Tuesday, January 3, 2012

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

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