CITISCAPES ARTICLE FEBRUARY 2012
February — being the frigid, impartial month that she is — also has a great portfolio of birthdays and holidays that call for a celebration or two. Groundhog Day on the second can be celebrated with the impressive Chardonnay from Chandon, while the births of Dickens, Elmo and a couple of our presidents are perfect for the Stotesbery family’s Cabernet which is grown and produced on Howell Mountain. Of course, there is also Valentine’s Day that shares the date with Ferris Wheel Day. These definitely call for the Rose of Malbec from the Reginato family or Terra Valentine’s Spring Mountain Cabernet. Any one of these events is a great reason to break open an amazing bottle of wine and celebrate with family and friends.
REGINATO N/V “CELESTINA” SPARKLING ROSE OF MALBEC MENDOZA - $17.99 – Malbec seems an unlikely hero for a sparkling wine grape, but when you want your rose’ to show some real color and character, then Malbec is your guy. The Reginato family manages the vineyards, selects the grapes, harvests at the optimal time, makes the base wine and then initiates secondary fermentation to produce a crisp, dry mouthfeel reminiscent of classic Champagne. Toasty-yeasty aromas meet delicious homemade strawberry rhubarb pie flavors. Yummm! Yummm! 89WE
TERRA VALENTINE 2002 CABERNET SAUVINGNON SPRING MOUNTAIN DISTRICT NAPA - $ 33.24 - Aromas of black bramble, boysenberry, spicy clove and vanilla bean balanced with subtle cocoa and rich, earthy espresso notes. A blend of 95% Cabernet and 5% Cabernet Franc acknowledges the importance of hillside soil to this mountain wine. Smooth and rich, this muscular yet elegant red is packed with dark juicy fruit that fills the palate and finishes long, accented by creamy French oak.
DOMAINE CHANDON 2008 CHARDONNAY CARNEROS -$23.99 – Rich and luscious, this Chardonnay produced at a sparkling wine facility, expresses layered aromas of dried apricot, green apple and brioche accented by nutmeg and a hint of minerality characteristic of the Carneros region. Tropical melon flavors meld with rich apple on the broadly textured palate leading to a pleasant vanilla cream finish. Great balance of acidity and lingering flavors will allow this wine to pair with a wide range of foods and occasions. WS88
LADERA 2007 CABERNET SAUVIGNON NAPA VALLEY - $29.99 – From high atop Howell Mountain the Stotesbery family are proudly producing several amazing Cab-drinker’s Cabs. This distinctive Napa Valley Cabernet is one of the best bargains in our market. The wine attacks the palate softly with dark bold fruit flavors of plum and bramble berry which leads to a full yet soft and lush finish. This impressive effort is the type of Cabernet Sauvignon that normally costs 2-3 times the price. RP 90
Who really needs a reason or special occasion to open some delicious vino and call a few friends in from the cold for a great celebration? Any one of these wines can be a new favorite in your portfolio of must drink wines. If not, I have over 3,000 other selections from which to choose. I can be found at County Line Tuesday through Saturday for any of your wine or entertaining questions.
Enjoy!
Mark Hatwig
mark@slausa.com
479.750.7500
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
NOVEMBER 2011
Gobble! Gobble! Gobble! Ready or not, the holidays are quickly approaching with thoughts of holiday dinners with family and friends. I have made four selections that will match perfectly with just about any holiday fare you can imagine for your Thanksgiving table. A big red from Howell Mountain right in the heart of Napa and a Russian River Pinot Noir from a well know producer. Willamette Valley and Mclaren Vale hold our two whites that are great crowd pleasers. If these are not to your taste, we have 3000 others to choose from in our inventory awaiting your approval.
