The Last Great Glass

The Burgundy Ego Trip: An Over-Oaking Complex

2012-01-30T21:55:00.002-05:00

The Burgundy Ego Trip: An Over-Oaking Complex

By Codey Foster

Over the past few months I’ve become ever more aware of theextent of oaking regimens in the Cote de Ore. And to put this gently. I can’t believe it.

As it turns out, it’s not uncommon for Burgundian winemakers to use 100% new oak on their Grand Cru and Premier Cru level wines. Whyis this so ridiculous, you ask? Because they’re hypocrites, that’s why.

Simply put, Burgundy is the Birthplace of terroir. Its winemakers live terroir, breathe terroir, and preach terroir. It is in Burgundythat the same winemaker will tediously and individually vinify small andcontiguous vineyard plots, often only several meters apart, in order toshowcase the individuality of each parcel of land.

To go to such painstaking effort to preserve the purity ofeach vineyard plot and then allow the resulting wine to be marred by thetannins, phenols, and other wood compounds of new French oak seems sacrilegeand contradictory.

What makes even less sense about this equation is that it’sonly the very best (highest vineyard classifications) that see new oak. Theseare the vineyards that have the finest, most distinct terroir, and as a result,it gets covered by oak. I’m curious, where’s the logic there?

Leflaive, for instance, ferments Montrachet in 100% new oak.Now, if I’m going to shell out a small fortune to experience the nuances ofMontrachet terroir, there better not be new oak in the way. I know what oaktastes like. I can get liquid lumberyard at retail for ten bucks a bottle—but Montrachetis a one of a kind (there are actually 26 producers, but who’s counting?) andif I’m drinking Montrachet, I sure hope to be tasting Montrachet and not somediluted or distorted fragment of what once was.

Dominique Laurent in fact takes oaking to a new level using200% new oak on many of his Premier and Grand Crus. Yep 200%. That means oakaging in a new barrel for a period of time (probably 6 months to a year) andthen re-racking the stuff into a second new barrel for a second round of oakaging.

I’m not a winemaker and I don’t claim to be but come on man.This is 2012. Obviously there are a lot of factors that contribute to theoutcome of over-oaking including tradition, overestimation of the influence ofnew oak on bottle longevity, and plain personal preference. But I’m wonderingif perhaps the most influential is pride.

I’m curious whether the notion that more structured andsubstantial wines are more apt to maintain grace even with heavy oaking haslead winemakers to use oak treatments purely to prove something about theirwines. I can hear it right now. ‘My wines are so [structured, meaty, hearty,substantial] that they can handle 100% new oak.’ To be frank, the notion of awine being able to ‘handle’ 100% new oak pisses me off in the first place. Inmy humble opinion, oak is merely an ingredient available to winemakers inorder to incorporate particular characteristics to wine—not a yardstick atwhich to measure its quality. And I’m not denying that great wines can be madeusing oak, but in Burgundy I believe greatness occurs through transparentwinemaking and true vineyard representation. Show off what you’re mama gaveyou, you know?

To that school of thought, one of my new favorite Burgundyproducers Jean Marie Fourrier is a winemaker that seems to have adopted moreconcern for the representation of his vineyards than the showcase of hiswinemaking. Fourrier uses no more than 20% new oak in each vintage in order tomaintain the individuality of each wine. "Oak is for slow breathing of thewine, not for taste,” Fourrier explains. And I can’t help but agree. The use ofFrench oak for its inherent wine making mechanics is just fine. But whenvanillin starts taking over fruit and mineral profile—that’s a different story.

So unless you’ve got a small population of Quercus petraeagrowing in your vineyard (that’s French Oak, for all of you not up to snuff onyour Quercus varietals)—your brand new 60 gallon oak drum has got nothing to dowith your terroir.

DomaineFourrier Bourgogne Blanc 2008

http://www.anconaswine.com/sku01049.html

DomaineFourrier Gevrey-Chambertin Vielle Vignes 2008

http://www.anconaswine.com/sku01052.html

FourrierGevrey Chambertin Premier Cru Clos St Jacques Vieilles Vignes 2007

http://www.anconaswine.com/sku00025.html

Wine Review: Sharpe Hill Late Harvest Vignoles 2006

2012-01-23T21:35:00.000-05:00

Wine Review: Sharpe Hill Late Harvest Vignoles 2006
By Codey Foster

This shameless golden nectar might be just about as close toSauternes production that the state of Connecticut might ever come—and I’m notsaying that with regret but with state pride. I’ve tasted a couple of the SharpeHill wines including ‘The Ballet of Angels’—the best selling wine produced inConnecticut--and although I don’t recall having particularly strong feelingsabout either of them, there is something so incredibly white Bordeaux about this bottle that I couldn’t help but share itwith you guys.

In the glass this pure, golden beauty shows radiant andrich.

On the nose it is ripe and incredibly botyrised showing offunmistakable aromas of honey and apricots, less obvious hints of pineapple,mango, green tea, and maple, and ever so subtle hints of a good late harvestRiesling minerality. I only wish I could more aptly describe the character ofhoney in this late harvest because the honey-like profile in this wine is sodistinct and so familiar but something that I’m unable to adequately put intowords.

It is only on the palate that the Sharpe Hill Late Harvestdifferentiates itself from fine Sauternes. Imagine a classic ripe Sauternes,Chateau Suduiraut for instance, and just turn it down a notch. The Sharpe Hillshows just a touch less ripeness, sugar, and substantially less alcohol—ringingin at just 10.5. With so many modern Sauternes reaching upward of 13 and 14percent, this wine is really in a category all of its own. I must admit, I’vehad a few Sauternes that came off just a little bit warm, and that was not thecase with the Sharpe Hill Late Harvest. In fact, I think late harvest wine inthis particularly low alcohol category is perhaps even a bit more marketablethan a thicker and sweeter Sauternes--as is it just a little more compatiblewith food. Not only could this bottling match classic Sauternes food pairings(blue cheese, foie gras, escargot), but itcould also do those preparations with a little bit of spice and zest. Redpepper infused cheese especially comes to mind, as do salty/spicy combos.

My only reservation about this wine lies within its verystructure. While it maintains good freshness, just a little more acidity wouldhave brought it into perfect balance. That isn’t to say it doesn’t have anadequate acidity to begin with, but I like my sweet wines racy, ya know?

I guess I also would have hoped for a little more finish butthat’s not to say that it falls off the palate by any stretch. In fact, I hateto get down on this wine at all. I think it’s a spectacular effort, allconsidered, and I look forward to marrying it to something blue-veined andpungent in the near future. And from Vignoles! Who would have reckoned?

$24.99 at http://www.anconaswine.com/sku11592.html

Wine Review: Mas Doix ‘Salanques’ 2006

2012-01-18T22:10:00.000-05:00

Wine Review: Mas Doix ‘Salanques’ 2006

By Codey Foster

Someone with much more wit than I once described theexperience of Le Musigny as ‘Baby Jesussliding down the throat in velvet trousers’. Well, if that’s the case—and Iwill stand by this--then that makes the 2006 Mas Doix ‘Salanques’ theequivalent of Lady Gaga sliding down the throat in velvet stilettos, laceythigh highs, and a silk half shirt. And believe me, I say that with affection.

To break it down for you, this Priorat is a nicely balancedblend of 65% Garnacha and 15% Cariñena, rounded off with international viniferaswagger (that is, some Syrah, Merlot, and a bit of Cabernet Sauvignon). TheGarnacha and Cariñena at the heart of the blend, come from 70-90 year old vinesin high altitude slate vineyards. As it turns out Salanques is not a directdeclassification of the Mas Doix grand cuvee, as I previously believed, but infact a wine all of its own. It is cool fermented and sees 14 months in tightgrain French oak barrels—a recipe that seems to be working.

In the glass this wine shows appropriately dense andinky.

On the nose it flaunts luscious dried raisons veryreminiscent of fine vintage port. But past the raisons Salanques brings inunique tree fruit qualities including poached plumbs, orange peel, freshsqueezed orange juice (I swear), and apple juice. Now I know these descriptorssound far-fetched and innovative—but as is the concept and execution ofSalanques. Past the fruit is every level of complexity that I ever hoped tofind in a red wine including earthy/mineral qualities, earthy/gamey qualities,spice, tar, smoke, white and black pepper, chocolate, and a slight floralcharacter that I unfortunately can’t aptly elaborate on any more.

However, it’s not the flavor descriptors of this wine thatenamored me most. What enamors me most is its texture and mouth feel. It’s atthis moment that I’d like you to reconsider what I said about Gaga. Imaginesexy full palate grip layered on with perfect proportions of velvet, lace, andsilk—a cerebral experience that brings on just as much pleasure as the flavorsthemselves. In combination, flavor and texture marry to create a wine that isrich, incredibly layered, and decadent. This is a wine both of structure andgrace. I’d imagine that it will show elegantly for at least anotherdecade but with this kind of wine, there is really no reason to find out. Drinknow because the drinking’s good.

As for pairings, bare one thing in mind: this wine rings inat a healthy 15% ABV, and it carries it well, but cracked black pepper, paprika, orany other zesty spice is going to bring the heat right out of the fruit. Simplered meat preparations with olive oil, garlic, and a little bit of salt might dowonders. I might also experiment with lightly caramelized onions or roastedpeppers but anything too sweet might spoil the pairing, so don’t over do it.

If you can’t tell, I’m pretty fired up about this blend.I’ve been on the Priorat train for a while, but it’s this wine that has myrunning up front and shoveling coal into the furnace. I invite you to come joinme—and if not, just dance, it’s gonna be okay.

$39.99 at http://www.anconaswine.com/sku01092.html

Wine Review: 2009 Bodegas Borsao Campo de Borja Tres Picos

2011-12-15T10:31:00.003-05:00

This Garnacha is bursting with flavor. Succulent dark cherry and raspberry on the palate with hints of vanilla and spice. Medium/full body with mellow tannins and a smooth finish. A perfect wine for holiday dining, with loads of pairing potential. Try Tres Picos with sage roasted chicken and sweet potatoes... It is delicious!

Wine Review: 2010 Domaine Vindemio Imagine

2011-12-07T15:00:00.003-05:00

Love at first sip! For under $25 this is one of the best values I have seen all year. An alluring blend of Syrah and Grenache, 2010 Domaine Vindemio Imagine is full-flavored and rich. It has a luscious, full body with an impressive display of fresh, ripe fruit. I would love to fast forward a few years to see how it develops. In the mean time, I will take another bottle home and try it again with food. Its sweet, succulent fruit will complement the savory flavors of pork tenderloin. Yum... I cannot wait for round two!

Ancona's Wines December Events

2011-11-30T14:20:00.008-05:00

We have an exciting list of events coming up in December, mark your calendars...

December 2nd - Wilton Holiday Stroll

Join the festivities! This year Ancona’s Wines of Wilton is participating in Wilton Chamber’s Holiday Stroll. Stop by our store on 5 River Road (located next to Stop & Shop) on December 2nd for a taste of the holiday season. This annual community event celebrates the magic of the holidays and we hope to see you there!

December 3rd - Get in the Spirit with Ancona's Wines

Join Ancona’s Wines & Liquors on Saturday, December 3rd, from 2-5PM. We will be mixing seasonal cocktails and pouring our favorite holiday wines. As always, our staff are ready and eager to assist with your holiday beverage pairings!

December 8th - Tasting Seminar

'A Taste of New & Old World Wines'

On Thursday, December 8th, from 7:30-8:30PM Ancona’s Wines is hosting a fun and interactive tasting seminar focusing on the differences between ‘New’ and ‘Old’ World wines. Cost of seminar is $20, includes $10 store voucher and Spiegelau tasting glass. Come experience the difference of wines from around the globe! Space is limited, R.S.V.P required - (203)544-8958.

December 10 - Holiday Wine Tasting

Ancona’s Wines & Liquors is hosting a festive tasting on Saturday, December 10th, from
2-5PM. We will be pouring our favorite holiday party picks, all guaranteed to wow your holiday guests. Hope to see you there!

December 17 - It's All About the Bubbles

‘Tis the season to get bubbly! Join Ancona’s Wines on Saturday, December 17th, from 2-5PM as they pour a sparkling selection of their favorite fizzy classics!

Wine Review: 2007 Alma Rosa Pinot Noir

2011-11-29T10:40:00.001-05:00

A rare gem from Santa Barbara, this medium bodied Pinot Noir packs a good amount of ripe fruit with a hint of earthiness and a touch of smoke. Its smooth, velvety texture will have you coming back for more. Alma Rosa Pinot Noir would go great with cheese, especially aged Gouda.

Wine Review: 2008 Niner Wine Estates Twisted Spur

2011-11-25T19:26:00.003-05:00

A new favorite of mine - Twisted Spur is a beautiful blend with fresh, bright fruit on the nose. A bona fide fruit bomb, it has gobs of ripe red berries balanced by a bit of earth on the palate. It is velvety smooth with an impressively clean finish. This wine is simply delightful, a total no brainer in my book.

Wine Review: 2006 Niner Wine Estates Fog Catcher

2011-11-20T15:24:00.004-05:00

Niner Wine Estates Fog Catcher is a classic Bordeaux blend; Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot. It is a hearty wine, with great concentration and depth. Bold and rich, Fog Catcher has a deliciously complex flavor profile with vibrant dark fruit flavors with vanilla and oak. This wine is gorgeous and drinking beautifully now.

