Please Note:
Our wine list is a dynamic affair and almost daily, wines are added or removed. Many wines are from small, independant producers that are only made in very small quantities or are rare and allocated items that are difficult or impossible to replace. Please forgive any discrepancies between what is listed here and what is in-stock when you visit the restaurant. If you have specififc questions or requests, I would be more than happy to speak to you.
Jim Mullen 732 846 3216 ext 15
Wines by the Glass
Sparkling
Prosecco, Bella Costa, Veneto, Italy, N.V. 11.50
Cava, Albet i Noya, Penedes, Spain, N.V.. 13.00
Champagne, Heidsieck, ‘Monopole Blue Top’, Brut, France, N.V... 18.00
White Wines
Picpoul de Pinet, Reine de Juliette, Coteaux de Languedoc, France, 2009 9.00
Muri-Gries Müller Thurgau, Alto Adige, Italy, 2009 10.00
Vouvray, Clos Palet, Chenin Blanc, Loire, France, 2008 10.50
Riesling Spätlesese, ‘Trittenheimer Apotheke’, Bernard Eifel, Mosel, Germany, 2007 11.50
Lageder, Pinot Grigio, Dolomiti, Italy, 2008 11.50
Chablis, Patrick Puize, ‘Terroir de Chablis’, Chardonnay, France, 2008 13.00
Geyser Peak Chardonnay, Alexander Valey, California, 2008 13.50
Rosé Wines
Rousseau Frères, Pinot Noir/Pinot Gris/Pinot Meunier, Touraine Noble Joué, Loire, France, 2008 8.50
‘Il Mimo’ Cantalupo, Rosato di Nebbiolo, Colline Novaresi, Italy, 2008 11.00
Moulin La Viguerie, Grenache/Cinsault/Syrah, ‘Les Falaises de Braise, Tavel, Rhône, France 2007 11.50
Red Wines
Auroch, Tempranillo, Viños de Tribu, Toro, Spain, 2007 9.00
Côtes-du-Rhône, Domaine Pelaquie, Syrah/Grenache, France, 2007 10.00
Desierto, Cabernet Franc, Alto Valle del Rio Colorado, Argentina 2005 10.50
Celebration, Beaujolais Villages, Gamay, France 2008 11.00
Bandol, La Tour du Bon, 'Revolution', Mourvedre/Grenache, Provence, France, 2006 11.50
‘Tarì’, Antonio Caggiano, Irpinia Aglianico, Italy, 2007 12.00
St. Émilion, Château Pistouley, Merlot/Cabernet Franc, France, 2007 12.50
Joseph Roty, Bourgogne, Rouge 'Pressonnier', Pinot Noir, France 2001 14.00
Melville Pinot Noir, Estate ‘Verna’s’, Santa Barbara, 2008 16.00
Ferrari Carano Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley, California, 2006 17.00
A Short List of Great Values at Reduced Prices
White Wines
99 Corbières Blanc, Faillenc Ste. Marie, Languedoc, France, 2007 33
30 Bordeaux Blanc, Château Ducasse, France, 2008 33
81 Rocca Bernarda, Friulano, Colli Orientali de Friuli, Italy, 2006 35
26 Gewürztraminer, Barth René, Alsace, France, 2007 34
72 Viognier, Ascheri, Montelupa Langhe Piedmont, Italy, 2004 36
37 Itsas Mendi, Hondurrabi Zuri, Bizkaiko Txakolina, País Vasco, Spain, 2008 36
41 Riesling, Barth René, Alsace, France, 2007 37
97 Fillaboa Alberiño, Rias Baixas, Spain, 2007 39
98 Chablis, ‘Fourchaume’ Premier Cru, Savary, France, 2006 63
27 Kongsgaard Chardonnay, Napa, California, 2005 150
Red Wines
217 Corbières, Domaine de Fontsainte, 2006 28
153 Chénas, Hubert Lapierre, Beaujolais, France, 2007 32
155 Morellino di Scansano, Moris Farms, Tuscany, Italy, 2007 33
119 Kartäuserhof ‘Decimo’, Zweigelt/Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir), Wachau, Austria, 2005 34
264 Côtes-du-Rhône, Saint Cosme, Syrah, Rhone, France, 2008 36
102 ‘Estay’, Dominio Dostares, Prieto Picudo, Castilla y Leon, Spain, 2006 36
221 Bourgogne Rouge, V. Girardin, ‘Emotion de Terroirs’, France, 2005 38
140 Faugères, Leon Barral, languedoc, France, 2006 39
131 Auroch, Tempranillo, Viños de Tribu, Toro, Spain, 2007 40
203 Pian del Ciampolo, Montvertine, Toscana IGT, 2007 45
224 Cerasuolo di Vittoria, Valle Dell’Acate, Sicily, Italy, 2006 46
109 Lussac-St. Émilion, Château Fleur de Poitou, France, 2005 47
242 Pinuaga Tempranillo, Castilla, Spain, 2005 51
144 Saint-Romain, ‘Sous Roche’, Buisson, Burgundy, France, 2006 53
210 Chambolle-Musigny, Hudelot-Baillet, Burgundy, France, 2005 82
175 Châteauneuf-Du-Pape, Moulin Tacussel, France, 2000 84
323 Cornas, Auguste Clape, France, 2002 85
100 Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma, California, 2005 88
206 Pommard, ‘Clos de La Commaraine’, Premier Cru, Louis Jadot, France, 2003 110
Half Bottles
Champagne
402 Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin, Brut ‘Yellow Label’, Champagne, France, N.V. 53.00
404 Heidsieck, ‘Monopole Blue Label’, Brut, Champagne, France, N.V. 47.00
White
408 Tiefenbrunner, Pinot Grigio, Venezie, Italy, 2008 18.00
405 Pouilly-Fumé, Tinel-Blondelet, Loire , France, 2006 22.00
416 Trimbach Riesling, Alsace, France, 2006 25.00
406 Rully, D’Allaines, Burgundy, France, 2007 25.00
414 Sonoma Cutrer, Chardonnay, Russian River, California, 2007 27.00
409 Chablis, F. & O. Savary, Burgundy, France, 2006 27.00
415 P. Blanck Tokay Pinot Gris, Alsace, France, 2005 32.00
420 P. Blanck, Gewurztraminer, Alsace, France, 2007 33.00
413 Selbach-Oster, Riesling Spätlese, Mosel-Saar-Ruwer, Germany, 2007 36.00
411 Grgich Hills, Fume Blanc, Napa, California, 2007 41.00
423 Chassagne-Montarchet, Louis Jadot, Burgundy, France, 2007 48.00
424 Grgich Hills, Chardonnay, Napa, California, 2006 52.00
Red
511 Chianti Classico, Fèlsina ‘Berardenga’, Tuscany, Italy, 2006 30.00
501 Château La Croix Bellevue, Lalande de Pomerol, Bordeaux, France, 2005 36.00
509 Cristom Pinot Noir, ‘Mt. Jefferson’, Oregon, 2007 40.00
505 Maranges ‘Le Croix Moines’, Premier Cru, Camille Giroud, Burgundy,
France, 2002 43.00
515 Ridge Vineyards Zinfandel, ‘Lytton Springs’, Sonoma, California, 2006 45.00
513 Châteauneuf-Du-Pape, Lucien Barrot, Rhône, France, 2007 50.00
503 Cornas, F. Balthasar, ‘Chaillot’, Rhône, France, 2006 51.00
515 Pommard, ‘Les Epenots’ Premier Cru, Camille Giroud, Burgundy, France, 2006 52.00
514 Faust Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa, California, 2005 58.00
522 Morey St. Denis, ‘Les Chaffots’ Premier Cru, L &A Lignier, Burgundy, France, 2006 66.00
512 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico, Tommasi, Veneto, Italy, 2004 72.00
521 Barolo ‘La Rocca é La Pira’, Roagna, Piedmont, Italy, 2001 75.00
519 Shafer ‘One Point Five’ Cabernet Sauvignon, Stags Leap, California, 2006 78.00
507 Quintessa, Cabernet Blend, Rutherford, California, 2005 110.00
Full Bottles
Champagne and Sparkling
Half Bottles
402 Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin, Brut ‘Yellow Label’, Champagne, France, N.V. 53.00
404 Heidsieck, ‘Monopole Blue Label’, Brut, Champagne, France, N.V. 47.00
Non-Vintage
15 Schramsberg, Mirabelle, Brut, North Coast, California, N.V. 40.00
Prosecco, Bella Costa, Veneto, Italy, N.V. 42.00
6 Moutard, Brut ‘Grand Cuvée’, Champagne, N.V. 70.00
The economic model for Champagne is what in Burgundy is known as the ‘negociant’ system. The great houses (the ‘Grand Marquees’) buy the vast majority of their grapes or juice from thousands of small landholders/growers and then maintain a house style though the blending of these many, many sources. The Moutard-Diligent family are growers and producers who offer a Champagne they have grown and made themselves. ‘Grower Champagne’, as it is called, enable the winemaker to control all stages of the process, from cultivation of the vine to bottling, creating what many observers feel is a more interesting, hand-crafted product. The Moutard is an excellent example: made from 100% Pinot Noir, it’s big and full-flavored but at the same time, very elegant. Great value for the price.
