◊ From The Wine Down Bar’s Wine Cellar ◊

Ask your server which Vineyards from our wine list are featured this Month for wines by the glass
We are continually adding to our wine list

House Wines by the Glass

Varietals
Red
Cabernet, Shiraz, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Bordeaux & Rioja
White
Chardonnay, Riesling, Pinot Grigio, Prosecco & White Zinfandel

 

∞ PORTS ∞

Horton Vineyard Pear Port, Virginia  – $7 glass
A rich, full bodied, sweet dessert wine, loaded with the flavors and aromas of very ripe pears with a touch of brandy. Even chilled, this wine will warm you up.

Chateau Bellevue Montabazillac  – $8 glass
A light white dessert wine or a perfect aperitif.

Rozes, White Reserve Port / Portugal Glass  – $8 glass
Brilliant golden amber Tawny color that starts life as a white Port, with minimum of 7 or 8 years in oak. Lovely candied orange and hazelnut notes, with a lemony quality coming through. Palate has some mellow, smooth, vanilla and nutty flavours, but the fruit is sweet and ripe, with a lemony acidity coming through. Very nice balance between crispness of an aperitif white Port and a nutty tawny. Try this with smoked meats or a Cigar it makes a terrific chilled aperitif.

Dow Tawny Port (10 year old & 20 year old)  – $9 & $18 glass
Delicate, with a lively array of bright dried mango, date and dried apricot flavors that feature plenty of smoky notes. Features notes of white chocolate, fruitcake and honey on the rich finish.
90 Points Wine Spectator

∞ REDS ∞

2011 Banfi CollePino Toscana, Italy Blend Sangiovese & Merlot  – $18
Ruby red, young but intense. Fresh, fruit-forward, with red-currant, raspberry and plum notes. Full fruit flavors with soft, sweet tannins and a nice finish.

2011 Cocobon Red – $19
It is a blend, the dominant presence of Zinfandel permeates the drinking experience. It has a lush red color and an aroma of red fruit. With each sip, flavors of vanilla, cherry and chocolate compete for the lead, though in a way that plays off each other enjoyably. There may even be just a touch of raspberry in there as well. The finish is soft and mild.

2011 Vitiano Merlot Blend Italy  – $24
This is a young red wine with explosive, luscious aromatic fragrance. This wine has a wonderful, deep, intense ruby red colour with important, solid, and wide organoleptic qualities, but above all it exalts the food it is combined with. It is very rich in polyphenols which harmonize with its fresh, tasty acidity. It is versatile red, quite innovative in style which can be appreciated immediately. Blend: Melot, Sangiovese & Cabernet.

2012 Roscato Provincia di Pavia Italy  – $24 (FS)
Northern Italy provides a spectacular backdrop for Roscato, a violet-hued red with aromatic notes of cherry, blackberry and red raspberry. A touch of sweetness and bright acidity underlies the appeal of this charming wine. The traditional winemaking style for this fruit-forward red complements regional ‘heart and soul’ cuisine such as bruschetta, calamari, pasta in red or cream sauces and spicier fare. Enjoy slightly chilled.

2011 Natura Organic Syrah Chile  – $25
Intense ruby-red in color, with aromas of blackcurrant, cherries, and notes of smoke and spices, especially black pepper. On the palate, it presents good volume, soft texture and mouth-filling tannins. A complex wine that is easy to drink with a long finish.

2012 Natura Organic Cabernet Sauvignon Chile  – $25
Intense red color with aromas of red fruits such as ripe strawberries and blackberries with spicy notes and a light touch of toast, vanilla, and toffee. On the palate it has well balanced acidity, soft tannins , good structure and a pleasant, fruity finish.

2011 DI Majo Norante Sangiovese  – $25
This Sangiovese exhibits a fresh bouquet of violets, woodland berries, spices and leather. Deliciously smooth, plush and juicy on the palate with loads of ripe fruit.

2011 Tamari Malbec Mendoza, Argentina  – $25
A 100% Malbec wine. Aromas of flowers and fruits, hints of violets and jasmines, ripe red fruits like plums, cherries and chocolate with morello candies. This medium bodied wine is aged in oak which provides its complexity of hazelnuts, almonds and cinnamon. The flavor resembles hints of plums, milk jam, toffee and caramel.

2012 Apothic Dark Limited Red Blend California  – $26 (FS)
This limited release blends dark fruit flavors of blueberry and blackberry with opulent notes of coffee and dark chocolate for a rich yet silky smooth wine experience.

2010 Palladio Chianti Italy  – $26
Ripened by the Tuscan sun this well balanced wine exudes fruit flavors that are backed by elegant tannins.

2010 Paul Mas Estates 100% Carignan Vieilles Vignes  – $26 (FS)
On the nose, spices and blackberry give way to aromas of cherry jam and cocoa over toasted oak notes A full-bodied, rich yet a mellow wine, with delicious velvety tannins and complex flavors.

2008 Castello D’Albola Chianti Italy  – $26
Hints of fruit, vanilla oak on a fruit rich palate of dark cherry.

2011 Michel Picard Beaujolais-Villages 100% Gamay Beaujolais, France  – $26 (FS)
Translucent crimson color. Aromas of toasted nuts, fruit and floral. Taste is predominantly of fresh fruit- cherry and strawberry. A well-balanced and medium-bodied wine. Finish is fresh and smooth, with only a hint of spice.

2010 Candoni Italy Pinot Noir  – $27
Elegantly light, fruit forward and slightly earthy on the palate. It is dry with a good, elegantly balanced structure that lacks all roughness. The bouquet offers scents of red and black currants in combination with refined notes of vanilla. It is a ruby red color that resembles the lush shades of wild berries.

2011 Mark West Pinot Noir from California  – $27 (FS)
Enticing aromas of strawberry and raspberry with barrel notes of caramel, vanilla and baking spices. Oak aging rounds out the palate and gives the wine its body. The wine drinks of deep, concentrated raspberry, cherry pie with a touch of cola berry. The wine shows a juicy fruit texture and subtle oak.

2012 M. Chapoutier Belleruche France Blend  – $27
Rhône, Southern Rhône, Côtes du Rhône. A blend of 60% Grenache and 40% Syrah, this perennial overachiever is peppery and red/black fruit driven Côtes du Rhône that has excellent fruit, a round supple texture there is plenty to love in this wine.