Wine Review: 2008 Eugen Wehrheim Niersteiner Oelberg Riesling Kabinett

2011-11-19T11:11:00.000-05:00

This is a smooth, dry Riesling. It is tart and fruity with prominent green apple and peach flavors. Its residual sugar is balanced by a nice, crisp acidity. This Riesling has loads of food-pairing potential, making it the perfect white to accompany your holiday meal.

Wine Review: 2007 Niner Wine Estates Syrah

2011-11-16T14:08:00.003-05:00

This Syrah has layers of flavor with a generous amount of ripe red fruit. It is smooth and luscious with hints of toasty oak and smoke. A great wine for any meal, its flavors complement a wide range of dishes.

Wine Review: 2008 Niner Wine Estates Sauvignon Blanc

2011-11-13T14:23:00.002-05:00

Niner Sauvignon Blanc has a clean nose with crisp citrus notes. It is rich and creamy with a smooth, oaky profile. Best described as a soft and less acidic than your typical Sauvignon Blanc, it is Chadonnay-esque in style. This Sauvignon Blanc is a refreshing option for those who want to try something new.

Wine Review: 2007 Niner Wine Estates Cabernet Sauvignon

2011-11-10T14:27:00.001-05:00

A classic California Cabernet, this wine well balanced and has great concentration. Herbal notes on the nose with hints of red berries and dark fruit. Dark cherry on the palate with a good amount of oak. Finishes strong with a fine tannic profile.

Wine Review: 2009 Glen Carlou Chardonnay

2011-11-07T16:30:00.002-05:00

I am typically not a huge fan of Chardonnay, but every once in awhile I find one that I enjoy. Glen Carlou has a warm and toasty feel to it, but it does not taste over oaked. A well rounded Chardonnay from South Africa, Glen Carlou is elegant and delicious! Coconut and Banana notes on the nose with melon and green apple on the palate.

Wine Review: 2010 Dog Point Sauvignon Blanc

2011-11-04T13:21:00.001-04:00

Fresh and lively, this New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc is true to its roots. Dog Point showcases a crisp, clean nose with hints of grass and citrus. The herbaceous, vegetal flavors on the palate are accompanied by a refreshing acidity. It has great concentration and a nice minerality on the finish. I really enjoyed this bottle!

Wine Review: 2009 First Press Cabernet Sauvignon

2011-11-01T17:28:00.003-04:00

An excellent value for a Napa Cab, First Press is ripe and fresh. Aromas of licorice and herbs with a good amount of dark fruit on the palate. It is on the lighter side for a Cabernet Sauvignon, making it an easy-drinking crowd pleaser. A great addition to any party, First Press is my first choice for a Cab in the $15 price range.

Wine Review: 2009 DMZ Syrah

2011-11-01T08:43:00.000-04:00

The 2009 DMZ Syrah is a masculine, full-bodied wine from South Africa. It has intense aromas and great concentration. Juicy red berries on the palate with a good amount of spice and cracked pepper on the finish. A great wine to pair with hearty meals or by itself on a chilly evening.

Domaine de Canton Ginger Liqueur

2011-10-22T11:42:00.005-04:00

I’ve been on a ginger kick lately... and Canton’s Ginger Liqueur satisfies my desire. You can add it to just about any cocktail to give it a little extra oomph!

Here is a seasonal twist on the classic margarita:
1.5 parts Canton Ginger Liqueur
1 part silver tequila
1/2 part lime juice
Shake and strain over ice, garnish with lime.

Another favorite of mine is the ginger mojito:
2 parts Canton Ginger Liqueur
1/2 part white rum
3 lime wedges mint
Prepare as you would a traditional mojito, top with club soda.

Delicious!

Branchville Oktoberfest - October 15, 2011

2011-10-15T16:26:00.002-04:00

This afternoon local businesses in Branchville took part in an Oktoberfest celebration.

At Ancona’s Wines, we hosted a German tasting introducing customers to wines from Diehl Winery. We tasted Diehl’s 2009 Riesling, 2010 Gewurztraminer, 2010 Dornfelder and 2009 Spatburgunder. All were well received by our customers and are wonderful examples of their varietals.

The Ridgefield Choaral serenaded guests with upbeat tunes from the past and present. They did a really great job and kept the crowd smiling and moving to the beat.

Ancona's Market had their grill fired up and ready by 12:00. The market had a constant flow of burgers, dogs and bratwurst on the grill with proceeds donated to the Ridgefield Boys & Girls Club.

The Little Pub hosted their 'Ghost Wing Challenge'... I’m not sure who the winner of the competition was, but my eyes are watering just thinking about how spicy those wings were!

It was a lot of fun and we can not wait for next year's celebration.

The Evolution of Beer: A Sam Adams Tasting Seminar

2011-10-14T17:15:00.001-04:00

Yesterday Ancona’s Wines hosted “The Evolution of Beer” a Sam Adams tasting seminar. Special guest Joe Hanson from the Boston Beer Company visited our store and gave a presentation on the history of beer covering a range of topics from ingredients, styles of beer, and the emergence of craft breweries over the past 25 years. Our guests enjoyed a sampling of Sam Adams Boston Lager, Sam Adams Boston Ale, Sam Adams Latitude 48 and Sam Adams Oktoberfest.

It was a informative evening full of fun and great beer.

Discovering the Regions of Rhone: Chateau de la Selve & Olivier Richard

2011-10-06T16:21:00.002-04:00

We had the pleasure of welcoming Olivier Richard from Chateau de la Selve to speak at our first tasting seminar. The theme for the evening was “The Regions of Rhone” and we featured 4 beautiful wines from his portfolio.

The vineyards at Chateau de la Selve are farmed in an organic and biodynamic culture. The vineyards are treated as interconnected, living organisms. The crops are planted and harvested using an astrological calendar and no chemical fertilizer, weed killer or insecticide is used. Very specific attention is paid to the balance of the soils, resulting in the production of wines with high delicacy and subtle complexity.

It was very refreshing to meet Olivier. The wines spoke volumes about his passion for the art of wine making, each with its own vivacious personality. I would love to visit the vineyard someday.

2010 Chateau de la Selve St. Regis Viognier
“The La Selve St. Regis is 100% Viognier. The color is a beautiful sunshine yellow and the aromas are so delightful. Peach, citrus, and a hint of mint move from the nose onto the palate leaving a clean, refreshing, delicate fruitiness. The limestone soil provides enough mineral tones to balance the fruit and add subtle complexity.”

2010 Chateau de la Selve L’Audacieuse Rose
“L' audacieuse rose by La Selve is a dynamic Southern Rhone blend of both Grenache and Syrah with some Cinsault and Viognier to add to its complex and vibrant flavor profile. High quality fruit and stylistic winemaking contribute to a blend that is mineral driven and food friendly!”

2006 Chateau de la Selve Beaulieu
“Cabernet, Grenache, Merlot, Cinsault blenc. Dark ruby/purple, color, Beaulieu has an expressive, nose of dark berries, spice and cassis. Long, with delicate tannins, and a graphite-tinged finish. This is an extremely versatile, food-friendly red. Great bistro wine!”

Chateau de la Selve Serre De Berty
“Maturing now, with dried sausage, mesquite and mulled spice notes taking over from the core of black cherry fruit. A smoky edge lingers on the finish. Syrah, Merlot, Grenache and Cinsault.”

Wine Review: Lieb Family Cellars 'Bridge Lane' Merlot Blanc

2011-09-27T15:37:00.000-04:00

To be honest, when this wine arrived on our shelves I had never encountered anything like it. My curiosity got the best of me and I had to give it a try. I was surprised that I liked it, before giving it a chance I passed unfair judgment. Like I have been told time and time again, it never hurts to try new things! 2010 Lieb Family Cellars Merlot Blanc has subtle red-fruit nuances as well as the crisp, refreshing qualities of a white wine. Merlot Blanc is produced from red Merlot grapes, however, during the crushing process the juice has no contact with the red grape skins. This results in the wine’s light appearance. I'm not certain how many Merlot Blancs are out there, but I'd be open to try another one.

Wine Review: 2006 Claraval Seleccion Especial

2011-09-16T15:19:00.000-04:00

It’s all about the blends for me this season. This is a bottle I have tasted before and I could not resist revisiting it. Claraval is a delicious blend of 50% Garnacha, 20% Tempranillo, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Syrah. Flavors of dark berries on the palate are intensified by beautiful aromas of cocoa and spice. Claraval's long, smooth finish is complemented by its silky tannic structure. It is bodacious blend, to say the least!

What’s with the cones, Ancona?

2011-09-09T11:31:00.007-04:00

If you have been to Ancona’s this past week you may have noticed construction cones set up at the far end of the parking lot. These cones mark the ground plan for an exciting new addition to the Ancona’s family. With help from family friends, the Nazzaro Brothers, the Anconas plan to build a regulation sized Bocce court. Bocce is a fun, yet challenging game requiring the utmost precision and skill. It is a social sport as well, bringing together family and friends while bridging the gap between generations. It’s time to start practicing, the court will be finished before you know it and the Anconas just might challenge you to a match!

Fall Seaonal Beer

2011-09-07T16:01:00.004-04:00

I am very excited to announce that Fall seasonal beers have arrived!

Personally, I cannot get enough of Harpoon’s UFO Pumpkin (available in 6 packs) and Shipyard’s Smashed Pumpkin (available in 22oz. bottles). Shipyard's Smashed Pumpkin is a bit spicier than Harpoon's UFO Pumpkin, which tends to be on the sweeter side. Both are bursting with fresh, seasonal flavors.

Erdinger Oktoberfest is a staff and customer favorite. This Oktoberfest is a Hefeweizen style beer with a modest 5.6% ABV. Although it is lighter, Erdinger does not disappoint in the flavor department. Aromas of caramel and spice entice the consumer while flavors of sweet malt and hops keep us coming back for more. The stack in our store is shrinking day by day... It's important to snag these beers early because they will not be around for much longer, supplies are limited.

Wine Review: 2008 Celler de Capcanes Mas Donis Barrica

2011-09-07T15:18:00.006-04:00

2008 Mas Donis Barrica is an outstanding blend of Grenache and Syrah. Although the combination of these two grapes is commonly found in the Rhone Valley, Mas Donis is produced in the Cataluna region of Spain. What I really love about Mas Donis Barrica is that it is an easy-drinking red that pairs well with just about anything. It has notes of blackberry and licorice on the nose accompanied by earthy, dark-fruit flavors on the palate. A fantastic bottle for everyday enjoyment.

Italian White Wine Review: 2009 Coenobium Lazio Bianco & 2010 Marco Porello Roero Arneis Camestri

2011-09-07T14:51:00.003-04:00

2009 Monastero Suore Cistercensi Coenobium Lazio Bianco

Coenobium is an Italian white blend of Trebbiano, Malvasia, and Verdicchio. It is from the Italian wine region Lazio, bordered to the north by Tuscany and to the east by Umbria. Coenobium is rich and full-flavored, making it a great wine to drink as the weather becomes cooler. Herbal and citrus notes on the nose with hints of honey and almond on the palate. Its smooth, medium-body is followed by a lasting, mineral finish. Overall, this is a beautiful wine with great concentration, I enjoyed it quite a bit.

2010 Marco Porello Roero Arneis Camestri
Marco Porello Roero Arneis hails from Piedmont, located in the northwest section of Italy. It has a soft, medium-body with aromas of grass, herbs and tangerine. This Arneis has beautiful, bright acidity with a crisp, clean finish. This bottle is a fantastic all-purpose white that will not disappoint. Another excellent selection to consider drinking for Fall.

Tropical Storm Irene

2011-08-30T13:02:00.006-04:00

In the wake of Tropical Storm Irene, we find residents pulling together to help each other to the best of their ability. Irene caused substantial damage and resulted in one of the worst power outages in Connecticut's history. With a significant portion of the surrounding towns without power, residents are doing the best they can to stay calm and collected.

Local businesses are stepping up to offer their support as well. Many have taken to Facebook and Twitter to keep residents up to date with the latest information. Talk of the Town, a blog dedicated to the latest happenings in Ridgefield, has done an outstanding job keeping residents informed. Their Facebook page has become an outlet for locals to share useful tips ranging from what roads have been cleared to where hot coffee can be found.

A collection of local businesses including Ancona's Market and Keough's Hardware are offering potable water to residents. At Ancona's Wines & Liquors, we have set up electrical power strips for locals to charge their cell phones, tablets and laptops. Ancona's Market brought their kitchen outdoors, serving up hearty meals to those who are unable to prepare their own. The Market is also handing out free batteries while supplies last. This evening, Ridgefield's very own Julia Lewis will preform live at Ancona's Market at 5:30.

Despite the destruction of this catastrophic event, Tropical Storm Irene has ignited a spark within all of us. An overwhelming sense of community can be found amongst all of the damage and devastation.

Ancona's Wines & Liquors is proud to be a part of this very hospitable community!

Weekly Round Up: 2009 Camino de Navaherreros, 2009 Iona Sauvignon Blanc, 2009 Meurger Pinot Noir and 2009 Discovery Sauvignon Blanc

2011-07-21T09:48:00.002-04:00

2009 Camino de Navaherreros

I have only four words for this bottle: I love this wine! 2009 Camino de Navaherreros is silky and smooth with a luscious, medium body. It is a total fruit-bomb, with sweet fruit on the nose and succulent, juicy flavors on the palate. A touch of spice enhances these flavors leading to a beautifully focused finish. 5 Stars!