17 Heidsieck, ‘Monopole Blue Label’, Brut, Champagne, France, N.V. 72.00
7 Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin, Brut ‘Yellow Label’, Champagne, France, N.V. 100.00
00 Bollinger, ‘Special Cuvée’, Champagne, France, N.V. 104.00
4 Moët & Chandon, Brut Rosé, Champagne, France, N.V. 115.00
11 Laurent-Perrier, Rosé Brut, Champagne, France, N.V. 144.00
Laurent-Perrier is known for the exceptional quality of their rosé (and for the beauty of it’s 17th century-style bottle)
Vintage
10 Laurent-Perrier, ‘Brut Millésimé’, Champagne, France, 1996. 110.00
9 Moët & Chandon, ‘Millésime Blanc’, Champagne, France, 1999 128.00
2 Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin, Champagne, France, 2002 125.00
3 Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin, Rosé, Champagne, France, 2002 138.00
Tête de Cuvée
12 Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin, ‘La Grande Dame’, Champagne, France, 1998 260.00
5 Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin, ‘La Grande Dame’, Champagne, France, 1995 290.00
14 Moët & Chandon, ‘Dom Pérignon’, Champagne, France, 2000 250.00
1 Moët & Chandon, ‘Dom Pérignon’, Champagne, France, 1999 270.00
White Wines
Sauvignon Blanc and Chenin Blanc
39 Stoneleigh, Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, New Zealand, 2006 39.00
34 Vouvray ‘Sec’, Champalou, Loire, France, 2007 43.00
Although not much grown in the U.S., in the limestone vineyards of Vouvray and Savennieres, the Chenin Blanc grape makes some of the finest, most long-lasting white wines in France. These wines are a perfect alternative to Chardonnay; rich but elegant with a bouquet of orange flowers, honey, caramel and green apple. Didier Champalou owns a small domaine, using sustainable agriculture to produce a range of styles: from the dry ‘sec’ to the sweet and honeyed ‘moelleux’.
22 Pouilly Fumé, Régis Minet, ‘Vieille Vignes’, Loire, France, 2007 45.00
29 Sancerre, Domaine Reverdy-Ducroux, Loire, France, 2008 49.00
35 Savennieres, ‘Les Clos Sacrés ’, Nicholas Joly, Loire, France, 2006 78.00
54 Savennieres, ‘Clos De la Bergerie’, Nicholas Joly, Loire, France, 2005 85.00
71 Cloudy Bay, Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, New Zealand, 2008 66.00
32 Grgich Hills, Fumé Blanc, Napa, California, 2006 67.00
28 Illumination Sauvignon Blanc, Huneeus Vintners, Rutherford, Ca. 2007 84.00
Riesling
41 Barth René, Alsace, France, 2007 37.00
74 Kuentz-Bas ‘Tradition’, Alsace, France, 2006 45.00
68 Riesling Spätlesese, ‘Trittenheimer Apotheke’, Bernard Eifel, Mosel, Germany, 2007 45.00
38 Phillipps Eckstein, Riesling, Graacher Domprobst, Spätlese, Mosel, Germany, 2006 46.00
84 Leitz, ‘Rüdesheimer Magdalenenkreuz’, Spätlese, Rheingau, Germany, 2009 50.00
69 Marcel Deiss, Alsace, France, 2007 56.00
Gewurztraminer, Pinot Gris, Grüner Veltliner, Others
66 Vassiliou, ‘Ambelones’, Koropi, Greece, 2007 32.00
73 Trimbach, Pinot Blanc, Alsace, France, 2007 34.00
26 Barth René, Gewürztraminer, Alsace, France, 2007 34.00
81 Rocca Bernarda, Ribolla Gialla, Colli Orientali de Friuli, Italy, 2006 35.00
85 Bastianich Tokai Friulano, Colli Orientali del Friuli, Italy, 2007 37.00
67 Adelsheim Pinot Gris, Willamette, Oregon, 2007 40.00
47 Cantina Tramin Gewürztraminer, Alto Adige, Italy, 2006 51.00
Set in the Alpine hills of the Alto-Adige, the Wine Producers Cooperative of Tramin was founded in 1898. They serve as proof that co-operatves can produce wine of the highest quality. The winemaker, Willi Stürz, was named “Winemaker of the Year” in 2004 by Gambero Rosso, Italy’s most important wine publication. The wines have received 12 “Tre Bicchieri” awards. The town gave its name to the Gewürztraminer grape and on these hillsides, the varietal reaches a distinction all its own. Spicy and rich but still elegant.
87 Ostertag Pinot Gris, ‘Fronholz’, Alsace, France, 2005 70.00
82 Pierre Sparr Gewürztraminer, Mambourg, Grand Cru, Alsace Fr., 2002 78.00
Records show that in 783 A.D., the wines of Mambourg, many owned by the church, were already celebrated. Mambourg wines are characteristic of Alsace, well-balanced, and capable of long aging. The wines from Sparr are elegant, full of finesse, a powerful bouquet and a very long finish. This Gewürztraminer fits the profile perfectly, showing notes of lychee, honey, and rosewater, with a great balance of sweetness and acidity.