2011 Cryptic Red Blends from California  – $28 (FS)
Elegant and seductive, with red raspberry, cherry and blueberry flavors, notes of roasted coco bean, a hint of vanilla and a touch of mocha on the finish.

2011 One Hope CA Pinot Noir (for PAWS)  – $28
Millions of dogs and cats are waiting to find a loving home. This important issue is close to our heart at The White Dog, half of the profits from each bottle are donated to help animals in need across the country. This Robert Mondavi, Jr. offering is clear and free of sediment, very light red body and nearly clear at the edges. Nose is dominated by red cherries and is quite strong. On the tongue it opens tart with some slightly sour cherries, it has a very round mouth-feel which I am not used to in a Pinot; the 40% new oak is most likely responsible for this.

2011 Purple Cowboy Tenacious Red Paso Robles  – $28
Dark red with hints of purple. Vibrant aromas of crushed red berries and cherries, notes of cola and cinnamon, and a hint of earthiness. Berry flavors explode in the mouth with cinnamon and cassis in the mid-palate leading to slight cocoa powder tannins on the finish. A very rich, full-bodied style.

2011 William Hill / Cabernet Sauvignon / Napa, California  – $28
This Benchmark wine has an exquisite Meritage, is the culmination of our extraordinary estate vineyard. Winemaker Ralf Holdenried carves out the finest blocks of each Cabernet Sauvignon. He then ferments the lots separately, allowing each varietal to express itself individually before evaluating its contribution to the final blend. The result is a multi-dimensional blend with integrated layers of rich flavor.

2009 Las Rocas Garnacha  – $28
The vibrant red color of the Garnacha hints at its rich dark cherry and blackberry aromas and flavors. This well-structured wine integrates nuances of oak with round tannins to deliver a rich palate of decadent fruit flavors. By cold-soaking the grapes prior to fermentation, we extracted the full range of color and flavors softening the mouth-feel and added depth. The wine was then aged in French and American oak barrels for nearly one year.

2010 Chateau Rochet Lamothe Malbec France  – $29 (FS)
Full bodied, but fresh and consistent with good aging ability. Owned by the Roche Family for generations dating back to 1773. Jean Roche is the current proprietor and he puts his pride on the black wine of Cahors by growing and producing high quality and “organic” Malbec wines. Offers immediate pleasure. Terrific with food especially red meats.

Chateau Morrisette The Black Dog Red Blend Virginia  – $29
A unique blend of Cabernet, Chambourcin and Merlot produces this exceptionally smooth semi-dry red wine. Its appealing spicy character and medium body means it’s obviously well bred!

2011 Beaujolais-Villages Louis Jadot France  – $29
Quite deep and dark crimson color. Full mixing floral and fruity flavours (rose, iris, morello cherry, raspberry). Well balanced wine with a fresh and pleasant finally.

2010 Cadet d’Oc Limoux, France / Pinot Noir Baron Philippe De Rothschild  – $29
A lustrous red. The nose fills out on intense fresh fruit aromas, especially ripe black cherry and wild strawberry. The freshness of the attack  combined with well-integrated tannins makes this a very easy drinking wine.

2012 Rio Madre Graciano Rioja  – $30 (FS)
It exhibits slightly riper blackberry fruit intermixed with notions of licorice, wood smoke, camphor and a vivid floral display. These cuvees are aged in French oak prior to bottling. Should drink well for 3-5 years. Spice-accented aromas and flavors of black and blue fruits and cola, with notes of dark chocolate and licorice. Concentrated and powerful on the palate, with a spicy note building with air. Outstanding value here; there are very few all-graciano Riojas made, and they all cost a lot more than this one. Graciano is a Rioja grape which adds so much to the Rioja blend: great color, good acidity, wonderful blue/purple fruited lively fruit. Rarely is it bottled as a single varietal wine, but on the rare occasion that it is, and it’s affordable, it is worth checking out. 91 points Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate

2010 Los Vascos, Cabernet Sauvignon Colchagua, Chile The Domaines of Barons De Rothschild (Lafite) – Non- Reserve $30 / Reserve $38
Cabernet Sauvignon is the classic production of Los Vascos, and is the grape that made the estate famous. The vintages all share a mature and fruity quality, fresh aromas, and a supple and fleshy structure. This wine has a sparkling ruby red color and a pleasantly fruity nose with aromas of black cherries, raspberries and plums, all with a hint of spice. This is a silky, flavorful wine, with a supple tannin structure.

2010 Irony Cabernet Sauvignon  – $30
This small lot Reserve Napa Valley Cabernet opens with wonderfully fresh aromas of blackberry jam, plum and red licorice followed by delicate rose petal notes. This full-bodied wine, with firm tannins and acidity, delivers blackberry and ripe plum flavors coupled with hints of dried sage and sweet vanilla.

2011 Trivento Amado Sur Argentina Malbec  – $30
Amado Sur is a deep red wine with violet hues. Aromas of strawberries and red cherries intertwine with hints of clove and vanilla. Lush red berry flavor gives way to velvety tannins and a pleasant, persistent finish.

2011 Valle Reale Vigneto Vigne Nuove Italy  – $30
Bright ruby-red in color, this youthful red offers explosive aromas of blueberries, cherries, licorice, and sweet spices. On the palate, it is medium-bodied with plentiful acidity and a pleasant finish.

2009 Château De Loudenne from France, Bordeaux  – $31 (FS)
The Loudenne, which consists of grapes from the bottom of the hills of Chateau Loudenne, is the Bordeaux AOC area close to the Medoc appellation. This wine is a subtle blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, offering fruity aromas, which add to the wines freshness. It has the elegance and distinguished reputation of the wines of Chateau Loudenne.

2011 Eyzaguirre Chile / Cabernet Sauvignon  – $32
To protect their precious wine the monks took to wrapping the bottles in burlap sacks; the idea caught on with the winery and became a tradition that has endured to this day. “EZ-GARY” is produced at Viña San Jorge in the prestigious Colchagua Valley, renowned for its near-perfect climate. Dark, violet red. Aromatic profile features fresh and dried cherry plus dried plum, with intriguing notes of dark chocolate and mint. On the palate, the wine is rich, well balanced and approachable with a long, smooth finish. The best Chilean Cabernet for the money hands-down!