2009 Iona Sauvignon Blanc

This South African Sauvignon Blanc has a crisp, medium body. The nose is clean with notes of tropical fruit and a touch of grass. Bright acidity complements pronounced citrus flavors. Iona Sauvignon Blanc was not what I was expecting it to be at all, but sometimes that’s a good thing. If you’re into crisp, zippy Sauvignon Blanc Iona is worth trying. I was pleasantly surprised and will definitely revisit this bottle again.

2009 Meurger Pinot Noir

The 2009 Le Meurger Pinot Noir is very dry, with low acidity. On the nose notes of red berry and dark fruit are accompanied by a distinct vegetal aroma. Its lighter body presents soft, muted flavors of dark red fruit as well as a generous amount of earth and spice. I wouldn't say I loved this bottle but I also can't say that I didn't not like it either. This is a nice Pinot Noir from Burgundy, not the best, but an accurate representation of the varietal and region.

2009 Discovery Sauvignon Blanc

This is a light-bodied Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand. It has citrusy, slightly herbaceous notes on the nose. On the palate it has a good amount of citrus and tropical fruit. These flavors are rounded out by a soft acidity. I wasn’t really feeling the Discovery, it just is not my style. But that's not to say it isn't a good bottle. It's light body and soft acidity make it a refreshing choice in this heat.

Ancona's Wines Sidewalk Sale 2011: Saturday 15% Off Selected Italian Wines

2011-07-14T14:47:00.009-04:00

The last day of our sidewalk sale is today and we are offering 15% off selected Italian wines (sale price not reflected on the website)

2008 Ferrando Erbaluce di Caluso La Torrazza
The dog days of summer have arrived and this is the perfect wine to help beat the heat. This beautiful Erbaluce from Piedmont, Italy has great concentration and bright acidity. A light floral nose is accompanied by great minerality and a fresh finish.

2008 Fattoria La Massa
La Massa is a soft, ripe blend of Sangiovese, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Aromas of vanilla and spice are found on the nose while sweet fruit flavors on the palate are balanced by a fair amount of acidity. The finish is lasting with soft, juicy tannins. Rated 90 Points by Stephen Tanzer’s I.W.C... this is a wonderful bottle!

2007 Allegrini Palazzo della Torre
This is a big, hearty red with great concentration and depth. Aromas of chocolate, licorice, and leather complement dense, dark fruit on the palate. 2007 Allegrni Palazzo della Torre is a bold wine that maintains a degree of approachability and elegance.

Ancona's Wines Sidewalk Sale 2011: Thursday 15% Off Selected French Wine

2011-07-14T13:33:00.004-04:00

We are kicking off the start of our Sidewalk Sale by offering 15% off selected French wine (sale prices are not reflected on the website)

Here are a few customer favorites:

2009 Eric Montintin Sancerre
This Sancerre is sensational! 2009 was a hot year in the Loire Valley, this translates to a refreshing hint of sweetness on the palate followed by a nice, crisp finish. Wine Spectator describes this wine as ‘super fresh’ and I could not agree more.

2009 Le Meurger Bourgogne Chardonnay
A richly textured Chardonnay that is beautifully smooth and balanced. Notes of ripe apple, peach, and pear are complemented by a touch of honey and smoke. This Chardonnay is too good to pass up, outstanding quality at a great price!

2009 Domaine des Homs Minervois “Paul”
This is a certified organic blend of Syrah, Carignan, and Grenache. Silky smooth fruit flavors are accompanied by a touch of earth. This decadent red is perfect with grilled or roasted meats.

2009 Domaine Monpertuis “Vignoble de la Ramiere” CDR
This Cote du Rhone is a classic expression of Grenache boasting flavors of sweet fruit with a subtle hint of spice. A satisfying, sophisticated red with a lasting finish. Guaranteed to be a crowd pleaser, this wine has quickly become one of my favorites!

Housatonic Habitat for Humanity

2011-07-07T10:26:00.004-04:00

This weekend Ancona's Wine of Ridgefield is hosting a tasting to benefit Housatonic Habitat for Humanity, a nonprofit housing organization. Their mission is to eliminate poverty housing from the greater Danbury area by mobilizing the local community to provide responsible home ownership opportunities to deserving families with limited income.

The tasting will take place at Ancona's Wines at 720 Branchville Rd. in Ridgefield from 2:00-5:00 p.m. Proceeds from the sale of tasting wines will be donated to Housatonic Habitat for Humanity.

Tasting Wines:
2009 Eric Montintin Sancerre
2010 Commanderie de Peyrassol Rose
2007 Hansom Merlot
2009 Domaine Monpertuis Cote du Rhone

Hope to see you there!

Spirit Review: UV Cake Vodka

2011-07-06T13:18:00.007-04:00

UV Vodka is celebrating its 10th anniversary with a limited edition cake flavored vodka. I’m not usually one to jump on the flavored vodka bandwagon, but UV Cake is hard to resist...

This vodka is versatile, opening up a Pandora’s box of drink-mixing opportunities. It is great with root beer (tastes like a root beer float) or pineapple juice (tastes like a pineapple upside-down cake). It also makes a killer addition to any mudslide recipe. UV Cake can also be sipped as an after dinner treat by itself or mixed with Godiva Chocolate Vodka as a sinfully delicious shot.

It’s official, I'll admit that I am hooked... I am UV Cake advocate trying my hardest to convert the non-believers.

It won’t be around for long, stop by the store to pick up a bottle while supplies last!

4th of July Wine Picks

2011-06-30T15:01:00.005-04:00

Looking for quick ideas for the 4th of July? Look no further, we have a great selection of items to choose from. There is nothing better than fireworks and wine!

Here are my pick's for the weekend:

2008 Earthquake Zinfandel
A rich, powerful red. Great concentration and a warm, lasting finish. Cinnamon and red berry on the nose with jammy, expressive fruit on the palate. Hints of mocha and spice rounding out the finish. Perfect to accompany savory barbecue dishes.

2008 Tangley Oaks Merlot Napa Cabernet Sauvignon
This Napa Merlot is plush and easy drinking. Ripe flavors of plum and dark cherry on the palate are accompanied by mocha and herbs. A round, medium body is followed by a smooth finish.

2010 Wolffer Rosé
I love this rosé! A blend of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. It is dry and crisp in style, making it perfect for hot Summer evenings. Enjoy by itself or paired with summer salads or grilled seafood.

2010 Loca Linda Torrontes
Beautiful floral notes on the nose with crisp citrus flavors on the palate. It is bright and clean, tastes like Summertime in a bottle. A great wine to enjoy while watching the fireworks.

Cheers!

Wine Review: 2010 Telmo Rodriguez Basa Blanca

2011-06-23T22:12:00.005-04:00

2010 Telmo Rodriguez Basa Blanca, originally uploaded by mitchancona.

2010 Telmo Rodriguez Basa Blanca

"With Summer fully switched on it's time to turn to crisp energetic whites to cut through the humidity and cool us down. This blended white (Verdejo, Viura, Sauvignon Blanc) hailing from the Rueda region of Spain is just the ticket. Wonderful, rich, precise nose of citrus fruit with subtle hints of spice. On the palate there is a wonderful minerality that supports the tart, crisp fruit. The finish is dry and zippy. This wine is the quintessential summer sipper!"-Mitch

Wine Review: 2008 Marc Ripoll Sans ‘Black Slate’ Priorat Gratallops

2011-06-23T11:14:00.003-04:00

2008 Marc Ripoll Sans Black Slate’s intense aromatics are accompanied by bold, rich flavors. On the palate powerful, earthy tones are balanced by a generous amount of fruit. Black Slate has a long finish with silky smooth tannins. This masculine, strong blend from the small region of Priorat will not disappoint. Its lush, full-body will benefit from being served alongside beef or lamb. Black Slate gets its name from the region’s unique soil that is composed of tiny bits of slate. This wine is a great example of how the marriage of climate and soil can result in a fantastic bottle of wine.

A Taste of Wilton June 20, 2011

2011-06-22T13:44:00.006-04:00

On Monday, June 20, we participated in “A Taste of Wilton”, a gathering of local vendors offering up a taste of their businesses. We presented guests with a diverse sampling of beach-friendly items including four wines, two beers, and a super easy, super delicious mixed cocktail.

The wines tasted were:
2008 Otto’s Constant Dream Pinot Noir - A delicious fruity Pinot Noir from New Zealand
CalNaturale Chardonnay - An un-oaked, crisp Chardonnay packaged in 1 liter sized tetra-packs
Cliff ‘The Climber’ Cabernet Sauvignon- A full-bodied, smooth Cabernet Sauvignon packaged in an travel friendly astra-pouch
2010 Domaine Houchart Rosé - A lovely Rosé with smooth fruity flavors from Provence, France.

The beers tasted were:
Brooklyn Summer Ale - A nice, light “dinner ale” perfect for Summertime
New England Sea Hag IPA- A rich, full-bodied IPA packed with flavor

And the mixed cocktail was:
Coco-Loco Coolata - made with UV Coconut Vodka and Pineapple Juice, topped with a maraschino cherry

We are very happy to have participated in this fun event and had a great time!

Taste of Wilton June 20th 5:30-8:30

2011-06-20T07:12:00.004-04:00

The 4th annual Taste of Wilton is today! Gather your favorite foodies and join us on Monday, June 20th for Wilton’s annual food and wine event! The Ancona's team will serve a beach theme of beverages--beer, wine, and a refreshing cocktail.

The event takes place 5:30-8:30pm at the Cannon Grange located across from the Cannondale Railroad Station at 25 Cannon Road – just off Rte 7 North beyond the Wilton Y.

Gather to nosh with friends, meet new people who share a passion for food, and experience an affordable evening of the best bites and wine Wilton restaurants, stores, and caterers have to offer.

Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door. They are available for purchase at:

Fairfield County Bank
Open House Gifts
The Wilton Bank
The Wilton Chamber of Commerce
The Wilton Family YMCA
The Wilton Library

See you tonight!

Saturday, June 4th Tastings at Ancona's Wines

2011-05-31T15:11:00.003-04:00

This will be an exciting Saturday for us at Ancona’s Wines, we are hosting very special tastings at each of our stores.

In Ridgefield, from 3:00-6:00 PM, we are hosting a wine tasting to support Ridgefield’s Relay for Life. Proceeds from the sale of tasting wines will be donated to the American Cancer Society.

Wines featured at this event are:
2008 Elio Sandri Langhe Nebbiolo
2008 Domaine Des Homs Minervois
2010 Chateau de la Selve Maguelonne Rosé
2010 Chateau de la Selve St. Regis Viognier

Relay For Life is an overnight event that joins communities in the fight against cancer. It is a way to celebrate cancer survivors, remember loved ones, and fight back against the disease.

In Wilton, from 3:00-6:00 PM, we welcome Brian Smith, proprietor of Loca Linda Winery. Join us as this Rowayton native and Master Sommelier offers customers a taste of Loca Linda’s superb portfolio.

Wines featured at this event are:
2010 Loca Linda Torrontes
2009 Loca Linda Malbec

These Argentinian beauties are irresistible and offer superior quality at an amazing value. 2010 Loca Linda Torrontes is sunshine in a bottle, with a crisp clean palate. Loca Linda’s 2009 Malbec is fruit driven finishing with soft, sweet tannins.

Classified Growth Bordeaux Tasting Dinner

2011-05-31T14:36:00.007-04:00

Ancona’s Wines & Liquors and Bernard's of Ridgefield
are proud to present:
Classified Growth Bordeaux Tasting Dinner
Friday, June 10, 2011 at Bernard's of Ridgefield

This dinner will feature an outstanding selection classified growth Bordeaux wine as well as a gourmet five course menu consisting of:

Canapes: Smoked Salmon Rosette on Toast / Spicy Tuna on Pomme Gaufrette / Beef Brasola, Hearts of Palm & Truffle Gougere / Chilled Tomato Soup with Avocado Shooter
NV Be Friends Cremant de Bourgogne Rose

Jumbo Lump Crabmeat Salad, Roasted Corn, Avocado, Cucumber, Tomatoes, Micro Greens & Lemon Chive Dressing
2005 Chateau Olivier White Pessac Leognan

Roasted Quail Stuffed with Foie Gras & Swiss Chard, Green Pea Ravioli, Pea Greens & Morel Sauce
2003 Chateau Berliquet Saint Emilion Grand Cru

Grilled Kobe Flat Iron Steak, Red Wine & Speck Mashed Potatoes, Sautéed Spinach, Tri-Colored Carrots, Fiddle Head Ferns, Red Wine Sauce
2003 Chateau Desmirail Margaux

Assorted Cheeses & Fruit Plate

2005 Chateau Olivier Red Pessac Leognan

Baked Almond Cream Stuffed Peach Wrapped in Phyllo, Pistachio Ice Cream & Strawberry Compote
2005 Chateau Caillou Sauternes

Cost of dinner is $100 + tax & gratuity
For reservations, please call 203.428.8282

Barbecue & Wine Pairing

2011-05-28T09:17:00.004-04:00

This weekend we are celebrating Memorial Day. This special holiday is a day to remember those who have died in the line of duty and the individuals serving our country today. Take a moment this weekend to reflect and honor these brave men and women.

Memorial Day also marks the unofficial beginning of Summer. Long days of sunshine and blue skies provide a pristine backdrop for outdoor celebrations. Barbecues and picnics are a great arena to experiment pairing wine and food. Here are a few guidelines to assist in your pairing adventures:

In the broad spectrum of things, red wine is typically matched with red meat while white wine is reserved for lighter fare.