BRAVANTE VINEYARDS, 2005 “TRIO” RED WINE, HOWELL MOUNTAIN, NAPA, CA - $39.99 – The Howell Mountain appellation is one of California’s most sought after ultra premium wine growing regions. This ruby red wine opens with a mild black cherry bouquet, a subtle hint of currant and vanilla. A medium bodied wine that is round and juicy with dried berry and a slight tart black cherry flavor. A modern day Bordeaux blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc with an explosive yet elegant flavor profile. Wine and Spirits 90 pts.
LEFT COAST CELLARS, 2008 “THE ORCHARDS” PINOT GRIS, WILLAMETTE VALLEY, OR - $14.99 – Left Coast Cellars is situated directly on the 45th parallel. Their sustainably farmed 100 acres of Estate vineyards are planted on fractured stone soils with varying slopes, orientations and elevations. These variations of microclimates bring subtleties and complexities to all the wines that they produce. This Pinot Gris is bursting with full, robust flavors with an explosion of apple and pear fruit with a light yeastiness. WE90.
SONOMA CUTRER, 2007 PINOT NOIR, RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY, CA -$33.75-This wine is not shy. Aromas of black cherry and currants leap from the glass, quickly followed by notes of cedar and allspice. A strong floral component marries the fruit bouquet while leaving room for the subtle influence of the new French oak. In the mouth the first impression is berries, berries, berries, with raspberry, blueberry and blackberry all enjoying a turn. Perfect for any holiday fare that one might throw its way.
d’ARENBERG, 2008 “THE MONEY SPIDER” ROUSSANNE, MCLAREN VALE, AUS-$21.77 – The first crop of Roussanne from their 2000 vintage was found to be covered in a sea of tiny “Money Spiders”. Popular belief is that kindness to these active little creatures will bring good luck. The nose is floral and expressive with orange blossoms and honeysuckle alongside exotic tropical flavors of fig with a hint of gingerbread in the background. Fresh and tight with lemon and lime that opens up into ripe apple and white nectarine. WS 90.
My mouth is already watering trying to decide which of these wines to match with oyster dressing, pumpkin tiramisu and chocolate pecan pie. The Bravante Wine dinner is on November 4th at Ruth’s Chris in Rogers. George Bravante will be at the helm to help guide us through his portfolio of wines from prestigious Howell Mountain.
Set the perfect table this Holiday season with crystal from Riedel. We have 23 selections of glassware to go with all varietals or blends. I can be found at County Line Tuesday through Saturday for any of your wine needs or questions.
Mark Hatwig
mark@slausa.com
479.750.7575
BRAVANTE VINEYARDS, 2005 “TRIO” RED WINE, HOWELL MOUNTAIN, NAPA, CA - $39.99 – The Howell Mountain appellation is one of California’s most sought after ultra premium wine growing regions. This ruby red wine opens with a mild black cherry bouquet, a subtle hint of currant and vanilla. A medium bodied wine that is round and juicy with dried berry and a slight tart black cherry flavor. A modern day Bordeaux blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc with an explosive yet elegant flavor profile. Wine and Spirits 90 pts.
LEFT COAST CELLARS, 2008 “THE ORCHARDS” PINOT GRIS, WILLAMETTE VALLEY, OR - $14.99 – Left Coast Cellars is situated directly on the 45th parallel. Their sustainably farmed 100 acres of Estate vineyards are planted on fractured stone soils with varying slopes, orientations and elevations. These variations of microclimates bring subtleties and complexities to all the wines that they produce. This Pinot Gris is bursting with full, robust flavors with an explosion of apple and pear fruit with a light yeastiness. WE90.
SONOMA CUTRER, 2007 PINOT NOIR, RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY, CA -$33.75-This wine is not shy. Aromas of black cherry and currants leap from the glass, quickly followed by notes of cedar and allspice. A strong floral component marries the fruit bouquet while leaving room for the subtle influence of the new French oak. In the mouth the first impression is berries, berries, berries, with raspberry, blueberry and blackberry all enjoying a turn. Perfect for any holiday fare that one might throw its way.
d’ARENBERG, 2008 “THE MONEY SPIDER” ROUSSANNE, MCLAREN VALE, AUS-$21.77 – The first crop of Roussanne from their 2000 vintage was found to be covered in a sea of tiny “Money Spiders”. Popular belief is that kindness to these active little creatures will bring good luck. The nose is floral and expressive with orange blossoms and honeysuckle alongside exotic tropical flavors of fig with a hint of gingerbread in the background. Fresh and tight with lemon and lime that opens up into ripe apple and white nectarine. WS 90.