2008 Eyzaguirre Chile Syrah  – $32
Intense ruby red color, with complex notes of wild strawberry marmalade, pepper, tobacco and vanilla. Mature tannins create a well-rounded palate with a medium-bodied and pleasant finish.

2010 Chateau Bellevue Grand Vin de Bordeaux French  – $32 (FS)
Deep purple hue. Powerfully structured wine. Limestone terroir apparent. Tight, firm, long finish.

2011 FALESCO Merlot Umbria, Italy  – $32
Deep ruby-red in color, sensual aromas of blackberry and purple fruits complement undertones of tobacco and vanilla. On the palate, velvety tannins and a full body make for a balanced wine with a long, lingering finish. This Merlot jumps from the glass with black fruit, mocha, grilled herbs and spices. This soft, voluptuous wine shows terrific balance and plenty of harmony, especially within its price range. Layers of fruit build to the creamy generous finish.  90 Points The Wine Advocate.

2009 Argiolas Perdera Red Blend from Sardinia, Italy  – $34 (FS)
The 2009 vintage is fabulous. Layers of dark fruit, herbs, spices, and minerals flow from this exuberant, medium to full-bodied offering. Hints of smoke adds further nuance on the finish. This is a hugely rewarding wine for the money. Perdera is a blend of 90% Monica, 5% Carignano and 5% Bovale Sardo. You can enjoy this wine for many years to come. – 90 Points The Wine Advocate

TROUBLEMAKER from Hope Family Vineyard’s  – $36 (FS)
Wine is best made when a winemaker has choices. This philosophy is evident in the Troublemaker, a blend crafted from multiple varietals and vintages. The majority of wine comes from 2011 vintage, with a remaining portion coming from 2010. The younger wine brings forth a youthful vibrancy and freshness while the base vintage adds complexity and structure that completes the wine. Troublemaker is a truly distinct Paso blend consisting of Syrah, Grenache, Mourvedre, Petite Syrah and Zinfandel. By using a multi-vintage approach, winemaker Austin Hope allows the wine to show uncanny complexity in its youth, yet rich and fruit-forward characteristics that make it ready upon release. With rich aromatics that display hints of smoke and violets, bright fruit on the palate and a long finish, Troublemaker shows amazing depth and structure.

2011 Gascon Argentina Malbec  – $35
Aromas of blackberry, plum and a hint of mocha. This elegant wine has dark fruit flavors framed by plush tannins. Finely integrated characteristics of black spice black pepper and maple combine to create a long, velvety finish.

2009 Montes Alpha D.O. Chilean Syrah  – $36
Intense ruby red color, it has enchanting floral aromas accompanied by tobacco and leathery notes. On the palate, it’s powerful and full-bodied with soft and mature tannins and a very long and elegant finish. Alpha Syrah contains 6% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3% Viognier. It spent 12 months in French oak. 91 Points The Wine Advocate

2010 Brazin Old Vine Zinfandel / California  – $36
Big, bold aromas of spice and mocha fill your nose, while intense flavors of plum and chocolate, rich tannins and vanilla mocha notes rock your palate. Brazin is a not a wine to be rushed – don’t be afraid to savor its long, lingering finish. The deep and inky color will alert your senses to fasten their seat belts.

2010 Incognito Red Blend Lodi, CA  – $37
The wine making team at Michael David has worked up an intriguing blend, with multiple complimentary varietals each showing complexity and balance. Made from a Rhone Ranger blend of Petite Sirah, Tannat, Cinsault, Syrah, and Carignan, the Incognito Rouge is a peppery, spicy, earthy, leather-scented effort displaying red and black fruits, medium body and a silky smooth style.

2010 MASI Bonacosta Italy/ Valpolicella  – $37
70% Corvina, 25% Rondinella, 5% Molinara. The Masi’s vineyards soils are made up of red calcareous sediments on basalt. Contact with the skins lasts 16 days for Corvina, 10 days for the other grapes. After fermentation it is put into Slavonian oak barrels. This wine is all about intoxicating your senses from the beginning. There are vanilla and cherries on the nose and a light, smooth palate with minimal tannins. The earthy, almost salty finish gives it complexity that will please any lover of a robust red wine.

2012 Ghost Pines Zinfandel from California  – $37 (FS)
Sourcing from both the Sonoma and San Joaquin appellations allows our winemaker to blend a wine which accentuates the best of what each region has to offer. Sonoma County Zinfandel offers lush fruit, with flavors of savory dark spices and concentrated intensity. The San Joaquin County Zinfandel adds jammy red raspberry and strawberry flavors along with a strong, rich structure. The result is our Ghost Pines Zinfandel, opening with flavors of dark blackberries, raspberry and strawberry jam with a subtle nutty aromas of dried oat and sweet toast. Full and balanced with a long supple finish.

2010 Molly Dooker The Maitre D Cabernet Sauvignon South Australia  – $38
Dark cherry red, with a deep violet hue, this is an incredibly aromatic varietal Cabernet. Showing great intensity with bright berry fruits and mashed raspberry, together with licorice spice and espresso coffee. The palate is vibrant and fresh, building with layers of fruit, toasty oak and fine Cabernet tannins. It finishes with hints of anise spice, dark cocoa and cassis fruit.  90 Points Wine Spectator

2010 Marchesi RUVEI Barbera d’ Alba Italy  – $38
Deep ruby red color with purple hues. Fresh and intense, with less hint of berries, currants and spices. Well mixed with the remaining sensations woody note. Flavor is warm and robust, full bodied, pleasant and harmonious.

2011 MacMurray Ranch Pinot Noir from Central Coast, Ca  – $38 (FS)
Central Coast Pinot Noir opens with classic cool-climate aromas and flavors of delicate cherry, cola and pomegranate, accented by hints of vanilla and oak. The mouthfeel is silky and rewarding. With time to breathe, this wine offers an alluring balance of flavor, acidity and texture. On an interesting note, this vineyard is owned by the man who played the father on the hit TV series “My three sons”

2011 Chateau Coudray Montpensier Chinon Cabernet Franc  – $39 (FS)
This wine is from France’s Loire region, Touraine sub-region and Chinon appellation. Robust scents of black fruit and vanilla. On the palate, fresh, elegant and refined, with soft, fruity, pleasing notes of blackcurrant and spice.. Delicious with white meat, grilled red meat, turkey and a range of hard cheeses such as swiss, cheddar, and gouda.