To break it down further; bold, full-bodied reds pair well with meaty, smokey dishes. Cabernet Sauvignon and Zinfandel hold their own against meat high in fat content and burgers topped with strong cheeses. Soft, fruit forward reds like Shiraz and Merlot pair well alongside spicy barbecue recipes. The light, fruity qualities found in Pinot Noir complement grilled fish, chicken and summer salads.

If white wine is more your style, try pairing an herbaceous, zesty wine like Sauvignon Blanc with herb rubbed chicken or grilled vegetables. Crisp, semi-sweet whites like Gruner Veltliner balance spicy, chargrilled flavors found in Jamaican jerk chicken. Rieslings also complement spicy dishes as well as recipes utilizing sweet fruit flavors like peach or pineapple. The sumptuous, creamy qualities of Chardonnay are an excellent match for grilled shellfish.

Barbecue season offers a wonderful opportunity to try new recipes and experience great wine. Take full advantage of the beautiful weather headed our way and fire up the grill!

A few of my favorites include:
2007 Spann Vineyards Mo Zin - This unique blend of Zinfandel, Mourvedre, Petite Syrah and Syrah is versatile and food-friendly. With a slight hint of spice, this wine is phenomenal served with strip steak topped with chimichurri sauce.

2008 So Be It Pinot Noir - Love at first sip! Elegant notes of cherry and spice are complemented by a silky smooth finish. A Pinot Noir of this quality for under $20 is a beautiful thing. An excellent mate for grilled salmon and orzo salad.

2009 Arnoux et Fils Vacqueyras Chapelle St. Arnoux - Aromas of red and dark berry on the nose. A lovely herbaceous quality on the palate finishing with a hint of black pepper and spice. Good concentration and nice depth. An awesome companion to grilled pork tenderloin or steak tacos with avocados.

Beer Review: Dogfish Head 90 Minute IPA

2011-05-19T23:00:00.004-04:00

Dogfish Head has an impressive portfolio of craft beer ranging from IPAs and belgian-style ales to a collection of rarities that includes their very own 'Bitches Brew' and their infamous 'Red & White' beer brewed with Pinot Noir grapes.

Their 90 Minute IPA is available year round in 4 packs. It is bright copper in color and has a thin head that sticks to the glass. Aromas of pine, citrus and an enticing caramel sweetness are found on the nose. There are bitter herbal notes with underlying tones of citrus and sweet malt as well as a generous amount of hops on the palate. It has medium weight and excellent carbonation. All around a great brew, Cash gives it two paws up!

Sierra Nevada Beer Camp Tasting

2011-05-19T12:45:00.002-04:00

To celebrate American Craft Beer Week Ancona's Wines & Liquors will be tasting Sierra Nevada’s Beer Camp on Saturday, May 21 from 3:00-6:00 p.m. For two weeks in August Sierra Nevada invites "campers" to their brewery in Chico to learn about and create beer. Yup, campers get to create their own brews. The best of the best are here in Sierra Nevada's first beer camp 12pk. Three bottles of four different styles ranging from the lighter Cali Common to the opaque Juniper Black Ale. Stop by for a taste!

Kona Wailua Wheat

2011-05-18T23:54:00.004-04:00

Aloha! Hawaii's Kona Brewery has a great line of year round microbrews as well as a great selection of seasonal beers. Lucky for us, Kona Wailua Wheat is in season!

Kona's Wailua Wheat is a shining example of what flavored wheat beer should be. Medium straw in color, with aromas of tropical fruit on the nose. A light body with nice crisp carbonation. The passion fruit and citrus flavors felt natural, they were not heavy or artificial tasting. The tart fruit flavors are balanced by a generous amount of sweet hop. I can not get enough of this unique beer, definitely one of my favorites!

Rouge Dad's Little Helper Black IPA

2011-05-16T14:46:00.001-04:00

Rouge Dad's Little Helper Black IPA, originally uploaded by mitchancona.

"The new "hot" style, Black IPA, (aka American Black Ale) is a nice blend of malty/roasted notes and full throttle hops. They can range from dark brown to pitch black with an alcohol level of moderate to high depending on the brewers desires. This beer pours opaque brown with chunky, creamy tan head that retreats slowly leaving sticky lace. Nose is mostly malt driven with tiny hints of piney/resiny hops. Mouth is pretty heavy and dense with just enough carbonation. First few sips were disappointing, didn't get much more than short lived sweet malt that was quickly overwhelmed by harsh bitter hops. Luckily, I'm a slow typist. My inability to type allowed the beer to warm slightly, what a difference! The short lived malt expands and becomes complex, the thug like hops now is more subdued. Bitter dark chocolate with a layer of espresso flavors linger in the mouth. Nice by itself but more enjoyable with a rare burger swimming in caramelized onions and swiss cheese. Yummy!"-Mitch

Craft Beer... In A Can?

2011-05-16T11:00:00.002-04:00

As the weather increasingly becomes more tolerable we find ourselves venturing outside to spend quality time in the sun. And like mother always said, it is important to apply sunscreen and stay hydrated. A cooler or backpack full of refreshments is a beautiful thing. But glass bottles can be heavy and cumbersome. No one wants to hike with the extra weight or risk broken glass on a boat. So what is one to do, nothing of quality could possibly be packaged in aluminum... right?

The answer to this question is yes, it certainly CAN! (Haha, see what I did there?)

Craft beer in a can, some consider this blasphemous... But there is a revolution taking place on the production lines of top craft breweries. The selection of canned beer has grown over the past 5 years to include a myriad of styles to suit any taste preference. Breweries like Cisco, Magic Hat, Oskar Blues, and New England are packaging their top sellers in cans, making them environmentally and travel friendly. A common misconception surrounding canned beer is that it tastes like metal. This can not be further from the truth. The inside of cans are sprayed with a protective coating so beer never touches aluminum. And unlike bottles, cans protect beer from premature spoilage due to light exposure and oxidation. Cans also become cold faster and stay cold longer.

Consider the aluminum can your new best friend, a faithful companion that will travel with you wherever you go. Grab a six pack, slap on some sunscreen and embark on an epic adventure!

A few of our my favorites include:
Magic Hat #9: A great summer brew, perfect for the beach! Light, crisp and refreshing. It tastes like a Pale Ale but drinks like a Hefeweizen.

Butternut’s Pork Slap: This Pale Ale really hits the spot. It is crisp and refreshing with a medium-body. It has a soft touch of citrus on the finish. It is brewed with a hint of ginger to give it a distinctive kick.

Oskar Blues Old Chub: This traditional Scottish Ale is silky smooth bursting with flavors of coffee, cocoa and a touch of smoke. Brewed with a considerable amount of malted barely, this dark ale is a crowd pleaser.

New England’s Sea Hag IPA: This rich, full-bodied IPA packs a ton of flavor into a 12oz. can. Sea Hag is an awesome IPA with a great hop character.

Relay For Life Wine Tasting

2011-05-13T16:28:00.007-04:00

Relay For Life is an overnight event that joins communities in the fight against cancer. It is a way to celebrate cancer survivors, remember loved ones, and fight back against the disease.

On Saturday, May 7, we joined the local community in support of Relay For Life by hosting a special wine tasting in which proceeds from the sale of the tasting wines were donated on behalf of Wilton Relay for Life. At the end of the day, we sold over 8 cases of wine and donated $500 to the American Cancer Society. A big thank you to all of those who came out to support this great cause!

We will be hosting another wine tasting in support of Ridgefield’s Relay For Life on Saturday, June 4.

Derby Delight: Mint Juleps

2011-05-04T15:20:00.006-04:00

The Kentucky Derby is taking place this weekend. It is time to put on an elaborate hat, fire up the stove to cook Burgoo (a traditional Kentucky stew prepared with beef, chicken and pork) and pop open a few bottles of Bourbon for Mint Juleps.

There are many important attributes that factor into the creation of a perfect Mint Julep. Fresh mint and quality Bourbon will have a substantial impact on the finished product. If you have the privilege of using mint from a local garden, select tender leaves from the top of the plant. Always remember to rinse and dry mint thoroughly and remove stems before using. Quality Bourbon is essential to a successful Mint Julep, however as with every other mixed drink, you should avoid using very expensive, aged whiskey. About an hour before making Mint Juleps toss the glasses in the freezer. This little trick is a great way to avoid watering down a beverage, the frosted glass prevents ice from melting.

Now on to the recipe (drum-roll please.....)

Muddle 4 mint leaves, 1 tsp of confectioners’ sugar and a splash of Bourbon (I recommend using Woodford's Reserve, Maker's Mark or Blanton's Single Barrel) at the bottom of a glass. Once the mint leaves and sugar have formed a thick paste add 1 cup of crushed ice. Pour 4 oz Bourbon over ice. Add more crushed ice and a mint sprig for garnish. Now your Mint Julep is ready to enjoy. Sit back, relax and cheer on your favorite contender in this years race! I will be cheering on PantsOnFire.

Tickled Pink on Cinco de Mayo: Asom Broso La Rosa

2011-05-04T12:54:00.010-04:00

Cinco de Mayo, not to be confused with Mexican Independence Day, commemorates the victory of the Mexican Army over the French at the Battle of Puebla. Beyond the observation of this unlikely victory, Cinco de Mayo is a day in which Mexican ancestry and pride is celebrated. Many Americans recognize and take part in Mexican traditions on this day regardless of their ethnic origin.

Tequila is a Mexican tradition I fully support on this day (and a handful of other days as well)

Tequila is made from the blue-agave plant and is bottled in one of three main categories: Blanco, Reposado, or Anejo. Blanco, also known as white or silver tequila, is aged less than 2 months in steel barrels and bottled shortly after distillation. Because it sees no oak, it is clean and crisp. Reposado tequila spends a minimum of 2 months but less than a year in oak barrels. The aging process gives Reposado tequila smooth flavors and a medium body. Anejo, also known as vintage tequila, is aged for at least a year in oak barrels. Anejo tequila is darker in color than Reposado and has a rich, complex flavor profile.

My all time favorite tequila is Asom Broso La Rosa Reposado. Made from 100% blue agave this unique tequila gets its pink hue from being aged for 3 months in french oak barrels once used for Bordeaux. It is best served chilled by itself or in my infamous Tickled Pink Margarita.

Tickled Pink Margarita Recipe:
2 oz. Asom Broso La Rosa Reposado
1 oz. Grand Marnier
2 oz. Watermelon Puree
1 oz. Lime Juice
1 oz. Cranberry Juice

Shake with ice and strain into a rocks glass. I like to coat the rim of the glass with salt to get the salty sweet vibe. A glass rimmed with sugar is perfectly acceptable as a sweeter alternative.

Pale Ale Challenge (Sierra Nevada, Victory, Widmer, Keith's)

2011-05-04T12:52:00.004-04:00

Pale Ale Challenge, originally uploaded by mitchancona.

Oh what to do on a rainy Wednesday afternoon... I know, I'll blind taste four pale ales (two I know I like and two newbies).
#1- pale golden in color, nice head and retention...nice nose of bread and spice and fruit.... flavors of grain, spice and resiny hops.... mouth was medium in body with very active carbonation....nice bitter finish
#2- pale golden in color, better head than #1... similar nose with citrus added in for good measure...flavors mirrored the nose with a bready base and resin/citrus hops over top... rich feel, little bit more creamy than #1... clean long finish highlighting the complex hop flavors
#3- amber brown (this is a pale ale?), nice sticky head, similar nose to #2.... flavors were similar as well but the malt was more pronounced, this made for a fuller richer flavor.... feel was medium in body with good carbonation.... Finish was slightly sweeter than #1 and #2
#4- pale golden color, decent head (didn't last long)... Grain and corn on the nose, no real hops found?!.... Muted, sweet bread/malt with an adjunct overlay that I couldn't taste past....slick and somewhat still in the mouth...finish was yucky (technical beer term)
So, what did I like best?
(in order favorite to least favorite)
#2 Victory Headwaters Pale Ale
#3 Widmer Brothers Drifter Pale Ale
#1 Sierra Nevada Pale Ale
#4 Alexander Keith's Nova Scotia Style Pale Ale

It was no surprise to me that my favorite was the Victory, I'm a big fan. The Widmer was a surprise though, it was a close call between it and the Sierra. In the end I went with the denser, fuller Widmer (although I would be happy with either). I had never tried the Keith's before... I doubt I will ever again.
CHEERS!
-Mitch

2010 Red Tail Ridge Dry Rose

2011-05-03T19:19:00.002-04:00

2010 Red Tail Ridge Dry Rose, originally uploaded by mitchancona.

Pinkish-orange hue, soft nose of candied strawberry and cranberry. Lush in the mouth with flavors of cherry and other tart red fruit. Very drinkable... Almost TOO drinkable. I love Rose season! -Mitch

Eugene Carrel Jongieux "Vin de Savoie" 2009

2011-04-29T19:55:00.001-04:00

Eugene Carrel Jongieux "Vin de Savoie" 2009, originally uploaded by mitchancona.

Review:
Ok, as if the world of wine wasn't confusing enough.. This wine is from the Savoie wine region in the Savoy region of France...Huh? Basically the vineyards cling to the sides of the mountains in this alpine region. The grape, Jaquere, is not all that common. In fact this is really the only region that it's grown in. What does this mean to you? It means put down your Pinot Grigio and explore. This wine, with it's clean, crisp acidity is right up your alley. Ok, it's a tad bit rounder than most PGs, but it's still worth a try. This wine will be in my Summer rotation this year, try it and I'm sure it will be in yours as well..-Mitch

R Wines 2009 Diddley Bow Riesling

2011-04-29T18:02:00.001-04:00

2011-04-28-21-40-58_1000000302, originally uploaded by mitchancona.