My mouth is already watering trying to decide which of these wines to match with oyster dressing, pumpkin tiramisu and chocolate pecan pie. The Bravante Wine dinner is on November 4th at Ruth’s Chris in Rogers. George Bravante will be at the helm to help guide us through his portfolio of wines from prestigious Howell Mountain.
Set the perfect table this Holiday season with crystal from Riedel. We have 23 selections of glassware to go with all varietals or blends. I can be found at County Line Tuesday through Saturday for any of your wine needs or questions.
Mark Hatwig
mark@slausa.com
479.750.7575
DECEMBER 2011
With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season peering at us from over the horizon, thoughts of family, friends and of course food and wine enter the front of our minds. This year I will be falling back onto some old, yet reliable friends from my past to get through this holiday season. Getting reacquainted with these luscious, impeccable wines was really a lot of fun. Silver Oak Cellars holds such fond memories whether opting for the Alexander Valley appellation or springing for the Napa bottling. Michael Honig’s wonderful Cabernet and Sauvignon Blanc are two bottles that will get attention at the table. A new friend and up and coming wine is the Layer Cake Pinot Noir. Last but surely not least is the Spring Valley Vineyards “Uriah” from the heart of Walla Walla in Washington State. These wines will surely turn some heads at the dinner table whether it be with friends, family or colleagues.
SILVER OAK 2006 NAPA VALLEY CABERNET SAUVIGNON – $79.99 – This iconic Cabernet has an elegant and enticing nose of cassis, black truffles and violets with flavors of forest fruits, potpourri and Asian spices. Complex and refined, this beautiful red will burst forward from the glass to deliver a sublime experience. Regular price $119.99.
SILVER OAK 2006 ALEXANDER VALLEY CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $59.99 - Full bodied with a rich mouthwatering layer of fruit that has well integrated tannins that lead to a long and spicy finish. Garnet in color with a nose of cassis liqueur, nutmeg and dark chocolate. This wine is worthy of any gift giving occasion. Regular price $79.99.
HONIG 2008 NAPA VALLEY CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $29.99 – Blackberry, plum and cherry notes are framed with hints of exotic spices and perfectly balanced by sweet oak. Full and rich with structured tannins and a long finish. One of County Line’s favorite big boy Cabs at a wonderful price for the holiday season. Regular price $36.49.
HONIG 2010 NAPA VALLEY SAUVIGNON BLANC - $13.78– The fruit for this amazing white comes from Honig’s renowned Rutherford vineyards. Aromas of orange blossom and grapefruit are accompanied by lemon, melon, peach and nectarine flavors that are ripe and refreshing. A delightfully crisp white for the the holidays. Regular price $15.99.
LAYER CAKE 2010 SANTA BARBERA PINOT NOIR - $15.75 – The goal of Layer Cake’s worldwide wine portfolio is to maintain distinct varietal correctness and expression of the terroir with whatever wine they make. This Monterey vineyard Pinot is highly aromatic, rich and classic California Pinot. It is loaded with bright red fruits, hints of spice and layers of dark berries, ripe plums and big juicy cherries all wrapped in a creamy mouthfeel. A touch of smoky earth lingers in the background with the faintest wisp of delicate tobacco.