2008 Darcie Kent Vineyards Petite Sirah,Madden Ranch, California  – $39
A long and fairly cool summer only broken up by the occasional wildfire here in California allowed these berries to mature with time and develop their dark and delicious potential. With aromas of black fruits, blueberries and just a trace of oak, this wine opens up on the palate with a bevy of juicy fruits complimented by depth of flavors and a strong backbone. The wine finishes with length and the full body you’d expect from this unique single vineyard Petite Sirah.

Stimson Washington State in Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot (Magnum/1.5L)  – $39
This fruit-forward, ruby colored Cabernet displays a bouquet of cherries, a bit of black olive and a hint of spice. The wine is soft and balanced with flavors of cherries and toast. Merlot is blended into the wine to add complexity and a supple texture.

2012 Achaval-Ferrer Mendoza Malbec from Argentina, South America  – $39 (FS)
Rich with luscious raspberry and macerated currant, Mendoza Malbec has a dark, juicy finish. This wine is vivid and racy in character.

2011 “Ritual” Pinot Noir Casablanca Valley, Chile  – $39
Listed in the Wine Spectator’s Top 100 Wines. This 2011 opens with striking aromas of black cherries, raspberry and plum. The mid palate is round, soft and elegant with black currant and blueberry notes mingling with hints of cola. Its rich, yet restrained tannins provide depth and lead to a luxurious finish.  92 points Wine Spectator.

2010 Seven Falls Winery Merlot Washington Columbia Valley Wahluke Slope  – $39 (FS)
This wine is a good example of why we are so fond of wines from Washington State. My first impression was sunshine. We can just feel those northern exposure longer days. The resulting wine is so balanced, it almost tastes sweet even though it is totally dry. Solid dark purple color. The nose has plenty of black cherry and blackberry with a good hit of oak. One of those Merlot’s that tastes of chocolate on the finish. Nicely balanced and integrated.

2010 Michael David Petite-Petit Syrah / Blend Lodi, CA  – $42
Like elephants whose size is imposing, Petite Petit is large! A blend of 85% Petite Syrah and 15% Petit Verdot, It is a substantial, dense, full-bodied, whopper style of wine loaded with pure black fruit and vanilla flavors that coat the palate.  It reveals remarkable richness with a finish that is slightly dry and seems to linger.  92 points – Robert Parker

2007 Allegrini Palazzo Della Torre Veronese / Blend  – $43
Deep ruby-red in color, this wine is brimming with notes of dark, dried cherries, blackberries and hints of dates and mocha. Enticing scents of chocolate, espresso, dark fruit, licorice and new leather emerge from the boisterous 2007 Palazzo della Torre. The fruit is sumptuous as always. There is enough balance and elegance in the finish to suggest this will drink well for a number of years. Palazzo della Torre is made from 70% Corvina, 25% Rondinella and 5% Sangiovese, all traditional Veneto grapes. The fermenting juice from those grapes is added to the rest of the juice to give the wine an extra dimension of richness and body.  90 Points The Wine Advocate

2010 J.Lohr Tower Road Petite Sirah Paso Robles, CA  – $44
This is an inky black glass stainer. Aromas and flavors gush forth, showing fresh blackberries and blueberries, mixed with browned butter and nutty characteristics. A creamy mouth-feel leads to a fruit-driven, lightly silty finish.

2011 Scott Family Estate Estate Pinot Noir from California  – $45 (FS)
Very clean, clean sparkling rose hue. Classic varietal nose with cherry, leather, and light tobacco fragrances. Rich and coating on a silky entry with loads of buttery cherry fruit and wonderfully integrated tannins. Tart and tangy on the finish with mulberry, pepper, and leather accents wrapped around a ribbon of cherry-infused acids. – 93 Points The Wine News

2011 NAPA Cellars Napa Valley, CA Zinfandel (Red) – $45
This Zinfandel boasts bright aromas of red berry, cardamom, toasted pie crust and white peppercorn. The aromas lead to rich flavors of warm boysenberry, plum and currant with notes of cranberry on the finish. It is medium-bodied with bright acidity and a smooth juicy mouth-feel that lasts from start to finish.

2011 Smith & Hook Central Coast Cabernet Sauvignon  – $45
Bold aromas rise out of the glass, recalling blackberries and black cherry cola supported by hints of spicy cloves. A rich texture on the palate supported by supple tannins make this wine a perfect combination of finesse and power. Fine grained tannins on the finish give this Cabernet Sauvignon a dryness that nicely complements its broad mouth-feel and lush flavors.

2011 Aquinas Cabernet Sauvignon NAPA, California  – $46
Intriguingly aromatic, this wine opens with bold notes of black raspberry, ripe black cherry, tobacco and the smoky toast of new French oak. A rich array of flavor follows ranging from blackberries and Mexican chocolate to cherry reduction sauce and even a hint of Herbs de Provence. The ripe, full fruit flavors are held in check by its moderate acidity and hearty tannins resulting in a beautifully balanced Cabernet Sauvignon with a toasty wood finish.

2007 SNOQUALMIE Reserve Syrah/ Columbia Valley,Washington  – $47
As harvest nears, Joy is frequently seen tasting and re-tasting in the vineyard, ensuring that the fruit’s quality and structure is worthy of a Reserve designation. In the bottle, these wines offer elegant complexity with plenty of structure to endure the test of time. Snoqualmie produces a very limited quantity of Reserve.

2010 Torcicoda Tormarescs Primitivo Salento Pugila, Italy  – $47
Torcicoda confirms its position as one of the finest Primitivo wines of Puglia. Elegant, focused, and precise, it shows notes of liquorish and balsamic sensations, is long on the palate, and is endowed with fine fruit without excessive sweetness. – 90 Points wine Awarded the coveted “Tre Bicchieri” from Gambero Rosso!