Review:
Unfortunately it took the demise of "R" Wines for us to buy/try this awesome wine. Originally this wine was supposed to retail for close to twice the price, it was only after "R" Wines fell apart and all of their wines were offered at close out prices that we decided to give it a try. I'm so glad we did. This wine is fantastic! The touch of sweetness is so well offset by the crisp acidity it is hardly noticeable. Pro: This wine is great Con: Not much left....especially if I keep drinking it.- Mitch
PS- Sorry for the funky picture. This is what happens when you download a new photo ap to your iPad....they'll get better....I hope.

Lake Placid IPA

2011-04-28T21:55:00.002-04:00

Lake Placid IPA, originally uploaded by mitchancona.

Hmm... The other day I drank/tasted Lake Placid's Ubu ale and loved it. (no real big surprise since I had tried it before). Tonight I tried their IPA and unfortunately came away with a different conclusion. Don't get me wrong, not a horrible IPA, just not wonderful one. Pours a clear brown with foamy white head. Nose was muted, some mild hop notes. Mouth is light with nice effervescence. Flavors fall in line with with the nose, muted spotty hops with some malt acting as a foundation. Don't get me wrong.... no real flaws.... ver easy drinking... just a little too toned down for my liking.

Wine and Music Review: Matt and Kim 'Sidewalks' & 2009 Tres Picos Garnacha

2011-04-28T13:22:00.007-04:00

The fiery smorgasbord of funky tunes heard on Matt & Kim’s ‘Sidewalks’ complement the succulent flavors of 2009 Tres Picos Garnacha. This full-bodied Garnacha is remarkably delicious, hosting bright, juicy flavors of red berry and dark fruit. A hint of spice is followed by a silky smooth finish.

Garnacha is a versatile grape and is often used in blended varieties. It is dry and slightly sweet with a firm backbone. These qualities make it an excellent match for grilled or braised red meat. I would recommend pairing this wine (and album) with barbecued short ribs, stuffed pork chops or a burger topped with cheddar cheese.

Wine, music and barbecue… it does not get any better than that!

Widmer Brews

2011-04-25T12:38:00.003-04:00

In 1984 two brothers followed their dream and opened Widmer Brewery. Their shared passion for craft beer has translated into the production of many delicious European and American style beers. Located in Portland, Widmer Brewery offers a variety of brews including: Nelson Imperial IPA, Pitch Black IPA and their signature unfiltered Hefeweizen.

Widmer Nelson Imperial IPA has a strong hoppy characteristic matched with a hint of sweet malt. This imperial IPA will go well with an assortment of grilled meats. I recommend pairing it alongside a juicy buffalo burger with pepper jack cheese.

Their Pitch Black IPA is brewed with black malt, resulting in a bitter flavor similar to that of a dark stout. This unique beer pairs well with food that can hold its own. It would be perfect to serve with a thick cut of steak or spicy BBQ ribs.

The brothers’ most popular and decorated brew is a traditional Hefeweizen. This unfiltered gem is crisp and refreshing with a slight hint of citrus. It is an exceptional mate for grilled swordfish or Indian food.

Earth Day 2011 and Bluebird Pinot Noir

2011-04-22T14:39:00.006-04:00

Today is Earth Day, a day in which we appreciate the environment and the wonders of nature. Wineries around the world are doing their part to conserve resources and reduce their carbon footprint. Miracle One Wines and X Winery joined together to create Bluebird Wines. Both wineries share a passion for the environment and work hard to provide customers with great wine at affordable prices. Last week we tasted Bluebird’s Pinot Noir and quickly decided it needed to be on our shelves. The wine is excellent and the packaging is easy to use. Bluebird’s Pinot Noir presents elegant notes of cherry and red berry. This easy drinking Pinot is fun and eco-friendly! Compared to glass bottles, packaging wine in a pouch reduces greenhouse gas emissions and landfill volumes.

Ah Barbera!

2011-04-21T17:41:00.004-04:00

Ah Barbera!, originally uploaded by mitchancona.

Of all the grape varieties that hail from Italy, I think barbera is my favorite. I know, I know, that's a pretty serious statement but hear me out. I think it's a more versatile grape than either sangiovese or nebbiolo. Not to mention the quality to price ratio, which I consider to be higher as well. Here's the skinny. Barbera is an Italian red grape that is known for producing wines that have deep color, ripe fruit flavors, high acidity and remarkably low tannin levels. They can range from light and easy cocktail reds to more serious, powerful wines, that need time to mature in the bottle. The best examples hail from the Piedmont region in northern Italy, particularly the towns of Alba and Asti. Where Asti is known for their more serious, powerful barbera offerings, Barbea d'Alba is often a lighter, more user friendly version. I have to say, for me, warmer weather and Barbera d'Alba go hand in hand. Their lively acidity and bright ripe fruit flavors make them fantastic "deck" reds. Since they tend to be less tannic they go better with the lighter fair that starts to show up on our tables this time of year. No matter which style you explore, I think you'll find that barberas are extremely enjoyable. CHEERS!-Mitch

Sierra Beer Dinner @ Little Pub

2011-04-20T12:24:00.002-04:00

Sierra Beer Dinner @ Little Pub, originally uploaded by mitchancona.

Here's a quick re-cap of the wonderful Sierra Nevada beer dinner that the Little Pub hosted the other night.
The food was great and the beer pairings were perfect (more on that in a moment).
Beer dinners are mostly about the food and beer but they're also about the brewery itself. I thought I had a good idea what Sierra Nevada was all about. High quality micro brews that reflect proper styles and impeccable quality. What I didn't realize, and you should know, is how environmentally responsible the brewery is. They call it their "Hops Harmony" philosophy. Here are a few examples of Sierra Nevada's commitment to our environment.
They have the second largest privately owned array of solar panels. Hydrogen fuel cells that in tandem with the solar to produce 90% of the energy needed to run the entire brewery. Water treatment that creates a biogas that they use to run their boiler system. CO2 recovery system that captures the CO2 produced in the brewing process for reuse in other aspects of that same process. Heat exchangers that recover and recycle energy. I could go on and on mentioning their material recycling (99.5% of their solid waster is diverted from landfills), organic recycling, hybrid diesel, etc.etc. When you drink one of Sierra's many great brews, not only can you enjoy a top notch micro brew, you can also feel good that that production of that beer had little or no negative impact on the environment.
Now more about the food and beer....
The night started with a chicken tortilla soup paired with Summerfest. The light lager mellowed the slight spice from the soup. Next came the iceberg wedge coupled with Ovila Dubble (pictured above). The wedge had a drizzle of balsamic that played harmoniously with the malt in the dubble. Veggie spring rolls with a spicy dipping sauce arrived with the Torpedo IPA. The higher hops in the IPA played nicely with the dipping sauce. Sierra's flagship Pale Ale was severed with the main course of fish and chips. The crisp. flavorful fish was the star of the show here with the pale ale playing a supporting role. Finally came the high octane Brewer's Reserve Grand Cru which was severed with an ultra decadent bread pudding with a whiskey sauce. Both were stellar.
It was a great night all around, great food, great beer, great people. Thanks Little Pub!

Sierra Nevada Ovila Dubbel

2011-04-19T19:21:00.001-04:00

Sierra Nevada Ovila Dubbel, originally uploaded by mitchancona.

Hmmm.... I so wanted to love this beer, instead I like it and appreciate the attempt. Nice dark brown color that is slightly cloudy. Warming, bready nose, a touch of heat. Rich, dense feel with just enough bubbly. Malt is the star of this show with slightly awkward hops peeking out from behind the curtains. Great cause, nice try, ok double.-Mitch

Ovila Take Two

So I had the opportunity to try the Ovila a second time, this time from a keg vs a bottle. Totally different product. This time the beer had a much more complex flavor and the mouth feel was much more lively. All in all a far more enjoyable experience. I've also re-thought my take on the Ovila out of the bottle based on just trying my all time favorite dubbels from Westmalle. (read bellow)

I love this beer. I always have. So much so that I think I've built it up in my memory over the years into something that it isn't. Pours a beautiful mahogany brown with nice chunky tan head. Nose has sweet candied malt, mouth is rich and less lively than I remember. (this is where I think my memory has re-worked reality. I think this beer is always pretty relaxed and not overly zippy in the mouth. This is also where I fear I was unfair to the Ovila. Both beers are pretty mellow as far as carbonation. With this in mind I look forward to trying the Ovila out of a bottle again) Flavors of sweet malt with slight spice dominate. The finish is dry and warming. Enjoyable as always.-Mitch

Le Hold Up

2011-04-19T14:28:00.002-04:00

Le Hold Up, originally uploaded by mitchancona.

Hmmm... Pinot Noir blended with Grenache!? Being a bit of a wine snob and believing that Pinot Noir (let alone Pinot Noir sourced from the Burgundy) should never be blended with anything, I might have decided I didn't like this wine before I even took the first sip. Well, if there is one thing (and the only one constant thing) that I've learned over all these years tasting wine... never try to judge a wine before you taste it.
Sure, this isn't the most complex of wines but it is extremely pleasing in a very comforting way. Nice wet earth on the nose with hints of red cherry. The feel is light and silky. Flavors of bright red fruit shine through with very subtle earth tones providing the canvass. Again, this is not a very complex wine. It is however a crowd pleaser that can easily be served as a cocktail wine or with food. Here it is being served with a hearty lentil/kale soup (which is the star of the show and the wine is simply a supporting actor)" -Mitch

More Than Manischewitz

2011-04-16T21:54:00.005-04:00

Once upon a time, not so long ago, your choice of Kosher wines was limited to little more than Manischewitz. Today an increasing number of wineries have expanded their portfolios to include wine that is kosher for Passover. Kosher wines are wines produced under a strict set of rules sanctioned by Jewish law. To receive kosher certification wines are made under the watchful eye of a Rabbi. Throughout the vinification process only Sabbath observing Jews can be involved in the production of the wine.

This year our Kosher section features a diverse sampling of red and white wines from Israel, Italy, New Zealand, Spain and California. Each offers a taste of varietals typical to their region of origin.

Here are a few of our favorites:

2007 Baron Herzog Cabernet Sauvignon has flavors of dark berries and oak on the palate.

2008 Borgo Real Sangiovese offers delicate aromas of cherry and violet, true to its Italian roots.

2009 Goose Bay Pinot Noir from New Zealand is easy to drink with soft, earthy tones and rich fruit.

Lake Placid Ubu Ale

2011-04-15T18:17:00.002-04:00

Lake Placid Ubu Ale, originally uploaded by mitchancona.

"Like the chair on the label suggests, this beer is perfect for chillin' and relaxing. Easy to drink blend of rich semi-sweet malt and clean crisp hops. Color is a rich mahogany with a fluffy off-white head. Nose is more warming, sweet malt than hop. Mouth is medium in feel with just the right amount of carbonation. Rich, dark bread flavors are framed by a thin line of drying hops. Super user friendly... Tough to have just one" -Mitch

Victory Headwaters Pale Ale

2011-04-12T11:48:00.002-04:00

Victory Headwaters Pale Ale, originally uploaded by mitchancona.

Victory Headwaters Pale Ale

This beer arrived to us a few months back. For some reason my eyes kept looking past it when I was picking a sixer to take home. I finally honed in on it the other night and I'm glad I did. I'm going to skip the serious review and just say hat this is a delicious beverage. Really well balanced, easy to drink.... even easier to keep drinking... could be my new go-to session ale... only time will tell. -Mitch

Ancona's Wines of Wilton 1 Year Anniversary

2011-04-06T13:10:00.014-04:00

This weekend we are celebrating Ancona’s Wines of Wilton’s one-year anniversary. Time sure does fly when you’re having fun! Beginning April 7th we are hosting a sale to commemorate this special anniversary. Stop by our Ridgefield or Wilton location and receive 15% off bottles featured in our pick section. These wines are all beautifully made with outstanding quality for the price – most are under $20.

On Saturday, April 9 from 3:00 to 6:00 we will be tasting 2009 Elk Cove Pinot Gris and 2007 Bisceglia Aglianico del Vulture Terra di Vulcano.

This is our way of saying “Thank You!” to the local community. We sincerely appreciate all of the support and for making this past year a memorable one.

On the Road to Wine Knowledge

2011-04-05T07:16:00.015-04:00

The Ancona's team prides themselves on wine knowledge and utilizing that knowledge to assist customers in selecting the right wine for the right occasion. Wine is so complex compared to any other agricultural product. There are over 10,000 documented grape varieties and about 230 that are prominent in the fine wine world. Each of these can produce a multitude of different end results based on where they are grown, how they are grown, and who makes the wine.

I don't think I have ever studied anything that has such a broad spectrum of learning--agriculture, chemistry, geography, history, language, and more. The more you know about a wines origins, its character, its value, and its ability to compliment a nice dinner, the greater and more lasting your pleasure.

Before taking a wine course you may have not heard of Counoise, know how to pronounce it, know whether it is a white or a red grape, know where it is grown, and the style it produces?

After taking a wine course, you will come to learn that Counoise is pronounced "Coon-wahz", it is a red grape grown in the Rhone Valley introduced from Spain by a papal officer to Pope Urban V when the papacy was based in Avignon in the mid-14th century. Today it is a key component of many Chateauneuf-du-Pape wines because it's moderate alcohol and tannins coupled with good fruit and lovely aromatics, balances the spicy, strong tannins and high alcohol of Syrah.