SPRING VALLEY VINEYARD 2006 URIAH RED BLEND WALLA WALLA WA - $45.99 - 93 points and one of Wine Spectator's Top 100 Wines of 2009: Smooth and focused, with a cigar box character to make the ripe blackberry and currant fruit more interesting, finishing with polished tannins. Has great presence without being pushy, and the finish doesn't quit. Big, brawny, chewy and complex, yet generous and complete. The blend is 54% Merlot, 33% Cab Franc, 7% Petit Verdot, and 6% Malbec, all estate-grown. This luscious wine is just screaming for a Christmas Eve Prime Rib dinner.
The reliability of old friends and bringing on new ones into the landscape will always make your holiday table festive and complete. I guess that can apply to more than just wine selections. I have 3000 other wines that are just waiting to be adopted as your next favorite wine.
I would like to thank each of our customers for helping us win Citiscapes “Best Wine Selection Retail in Northwest Arkansas” for the second year in a row. I can be found at County Line Tuesday through Saturday to help with any of your holiday gift giving inquiries or holiday party planning.
Enjoy!
Mark Hatwig
mark@slausa.com
479.750.7575
SILVER OAK 2006 NAPA VALLEY CABERNET SAUVIGNON – $79.99 – This iconic Cabernet has an elegant and enticing nose of cassis, black truffles and violets with flavors of forest fruits, potpourri and Asian spices. Complex and refined, this beautiful red will burst forward from the glass to deliver a sublime experience. Regular price $119.99.
SILVER OAK 2006 ALEXANDER VALLEY CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $59.99 - Full bodied with a rich mouthwatering layer of fruit that has well integrated tannins that lead to a long and spicy finish. Garnet in color with a nose of cassis liqueur, nutmeg and dark chocolate. This wine is worthy of any gift giving occasion. Regular price $79.99.
HONIG 2008 NAPA VALLEY CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $29.99 – Blackberry, plum and cherry notes are framed with hints of exotic spices and perfectly balanced by sweet oak. Full and rich with structured tannins and a long finish. One of County Line’s favorite big boy Cabs at a wonderful price for the holiday season. Regular price $36.49.
HONIG 2010 NAPA VALLEY SAUVIGNON BLANC - $13.78– The fruit for this amazing white comes from Honig’s renowned Rutherford vineyards. Aromas of orange blossom and grapefruit are accompanied by lemon, melon, peach and nectarine flavors that are ripe and refreshing. A delightfully crisp white for the the holidays. Regular price $15.99.
LAYER CAKE 2010 SANTA BARBERA PINOT NOIR - $15.75 – The goal of Layer Cake’s worldwide wine portfolio is to maintain distinct varietal correctness and expression of the terroir with whatever wine they make. This Monterey vineyard Pinot is highly aromatic, rich and classic California Pinot. It is loaded with bright red fruits, hints of spice and layers of dark berries, ripe plums and big juicy cherries all wrapped in a creamy mouthfeel. A touch of smoky earth lingers in the background with the faintest wisp of delicate tobacco.
SPRING VALLEY VINEYARD 2006 URIAH RED BLEND WALLA WALLA WA - $45.99 - 93 points and one of Wine Spectator's Top 100 Wines of 2009: Smooth and focused, with a cigar box character to make the ripe blackberry and currant fruit more interesting, finishing with polished tannins. Has great presence without being pushy, and the finish doesn't quit. Big, brawny, chewy and complex, yet generous and complete. The blend is 54% Merlot, 33% Cab Franc, 7% Petit Verdot, and 6% Malbec, all estate-grown. This luscious wine is just screaming for a Christmas Eve Prime Rib dinner.
The reliability of old friends and bringing on new ones into the landscape will always make your holiday table festive and complete. I guess that can apply to more than just wine selections. I have 3000 other wines that are just waiting to be adopted as your next favorite wine.
I would like to thank each of our customers for helping us win Citiscapes “Best Wine Selection Retail in Northwest Arkansas” for the second year in a row. I can be found at County Line Tuesday through Saturday to help with any of your holiday gift giving inquiries or holiday party planning.
Enjoy!
Mark Hatwig
mark@slausa.com
479.750.7575
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