2011 If U See Kay Cabernet Blend Lazio, Italy  – $48
You will know in no uncertain terms that you are drinking a massive red from an Ancient land – largely Cabernet-based, a touch of Petite Verdot and Primitivo. This wine has amazing aroma yet soft, creamy, juicy, rich, and powerful all at the same time. A dark and brooding wine, hints of imminent danger, ripe with confidence and purpose on a mission; more than a mouthful, but never wasteful – like juicy ripe blackberries dripping from your hands, so perfectly ripe that you have to go back again and again for another taste.

2008 Murphy-Goode Dealers Choice Alexander Valley, CA Cabernet Sauvignon  – $49
Like playing poker with friends, the dealer chooses which game to share. In my case as a restaurateur I chooses which wines to share with my guest, in this case I chose the Terra A Lago vineyard in Alexander Valley. I love the play of blackberry and thyme aromas over the black cherry and toasty vanilla notes. This one is full of dense, rich tannins that should be great for years to come. This has the cushioned softness and the green peppery character of Alexander Valley cabernet, finishing smooth and gentle. 93 Points Wine & Spirits

2009 Peppoli Chianti Classico Italy  – $49
A sophisticated Chianti Classico with fine ripeness, this shows juicy Morello cherry flavors along with dark notes of roast coffee, mace and nutmeg. Its firm black tannins guarantee excellent drinkability. Blend of 90% Sangiovese, 10% Merlot and Syrah.  90 Points Wine & Spirits

2008 Marqués De Riscal Reserva / Spain  – $49
Made from grapes from tempranillo vines over 15 years’ old, grown in the best clay-limestone soils of the Rioja Alavesa. This variety withstands oak- and bottle ageing well thanks to its good balance of acidity and fine tannin. Riscal reservas spend around two years in American-oak casks, producing a wine which corresponds to the classic Rioja style: fresh, fine, elegant and very suitable for laying down for many years. Cherry-red colour, Spicy, balsamic aromas of great complexity, with notes of ripe dark berries and light toasted nuances. On the palate it is full and tasty, with good structure and rounded, elegant tannins. If you haven’t tried a Rioja wine yet then you do not know what you are missing!

2010 Chateau Les Cadrans de Lassegue Bordeaux Red Blend from St Emilion Bordeaux, France  – $49 (FS)
A great vintage – this wine has a dark, deep color with very vibrant and lively fruit flavors. This Les Cadrans has an amazing elegance, with well-integrated, round, silky tannins and barrel aging that are almost undetectable.

2011 Educated Guess Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon  – $51
Cabernet Sauvignon’s rich, ripe and focused with juicy blackberry and cherry fruit, cocoa and hints of mint all tied together with a creamy french vanilla middle and a finish that in a word lingering. Educated Guess fills all the requirements that a serious cabernet lover is looking for, while remaining fun, approachable, and food friendly.

2010 Molly Dooker Two Left Feet Shiraz Blend South Australia – $52
Deep crimson-purple, this wine brings together the best of these varieties – a big fruit impact, fine tannin structure, fresh acidity and silky texture this is a seamless wine showing incredible depth and amazing length. With an array of fruit, blackcurrant, berries and plum accompanied by lifted oak, vanilla and warm spice this wine is a journey not to be missed. Two Left Feet is rich and generous, a harmonious blend with a persistent finish. A blend of 72% Shiraz, 12% Cabernet Sauvignon and 16% Merlot. 94 Points The Wine Advocate

2008 Achaval-Ferrer Finca Mirador from Argentina, South America  – $57 (FS)
The nose is more expressive than the Finca Bella Vista with cassis and blueberry aromas imbued with a sorbet like freshness and vivacity. After 20 minutes, the palate is medium-bodied with very fine tannins and a surprising sense of reserve and sophistication that could probably show Bordeaux a few lessons in restraint! It draws you in to its complexity and its precise, delineated finish of black currant pastille, sea salt and crushed stone that lingers long in the mouth. This is an outstanding Argentinean Malbec. Great till at least 2035 – 96 Points Wine Spectator 95 Points The Wine Advocate

2010 Round Pond Napa Cabernet Sauvignon  – $58
The Estate is full of freshly cut flowers, violets, menthol crushed rocks and dark red cherries. There is a level of freshness and pure vibrancy in the 2010 that previous vintages don’t have, most likely the result of the long, cool growing season. The balance of fruit, acidity and tannin is first-class. Nothing is out of place.  92 points Wine Advocate

2010 CROGNOLO Sangiovese Blend Toscana, Italy  – $58
Intense ruby red in color with a fruity, spicy bouquet and ripe cherry and berries on the palate. Sangiovese dominates this blend, with cherry flesh and cherry pit flavors alongside scents of pressed flowers. It’s deepened by merlot and cabernet, adding blacker fruit and herb scents. It ends on cool, fruit-derived tannins and a soft touch of older wood. – 90 Points Wine & Spirits

2009 Louis M. Martini Cabernet Sauvignon / Napa Valley  – $58
This Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon exhibits a deep burgundy color with aromas of dark fruits, smoky cedar and dried herbs. Concentrated flavors of black cherry and blackberry are framed nicely by cedar and toast notes on the finish. Rich and broad in the mouth, this wine has a long finish with an expansive palate. This is a well structured and balanced wine that is medium-to-full-bodied.

2010 Lucente SuperTuscan Blend  – $59
Robert Mondavi of California and Vittorio Frescobaldi of Tuscany joined hands to create an Italian wine of extraordinary quality; the venture was hailed as a momentous one, along the lines of Mondavi’s collaboration with Baron Phillipe de Rothschild to create Opus One in 1978. Their partnership was the first of its kind in Italy, and their premier offering was Lucente Super Tuscan. – 91 Points The Wineguys

2009 Concha Y Toro Terrunyo Cabernet Sauvignon Chile  – $62
This glorious wine looks Inky colored. The legs are slow. The scent of Blackberry, Black currant, and Violet persists throughout. The body is full and has a Smooth texture. This is one of the best Chilean wines I have even had the pleasure of drinking and it’s at an unbelievable close-out price!  90 Points International Wine Cellar

2002 Vina Sena  – $65  (formally a $200 wine, vineyard now closed) (FS)
A strong very full bodied Bordeaux Red Blends from Chile, South America The 2002 Seña captures the essential elements of the Seña style: perfect balance, ripe fruit, complexity on the nose and elegance on the palate. Black cherry, blackberry and blueberry are accented by spicy notes of sandalwood and cedar, with rich undertones of freshly turned earth and cocoa. The aging in new French oak contributed integrated notes of whole vanilla bean and toast. Spicy, chalky tannins create a lively sensation on the palate. The wine fills the mouth on entry and carries through to a long finish. The big tannin structure should allow the wine to age very well and continue to gain in complexity for at least twenty years. This is not a wine for the faint-of-heart!

