioja ($12.99)

 

‘There is a wonderful element of whimsy and joy at this tiny, family bodega located in Laguardia. The elephant logo, the on site African art museum, as well as the name (there is no Señor de Lesmos, as it turns out) all speak to the family's joie de vivre and sense of humor. There is nothing funny about the quality of these wines, though. All estate fruit, hand-harvested, and carefully vinified with native yeasts, this is a hand sewn wine with the purity, texture, and elegance to prove it. Produced from 85% Tempranillo and 15% Mazuelo, the wine shows a rather Burgundian nose of cherries and plums, opening to reveal a hint of sandalwood that leads to a wonderful palate that opens with tangy cherry flavors that are persistent and presented on an elegantly textured frame. Terrific acidity and a lasting finish. One could not ask for much more in a classically styled Rioja Crianza.’

Krista Johnson | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: October 19, 2013

Everybody loves this Rioja...and what's not to love? It's full of cruchy red berries, cedar, crushed lavendar and a little cinnamon. It's balanced, savory, and bright yet earthy. Pair it with anything from hearty pasta to paella.

 

Ryan Woodhouse | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: May 31, 2013

Such an outstanding value in classic earthy, rustic Rioja. This wine is driven by spicy red fruits, dusty earth, stones and just a hint of "funkiness" but only the good kind! The fact that we buy this wine direct from the property means that you get it for a crazy good price! Try this with lamb Kabobs on the grill.

 

Montechiara Prosecco ($9.99)

 

‘This Prosecco offers delicate flavors of pear and hints of nutmeg, all in a well balanced sparkling wine. Montechiara is an Extra Dry bubbly, like most Prosecco, which gives it a more determined palate presence, good acidity and a bright freshness that make it seem more like a Brut while lengthening the finish. Try it for your holiday parties or just knocking the dust off a long day at work!’ (Greg St. Clair, K&L Italian wine buyer)

 

Angie An | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: December 03, 2013

As the name suggest (Montechiara = Clear Mountain) this Prosecco is clean and easy drinking, great on its own or did someone said mimosa? Try this for your next party: make some orange popsicles in the freezer from fresh OJ; then place it into wine glasses and pour Montechiara Prosecco over it. Now sit back and watch your party guest be WOW'd !!

Christie Cartwright | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: November 08, 2013

This little Italian Prosecco has changed the way think about Prosecco here at K&L, and trust me, that's not an easy task. With a label that mimics a yellow/orange Veuve Cliquot label, and a price that will keep your wallet full, this lovely bubbly will be the hit of every party, day or night. Not too dry, not too fruity, it's just right. You and your friends will be very, very happy!

Mike Parres | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: February 28, 2013

Italian bubbles for ten bucks, what did we just step back in time? Nope just another Great bargain wine from K & L! This is the perfect wine for all your spring holiday parties, for there is nothing better than Prosecco, for crowd pleasing and value. This has a light straw yellow hue and has a fine mousse and delicate, with a long-lasting bead. On the nose you will find generous fruit, releasing hints of pear and nectarines. The palate has wonderful balance and elegance, dry & crisp, but admirable fullness and length, closely mirroring the nose. Buy a case; these make great gifts as well.

 

2012 A.A. Badenhorst "Secateurs" Chenin Blanc Swartland ($12.99)

 

92 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "The 2012 Secateurs Chenin Blanc has a light but pure bouquet with lemon peel, grapefruit and hints of wet wool. The palate is crisp and vibrant on the entry with touches of lanolin and litchi nuts. This is so well balanced – uncomplicated but delicious. Drink now." (12/2012)

 

90 points Wine Spectator: "Bright and engaging, with lots of white peach, Jonagold apple and Cavaillon melon notes offset by a bright floral edge. The pure, unadorned finish sails on. Drink now. 15,000 cases made.—J.M." (06/2013)

 

Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "Bright, light yellow. Peachy fruit salad and spice aromas are enlivened by grapefruit pith. Rich and silky, with a slightly sweet impression nicely countered by harmonious acidity. Round and fairly full in the mouth and still a bit youthfully aggressive. Finishes nicely dry, with hints of ripe stone fruits and quince. " (06/2013)

 

K&L Notes: This magnificent wine is sourced from 50+ year old Chenin Blanc bush vines that are dry farmed, very low yielding and that transfer fantastic minerality to the wine. It was fermented in a combination of concrete tanks and old french oak barrels for added texture and palate weight. Winemaker Adi Badenhorst is a very charismatic guy who, alongside Eben Sadie, has put Swartland on the map. Outspoken, opinionated and talented, his charisma rubs off upon the wines he creates. Moreover, they are available at extremely affordable prices and serve as a perfect introduction to the delights of Adi’s and Swartland's wines. Recently highly reccomended in the SF Chronicle's feature on South African white wines: "This is Badenhorst's mid-tier wine, in this case Chenin from 1960s-era head-trained vines on granite, planted at the family farm near Paardeberg. Like great dry Muscadet, it outpaces the grape's reputation, showing a stark mineral presence, and then sasparilla, resin and a remarkable depth of citrus fruit."