The CSW (Certified Specialist of Wine) course through the Society of Wine Educators is the course by which the Ancona's team is learning the spectrum of how grapes are grown and what they ultimately taste like in a glass. The CSW credential signifies a mastery of the core principles and fundamentals of wine and is recognized world wide within the wine industry. Even though there are members of the staff who have taken various courses or have learned on-the-job, we know that continuous learning in this industry will help us keep abreast of change and provide the best service to our customers.

Weekly we will keep you informed of what we have learned as well as new wines that we have tasted. We promise to keep it fun and informative!

AmeriCares Fundraiser (April 2, 2011)

2011-04-04T14:12:00.013-04:00

As we all know, healthcare is very expensive and there are many low-income and uninsured children and families in our local community. AmeriCares Free Clinics was established 17 years ago and with the help of hundreds of volunteer nurses, doctors, and administrative personnel, thousands of residents can now receive medical services.

Ancona's Wines & Liquors assisted in AmeriCares annual fundraising efforts on Saturday by organizing and presenting a wine tasting of over 25 wines. The atmosphere was very festive and the attendees enjoyed mingling while tasting and sampling various wines from around the world.

Bull’s Head Market of Norwalk did an outstanding job preparing a lovely assortment of hor d’oeuvres while classical guitarist Gene Pino provided music for the event. Guests were able to participate in a silent auction and raffle. It was a beautiful evening full of wonderful energy and a feeling of giving that resulted in great success.

Thank you to all who came out to support the cause, we had a fantastic time! We would also like to extend our gratitude to our distributors who donated their time at the event and the bottles for tasting - Martin Scott Wines, Peter Skurnik Wines, Slocum & Suns, and Winebow.

Ancona's is donating 15% of the proceeds from the wines tasted at the event. If you were unable to attend the event, you may still make purchases that will be donated until April 9th. To review the selection of wines and purchase them on-line click here and type AmCare as the promo code so your purchases will be included as part of the fundraising efforts. Please help us in supporting this wonderful community service to children and families in need of proper medical care.

Wine Review: 2008 Bodega Carchelo "A"

2011-03-23T11:56:00.007-04:00

Shake off the last bit of winter with a bottle of the 2008 Bodegas Carchelo “A”. It is a smooth blend of Syrah and Tempranillo with earthy tones on the nose. Aromas of dark red fruit are complemented by mocha and cracked pepper. Flavors of juicy dark berries present themselves on the palate alongside hints of vanilla and spice. This wine is well structured with soft tannins and light acidity. It is an exceptional value!

2008 Bodega Carchelo "A" is on sale for $17.99 (regularly $19.99/bottle)

David vs Goliath

2011-03-05T11:54:00.005-05:00

David vs Goliath, originally uploaded by mitchancona.

In the spirit of Coke vs Pepsi, come try two top shelf tequilas side by side and pick which one you like the best. The expressively elegant PaQui Silver will be taking on the heavyweight champion, Patron Silver. John Chappell, co-founder of New Canaan based PaQuí, will be in our Ridgefield store overseeing the blind tasting and answering all of your tequila questions. This match up will surely go down in tequila challenge history, you do not want to miss this! This Saturday (March 12th) from 3-6p.m.

Stillwater "Cellar Door" Farmhouse Ale

2011-02-26T11:00:00.002-05:00

Stillwater "Cellar Door" Farmhouse Ale, originally uploaded by mitchancona.

Cloudy copper color with off white head that dissipates quickly. Muted nose with touches of sweet spice. creamy medium bodied mouth with active carbonation. Herbal spice atop a sweet malt base, the spice note increase as the beer warms in the glass. Paired really well with slow cooked herb encrusted chicken.

Coronado Islander IPA

2011-02-24T15:12:00.004-05:00

Coronado Islander IPA, originally uploaded by mitchancona.

Murky golden color with lacy off-white head. Mellow nose with more hop than malt shining through, resin, pine, citrus. Somewhat creamy mouth with light carbonation. Pretty strong flavors that follow the nose. With that in mind this beer is out of balance. Don't get me wrong, I love hops, this beer just needs more malt for them to play against. Much bigger fan of their Idiot IPA.

Van Steenberge "Monk's Cafe" Flemish Sour Ale

2011-02-23T09:33:00.002-05:00

Van Steenberge "Monk's Cafe" Flemish Sour Ale, originally uploaded by mitchancona.

Brilliant brown color with red highlights. Active off white head that is short lived. Mild but attractive nose of sweet dark cherries with hints of spice. The mouth is thin and light with minimal carbonation. Powerful sweet cherry flavor upfront that is balanced nicely by a crisp sour finish. This is a wonderful example of a not so familiar style.

Wine and Music Review: Greg Laswell 'Three Flights From Alto Nido' & Jean Noel Gagnard’s 2007 “L’Estimée”

2011-02-10T12:19:00.005-05:00

Greg Laswell’s Three Flights From Alto Nido is a fresh and approachable album. Laswell’s sexy, elegant vocals are perfect alongside Jean Noel Gagnard’s 2007 “L’Estimée”. His intimate lyrics touch on subjects of loss and renewal throughout the album, guiding the listener on a whimsical journey of recognition and reflection. The delicate melodies are a refreshing contrast to the depth of his lyrical content and complement the medium-body and soft tannic structure of the 2007 “L’Estimée”. The instrumentation on Three Flights From Alto Nido is expressive and upbeat, mirroring the vibrant flavor profile of the wine. The 2007 “L’Estimée” presents rich, red fruit flavors accompanied by a hint of peppery spice. It is well rounded with exceptional depth and length. These two undisputedly make an exquisite pair and are beautiful representations of music and wine.

City Steam's Naughty Nurse

2011-02-05T16:48:00.003-05:00

Watch the big game with a few Naughty Nurses. City Steam’s Naughty Nurse is an easy-drinking brew with a crisp, medium body. It is a Pale Ale made in an English Bitter style. It has a rich amber color with citrus and floral aromas. It tastes of sweet roasted malts with a slightly spicy finish. Do not let the name lead you astray, these nurses are quite nice!

Wine and Music Review: The Black Keys 'Brothers' & 2007 Allegrini Palazzo della Torre

2011-01-14T12:35:00.009-05:00

2007 Allegrini Palazzo della Torre
The Black Keys - “Brothers”

When this album was first released, I was hesitant. I remained on the fence about it until recently. I was driving along one evening and boom, I was blindsided. The track ‘She’s Long Gone’ seized control of my car stereo. As it filtered through my speakers, something clicked. Days later I found myself craving the album. Its sound is infectious; the blazing guitar riffs and pounding rhythm crawl through your ears and attack your brain... the noise is paralyzing.

The Black Keys' ‘Brothers’ offers raw, playful lyrics with a dark, sinister undertone. The vocals are haunting and soulful while the music maintains an inventive bluesy-rock edge. That is what makes it an ideal match for the 2007 Allegrini Palazzo della Torre. This wine's strong backbone provides ample weight allowing it to hold its own alongside 'Brothers'. Aromas of chocolate, licorice and leather complement dense, dark fruit. The 2007 Palazzo della Torre is drinking beautifully and showcases a brilliant balance between elegance and a rich, full body.

Rogue Mogul Madness Ale

2010-12-22T17:58:00.001-05:00

Rogue Mogul Madness Ale, originally uploaded by mitchancona.

Ah those were the days...
Living at the mountain.... waking up each morning with nothing to do other than decide whether or not the snow was good enough to go make turns on.
Stopping for a lunch at the base lodge that consisted of hot water, ketchup and crushed saltine crackers... yummy!
At the end of the day scraping together a few buck to buy a beer or two. Ah yes those were the days.... the ski bum days. Funny thing is, no mater how broke I was back then I always had a smile on face and always manage to still drink good beer. Like this appropriate offering from Rogue. Pours a nice amber color with adequate off white head. Nice citrus hops on the nose. Those hops are balanced nicely by a rich warming maltiness on the palate. This medium bodied ale is the perfect end to a perfect ski bum day.

Valley of the Moon Pinot Noir

2010-12-21T12:37:00.000-05:00

The last lunar eclipse of 2010 occurred early this morning. I had the misfortune of sleeping through my alarm set to go off at 3:15. Many others set their alarms and awoke to a cloudy sky. Much to their disappointment the moon was no where to be found.

All of the hype built up around the eclipse and the winter solstice influenced my wine selection for the evening. I immediately thought of Valley of the Moon’s 2008 Pinot Noir and decided to give it a try. The bottle is impressive, with no paper label an image of an eclipsed moon is painted on the front. This wine is nothing short of luscious. Its intense bright red fruit flavors are complemented by vanilla, clove and toasty oak. This Pinot Noir has round, firm tannins and a long, rich finish.

Wine and Music: 2008 Luigi Bosca Pinot Noir & Norah Jones 'Come Away With Me'

2010-12-09T10:55:00.006-05:00

2008 Luigi Bosca Pinot Noir

Norah Jones - Come Away With Me

Just like Norah Jone’s Come Away With Me, the 2008 Luigi Bosca Pinot Noir is a shining example of strength and elegance. Her impressionistic lyrics engage the listener and are a perfect match for the red berry, violet and chocolate aromas of this luscious Pinot Noir. Her vocals are intimate and relaxed, while the instrumental track provides a soulful edge. The fusion of blues, country and jazz complement the fresh, fruity nature of this wine. This Pinot Noir is an excellent representation of its varietal and showcases a soft, velvety structure with light tannins.

The marriage of this album and this Pinot Noir is simply delightful. The music is easy on the ears and the wine is soft on the palate. So grab a glass, settle into your favorite chair and let the music take you away.

Beer Review: Gandhi Bot, “The Bot” Is Back!

2010-12-03T09:51:00.005-05:00

A few months ago this beer flew off our shelves in record time. New England Brewery has graciously whipped up another batch and re-released Gandhi Bot in 12oz cans. “The Bot” is an intense Double I.P.A. brewed from a blend of three varietals of American Hops. Its lush aromatics and intense flavors engulf the senses hitting every pleasure center of the brain. The presence of Hops is strong, but not overwhelming. Citrus flavors are balanced by a faint hint of sweet malt. Gandhi Bot is an exceptional brew that is well balanced and smooth. In addition, New England never fails to disappoint with clever packaging. The labeling only adds to "The Bot" experience.

Thanksgiving Roundtable

2010-11-22T10:38:00.008-05:00

Thanksgiving is quickly approaching. The holidays are always a special time to reflect, spend time with family and give thanks.

My favorite things about Thanksgiving are the oversized balloons in the Macy’s Day Parade, pumpkin pie and the quality time I get to spend with my family. It is not often we are able to get everyone into the same room, let alone at the same table for dinner. However, this Thanksgiving will be a little different. First, I have painstakingly adapted some of my favorite Thanksgiving recipes to be gluten-free. Second, my sister will be hundreds of miles away on some tropical island for her honeymoon. And though she will be missed, her absence this year means two things; left-over pie and more elbow room in the car on the way to my Aunt’s house.

Regardless how your family decides to celebrate Thanksgiving, it is important to remember to surround yourself with loved ones. Many people celebrate in non-traditional ways. I recently was engaged in conversation with someone who mentioned instead of cooking a bird, she fires up the grill to cook steaks. How glorious! This juxtaposition of breaking the stereotypical Thanksgiving dinner choice while keeping a tradition is fantastic. It adds flare to the holiday and certainly makes for it to be a memorable one.

It is commonly assumed white wines are the only ones that should be served alongside turkey. This assumption is terribly un-true! With a wide variety of dishes showing up on Thanksgiving tables people are selecting wines that break this stereotype.

Be adventurous, if you prefer red wines try pairing a Pinot Noir with your Thanksgiving meal. The velvety, light fruit flavors of Pinot Noir will bring out the best in your bird. Pinot Noir also tend to be low in tannins, so it will not overwhelm the delicate flavors of your meal. We are featuring an excellent Pinot Noir from Burgundy in our November Wine of the Month club. It is the 2009 Louis Max Bougogne Beaucharme Noir. Also featured in our November selection for the Wine of the Month is the 2009 Henry Fessy Moulin-A-Vent. This red is produced from the Gamay grape and showcases a lush flavor profile of ripe plum and cassis.

If you are looking for something heartier with a bit of spice, I would recommend picking up a bottle of Zinfandel. Two of my favorite Zins are the 2008 Saldo Zinfandel and the 2007 Seven Deadly Zins. Both received excellent reviews of 90+ points from The Wine Spectator and Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate.

If white wines are more your style, make an effort to stray from your “go-to” grape. If you prefer Chardonnay, try Pinot Gris or Viognier. The 2008 Willm Pinot Gris is richly textured with flavors of peach and apple. If your palate favors a hint of sweetness, try a bottle of Chenin Blanc or Riesling. The 2009 Domaine Pichot Vouvray is 100% Chenin Blanc and offers up sweet citrus flavors with great acidity and texture. The 2009 Dragonstone Riesling has great minerality and is ripe and well developed.

Here’s to making this Thanksgiving a memorable one filled with friends, family and the discovery of a new favorite wine!

Music and Wine Pairing: TV On The Radio 'Return To Cookie Mountain' & 2006 Claraval Seleccion Especial

2010-11-10T14:25:00.008-05:00

Wine and music are two of my favorite things, and just as one would select the perfect dish to serve along side a bottle of Cabernet care must be taken when pairing an album with a bottle. The right (or wrong) musical selection can make or break a wine.