83 Marcel Deiss, Gewürztraminer, Alsace, France, 2003 80.00
Viognier and Other Rhône Varietals
99 Corbières Blanc, Faillenc Ste. Marie, Languedoc, France, 2007 33.00
Faillenc Sainte Marie is a small property situated on the rocky foothills of Mount Alaric;
the terroir is composed of inhospitable, limestone terraces in a dry landscape frequently blasted by the Tramontone winds. The result is naturally very low yields, real complexity and great body. The white wine of the domaine, made in miniscule quantities from a one hectare vineyard, is from a blend of Roussanne, Macabeu, Bourboulenc and Clairette. This is a unique wine with both charm and personality.
42 ‘Hermit Crab’, D’Arenberg, McClaren Vale, Australia, 2007 34.00
61 Viognier, Collines Rhodaniennes, Cuilleron, Northern Rhône, France, 2007 60.00
96 Saint-Joseph ‘Céleste’, J.L. Chave, Northern Rhône, France 2007 61.00
95 ‘Conundrum’, Caymus, California, 2007 63.00
65 Arrowood Viognier, Sonoma, California, 2005 72.00
53 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc, Château La Nerthe, France, 2007 80.00
58 Hemitage Blanc, J.L. Chave, France, 2004 270.00
Chardonnay
United States
20 Estancia, Monterey, California, 2007 35.00
18 Calera, Central Coast, California, 2008 38.00
21 Sonoma-Cutrer, ‘Russian River Ranches’, Sonoma Coast, California, 2007 47.00
43 White Rock, Napa, California, 2007 56.00
Only 800-some cases of the Chardonnay are produced each year. A family operation, no pesticides or herbicides are used in the terraced vineyards, which benefits from the cooler micro-climate above the valley floor. Aged on the lees but undergoing only a partial malolactic, the resulting wine is focused, elegant and beautifully balanced.
90 Ramey, Sonoma Coast, California, 2007 75.00
46 Jordan, Russian River, California, 2007 83.00
31 Shafer, Red Shoulder Ranch, Carneros, California, 2006 95.00
48 Flowers, Sonoma Coast, California, 2007 97.00
94 Littorai, Thieriot, Sonoma Coast, California, 2007 105.00
25 Martinelli, ‘Zio Tony Ranch’, Russian River, California, 2005 118.00
93 Evening Land ‘Summum’, Seven Springs, Eola-Amity Hills, 2007 150.00
The Oregon wines of Evening Lad Vineyards are made under the guidance of Dominique Lafon, one of the most esteemed winemakers in Burgundy His Domaine Lafon wines are so sought after that they are almost impossible to buy. (Meursaults, La Montrachet, Volnay) In his collaboration with Evening Land, Lafon brings to bear his deep knowledge of the cultivation and vinification of the Chardonnay and Pinot vines. At Evening Land’s Seven Springs vineyard, Lafon has taken a traditional approach to the ‘terroir’, analyzing each parcel for it’s unique qualities and bottling three levels of distinction based on the Burgundian system ‘Village’, ‘Premier Cru’ and ‘Grand Cru’.
49 Peter Michael ‘Belle Cote’, Sonoma, California, 2007 160.00
45 Peter Michael ‘Belle Cote’, Sonoma, California, 2006 170.00
Burgundy, France
98 Chablis, ‘‘Fourchaume’ Premier Cru, Savary, 2006 63.00
60 Santenay, V. Girardin, ‘Clos de Tavannes’, 2005 65.00
59 St. Romain ‘Sous La Velle’, Dom. des Margotières, 2004 66.00
Traveling along the main road that runs the length of the Cote d’Or , one passes by the renowned names, one after the other, that speak volumes to those of us who love Burgundy: Chambertin, Vosne Romanee, Corton, Pommard. Intersecting this well-traveled route are others, much less so. These are narrow and dark sub-routes that shoot out here and there; winding up to little villages distinctly unrenowned. St. Romain is one of them: up a valley, in the woods behind Meursault. The wine, however, does not show itself as either a rustic bumpkin or pretentious want-to-be. With the elegance and precision of a fine Chablis, it shared the same complex minerality.
91 Meursault, Thierry et Pascale Matrot, 2005 68.00
62 Chassagne-Montrachet, ‘Les Masures’, Jean Noel Gagnard, 2007 85.00
57 Chassagne-Montrachet, ‘Morgeot’, Premier Cru, Jean Noel Gagnard, 2006 95.00
63 Puligny-Montrachet, ‘Vieilles Vignes’, Vincent Girardin, 2006 96.00
64 Chassagne-Montrachet, ‘Morgeot’, Clos de la Chapelle, Premier Cru, Louis Jadot, 2006 118.00
70 Chassagne-Montrachet, ‘Les Chaumées Premier Cru’, ‘Clos de la Truffière’, Michel Niellon, 2004 145.00
92 Corton-Charlemagne, Grand Cru, Louis Latour, 2002 *170.00
50 Chablis, ‘Montée de Tonnerre’, Premier Cru, François Raveneau, 2003 *100.00
52 Chablis, ‘Montée de Tonnerre’, Premier Cru, François Raveneau, 2004 *180.00
88 Puligny-Montrachet, ‘Clavoillon’, Premier Cru, Domaine Leflaive, 2004 *170.00
36 Meursault, ‘Rougeots’, J. F. Coche-Dury, 2004 *210.00
86 Corton-Charlemagne, Grand Cru, J. F. Coche-Dury, 2001 *800.00
Rosés
Beringer, White Zinfandel, Napa, California, 2004 25.00
Rousseau Frères, Pinot Noir/Pinot Gris/Pinot Meunier, Touraine Noble Joué, Loire, France, 2008 34.00
‘Il Mimo’ Cantalupo, Nebbiolo Rosato, 2008 36.00
The Ghemme region in the Novara hills of Piedmont, is generally thought of as a satellite to Barolo. The major grape is the Nebbiolo, known locally as Spanna; described in the first century AD by the naturalist Pliny of Como as ‘uva spinea’ a vine which resists, or rather, breathes the fogs. Not far from Lago Maggiore and the foothills of the Alps, the wines of Ghemme are lighter than in Barolo or Barbaresco further south. The Arlunno family, who have owned vineyards here since 1800, make this rose from Nebbiolo; the grapes given skin contact with the must for just one day, creating a delicate salmon-pink hue. They have taken the name of the wine from an ancient Roman mask, shown on the label, found in the nearby Novara hills.