2006 Chateau Loudenne Bordeaux Medoc France  – $66
This wine has an expressive, toasted nose with a slight vanilla note. Richness and finesse follows the fresh and straightforward attack. It has a long-lasting finish on the fruit, leaving a pleasant freshness in mouth.

2010 Beringer Knights Valley Napa Blend Cabernet Sauvignon  – $69
Knights Valley is endowed with serious minerality and tension. Firm tannins support an expressive core of dark red fruit, savory herbs, all of which come to life in a vibrant Cabernet Sauvignon long on personality and character. This is a serious wine for the money. The blend is 93% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Merlot and 3% Cabernet Franc. – 91 Points The Wine Advocate

2008 Kenwood Artist Series 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from Sonoma County, California  – $69 (FS)
There was a time when Kenwood’s Artist Series bottlings were among Sonoma’s very best Cabernets, and the 2008 version is a return to form that stands as the winery’s finest in years. It leads with precise, carefully composed aromas of cherries, cassis, root beer and sweet spice, and it makes good on its aromatic promise with long, well-defined flavors that are extracted without being the least bit heavy. Things do tighten up in the latter going of this eminently age-worthy wine, and it deserves a good 5 to 6 years of forbearance before enjoying. 93 Points Connoisseurs’ Guide

2010 Michael David Inkblot Cabernet Franc Lodi, CA  – $76
One of the few Cabernet Franc’s produced from Lodi, this varietal originated from the Bordeaux and Loire Valley regions of France. The grapes for this wine come from a 25 year old, 9 acre vineyard. The wine displays a pronounced perfume with notes of raspberries, black currant, violet, and graphite. A truly great Cab Franc.

2006 Cantine Leonardo Brunello Di Montalcino Italy  – $78
This purple-red wine opens with intense aromas of blackberry, blackcurrant and cherries. It is rich and full-bodied on the palate, with soft flavors that echo the fruity aromas. This wine is well-balanced with a pleasing finish. Dried flowers and dried mushrooms with hints of berries on the nose with silky and polished tannins and a nutmeg, milk chocolate and berry aftertaste.  92 Points Wine Enthusiast

2009 Sequoia Grove Napa Cabernet Sauvignon  – $78
Dark black in color, the nose gives aromas of fresh raspberries and ripe, red cherries with notes of vanilla and cocoa powder. Background notes come through over time of roasted coffee bean. The palate is smooth and rich with ripe, developed tannins giving the wine a full arc in the mouth and giving flavors of blackberry and a hint of smoky, sweet oak.

2008 Mazzei Cabernet Sauvignon “Philip” Toscana – $79 (FS)
Partnership between Thomas Jefferson, one of America’s Founding Fathers, and Philip Mazzei, an influential figurehead in both European and American history. The Cabernet from Belguardo gives the wine a mineral character, elegance and finesse, while the Cabernet from Fonterutoli lends aromatic complexity, depth of color and a powerful structure. Aging 24 months in small French and American oak barrels with 30% new oak. Color Deep, dark purple Bouquet Intriguing black cherry, balsamic herbs, coffee and lightly toasted oak Taste Harmonious flavors of dark fruit, dried flowers, chocolate and vanilla. Exotic, complex character, full bodied with polished, velvety tannins, and a long, smooth finish.

2008 Banfi Brunello di Montalcino Castello Tuscany, Italy  – $99
Beautiful ruby red in color. The bouquet is complex, with aromas of plum and ripe cherry that, with a short aeration, yield to hints of coffee, licorice and tobacco. The structure is full, with tannins well present and supported by lively acidity that gives freshness and length with aromas of spice, dark fruit, leather, tobacco, cola and rum cake. The wine shows smooth power and polish in alcohol and consistency. 91 Points Wine Enthusiast

2008 Chimney Rock Cabernet Sauvignon / Napa Valley  – $108
The Stags Leap District comprises some of the most coveted vineyard land in the world for Cabernet Sauvignon. In our pursuit to produce unique wines of exceptional and world-class quality, we have developed and managed the Chimney Rock Winery estate vineyards into a sustainable standard bearer for Cabernet Sauvignon. Finely structured with supple tannins that make this wine approachable upon release, known for its perfect balance of power and finesse, Chimney Rock Cabernet Sauvignon is consistently praised and highly sought by collectors.

2009 Cakebread Napa Blend Cabernet Sauvignon  – $119
Mission fig aromas comprise the fresh, fruitful nose. The first sip of the wine reveals a big, boldly structured Cabernet with deeply concentrated black fruit flavors and intriguing loamy and mineral-y tones that add wonderful dimension and complexity. Boasting an undercurrent of soft, plush fruit that will emerge further with aging, this is a sophisticated, yet approachable Napa Valley Cabernet. Creamy vanilla-tinged oak cloaks dried currant and berry fruit, graphite and crushed rock, firming nicely on the finish. A true to form Cakebread Cabernet. Blend: 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc, and 3% Petit Verdot.  91 Points Wine Spectator

2009 OPUS ONE Bordeaux Red Blends Napa Valley, California  – $297
Aromas of black olive and minerals underlie more traditional notes of dark chocolate, cola and espresso. Showing flavors of ripe blueberry, cassis and licorice, this age-worthy wine simultaneously offers a smooth finish and a slight grip of tannin at the close. Wild, flamboyantly expressive aromas of black raspberry, crystallized blackberry, smoke, leather, licorice, lifted by violet and spices. Smooth, mouth-filling and decidedly dry, with a lightly dusty character to its flavors of dark fruits, minerals and game. The broad, very long finish features building tannins. Blend: 81% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Cabernet Franc, 6% Petit Verdot, 3% Merlot, 1% Malbec.  93 Points International Wine Cellar

