Thursday, September 27, 2012

This week's new arrivals

So we thought we'd just list our new wines in as they come right here on this handy little page.  Perhaps hiring a web masta is an even better idea we should consider.  Consider it considered.




The first time we ever had the pleasure of drinking an Elizabeth
Spencer wine was so long ago in 2007.  Since then, she and he, it's a  guy/girl project, have maintained their high standards.  Small production handmade wines from organic grapes that drink fabulous; even easier to open in 2012 with the screw cap!
It was a no brainer to buy some 2011 Mendocino Sauvignon Blanc, and it's a beauty.  Delicate fragrance opens to lemon and apple flavors with a balanced minerality.  Perfect with crab cakes, or your take on Alfredo, perhaps.

It's getting easier and less costly to enjoy French wines lately.  The market is flooded with beautiful 2009's right now from every region.  Rhone wines remain some of the best values, so this little 
Domaine Couroulou, a 50 Syrah 50 Merlot blend caught our eye.
The packaging makes no fuss, so pouring this silky, garnet wine is a pleasant surprise.  The home office in Vacqueyras bottling this one gets tons of praise for high quality, so it actually is no surprise at all.
Nice round berry flavors in a medium body, with a soft lingering finish.  This 50-50 blend works nicely.  Pairs well with veal or chicken picatta.  Or a chicken bouillabaisse.

All the best !

Monday, September 17, 2012

We think we're there, but............

So, we are planning on opening up this Wednesday, Sept 19.  Rain Tuesday, Pretty on Wednesday.

It's been fun to fix the place up.  We're happy with the look.  It's just what we wanted.  Small.  Cozy.  Relaxing.  A clean look, with lots of wood that will give the space good air and rebound for the acoustic music we hope to have.  


So the cheese is being delivered Tuesday, the chocolates from Vosges on Wednesday, some nice olive oil from Escalon by the weekend -- we did try the Cru Beaujolais, and the 2009 vintage is even better than the people who get paid to praise wine say -- what else?  The list is short.  Buy some more wine is on the top, but that's always there. 

Drop in if you're nearby.  If not, we hope to be here a while.  

Cheers!