Moulin La Viguerie, Grenache/Cinsault/Syrah, ‘Les Falaises de Braise, Tavel, Rhône,.France 2007 40.00
Red Wines
Gamay
153 Chénas, Hubert Lapierre, Beaujolais, France, 2005 32.00
204 Chénas, Vieilles Vignes, Hubert Lapierre, Beaujolais, France, 2005 40.00
200 Morgon, Marcel Lapierre, Beaujolais, France, 2007 45.00
Pinot Noir
Loire, France
110 Sancerre, François Crochet, 2007 49.00
Burgundy, France
Côte de Beaune and Côte Chalonnaise
125 Chorey-Les-Beaune, Jean-Luc Dubois, ‘Clos Margot’, 2007 54.00
114 Givry, Chofflet-Valdenaire, 2005 55.00
144 Saint-Romain, ‘Sous Roche’, Domaine des Margotières, 2005 67.00
136 Auxey-Duresses, ‘La Chapelle’ Premier Cru, Lafouge, 2006 70.00
336 Beaune, ‘Grèves’, ‘Vigne De L'Enfant Jésus’, Premier Cru, Bouchard, 1999 102.00
206 Pommard, ‘Clos de La Commaraine’, Premier Cru, Louis Jadot, 2003 110.00
195 Pommard, ‘Clos de La Commaraine’, Premier Cru, Louis Jadot, 2002 126.00
104 Pommard, ‘Les Fremiers’, Premier Cru, Courcel, 2003 118.00
202 Pommard, ‘Les Épenots’, Premier Cru, François Gaunoux, 2003 120.00
238 Volnay, ‘Clos des Chênes, Premier Cru, Nicholas Potel, 2002 122.00
147 Corton ‘Les Maréchaudes’, Grand Cru, Prince Florent de Merode, 2002 135.00
Côte de Nuits and Hautes-Côtes de Nuits
Côte Nuits-Villages, ‘Le Vaucrain, Louis Jadot, 2004 55.00
247 Hautes Côtes Nuits, Mongeard-Mugneret, 2006 62.00
226 Gevrey-Chambertin, ‘Gibryotte’, Claude Dugat, 2004 65.00
171 Morey St. Denis ‘Les Sionnières’, J & A Lignier, 2006 69.00
107 Marsannay, Joseph Roty, ‘Cuvée de Boivin’, 2001 75.00
167 Chambolle-Musigny ‘Aux Echanges’, Premier Cru, Nicholas Potel, 2001 115.00
194 Gevrey-Chambertin ‘Vieilles Vignes’, Domaine des Beaumont, 2002 125.00
354 Chambolle-Musigny ‘Les Baudes’, Premier Cru, Jadot, 2002 125.00
207 Nuits-St-Georges , ‘Les Chenes Carteaux’, Premier Cru, Henri Gouges, 2002 128.00
357 Chambolle-Musigny, ‘Les Cras’, Premier Cru, Hudelot-Baillet, 1999 140.00
304 Echezeaux, Dominique Laurent, ‘Grande Cuvée Vieilles Vignes’, 2006 155.00
366 Charmes-Chambertin, Grand Cru, Domaine des Beaumont, 2003 180.00
It’s a rare and vivid pleasure to come across a real ‘discovery’ anymore but here is one. The family have been growers in the Cote Nuits for generations but just recently began to bottle and sell from their own holdings, 10 hectares in Morey St. Denis, some very old vine Gevrey and a tiny parcel of Grand cru Charmes Chambertin. The Domaine des Beaumont label, then, is only a few years old and just released in the U.S. The wines are stellar and will stand comparison to the very top rank of Burgundian stars. People who love their Burgundy will be reading and writing about Domaine des Beaumont a lot in the near future.
301 Vosne-Romanée, ’Les Chaumes’, Premier Cru, Camille Giroud, 1993 *203.00
303 Clos de la Roche, Domaine Dujac, Grand Cru, 2004 *240.00
United States
California
115 Mahoney, Carneros, 2006 55.00
Francis Mahoney is one of the pioneers of Pinot Noir in Carneros. He planted his first vineyards in 1971, inspired by a passion for the wines of Burgundy and hypothesizing, correctly as it turns out, that the cool, foggy hills of Carneros might be hospitable to this most tempermental of vines. Also the founder of Carneros Creek Winery, which was recently sold to the Mondavis, he now focuses on his own, lesser known label. The wine has much of the elegance and pure, clean fruit of good Burgundy and none of the candied over-ripe, over-wrought quality which mars many California Pinots.
124 Melville, Estate ‘Verna’s’, Santa Barbara, 2008 60.00
148 Kent Rasmussen, Carneros, 2007 68.00
130 Gary Farrell, Russian River, 2006 88.00
225 Sanford, ‘La Rinconada’, Santa Rita Hills, 2007 91.00
216 Failla ‘Occidental Ridge’, Sonoma Coast, 2005 105.00
211 Littorai, ‘Hirsch’, Sonoma Coast, 2006 118.00
Oregon
145 Yamhill Valley Vineyards, McMinnville, 2007 48.00
271 Westrey, Willamette, 2007 57.00
165 Evening Lands, ‘Blue Label’, Oregon, 2008 64.00
132 King Estate, Oregon, 2007 66.00
270 Soter ‘Beacon Hill’, Yamhill-Carlton, 2006 120.00
275 Domaine Serene, ‘Evenstad Reserve’, Willamette, 2005 125.00
357 Evening Land Winery, ‘Summum’, Seven Springs, Eola-Amity Hills, 2007 145.00
The Oregon wines of Evening Land Vineyards are made under the guidance of Dominique Lafon, one of the most esteemed winemakers in Burgundy His Domaine Lafon wines are so sought after that they are almost impossible to buy. (Meursaults, La Montrachet, Volnay) In his collaboration with Evening Land, Lafon brings to bear his deep knowledge of the cultivation and vinification of the Chardonnay and Pinot vines. At Evening Land’s Seven Springs vineyard, Lafon has taken a traditional ‘terroir’ approach, analyzing each parcel for it’s unique qualities and bottling three levels of distinction based on the Burgundian system ‘Village’, ‘Premier Cru’ and ‘Grand Cru’.
Rhône Varietals
France, Northern Rhône: Syrah
199 St. Joseph, ‘Offerus’, J.L. Chave, 2007 63.00
The crest on the neck of a bottle of Chave Hermitage says “Vignerons de Père en Fils depuis 1481” that is: “Wine growers from father to son since 1481”. Gerard Chave, who took over the domaine in the early seventies, slowly built a reputation as one of the master winemakers of France. His son Jean-Louis, who joined the business in 1992, has been gradually taking over from his father. Previously, he studied in the U.S. getting both an MBA and viticultural degrees at U.C. Davis. The St. Joseph, inescapably second fiddle to Hermitage itself, is the third wine from “Chave Selections”. These wines are made with purchased grapes from neighboring growers and obviously, only the very best are selected by the Chaves to form their cuvee. With their depth of experience, they can choose from the best vineyard sights and the most conscientious farmers. There is no wine at this price point that I would rather drink. Powerful but beautifully balanced, nuanced; it reveals itself layer by layer.
223 St. Joseph, Domaine Faury, 2005 70.00
323 Cornas, Auguste Clape, 2002 115.00
315 Côtes Rôtie, Patrick Jasmin, 2005 125.00
335 Côtes Rôtie, Ogier, 2003 130.00
313 Côtes Rôtie, B. Levet, ‘La Chavaroche’, 2003 138.00
330 Hermitage, J.L. Chave, 2007 300.00
Southern Rhône and Languedoc: Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre, etc.
217 Corbières, Domaine de Fontsainte, 2006 28.00
107 Côtes du Rhône, Les Cigales, 2008 28.00
212 Côtes du Ventoux, Caravanserail, ‘In Fine’, 2007 32.00
198 V.d. P. Vaucluse, Brunier, ‘Le Pigeoulet en Provence’, 2007 39.00
127 Cairanne, Catherine Le Goeuil, ‘Cuvée Léa Felsch’, 2006 40.00
178 Rasteau, Saint Gayan, 2005 42.00
214 Coteaux du Languedoc, Mas de Martin, ‘Cuvée Cinarca’, 2007 43.00
Mas de Martin, only five years old, has already become one of the most watched wines in the Languedoc. “Revue de Vins de France” recently named them as one of the top estates in the region. Tasting the ‘Cuvée Cinarca’, one sees why. Powerful and polished at once, it feels like a wine that has been made forever. 67% Syrah and 33% Grenache, the predominate Syrah flavors have a refinement seldom found outside of that narrow sliver of hillside between Hermitage and Cote Rotie. “Cinarca’ is name of Corsican origin related to the heritage of the owner of the estate, Christian Mocci.