 

2012 Weingut Allram Grüner Veltliner Kamptal (1L) ($10.99)

 

“From some of the top sites in the Kamptal. Michaela Haas is the 4th generation of this family to run the 23 ha domaine. Fermented and aged in stainless steel and bottled with a crown cap, this is the perfect liter - fresh, light and snappy; delivering all the thirst quenching qualities you look for in a wine like this.”

 

Sarah Covey | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: September 01, 2013

Delicious, quaffable, classic Gruner! Bright acidity, citrus, mineral and hints of grass. In a Liter size, this one is a no-brainer for summer entertaining!

 

Mike Parres | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: June 29, 2013

Great aromatics on this rich, yet dry and quaffable wine. Perfect for vegetable dishes, lighter fish dishes, or spicy asian cuisine.

 

2012 GRÜNER by Etz Grüner Veltliner Kamptal (1L) ($13.99)

 

“The Etz family has been in the wine business since 1898, and the estate is now in the 4th generation. With nearly 40 hectares of vineyard in production, the Etz estate prides itself on synthesizing the modern and the traditional. Their goal is to offer wines that show themselves from vineyard to bottle entirely in harmony with nature and the environment, from parcels planted around the famous wine-town Strass. Gaisberg, Galgenberg (that's the gallows-hill, folks), and Wechselberg are among the famous vineyard names to be found in the Etz collection. The Etz brothers place their emphasis on a peppery and spicy style of Grüner Veltliner -- exclusively fermented in super-stainless steel tanks. Temperature controlled fermentations are conducted with indigenous as well as cultured yeast, depending on the demands of the individual lot. Time resting on the fine lees adds complexity and polish to the wine. This is fresh, minerally and crisp, with that classic Gruner white pepper lift to the nose and tangy green apple and snap pea flavors on the palate. In an easy to open, liter-sized bottle, it's a refreshing go-to for a variety of green salads or veggie dishes, and is particularly complementary to dishes featuring asparagus, brussels sprouts, or artichoke.”

 

2011 Butternut Chardonnay ($14.99) For Rombauer fans.

 

The 2011 Butternut is a wine that lives up to its name. It has round, creamy notes, hints of hazelnut and a finish that doesn't want to quit. Grapes from the regions of Carneros and Coombsville in Napa and Santa Lucia and Arroyo Seco in Monterey broaden the flavor profile of Butternut. The 2010 Butternut spent 14 months in 100% new French oak. From a group of savvy wine blenders based in St. Helena, Napa Valley.

Jeffrey Jones | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: February 17, 2013

Butternut is the perfect name for this wine. It should please fans of rich buttery Chardonays with round butter, oak and fruity flavors.

Kyle Kurani | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: August 30, 2012

Folling the 2010 vintage, the 11 holds up to the precedent set, rich and lush, beautifully luxerious. As Rombauer becomes harder and harder to get, this wine will do well as a stand in.

 

2012 Elsa Bianchi Malbec Mendoza ($8.99)

 

“The Elsa Malbec comes from Valentin Bianchi's Doña Elsa estate in the cool reaches of San Rafael, Mendoza. With just a kiss of French oak, the rich fruit dominates this easy-drinking red, which has barely-there tannins. The 2011 release garnered 90 points from Robert Parker and a 'Best Buy' designation from Wine Enthusiast, and the new release of this consistently delicious and affordable single vineyard Malbec doesn't skip a beat! Invoke your inner-Argentine and drink this alongside grilled flank steak with a garlicky chimichurri. “

 

Christie Cartwright | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: November 08, 2013

Nowhere else can you find such a quality Argentine Malbec at this price! Classic in style and structure, with a beautiful, deep purple hue in the glass. Aromas of sweet blackberry, plum, blue fruit and chocolate, silky texture and polished in the mouth. Finishes very silky smooth with a lingering finish. Perfect for holiday parties and is great with or without food!

 

 

Deligeroy Cremant de Loire Brut ($11.99) Like Champagne but not the price? Cremants are a good option. I buy a lot of them.

 

“A pale yellow wine with tiny bubbles, this Cremant de Loire Brut is rounded and delicate with a fine, nervy, complex nose and the freshness of Chenin Blanc, floral Chardonnay and fruity Cabernet Franc from 20- to 30-year-old vines. With its lively attack, it evolves gracefully across the palate with nice aromatic persistence in the mouth and lingering notes of fresh peaches and pear. A great opener to a memorable night! 12.5% abv.”

 

Sarah Covey | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: September 28, 2012

What a screaming deal at $11.99! This bubbly from the Loire Valley will delight you with its refreshingly pleasant acidity, fine bubble structure, and hints of pear, apple and minerals. Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay & Cabernet Franc. When I first brought this wine home, I admittedly had intended to just mix it with my Mathilde Cassis for a Kir Royale, but I wanted to give the wine its proper due and poured a glass out straight first. A wonderful surprise met me, and I never did add that cassis.... the wine somehow disappeared too quickly! Perfect for holiday entertaining!

