French Bubbles and Swedish Tunes?!?!
Sounds like things will ramp up for the holidays at Vino Verite’s regular Thursday tasting this week. Here’s what the boys say:
Well folks, despite the cold and the warnings of inclement weather, we say come on out this Thursday for some winter warmth and cheer! Seattle native Eric Claesson (well, he’s Swedish actually) will be in house playing some tunes from his new CD, Scowlers. You can preview some of his music by going to his website, www.ericclaesson.com.
The mellifluous Brian Huse will also be on hand to explain the tasting lineup from Vinum Importers, which will be a fine spread of French wines with an emphasis on value – and, thinking of the holidays coming up – sparkling wines! (That, and Dave and Haj are in a celebrating mood!)
Two more announcements:
We now have gift certificates available if you want to give that special someone a real treat – an opportunity to choose wine at Vino Verite, with the help of Dave and Haj!
Extra holiday hours will continue through the next week – we will be open this Sunday from 3pm to 7pm, and Monday (December 22) from 1pm to 7pm.
The wines we’re tasting on Thursday:Jaillance “Renaissance” $10, and Jaillance Cremant d’Bordeaux Rosé $13
Both of these selections from this age-old producer Jaillance are superb sparklers using traditional grapes from the region – Semillon, Savignon Blanc, Muscadelle, and sometimes red varietals to provide some color. The result is a New Year’s Eve secret weapon: superb value, bright and refreshing flavors, and a creamy, appealing texture.
NV Ampelidae “Armance B” Brut (Organic) $15
The result of the highly committed and forward thinking winemaker Frédéric Brochet. The sparkling wines from the Loire Valley we have shown as past tastings have always been a hit – and for good reason. The Savingon Blanc grape yields fascinating flavors, often delicate and dry, but always inviting to the nose. This organically farmed and fermented creation is a wonder for the palate
2005 Chateau de la Nauve (St Emilion) $18
St. Emilion, while it’s own appellation, is considered part of the overall region of Bordeaux. But rather than Cabernet Savingon as the chief grape, Merlot is king. Chateau de la Nauve’s red blend shows off the beauty of Merlot – with deep, dark fruit tones but floral notes as well. Like the dark indigo skies of winter, this wine has a brooding depth and class.
2005 Domaine de Calet “Long Terme” $14
Ah, the south of France, and the Costieres de Nimes: warm air from the Mediterranean and great soils from the glacially-flattened mountains. The Romans were most fond of wines from this region. The “Long Terme” blend is 75% Syrah and 25% Grenache, it is the unique soil of this region that brings the deep, round flavors of this wine remarkable nuance and quality. This is the wine to enjoy while curled up with a good book.
2004 Hecht & Bannier Minervois $19
Remaining in the south of France, we will finish with this beautiful red from the Languedoc-Roussillon region. It’s almost unbelievable what comes from a glass of this wine – concentrated dark berry, violets, spice, some earth, and a chocolate-like finish. This will send you home happy – especially if you have a bottle with you.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Cheers,
Haj and Dave
There’s sure to be some form of sunshine that night! We could use a little on the Hill this week.