140 Faugères, Leon Barral, 2006 45.00
181 Gigondas, Domaine du Pesquier, 2005 63.00
240 Châteauneuf-Du-Pape, Domaine des Relagnes, 2004 65.00
215 Bandol, Domaine Le Galantin, ‘Longue Garde’, 1999 75.00
A very special wine from a very special place: the Bandol vineyards are right on the Mediterranean coast just east of Marseille. The constant heat of the southern sun is mellowed by the relentless sea winds washing the shores. Le Galantin’s vineyards are planted on south facing terraces known locally as “restanques”. Celine Pascal has taken over the winemaking from her father at this tiny estate: only four thousand cases of red Bandol are produced annually. Of that, the “Longue Garde” is the most remarkable. Made only in the best vintages, it is cellared until deemed ready: the 1999 is the current release. The Mourvèdre grape is of course known for its long, and slow, aging potential. Very few estates anywhere, even the largest and richest, show that kind of principled dedication to quality.
The result is a monumental wine with layer upon layer of flavor, dark, musky, perfumed. One would need to be another Baudelaire to find the right language.
175 Châteauneuf-Du-Pape, Moulin Tacussel, France, 2000 84.00
256 Châteauneuf-Du-Pape, Domaine de la Charbonnière, ‘Les Hautes Brusquières, Cuvée Spéciale’, 2005 92.00
305 Châteauneuf-Du-Pape, Domaine du Banneret, 2005 98.00
268 Bandol, Domaine Tempier, ‘La Migoua’, 2006 100.00
319 Châteauneuf-Du-Pape, ‘Boisrenard’, Domaine de Beaurenard, 2004 118.00
179 Châteauneuf-Du-Pape, Domaine Vieux Télégraphe, 2007 135.00
185 Châteauneuf-Du-Pape, Château de Beaucastel, 2005 140.00
334 Châteauneuf-Du-Pape, La Nerthe, ‘Cuvée des Cadettes’, 2000 *175.00
327 Châteauneuf-Du-Pape, Henri Bonneau, ‘Cuvée Marie Beurrier’, 2003 *250.00
United States
239 Qupé Syrah, Central Coast, 2006 42.00
191 ‘Cote de Tablas’, Tablas Creek, Paso Robles, 2008 48.00
257 Qupé Syrah, Bien Nacido Vineyard, Santa Maria Valley, 2007 62.00
164 ‘Esprit de Beaucastel’, Tablas Creek, Paso Robles, 2005 88.00
139 Failla Syrah, ‘Estate Vineyard’, Sonoma Coast, 2006 100.00
133 Martinelli Syrah, “Terra Felice”, Russian River, 2004 117.00
137 Shafer ‘Relentless’ Syrah, Napa, 2005 120.00
197 Behrens & Hitchcock, ‘Homage to Ed Oliveira’ Syrah, Alder Springs Vineyard, Mendocino, 2003 140.00
367 Lillian Syrah, Amity, Oregon, 2006 165.00
324 Sine Qua Non, Atlantis Fe203-1c, 1b, Syrah, California, 2005 300.00
342 Sine Qua Non, ‘Pictures’ Grenache, California, 2007 325.00
Australia
233 Plantagenet Shiraz ‘Hazard Hill’, Western Australia, 2006 30.00
135 D’Arenberg, ‘Footbolt’, McLaren Vale, 2004 44.00
172 Torbreck, ‘Woodcutter’s Shiraz’, Barossa, 2008 55.00
169 Torbreck, ‘The Steading’, Barossa, 2006 85.00
364 Two Hands, ‘Bella’s Garden’, Shiraz, Barossa, 2006 110.00
318 Penfolds, ‘Grange’, Southern Australia, 1999 *325.00
Spanish: Tempranillo and Garnacha
102 ‘Estay’, Dominio Dostares, Prieto Picudo, Castilla y Leon, Spain, 2006 36.00
Dominio de Tares is a relatively young company devoted to developing high quality winemaking in the Bierzo Castilla y Leon regions of NE Spain. The region is a quilt-work of valleys, mountains and high plains with diverse soils and microclimates. The winery strives to maximize the potential of each separate terroir. The Prieto Pecudo grape is an obscure “heirloom” variety known only in this area; dark and powerful but capable of real distinction.
232 Ribera del Duero, Pago de Los Capellanes, ‘Joven’, 2007 45.00
236 Rioja Reserva, Viña Santurnia, 2004 46.00
266 Rioja ‘La Montesa’, Palacios Remondo, 2005 49.00
242 Castilla, Pinuaga Tempranillo, Spain, 2005 51.00
Untill recently, the wines of central Spain, south of Rioja and Ribera, were mostly considered rough and rustic; maybe to be enjoyed at a local tavern, but not worth shipping out of the region. Like so much about Spanish wines, that has all changed and the Pinuaga is a great example. Made just outside Toledo from vineyards surrounded by Mediterranean oak forests, it’s a perfect balance between the modern and traditionally artisanal methods. Powerful and classy at the same time.
177 Ribera del Duero, ‘Viña Pedrosa’, Pérez Pascuas, 2006 52.00
269 Priorat, Embruix de Vall Llach, 2005 54.00
154 Toro, ‘Dehesa La Granja’, Bodegas Fernández, 2002 56.00
129 Ribera del Duero, Pesquera, Crianza, 2006 66.00
In 1972, Alejandro Fernandez founded his own winery, a tiny operation with a 16th century winepress. Between then and today, Fernandez has brought winemaking in central Spain into the modern world and his reliance solely on Tempranillo, unlike his rivals at Vega Sicilia, has shown that this native Spanish vine can stand on its own. The Crianza, ages 18 months in American oak and 6 months in bottle, drinks well upon release. Not a heavy wine, balance and grace are emphasized.
142 Priorat, ‘Les Terrasses’, Alvaro Palacios, 2006 74.00
143 Rioja, Marques de Caceres, Gran Reserva, 2001 75.00
359 Toro, Pintia, 2006 98.00
149 Ribera Del Duero, Hacienda Monasterio, Reserva, 2005 105.00
340 Ribera de Duero, Vega Sicilia, Tinto ‘Valbuena 5 Ano’, 2003 *225.00
Italian Varietals
Piedmont
205 Dolcetto, Domenico Clerico, ‘Visadi’, Langhe, 2007 42.00
187 Barbera D’Asti, ‘Camp Du Rouss’, Coppo, 2006 48.00
The Coppo family has been producing wine in the town of Canelli since the early 1900s. Initially, emphasis was on the area’s most famous wine: the sweet sparkling Moscato. Today, the winery has become a specialist in Barbera, ever the scrappy underdog to the noble Barolos and Barbarescos of the region. Few of us, however, can afford to drink Barolo every day and thus, thank God for winemakers like the Coppo family, make a range of Barberas, all delicious. Earthy, taut, black cherry fruit with a touch of bitter almond.