 

Louis Bouillot Cremant de Bourgogne "Perle d'Aurore" Brut Rosé ($13.99)

 

Wine Enthusiast: "With its strawberry flavor and tight acidity, this is an attractive, clean sparkling wine. It has just the right balance between acidity and bright fruit, leaving a textured aftertaste." (12/2011)

 

K&L Notes: This delightful sparkling rosé wine comes from Burgundy. It is made of 80% Pinot Noir, and 20% Gamay Noir. The charming eye of the swan color comes from the addition of Pinot Noir to the wine when the lees are disgorged, following the traditional fermentation in the individual bottle, in the Champagne method. On the palate it is very rich and fruity but just off-dry on the finish. The mousse is explosive, with a very creamy palate impression. It shows just a hint of the earthiness of a Pinot Noir from Burgundy. This is charming rosé, subtle and delightful. (Keith Wollenberg, K&L Burgundy Buyer)

Sarah Covey | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: September 03, 2013

Man, I love this wine. I had this again the other evening with pank-crusted salmon and a spinach salad, and it was light, pretty and delicious. Soft raspberry, strawberry and citrus with the tiniest hint of sweetness. The acidity really worked with my salmon's fattiness. Of course, the wine's pink sparkly glimmer on the dinner table in my wine glasses added to the ambiance. Stock up for birthday celebrations, brunch, baby showers, or just because it's a Tuesday night!

Gary Lai | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: June 05, 2010

This is absolutely one of the best tasting Cremant Rose that I've had. It is balanced and crisp, with nice notes of fruitiness and acidity. Always buy two bottles... because your first one will keep you wanting more!

 

 

 

2012 Cave de Tavel "Lauzeraies" Tavel ($13.99)

 

Rejoice Tavel! In a time when very high quality rosés line our shelves, when pink wines from Spain, the US, South Africa, Italy and all over the land of France are finally getting some much-deserved attention in the press and from our customers, we must give Tavel its special due. This is the original rosé appellation. In fact, so good is the fabled rosé from Tavel, that by law no other sort of wine can call itself Tavel! Layers of wild strawberries collide with a spicy note, a dash of citrusy acidity and so much fruit and flower aroma, it is almost too much. But then, when paired with foods of the region--fish soups, black olives, rosemary scented meats and poultry, anything combining eggplant and tomatoes--well, it is not too much at all. No, it is darn near perfect. 50% Grenache, 20% Syrah, 20% Cinsault, 10% Mourvedre. 13.5% abv.

 

Jeff Garneau | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: October 31, 2013

Tavel is one of the classic French rosés, from one of the rare appellations which make rosé exclusively. The 2012 Cave de Tavel "Lauzeraies" Tavel represents our best price on this versatile wine. Possessed of a lively minerality and a profusion of red fruits, this Rhone blend of Grenache, Syrah, Cinsault, and Mourvedre produces a hearty style of wine which makes Tavel the perfect rosé to bridge the warm days of summer and the cooler days of autumn.

 

Sean Thackrey "Pleiades XXIII" Old Vine Red Blend ($19.99) This stuff is really impressive. Very complex and evolves in the glass. Amazing for the price.

 

“If you try to find the exact cepage on this always-fantastic red blend, you might find yourself gazing up at the heavens for an answer, since you won't get one from the winemaker. The Pleiades might be the only super allocated, cult California wine for under $25, and it's sure to sell out quickly, as previous vintages have. From "One of California's most iconic and mystical winemakers," says Robert Parker, "Sean Thackrey has logged in 20 or more vintages of consistently stunning wines that perhaps say it all with the simple quote on his label: -Sean A. Thackrey, Vintner, Bolinas, California." (08/09)”

2010 Alta Maria Santa Maria Valley Pinot Noir ($19.99) Wine Club Price: $14.99.

 

90 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "Vivid ruby. Sexy red fruit aromas show good clarity and lift, with Asian spice and floral nuances adding complexity. The spicy quality carries onto the palate, which displays smooth raspberry and spicecake flavors and a touch of clove. Finishes silky and long, with lingering sweetness and soft tannins. " (12/2013)

 

90 points Wine & Spirits: "This harnesses dramatic ripeness without over-reaching, offering enough length and freshness to support its dense layers of blackberry-laden fruit. Grippy tannins provide a structural counterpoint to that sumptuousness, suggesting the appetizing bitterness of carob and setting the wine up for roasted pork loin." (04/2013)

 

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "The 2010 Pinot Noir opens with an attractive, sweet bouquet. The fruit isn’t quite as radiant as the aromatics suggest, leading to an impression of compactness. Sweet red cherries and flowers linger on the perfumed finish. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2015." (08/2012)

 

Antonio Galloni: "Alta Maria's 2010 Pinot Noir bursts from the glass with a rush of red berries, sweet spices and vanillin. A juicy, fruit-driven Pinot, the 2010 is best enjoyed over the next few years, while the fruit retains its vibrancy and freshness. The 2010 is forward and overt, but also very nicely balanced. Drinking window: 2013 - 2018 " (07/2013)