1994 Chateau Mouton Rothschild Bordeaux Red Blends Pauillac, Bordeaux, France – $595 (wholesale auction prices have ranged in 2013 from $529 to $787)
A superb Mouton, the 2005 is composed of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Merlot, and a dollop of Cabernet Franc. Under the new administrator, Philippe Dalhuin, the strictest selection of any recent vintage was instituted (64% of the production was used), and the 2005’s 13.5% natural alcohol is one of the highest ever achieved at this estate.  96 Points The Wine Advocate

1994 Chateau Lafite-Rothschild Bordeaux Red Blends Pauillac, Bordeaux, France  – $778 (wholesale auction prices have ranged in 2013 from $729 to $1,193)
Deep color. An intense, delicate, subtle and complex nose. Very neat and regular on the palate upon attack leading to volume and a nicely round structure. Immensely powerful, great length, density and elegance. Initially dense, almost black enough to be attacked with a knife. But then it becomes apparent that this is a beautifully integrated, balanced wine, bringing together power, with the hallmark Lafite style and poise. In the end, you have a wine that promises an impressive aging potential along with delicious black currant fruits, acidity and a layer of striking tannins.99 Points Wine Enthusiast, International Wines, Wine Advocate & Wine Spectator

 ∞ WHITES ∞

2009 Covey Run Chardonnay from Columbia Valley, Washington – $20 (FS)
Flavors of crisp green apple, pear, tropical fruit and spice are enhanced by subtle notes of vanilla and toast. This Chardonnay is nice as an aperitif, as well as a great food wine. Try serving it with soft creamy cheeses, fish, chicken dishes and other light fare. Blend: 93% Chardonnay, 4.5% Semillon, 1.5% Pinot Gris, 0.5% Viognier, 0.5% Chenin Blanc

2011 Gnarly Head  – $21
Authentic White California – A big blend of Lodi and Monterey Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Colombard, Muscat, and Viognier. Fresh with light peach and mango notes. Easygoing, good acidity, but not too tart. A real thirst-quencher. The surprisingly long finish offers notes of vanilla and lemon. Great balance overall.

2011 Bex Riesling from Germany  – $24 (FS)
Aaromas of lemon cream, orange marmalade and honeysuckle flowers. Enjoy fresh tangerine and apricot fruit notes with a hint of whipped cream essence and perhaps a note of cucumber. On the palate, it is refreshing, clean and shows lemon citrus with a slight sweetness. Faint lemon grass and mineral aromas may trigger memories of summer rains.

2012 Maculan Pino & Toi White Blends from Veneto, Italy  – $26 (FS)
Refreshing with hints of citrus. Excellent balance between ripeness, acidity and structure. Recommended as an aperitif, with antipasti, pasta and light white meats. Also excellent with seafood. Made from 60% Tocai, 25% Pinot Bianco and 15% Pinot Grigio

2011 One Hope Sauvignon Blanc  – $26
This Sauvignon Blanc is hand-crafted in partnership with Rob Mondavi, Jr. from select vineyards in Napa Valley, Sonoma County and California’s Central Coast. Boasting a pale, golden color and flavors of pink grapefruit and bright, grassy undertones, this distinctive wine is fermented in stainless steel barrels, it is light, refreshing and finishes very crisp.  ONEHOPE donates HALF of the profits from sales of its Sauvignon Blanc to benefit American Forests.

2012 M. Chapoutier Belleruche France Rose  – $27
Côtes-du-Rhône region makes this wonderful summer wine, light salmon pink color with notes of red fruits, currant, raspberry and cherry. Fresh tasting with well-balanced and round finish.

2012 Barboursville Vineyards Pinot Grigio Virginia  – $27 (FS)
Romantic and youthful-spirited, in a true expression of Italian winemaking style. Extremely flavorful, with apple, pear, and a touch of pineapple. Dry and well-balanced, with a glowing and intriguingly gentle finish.

2010 Irony Chardonnay  – $27
This elegant Chardonnay has medium body and rich mouth-feel. It is well balanced and has a lingering finish. Flavors are complex yet restrained, reminiscent of pear, lemon, white peach and melon, with overtones of coconut, vanilla and spice.

011 Leonard Kreuseh Riesling  – $28
The Mosel, Saar and Ruwer rivers provide the region with the microclomate needed to produce quality Riesling wines. The combination of extended daylight and a growing season which extends into October, making the vineyards of Germany the ideal home for the noble Riesling wine.

2011 Bertani Velante Pinot Gris/Grigio from Veneto, Italy  – $29 (FS)
The color is pale gold. On the nose the wine displays a complex bouquet of golden apple, ripe pear and peach, while on the palate the wine carries through the same fruit aromas. The wine is medium-bodied and dry with refreshing acidity.

2010 Castle Rock Chardonnay  – $29 (FS)
This elegant Chardonnay offers a rich, ripe and fruity character with a delicious blending of vanilla, pear, citrus and melon flavors, subtle oak undertones and a long, balanced finish. In any season this Chardonnay will complement most cuisines and is an especially pleasing accompaniment to fish, poultry and lightly sauced entrees.

2011 Chateau St Michelle Columbia Valley Gewurztraminer  – $32
Fresh and soft, this brims with spicy pineapple and floral flavors, finishing with mild sweetness.

2012 La Crema Monterey Pinot Gris/Grigio from Central Coast, California  – $32
Bright yet balanced, this wine opens with aromas of fresh white peach, Meyer lemon and subtle floral hints. The lush palate is layered with flavors of ripe pear, yellow plum, baking spice and exotic tropical notes. Mineral undertones are evident in the lengthy finish, further defining this wine as classic Monterey.

2011 Argiolas Vermentino White Blends from Sardinia, Italy – $33
Costamolino is lemon-green in color with intense yet delicate aromas of citrus, pineapple, tropical fruits and honey. On the palate, the wine shows a delightfully zesty acidity, which makes it the wine of choice for many dishes.