192 Nebbiolo Langhe, Vietti, ‘Perbacco’, 2005 61.00
196 Nebbiolo Langhe, La Spinetta, ‘Vignetto Starderi’, 2006 63.00
The Rivetti family, having re-immigrated to Italy from Argentina, began La Spinetta in 1977, specializing in Moscato D’Asti. In1985, they created ‘Pin’, a revolutionary-for-it’s -time blend: a “Super-Piedmont” that became very highly regarded. Now having spread into Barolo and Barbaresco, they are considered one of the most dynamic winemakers in Piedmont. The ‘Nebbiolo Langhe’ is from young vines in the Barbaresco vineyard of Starderi and in a few more years the grapes from these vines will be producing Barbaresco. The pedigree is immediately obvious.
105 Barbaresco, ‘Gaia Principe’, Prinsi, 2003 84.00
353 Barolo ‘Bussia’, Sergio Barale, 2000 102.00
341 Barolo Reserva, ‘Bussia’, Sergio Barale, 2001 125.00
360 Barolo ‘Pajana’, Clerico, 2003 109.00
302 Barolo ‘Ciabot Mentin Ginestra’, Clerico, 2003 118.00
311 Barolo ‘Vigna Rionda’ Riserva, Massolino, 1995 160.00
229 Barolo, Falletto di Bruno Giacosa, 2001 *175.00
Veneto
188 Valpolicella Classico Ripasso, ‘San Rocco’, Tedeschi, 2004 52.00
201 Valpolicella Classico Superiore, Tomasso Bussola, ‘TB', 2005 88.00
184 Amarone della Valpolicella, Zenato, 2004 112.00
Tuscany
243 Chianti Colli Senesi, Castello di Farnetello, 2006 38.00
203 Pian del Ciampolo, Montvertine, Toscana IGT, 2007 52.00
168 Rosso di Montalcino, Altesino, 2007 61.00
163 Morellino di Scansano, Riserva, Morisfarms, 2004 70.00
265 ‘Promis’ Ca’ Marcando, Angelo Gaja, Toscana IGT, 2007 95.00
228 Guidalberto, Tenuta San Guido, Bolgheri, 2006 110.00
325 Brunello di Montalcino, Antinori, ‘Pian Delle Vigne’, 2004 140.00
234 Guado al Tasso, Antinori, Bolgheri Superiore, 2006 165.00
361 Guado al Tasso, Antinori, Bolgheri Superiore, 2001 185.00
356 Guado al Tasso, Antinori, Bolgheri Superiore, 2000 200.00
331 Ornellaia, Tenuta Dell’Ornellaia, Bolgheri Superiore, 2006 250.00
Campania and Basilicata
180 Aglianico del Taburno, Ocone, Campania, 2004 45.00
190 Aglianico del Vulture, Paternoster, ‘Synthesi’, Basilicata, 2005 61.00
The Paternoster winery were among the first in Basilicata to commercially bottle and sell their wines, inspired by a belief in the potential greatness of the Aglianico-based wines of the region. Time has certainly proved them right. With vineyards high up the chestnut-covered slopes of the extinct volcano Monte Vulture, the microclimate is cooler than in Piedmont with a growing season that extends into November. The long, slow maturation of the grapes together with rich volcanic soil help to create a complex, many-layered wine
157 ‘Camarato’, Villa Matilde, Falerno del Massico, Campania, 2001 82.00
267 Taurasi, Vesevo, Campania, 2001 100.00
310 ‘Serpico’, Dei Feudi di San Gregorio, Irpinia Aglianico, Campania, 2003 125.00
121 Montevetrano, Silvia Imparato, Colli di Salerno, 2005 130.00
Not to long ago, a revolution occurred in the Italian wine world, with winemakers in out of the way villages all across the peninsula began to challenge the established dominance of Piedmont and Tuscany. Montevetrano was an important part of these changes. The winery began when a young Roman photographer inherited a small estate in the hills southeast of Naples and found an unknown Umbrian winemaker to take charge. From the Cabernet, Merlot and indigenous Aglianico already growing on the land, he created the wine that did more than any other to give impetus to this explosion of the Italian wine scene. The winemaker, Riccardo Cotarella went on to build a reputation creating fascinating wines from little-before-known locations. Montevetrano has maintained its leadership and very high quality.
314 ‘Terra di Lavoro’, Galardi, Campania, 2002 150.00
Sicily and Sardinia
224 Valle Dell’ Acate, Cerasuolo di Vittoria, Sicily, Italy, 2007 46.00
274 ‘Rovittello’, Benanti, Etna, Sicily, 2000 69.00
The grandfather of Dr. Giuseppe Benanti planted vineyards on an old family farm located on the slopes of Mount Etna. Since the late eighties, the Benantis have dedicated themselves to producing world-class wines using the traditional vines and methods of the Etna region. They have been instrumental in the revival of two local varietals: the Nerello Mascalese and the Nerello Cappuccio, grown in the traditional ‘alberello’, free-standing bush method. These two vines have a Lennon-McCartney type affinity; one dark and tannic the other juicy and graceful. As shown in the “Rovitello”, the results are a seamless and highly individual wine that seems to speak directly from the ancient soil.
151 Nerello Mascalese, Benanti, ‘Monovitigni’, Etna, Sicily, 2001 75.00
208 ‘Korem’, Argiolas, Isola dei Nuraghi, Sardinia, 2005 80.00
317 ‘Rosso del Conte’, Tasca D’Almerita, Contea di Scalfani, Sicily, 2003 95.00
In every sense an aristocrat, the Rosso de Conte comes from the vast estate south of Palermo, of the Tasca D’Almerita family, which dates to the early 1800’s. The modern wines we know today owe their existence to Count Guiseppe Tasca, who, in the nineteen-fifties, single-handedly, began the modernization of the wine making in Sicily. He was willing to forego quantity for the sake of quality. Open to innovation, at the same time, he based his flagship wine ‘Rosso del Conte’, created in the early seventies, on the Nero d‘Avola grape indigenous to Sicily and threatend by the popularity of the ‘international’ varieties. Experimentation, innovation and, at the same time, a deep respect for tradition all go hand in hand in the aristocratic traditions of the island, that has given us the likes of Luigi Pirandello and Guiseppe Tommasi di Lampedusa. the author of ‘The Leopard’. The wine is unique; earthy and ethereal; a character all its own.
Zinfandel
183 Cline, California, 2007 32.00
261 Victory Zinfandel, ‘Parcel 31’, Tuck Beckstoffer, Napa, 2007 33.00
Many people familiar with Napa Valley wines will recognize the Beckstoffer name: Tuck’s father is one of the largest vineyard owners in Napa; famous especially for the Beckstoffer Vineyard, which supplies grapes for some of the areas best wineries. With his deep roots and personal connections in Napa, the younger Beckstoffer set out on his own and created a number of wines sourced from friends all over the area. This wine is a knockout; clean, focused but with the big wallop Zin lovers crave. You’d be happy to pay twice the price.