Here are a few guidelines to keep in mind when choosing an album to listen to while enjoying a special bottle:

Cabernet Sauvignon’s dense fruit flavors and full-body pair well with darker, abstract music. The medium-body, dark fruit characteristics commonly found in Merlot are intensified when paired with loud, moody music. Pinot Noir’s lighter, supple, fruit driven flavors are a perfect match for sensual, sexy music. The rich, round fruit flavors commonly found in Shiraz and Grenache pair well with bold, upbeat tunes. Take into consideration listening to a mellow mix of music while enjoying the sumptuous, smooth qualities of Chardonnay. And perhaps select music that is a bit more lively to complement the crisp, zippy nature of Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Grigio.

My recommendation for the week:

TV On The Radio - Return To Cookie Mountain
2006 Claraval Seleccion Especial

This wine is a delicious blend of 50% Garnacha, 20% Tempranillo, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Syrah. The diverse grape profile makes it a perfect match for this album, which itself is a brilliant fusion of noise, melodic tunes and hypnotizing vocals.

When listening to this album, be prepared to fall into a trance-like state. The 2006 Claraval Seleccion Especial complements feelings of rapture and euphoria with an enticing bouquet of dark fruit and spice. Flavors of dark berries on the palate are intensified by repetitious, pulsating drum-driven beats. Claraval’s long, smooth finish is complemented by its silky tannic structure.

Turn the lights down and the volume up, pop the cork and enjoy!

(TV On The Radio, Prospect Park, Brooklyn, NY. August 2009)

Ghost Pines Cabernet is Ghostly Good

2010-10-30T14:00:00.004-04:00

We brought the 2008 Ghost Pines Cabernet Sauvignon into the store a few weeks ago and it has quickly become a customer favorite. This Cab’s bold, dark fruit flavors are balanced by its lush texture while aromas of cedar and tobacco are complemented by firm, lively tannins. The wine comes full circle with subtle flavors or chocolate and black cherry. This user friendly Cabernet pairs well with a wide variety of dishes. Try serving it alongside a veal espagnole with rice and mushrooms or grilled lamb chops seasoned with crushed black pepper.

Beer Review: Rogue's Dead Guy Ale

2010-10-23T13:17:00.005-04:00

BeerAdvocate gave this beer an A- rating, stating Dead Guy Ale is “An all around prize ale”. We could not agree more with the "Bros" from BeerAdvocate! Rogue’s Dead Guy is a deep honey color with malty aromas. It is a smooth and medium bodied ale made from a blend of four malts and two styles of hops. It has a rich hearty flavor profile that is balanced by a slight hint of sweetness on the finish. It is available in 22 oz bombers and 64 ounce growlers. Our staff cannot get enough of this delicious brew!

Spirit Review: Crystal Head Vodka

2010-10-19T21:25:00.009-04:00

What initially draws attention to this product is the packaging... who wouldn’t be enticed by a beautifully crafted glass skull? My initial thoughts were not about the liquid inside, rather, how awesome it would look on my desk. I bought a bottle within hours of their arrival at the store.

As I inspected the packaging further I noticed its box boasts Crystal Head Vodka is quadruple distilled then triple filtered through Herkimer Diamonds. When I read this I couldn’t help but do a double take. I thought to myself, “Diamonds?!” Within minutes I was online reading about distillation processes and the mysterious Herkimer Diamond. What exactly did I discover, you ask? I’ll spare you the drawn out geological details and get to right the interesting stuff. Herkimer Diamonds are quartz formations that are claimed to emit positive energy. Crystal Head’s website does not have any scientific evidence that Herkimer Diamonds boost human energy levels, however, taste tests show consumers prefer vodka filtered through Herkimer Diamonds over un-filtered vodka. After exploring Crystal Head's website I also learned the vodka is non-enhanced; it is free of additives such as sugar, glycerine and citrus oils.

After finishing my research it was time for a taste. As I mentally prepared myself for the daunting task of sipping straight vodka I tried to calm my nerves. I thought happy thoughts and tipped my glass. It was surprisingly smooth, light bodied and dare I say, quite tasty as well. Crystal Head is a great vodka and even though it tends to be more expensive than the average vodka, it is worth every penny. For a limited time we are offering Crystal Head in a set that includes one 750mL bottle and two skull shaped glasses.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

2010-10-18T12:02:00.004-04:00

The month of October is nationally recognized as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. It is dedicated to increasing public knowledge about the importance of early detection of breast cancer. There are an increasing number of wineries going the extra mile to raise awareness and funds for the cause.

Cline Cellars released their 2008 Cashmere in support of Breast Cancer Awareness. The wine is a luscious bodied blend of Syrah, Grenache and Mourvérde. These three grapes come together to create a decadent flavor profile. This wine is smooth, presenting flavors of cherries, raspberries and hints of cracked pepper on the palate. It has a long, smooth finish with earthy undertones. Cline Cellars is a proud sponsor of the Breast Cancer Network of Strength. This year they are hosting "Ride to Empower", a 100 mile bike ride to raise money to donate to the Breast Cancer Network of Strength. Last year they raised over $23,000 in support of Breast Cancer Awareness.

Nautique, owned by Paconic Bay Wines, released a Rosé this summer to support Breast Cancer Awareness. This wine is a beautiful, rosy pink color. An unmistakable pink ribbon is tied around the neck of the bottle letting the consumer know part of the proceeds from the purchase are donated to the National Breast Cancer Foundation. This particular rosé is a fantastic blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Riesling and Merlot. The diverse grape profile makes it a perfect match for just about any type of food. Its firm acidity is balanced by a supple tannin structure.

The efforts of these wineries are certainly commendable and they are producing fabulous wines for a great cause. Do your part, pick up a bottle today and toast a loved one!

Cheers to Chilé

2010-10-15T09:29:00.007-04:00

All 33 of the Chilean mine workers who were trapped for 69 days have been rescued from what could perhaps be considered one of the worst mine disasters in history. The miners were trapped back in August a half mile below the Earth's surface. This rescue is truly an amazing example of human ingenuity and perseverance.

With Chile in the global spot light this week is as good as any to try some of our fantastic Chilean wines. Chile offers up some wonderful wines at exceptional values. One of my personal favorites is the 2008 Ritual Pinot Noir. On sale for $15.99, Ritual’s palate is soft and elegant with aromas of black cherries, raspberries and plum. Black currant and blueberry notes are followed by supple tannins and lead to a soft, luxurious finish. This wine would pair well alongside braised beef with mushrooms served with sweet vegetables or smoked sausage with caramelized onions and bell peppers.

A few of our other favorite Chilean wines include:

2008 Veranda Pinot Noir
90 Points - Stephen Tanzer's I.W.C.
"Bright red. Red berries, rose, minerals and underbrush on the nose. Light-bodied raspberry and bitter cherry flavors are nicely concentrated and sappy, with bracing minerality adding spine. The finish is gently sweet and refreshingly brisk, and repeats the mineral and floral notes. A graceful, low-fat style of pinot that nods more toward the Old World than New in texture, weight and flavors. Burgundy winemaker Pascal Marchand is deeply involved in this project." ~(ST)
Reg. $17.99
On Sale: $15.99

2009 Terra Noble Sauvignon Blanc
88 Points - Stephen Tanzer's I.W.C.
"Pale, bright yellow. Pungently spicy aromas of pink grapefruit, pear, sea spray and spicy herbs. Juicy, penetrating and brisk, with very good density of citrus fruits framed by bracing minerality. Finishes with orange zest and grapefruit notes and a lingering white pepper element." ~(ST)
Reg. $12.99
On Sale: $11.99

2007 Vina Santa Rita Cabernet Sauvignon Medalla Real Reserva Especial
88 Points - Stephen Tanzer's I.W.C.
"Inky ruby. Dark berry and cherry-cola aromas are complemented by licorice and a hint of bonfire. Juicy cassis and cherry flavors are firmed by dusty tannins, which gain strength with air. There's plenty of fruit here but I'd have liked more give. The finish is firm and focused, leaving bitter cherry and tobacco notes behind." ~(ST)
Our Price: $17.99
* mixed case price: $16.19/bottle

Bogle Phantom is Phenomenal

2010-10-12T11:14:00.004-04:00

Just in time for Halloween Bogle’s Phantom is back and spook-tacular! The 2007 Phantom is a blend of three unique varietals; approximately 53% Petite Syrah, 44% Zinfandel and 3% Mourvérde. The wine is ruby-red in color and full of flavor. Dark berries and red fruit haunt the palate while the scent of black pepper and juniper present themselves on the nose. This full-bodied beauty finishes strong with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg.

Phantom is best paired with brains and/or muscle tissue. Just kidding! (...unless you’re into that kind of stuff.) Phantom is an ideal match for hearty meals of grilled beef, chicken or sausage. And is a perfect addition to a Halloween party or zombie movie marathon... Cheers!

Wine Review: J-E-T-S JETS! WINE! What?

2010-10-02T13:29:00.005-04:00

An unlikely pairing has come together to surprise us all. The New York Jets have teamed up with winemaker Marco DiGiulio to create a limited edition Cabernet Sauvignon to commemorate the opening of their new stadium. The wine is appropriately named “Jets Uncorked” and if you think this wine tastes like a locker room smells, you are terribly mistaken. This 2008 Napa Cabernet Sauvignon is made in a classic cab style offering up pure, ripe flavors of red cherries and dark berries. The supple tannins are beautifully complemented by a long spicy finish. This wine is absolutely irresistible and is a touchdown in my book. Whether you pop the cork now or decide to wait until the Jets win the Super Bowl I highly recommend you try a bottle!

Pick-A-Six

2010-09-16T14:44:00.006-04:00

So you’re feeling adventurous, but are afraid of commitment. The idea of a purchasing a six pack of beer sends waves of panic throughout your body. You stand in front of the beer cooler as you wipe beads of sweat from your brow. What if you choose the wrong one, what then? You will have five beers left over. Five beers that will sit in your fridge until you are able to pawn them off on unsuspecting friends.

Fear not, commitment-phobes. Our Pick-A-Six section is here to relieve any stress associated with making a “beer commitment”. The Make-A-Six features over 80 beers and allows you to pick and choose the perfect variety. It is a great way to be introduced to new beers you would not otherwise think to try. The beers in the Pick-A-Six are staff favorites and updated by our resident beer guru, Neal, weekly.

Sam Adams Beer Lover's Choice 2010

2010-08-16T17:21:00.007-04:00

On Saturday representatives from the Samuel Adams brewery visited our store and gave our customers a taste of two possible new additions to the the Samuel Adams line of beers. Customers filled out a ballot and voted for the beer they liked best. The beer that receives the most votes will be added to the Samuel Adams line and distributed next year. This year’s contenders included a Belgian I.P.A. and an American Rye Ale. The Belgian I.P.A. (Choice A) had a roasted sweet malt character with a hoppy, bitter finish. The American Rye Ale (Choice B) was medium-bodied and deep red in color. It had spicy citrus notes on the nose and finished strong with sweet malt flavors. I asked the representatives what the overall fan favorite was for the day and they told me the tally was close. The staff seemed to favor the American Rye Ale over the Belgian I.P.A. It will be interesting to see which one shows up on our shelves within the year.

Wine and Fresh Caught Fish

2010-08-09T22:25:00.011-04:00

This past week I had the pleasure of spending a week in East Hampton, NY. A friend kindly offered his house to me, my husband, and my 10-year-old son. It turned out to be a glorious week in terms of weather, fun, food and wine. It also happened that my birthday fell on one of the days during our holiday and of course I took advantage of the opportunity to do something local and out of the ordinary. We went fishing! We traveled quite a ways out in the Atlantic and caught numerous Fluke fish. The next day I researched methods of cooking the fish (as I was not familiar with this type) and decided to put it in aluminum foil on the grill with lemon, butter, olive oil, thyme, parsley and salt and pepper. I could not believe how delicious the fresh caught fish tasted. It melted in our mouths.

As for the wine, our friend (who is a wine collector) wanted to open a special bottle to celebrate life, friends, and good food. We enjoyed the 2006 Kesner Hudson Vineyard Chardonnay which produces only a few hundred cases a year. In the wine making process they use a small percentage of new oak allowing the purity of flavors to shine. There was nice citrus and mineral notes that made it a fresh and lively pairing.

Since we had plenty of Fluke, we had the opportunity for another fresh fish evening and I chose to pair it with 2008 Bodegas Valdesil Montenovo Godello. Godello is a local grape of the Valdeorras region of Spain. It is a minerally, crisp white wine with citrus, melon, and pear characteristics. I found it to be a somewhat better pairing with the delicate Fluke fish. Another fun option that I would also choose is 2008 Cool Fish Chardonnay, an artisanal blend of Chardonnay grapes from the Santa Lucia Highlands created with the purpose of bringing out a new dimension in seafood that other white wines may not.

If you are not able to catch your dinner, then head to your local fish monger and ask for the freshest white fish available. Cooking it on the grill in foil for a no fuss, no mess meal and pop a cork of white wine. Your spirit and mood will instantly lighten!

Wine Review: 2008 Diehl Dornfelder

2010-08-05T10:39:00.008-04:00

A few months ago we were presented with the 2008 Diehl Dornfelder, a red wine from Germany. We were a bit hesitant to try it at first because Germany is often recognized for their white wines. The red Dornfelder grape had us running to our computers to do some research.

We discovered Dornfelder is a relatively new grape varietal, it was first produced around 1955 and became popular in the 1980’s. It is a hybrid grape, a cross between the Helfenseiner and Heroldrebe grape varietals. Dornfelder is considered to be one of Germany’s most promising red grapes and best kept secret.