2011 Scott Family Estate Chardonnay from Central Coast, California  – $35
It is a wine with abundant aromas of apricot, pear, papaya, white peach and Meyer lemon zest with perfumed citrus blossoms, vanilla and toasty oak. Aged for nine months on French oak, 45% malolatic fermentation – sur lees aging. This Chardonnay is reputed to be the most flavorful Chardonnay among the coolest growing regions of California. With such outstanding grapes, aromatic elegance, opulent flavors and an exceedingly long, balanced finish. Brilliant yellow-gold hue. Apple, peach and pineapple flavors with a light floral accent. Ripe, tasty apple and pear fruit with an attractive, supple texture. Sweet, lengthy finish with a caramel apple-like richness. 92 Points The Wine News

2011 Incognito White Blend Lodi, CA  – $36
A concoction of Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Muscat, and Viognier aged in stainless steel, offers a big perfume of tropical fruit and honey. This fruit bomb is light on its feet and its crisp acidity nicely balances the intensely fruity character. This wine was awarded “Best Rhone in the World” as a Roussanne at the Los Angeles International Wine Competition.

2012 Maso Canali Pinot Gris/Grigio from Trentino-Alto Adige, Italy  – $37 (FS)
This Maso Canali Pinot Grigio displays a brilliant pale golden color indicative of its crisp, citrus aromas and floral notes. Ripe nectarine and light citrus flavors are enhanced by a rich mouthfeel that is achieved from drying our grapes on racks. This full-flavored, dry white wine has a crisp finish that makes it a harmonious pairing for seafood and light poultry dishes.

2011 Franciscan Sauvignon Blanc from Napa Valley, California  – $38 (FS)
Pale straw in color. The aromas are right and inviting, with intense lime, grapefruit, and pear fruit aromas, enticing mineral notes, and hints of star jasmine and vanilla. Perfumed and appealing. The flavors are clean, crisp, and refreshing, with complex layers of Meyer lemon, lime zest, and honeydew. Lively on the palate, the bright fruit is rounded by a generous body and mouth-feel. Bright citrus and mineral notes linger on the long, smooth finish.

Stimson Washington State Chardonnay (Magnum/1.5L)  – $38
This fruit-forward, juicy Chardonnay delivers aromas of ripe apple, melon and a touch of caramel. Crisp acidity is balanced nicely with a hint of toasty oak.

2011 TRINCHERO Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc  – $39
Mary’s Vineyard is a warm place to grow aromatic whites, the wine is fermented entirely in stainless steel, with no oak this makes the wines clean and refreshing. It is unmistakably Sauvignon Blanc with hints of minerality, yet boasts warm Napa Valley floral and tropical aromas with white peach and orange blossom flavors complimented by a round mouth-feel and touch of citrus on the finish.

2010 Clos Du Bois Calcaire Russian River Valley Chardonnay  – $48
The full-bodied Calcaire, brilliant silver straw in hue, has intense aromas of apple, pear, lemon zest and tangerine with hints of vanilla and caramelized sugar and well-integrated oak spice. Bright, vibrant flavors of pear, apple and citrus over a core of minerality are layered with touches of brown spice and nuances of cream. This delicious Chardonnay has a rich, silky texture and long finish and is blessed by balanced acidity and structure, which will allow it to develop additional complexity with bottle age.

2011 Antica Chardonnay, Napa Valley  – $55
This Napa Valley Chardonnay is pure, fresh, and complex. Aromas of crushed stone fruit are interwoven with flavors of pear, apple, white peach, and a signature terroir-driven minerality. Hazelnut and vanilla add layers of intensity and intrigue.

2011 Franciscan Cuvee Sauvage Napa Valley Chardonnay  – $69
Delicate lemon yellow, an opulent buttery wine, complex bouquet of honeyed Fuji apple, ripe pear, honeysuckle, vanilla, and a hint of fresh citrus wafts out of the glass with creamy undertones of melon and minerality.  Full bodied, yet elegant and graceful, it opens with sweet ripe pear, honeysuckle, and vanilla bean, it evolves into lush layers of baked apple, crème brûlée, honey, and citrus on a foundation of fresh cream. Persistent, rich, citrus-infused finish.

∞   Champagne / Proseccos / Sparkling Wines  ∞

Korbel California Brut  – $25
A dry yet crisp sparkling wine wine that is light, refreshing and very easy to like. Features flavors of citrus, melon and spice.

Lamarca Italy Prosecco D.O.C.  – $28
This sparkling wine is a pale, golden straw in color. Bubbles are full textured and persistent. On the nose the wine brings fresh citrus with hints of honey and white flowers. The flavor is fresh and clean, with ripe citrus, lemon, green apple, and touches of grapefruit, minerality, and some toast. The finish is light, refreshing, and crisp.

Poema Rose & Brut Cava Non-Vintage from Spain   – $29 (FS)
Vibrant aromas of ripe peaches, pears and toasted bread with a hint of spice fill the nose. The palate is dry with a rich, creamy texture. Layers of flavor include orange rind and spice that persists through an elegant finish.

Ruffino Prosecco Non-Vintage from Tuscany, Italy  – $33 (FS)
Bright straw yellow with fine bubbles. The bouquet is fragrant and intensely fruity. It shows clean notes of apples, pears and citrus, accompanied by slight hints of hawthorn, wisteria and elder. Crisp, clean and delicate with fine bubble caressing. Intense sensations of apples and peaches drive a pleasant aftertaste, that is reminiscent of fruity and floral aromas.

Bottega Venettian Prosecco Gold  – $58
Venetian Gold, sounds so glamorous, it’s not the precious metal, but an Italian sparkling wine in a glittering golden bottle from the Bottega winery of Italy. It is light and fruity sparkling wine, could be served as aperitif or enjoy with a meal.

2000 Dom Perignon Champagne France  – $197
Fresh, crystalline, and sharp, the first nose unveils an unusual dimension, This 2000 Brut Dom Perignon is a gorgeous, seductive wine that floats on the palate with remarkable grace. Toasty aromas meld into freshly cut flowers, apricots and pears, with sweet notes of mint and licorice that linger on the long finish. This perfumed, inviting Dom Perignon is elegance personified, and in this vintage the wine fully merits its lofty reputation. 97 Points Australian Wine Companion, Wine Enthusiast, Wine Spectator

We often have additional special buy wines on a monthly bases in addition to our regular selections.
If you have any questions please ask to speak with Mac to discuss your wine needs.

 *(FS) is designated for “Featured Selection” and/or Limited availability Wines

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