218 Rosenblum Cellars, ‘Harris Kratka’, Napa, California, 2005 69.00
262 Seghesio ‘Old Vines’, Sonoma, California, 2007 75.00
118 Ridge, ‘Lytton Springs’, Sonoma, California, 2006 85.00
138 Outpost, Howell Mountain, California, 2006 95.00
Established only in 1998, Outpost Wines is a 40 acre estate, 2000 ft. up Howell Mountain and dedicated to developing wines, especially Zinfandels, true to this marvelous piece of land. Ehran Jordan, formerly of Turley Vineyards, was the original winemaker, but now acts as consultant; the wines still show a distinct family resemblance to Turley. Burly, ultra-concentrated, loads of fruit but additionally, with the tannic structure and focus found in Howell Mountain productions.
227 Martinelli ‘Giuseppe & Luisa’, Russian River, California, 2007 115.00
352 Martinelli ‘Jackass Vineyard’, Russian River, California, 2007 149.00
Merlot
United States
122 Chateau Ste. Michelle, Columbia Valley, Washington, 2005 45.00
120 Raymond, ‘Reserve’, Napa, California, 2006 56.00
150 L’Ecole #41, Columbia Valley, Washington, 2006 60.00
123 Swanson, Napa, California, 2005 68.00
231 Miner Family, Oakville, California, 2005 82.00
245 Shafer, Napa, California, 2006 96.00
241 Duckhorn Vineyards, Napa, California, 2005 110.00
Italy
265 Promis, Ca’ Marcando, Angelo Gaja, Toscano IGT, 2006 95.00
Malbec
Argentina
146 Pascual Toso Malbec, Mendoza, Argentina, 2008 38.00
160 Pascual Toso, Barrancas Vineyard, Reserve, Mendoza, 2008 46.00
222 De Angeles ‘Viña 1924’ Mendoza, Argentina, 2007 52.00
France
235 Cahors, Clos La Coutale, 2007 40.00
The wines of this town, known as “The Black Wines of Cahors”, were famous throughout Europe when Bordeaux was still an alluvial swamp. The current popularity of Malbec brings Cahors back into focus: it’s from this corner of south west France that it made its way around the world. The Clos La Coutale, eighty percent Malbec, is juicy, supple, deep but without the biting tannins of some Malbecs: a great wine for food.
273 Cahors, Clos de Gamot, 2002 54.00
Cabernet Sauvignon and Bordeaux-Style Blends
Bordeaux, France
Haut-Médoc and Pessac, The Left Bank
166 Haut de Poujeaux, Haut-Médoc , 2005 45.00
126 Château Cambon-La Pelouse, Haut-Médoc, 2006 60.00
Located between the classified growths of Château Cantemerle and Château Giscours. An unusual composition for the Haut-Medoc of 20 % Cabernet Franc, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 50 % Merlot has created a chewy, forward, plush wine with real character and personality. A big favorite recently with the French wine press, it’s a wine in the modern style, made to be enjoyed now-not only by your eldest son coming down from Cambridge.
113 Blasson D’Issan, Margaux, 2006 75.00
220 Château Phélan-Ségur, St. Estèphe, 2005 85.00
333 Château Montrose, St. Estephe, 2004 110.00
320 Château Picon-Longueville, Pauillac, 2003 180.00
328 Château Margaux, Margaux, 1998 *520.00
Pomerol and Saint Émilion, The Right Bank
230 Château Richelieu, Fronsac, 2005 45.00
158 Château Vieille Cure, Fronsac, 2004 68.00
219 Château Coutet, St. Émilion, 2006 70.00
176 La Fleur de Boüard, Lalande de Pomerol, 2005 96.00
Situated in the satellite appellation of Lelande de Pomerol, close to the borders of the famous Plateau of Pomerol and not far from Saint Emilion. The proprietor is also co-owner of Château Angélus, a First Great Classified Growth of Saint Emilion, where he has managed the estate and made the wine for 20 years. He has obviously set high standards and this wine has been gaining serious attention. A blend typical of the appellation: 80% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon.
326 Château Quinault L’Enclos, St. Émilion, 2005 110.00
332 Château Monbousquet, St. Emilion, 2005 120.00
338 Château Gaffelière, St. Émilion, 2005 185.00
309 Château L’Eglise Clinet, Pomerol, 1994 *275.00
United States
108 Powers, Columbia Valley, Washington, 2006 42.00
186 Benziger, Sonoma, California, 2005 48.00
189 Ex Libris, Columbia Valley, Washington, 2007 49.00
237 Wellington, Mohrhardt Ridge, Sonoma, California, 2005 50.00
173 Trig Point, ‘Diamond Dust Vineyard’, Alexander Valley, California, 2007 50.00
106 Beringer, Knights Valley, California, 2006 62.00
263 Bennett Lane ‘Maximus’, Napa, California, 2005 71.00
128 Honig, Napa, California, 2006 72.00
170 Cafaro, Napa, California, 2003 76.00
Before founding Cafaro Cellars in 1986, Joe Cafaro made wine at a number of the top small wineries in the Napa Valley: Chappellet, Acacia, Robert Sinskey, Oakville Ranch Vineyard and Dalla Valle.He found the vineyard site he was searching for on hillside land just south of Stags Leap. Today, all of Cafaro’s production comes from estate fruit and that production remains tiny; just 1425 cases of the 2003 Cabernet were released. Cafaro is adamant about the style of wine he strives to make: supple, capable of aging, elegant and balanced: a wine made to compliment a meal not over-power it. Foe me, it is a benchmark Napa wine. Too bad more California winemakers don’t have Cafaro’s good judgement.
117 Wing Canyon Vineyard, Mt. Veeder, California, 2006 85.00
101 Benziger, ‘Reserve’, Sonoma, California, 2005 90.00
182 Faust, Napa, California, 2006 104.00
Faust is the newest project of Quintessa’s Agustin Huneeus. They are, however, wines of two very different styles. Quintessa’s strength has always been its polish. Compared to its top-notch Napa Valley peers, it has always forsworn sheer size in favor of elegance, lushness and depth. The Faust is more of a bruiser: broad, brambly, rougher tannins. Huneeus has always had as keen an eye for the marketplace as for spotting a promising vineyard.
209 Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars, ‘Artemis’, Napa, California, 2006 110.00
213 Joseph Phelps, Napa, California, 2005 112.00
368 Corison, Napa, California, 2001 142.00
365 Benziger ‘Tribute’, Sonoma Mountain, California, 2005 148.00
The Tribute is Benziger’s showcase, meant to embody the very best of their production and, indeed, it demonstrates how this winery keeps getting better and better. The Benziger’s would attribute this to the biodynamic methods that they began adopting in 1997. One of only a few wineries in the US certified as such, it joins ranks with the likes of Nichoas Joly’s Coulée de Serrant, Domaine Leflaive and Chateau Beaucastel as some of the finest wines now using biodynamics. The wine shows tremendous character and a broad range of flavors: Mike Benziger says that wants each vintage to shine through with its own particular qualities, as opposed to creating a uniform “house style” year after year. It will be interesting in 10 years to taste them vertically.