The staff was extremely surprised after tasting it. The wine was irresistible! The 2008 Diehl Dornfelder has herbs and ripe red fruit on the nose. Flavors of strawberries, cherries and plum show on the palate. It finishes strong with a soft spiced acidity. It is light and easy to drink, yet full of flavor. It pairs well with red meat in rich sauce, roast game birds, grilled red meats, chicken in red wine sauce, or grilled fish.

We first introduced the 2008 Diehl Dornfelder to our customers by featuring it as a selection in our Wine of the Month club. We later featured it at one of our in store tastings along side the 2009 Diehl Riesling.

Personally, I can not get enough of this decadent red... and the fact it comes in a Liter sized bottle only sweetens the Diehl! (Ha. Ha.)

Summer Seasonal Beer Review

2010-08-02T10:44:00.013-04:00

Today I shot an image of one of our first Fall seasonal beers for our website. After the initial shock of Summer ending wore off I came to my senses. Summer isn’t over quite yet, but according to the beer calendar it is. Distribution of Summer seasonal beers has stopped this week. And while I can live without a few of them, like Saranac’s Summer Brew, there are others I am not sure I can live without. A couple of my favorites this Summer were Kona’s Wailua Wheat and Rogue’s Somer Orange Honey Ale. Kona’s Wailua Wheat is extremely refreshing. It has a light hint of citrus and passion fruit, perfect for hot summer evenings. Rogue Somer knocked my socks off with flavors of orange and honey accompanied by a sweet malt character. An excellent match for barbecue or chicken. There is no doubt I will stash a few of those away for a taste of Summer when it gets cold out.

Now is the time to stock up on your summertime favorites, they will not be around for much longer!

Rosé Round-Up

2010-07-26T16:15:00.008-04:00

As we find ourselves at the peak of Rosé season the ratings for this year's batch have finally been released. We are pleased to find that many of our selections have earned rave reviews. Rosé wines are crisp and refreshing, they are perfect for the hot summer weather. They pair well with a wide variety of food including grilled meats, seafood and chicken. So remember to Think Pink this summer, you will be pleasantly surprised!

Here are a few of our favorite Rosé wines:

2009 Lucien Crochet Sancerre Pinot Rosé
91 points - Stephen Tanzer’s I.W.C.
“Pale copper-pink. Fresh strawberry and redcurrant aromas are underscored by zesty minerals. Becomes more floral with air, picking up notes of honeysuckle and cinnamon. Offers gently sweet red fruit and floral flavors, with good stony cut and back-end spiciness. A deceptively powerful wine with admirable finishing clarity and mineral-driven length.” ~(ST)

2009 Domaine du Bagnol Cassis Rosé
91 Points - Stephen Tanzer’s I.W.C.
“Bright, orange-tinged pink. Lively, precise aromas of pink grapefruit, wild strawberry and musky herbs, with a dusty mineral undertone. Light-bodied and brisk on entry, gaining flesh and weight in the mid-palate and offering tangy citrus and subtle red berry flavors. The mineral element adds cut to the juicy, gently spicy, lingering finish, which repeats the pink grapefruit note. I'd give this another year of bottle age to lose its primary, citrus-dominated character.” ~(ST)

2009 Commanderie de Peyrassol Cotes de Provence Rosé
90 Points - Stephen Tanzer’s I.W.C.
“Extremely pale salmon skin color. Fresh cranberry, strawberry and rhubarb aromas are impressively precise and lively. Light on its feet, offering incisive, mineral-driven red berry and bitter citrus zest flavors that gain flesh and weight with aeration. A vaguely sweet raspberry note lingers on the long, juicy finish. I really like this wine's blend of vivacity and fruitiness.” ~(ST)

2009 Bodegas Muga Rioja Rosé
90 Points - Stephen Tanzer’s I.W.C.
60% garnacha, 30% viura and 10% tempranillo
“Vivid pink. Complex, highly aromatic bouquet of pink grapefruit, strawberry, rhubarb and white flowers, with a strong mineral undertone. Bright, racy red berry flavors are given a tangy edge by citrus zest and white pepper, with the mineral quality adding lift and cut. Finishes suave, spicy and long, with excellent thrust.” ~(ST)

Other favorites include:
2009 Domaine Houchart Cotes de Provence Rosé
(89 Points - Stephen Tanzer’s I.W.C.)
2009 Domaines Ott Cotes de Provence Rosé Chateau de Selle
(89 Points - Stephen Tanzer’s I.W.C.)
2009 A Donkey and Goat Winery Grenache Rosé
(89 Points - Stephen Tanzer’s I.W.C.)
2009 Chateau de Lancyre Pic St. Loup Rosé
(89 Points - Stephen Tanzer’s I.W.C.)
2009 Mulderbosch Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Rosé
(88 Points - Stephen Tanzer’s I.W.C.)

Branchville Benefit (July 24, 2010)

2010-07-26T15:05:00.002-04:00

The Branchville Benefit took place this past Saturday. Proceeds from the event were donated to The Ridgefield Playhouse, R.O.A.R., Ridgefield Music and Arts Center and the Georgetown Volunteer Fire Department. Ancona’s Market did a phenomenal job preparing a menu of Montana Ranch Sirloin Steak, Italian Style Roasted Pig, and Organic Greens and Vegetables. There was also a Raw Bar and wonderful assortment of Local Artistan Cheeses and Meats. Palm beer was served on tap as well as a wide variety of wines from Benziger Vineyards. It was an evening full of exquisite food, music and friends.

Thank you to all who came out to support the cause. We hope next year’s benefit will be just as wonderful as this year!

World's Strongest Beer

2010-07-07T15:22:00.006-04:00

Beers with high alcohol content are making their way across the Atlantic to the United States. Strap yourselves in, these high octane beers are built for speed and are not for the weak. Breweries boast numbers ranging from 12% to a remarkable 41% alcohol.

A history textbook worthy war has been waged over who can brew the strongest beer. The Scottish brewery BrewDog and the German brewery Schorschbrau both showcase an unwavering determination to snag the title of the “World’s Strongest Beer”.

At the moment, BrewDog has the title with their “Sink the Bismarck!” containing 41% alcohol. Not far behind is Schorschbrau’s “Schorschbock” containing 40% alcohol. Both breweries have beers with a matched 32% alcohol; BrewDog’s “Tactical Nuclear Penguin” and Schorschbrau’s original “Schorschbock”.

As for now, we hope to be seeing BrewDog’s “Sink the Bismark!” and “Tactical Nuclear Penguin” on our shelves soon. In the mean time feel free to prepare yourself with BrewDog’s “Tokyo” containing 18.2% alcohol or their “Devine Rebel” containing a modest 13.2%.

Sauvignon Blanc or Garnacha with Salmon

2010-05-27T07:18:00.007-04:00

One evening my husband and I prepared horseradish honey mustard glazed grilled salmon. We could not decide what to drink--the 2009 Decoy Sauvignon Blanc (79% Sauvignon Blanc, 21% Semillon) or the 2007 Celler de Capcanes Mas Donis Barrica (blend of 85% Garnacha 15% Syrah). We decided to open both wines to determine which was the best pairing.

Neither of these two wines are considered classic pairings for salmon. Usually a light, fruity Pinot Noir or a lightly-oaked Chardonnay would be recommended. However, the sweet/spicy glaze on the salmon opens the door for other options.

So what was our verdict? Both wines were excellent matches. Why? The Decoy has nice bright acidity and citrus/lemongrass flavors that are softened by the Semillon grape. Semillon plays a nice supporting role adding soft, subtle flavors and richness to Sauvignon blanc which on its own can be aggressive and acidic. A pure Sauvignon Blanc would not have been as complimentary with this salmon dish, but the blend is superb as it mellows the spicy horseradish.

The Mas Donis has an enticing bouquet of fresh, concentrated, and layered cherry and berry fruit with a little spice from the Syrah. The fleshy fruitiness of this wine is an excellent match with the spicy/sweet glaze and the richness of the salmon.

Next time you want white wine and your spouse wants red, open a bottle of each and enjoy the conversation that ensues!

What is wrong with this glass?

2010-04-14T22:16:00.021-04:00

You buy a bottle of wine that you are so excited to try. You remove the cork, pour a few ounces in your glass and take a huge whiff. Instead of fresh fruit and maybe some smoky aromas. It smells like you just walked into a cellar from the 1700's--a bit musty and lacking in fruit aromas and flavors. Has it gone bad? Does it mean it is cork'd? Does it have unwanted bacteria in it called Brett? Is it oxidized? Or is this the style the winemaker desired? Some people may just drink the wine because they don't feel confident it is truly faulty. In order to make an appropriate and educated decision to return a wine bottle to a store or to the sommelier at a restaurant, we will help decode the top wine faults.

Corked: What exactly does this mean? It does NOT mean there are bits of cork in your wine glass. That just means the person opening the bottle was inexperienced. It is a very specific term in the wine industry. Cork is a natural product that comes from tree bark. Naturally occurring air-borne fungi bump into industrial pollutants and pesticides with a molecule containing chlorine (chlorophenols). It becomes chlorine contaminated cork often called "cork taint". When the cork is in contact with the wine, it causes the wine to smell moldy, musty, or like wet cardboard with no fresh fruit aroma. Think of grandma's attic.

Oxidized: Oxygen is slowly allowed in a bottle over years in a cellar via the cork. However, if there is a faulty cork or too much oxygen allowed during winemaking, the wine will become ruined. An oxidized wine is easy to spot. It smells like old or tired Madeira or Sherry.

Volatile acidity: Poor winemaking or poor storage can cause something naturally present in small concentrations producing positive characteristics to turn into excessive concentrations and unwanted aromas/flavors. Acetobacter aceti is a bacteria that is on the surface of grapes. Exposure to oxygen (maybe from damaged fruit or not air-tight barrels) proliferates this bacteria and the result is an unpleasant smell of vinegar, nail polish remover, or paint-thinner.

Sulfur: Boiled eggs, onions, matches, burnt rubber or mothballs are not the aromas one likes to experience wafting out of a glass of recently purchased wine. If you smell these components, the winemaker used an excessive amount of sulfur which is commonly used in small doses as a preservative.

Crystals: If you see crystals in the bottom of the wine bottle or adhered to the bottom of the cork, don't fear the wine is not bad. Potassium tartrate is a natural by-product of wine. In fact, the cream of tartar you purchase in the spice section of a store is scraped from the inside of wine barrels. Usually winemakers cold stabilize or chill the wine to have these crystals naturally form and then they filter the crystals out. If they do not do this, the crystals will form in the bottle later.

Brettanomyces: This is the most controversial substance in wines because at low concentrations it produces great character in great wines. Often referred to as "Brett", this is a surface yeast or type of fungus, not a bacterium that is a common spoilage organism. It can be on barrels and wine equipment and once present, it is hard to get rid of. Brett is highly prevalent in wineries around the world. There is a threshold that is acceptable and not discernible by most people. But once you go beyond that threshold, aromas develop that are often colorfully characterized as barnyard, wet dog, sweaty saddle, Bandaid, smoked bacon or rotting vegetation. The wine lacks fruit and is exclusively found in red wine because of the high pH levels and tannins which comes from the skins of the grapes.

In conclusion, do not hesitate to bring the bottle back to the retailer or to the Sommelier at a restaurant if the wine is faulty. They are more than happy to provide you with a new bottle of wine.

Herbed Lamb

2010-03-31T07:56:00.005-04:00

Ingredients:

1 butterflied leg of lamb (5-6 lbs.) or 12 loin lamb chops
6 tablespoons of butter
Chopped fresh herbs (rosemary, mint, parsley) for garnish

Marinade:

1 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
8 garlic cloves
2 tablespoons rosemary leaves
2 tablespoons mint leaves
2 tablespoons parsley leaves
2 tablespoons kosher salt
1 tablespoon ground pepper

Directions:

Combine all of the marinade ingredients in a blender or food processor. Reserve 2 tablespoons of the marinade. Place lamb in nonreactive baking pan, cover and marinate over night.

Mix the reserved marinade with with 6 tablespoons of soft butter. Set aside. Grilled the lamb over medium heat to medium rare (140 degrees). Place a dollop of butter on each lamb chop or dot over the leg of lamb. Sprinkle lamb with the chopped herbs for garnish. Serves 6 people.

Wine pairing choices:

White: Domaine Lafage Cote Este 2008
Red: Chris Ringland Shiraz 2008

The Forgotten Grape

2010-03-15T16:40:00.021-04:00

On occasion there are wine grapes we forget about as they are often used more as blending grapes versus stand alone grapes. This week I had the pleasure of opening a bottle of wine from the Bandol region in France produced by Tardieu-Laurent. The grape used in this wine is Mourvedre which is most often seen combined with Syrah and Grenache in the Rhone Valley as well as in Spain where it is known as Monastrell and in Australia where it is known as Mataro.

Mourvedre is a thick skinned grape that loves warm windy locations and therefore does quite well in Bandol which is along the Mediterranean coast of France. It is a picky grape and difficult to grow as it requires just the right amount of sunshine and rain. The Bandol climate is not only perfect, but the soils are also well-balanced with limestone, sand/gravel, and clay. This allows for proper drainage and ripening resulting in wines with great finesse.

This is one of the most elegant and stylish wines that I have had recently. As you swirl your glass, aromas of blackberries, flowers, and an earthy/smoky scent wafts through the air. The flavors that come from the 40 year old vines are complex and layered. There is a sophistication about this wine that kept my attention. With every sip I contemplated and wondered how this wine will develop further over the years. Elegant yet powerful, the Tardieu-Laurent Bandol 2005 offers immediate gratification, but for the connoisseur their is further delight in cellaring this beauty for a decade.