307 Silver Oak, Alexander Valley, California, 2005 150.00
308 Silver Oak, Napa, California, 2005 198.00
306 Silver Oak, Napa, California, 2003 185.00
316 Andrew Geoffrey, Diamond Mountain, California, 2001 155.00
111 Behrens & Hitchcock, ‘Les Chats du Monde’, Napa, Ca., 2002 160.00
339 Ridge, ‘Montebello Vineyards’, Napa, California, 2005 215.00
321 Dunn, ‘Howell Mountain’, Oakville, California, 2001 210.00
322 Peter Michael, ‘Les Pavots’, Knights Valley, 2007 235.00
362 Quintessa, Napa, California, 2006 240.00
329 Opus One, Napa, California, 2003 280.00
363 Opus One, Napa, California, 2005 280.00
337 Insignia, Joseph Phelps, Napa, California, 2005 300.00
355 Shafer ‘Hillside Select’, Stag’s Leap District, California, 2005 275.00
Italy
228 Guidalberto, Tenuta San Guido, Bolgheri, 2007 110.00
A second label from Sassicaia, meant for younger drinking.
121 Montevetrano, Silvia Imparato, Colli di Salerno, 2005 130.00
234 Guado al Tasso, Antinori, Bolgheri Superiore, 2006 165.00
361 Guado al Tasso, Antinori, Bolgheri Superiore, 2001 185.00
356 Guado al Tasso, Antinori, Bolgheri Superiore, 2000 200.00
331 Ornellaia, Tenuta Dell’Ornellaia, Bolgheri Superiore, 2006 250.00
Sweet Wines & Fortified Wines
Bottle (375 or 500 ml) or Glass
Banyuls, Dom. de Valcros, Roussillon, France 40.00 11.00
Banyuls is a port-like, fortified wine made with the Grenache Noir grape. The fishing villages of Banyuls and Collioure, lying close to the Spanish border, were the haunts of painters at the turn of the 20th century, like Derain, Signac and Matisse, who, enchanted by the brilliant light, helped to create modern painting. It’s not hard to imagine them retreating from the heat of the day into the shade of a little café and sipping the local wine.
Framboise, Pacific Rim, Columbia Valley, Washington 38.00 13.00
‘Vin de Glaciere’, Pacific Rim, Riesling Columbia Valley, Washington 38.00 13.00
Beerenauslese, PMC, Münzenreider, Burgenland, Austria, 2005 40.00 13.00
Muscat Beaumes de Venise, Coyaeux, France, 2007 45.00 13.00
Muscat Beaumes de Venise, Fenouillet, France, 2007 55.00 15.00
Sauternes, Château Tuileries, France, 2005 (750 ml) 80.00 12.00
Auslese Cuvée, Kracher, Burgenland, Austria, 2005 60.00 16.00
Dolce, Far Niente, Napa, California, 2004 125.00 40.00
Sauternes, Château Rieussec, France, 2003 100.00 25.00
Tokaji, Demeter, ‘Fobor’, Hungary, 2006 100.00
Sauternes, Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey, France, 2001 150.00
Dessert Beer Bottle
Lindeman’s Lambic: choice Framboise (raspberry) or Pèche (peach), Belgium 10.00
Madeira
Henriques & Henriques 10 year Bual 14.00
Blandy’s 15 year Malmsey 15.00
Rare Wine Co. Malmsey ‘New York Special Reserve’ 16.00
D’Oliveira Reserva, Boal 1968 40.00
Port
Fonseca Bin 27 10.00
Fonseca 10 Year Tawny 11.00
Sandeman 20 Year Tawny 18.00
Sandeman was founded in London in 1790 with an ageing cellar in Vila Nova de Gaia, the Portuguese town at the mouth of the Duero that served, and still serves, as the center of the trade in Port wines. Today, the wines of Port and Sherry are still certainly well respected but, unfortunately, too little consumed. They seem like left-overs from a very different time. Even devoted wine-lovers have forgotten them. One sip of this 20 Tawny and you think “Where have you been all my life!” A little sweet but, with a bright acidity, not in the least cloying: the definition of balance. All sorts of complexities and a finish that seems to last for days. A revelation.
Graham’s 30 Year Tawny 28.00
Taylor Fladgate 30 year Tawny 29.00
Taylor Fladgate 40 year Tawny 40.00
Fonseca, Late Bottled Vintage, 2003 13.00
Smith Woodhouse, Late Bottled Vintage, 1995 15.00
Fonseca ‘Guimaraens’ Vintage Port, 1998 (375 ml bottle) 48.00
Sherry
Bodegas Hidalgo ‘La Gitana’ Manzanilla (dry) 9.00
Lustau ‘Jaraña’ Fino (dry) 9.00
Emilio Hidalgo ‘Gobernador’, Oloroso Seco (semi-dry) 15.00
Sandeman ‘Royal Corregidor’ 20 Yr. Oloroso (semi-dry) 16.00
Lustau East India Oloroso (médium-sweet) 17.00
Sandeman ‘Armada’ Cream, Oloroso (medium-sweet) 9.00
Lustau ‘San Emilio’ Solera Reserva (sweet) 10.00
Toro Albalá, Pedro Ximenez Gran Reserva, Montilla Moriles, 1979 (sweet) 18.00
Quietly gaining recognition as one of the great sweet wines of the world, Toro Albalá is a paradox. Founded in the 1840’s, in a region of strong traditions, they have used innovation to craft the Pedro Ximenez into a world-class wine. Montilla-Moriles, in the sun-baked heart of Andalusia, just southwest of Cordoba, is the hottest region of Spain with white soils of sandy limestone and chalk. These conditions allow for fruit of such ripeness that, after drying on straw mats, fortification isn’t required. Strong hydraulic presses extract the sweet, dark nectar from the succulent raisins for long, long aging in casks. Almost black, as viscous as molasses with flavors of figs, caramel and chocolate.
Bottled Beer
United States
Anchor Steam, San Francisco, (12oz) 5.00
Anchor Porter, San Francisco (12oz) 5.00
Michelob ‘Ultra’, St. Louis, Missouri (12oz) 4.75
Rogue ‘Dead Guy Ale’, Oregon (12 oz) 6.00
Rogue Shakespeare Stout, Oregon ( 22 oz) 12.00
Rogue ‘Brutal Bitter’, Oregon (22oz) 12.00
Victory ‘Prima Pilsner’, Pennsylvania (12 oz.) 4.75
Mexico
Sol, Monterrey (12oz) 5.00
Dos Equis ‘Amber’, Monerrey (12oz) 5.00
Holland
Amstel Light (12 oz.) 5.25
Belgium
Hoegaarden, ‘Witbier- Bière Blanche’ (330 ml.) 6.00
Saison Dupont, ‘Vieille Provision’ (375 ml.) 9.50
La Chouffe, ‘Golden Ale’ (330 ml.) 9.00
Corsendonk, Abbey Brown Ale (12.oz) 7.50
Germany
Paulaner, ‘Hefe-Weizen’ Wheat Beer (12 oz.) 6.00
Czech Republic
Pilsner Urquell, (12.oz). 5.50
Ireland
Harp Lager (12 oz.) 5.25
Guinness Stout (1 Pint) 5.50
Kaliber (12oz) 4.50
Great Britain
‘Our Glass’, Dorothy Gooodbodys, Wye Valley Brewery (500 ml.) 9.00
Boddington Ale (1 Pint) 5.50
Samuel Smith Oatmeal Stout (12 oz.) 7.00
‘Bitter & Twisted’, Harviestoun Brewery (500 ml.) 9.50