2009 Grass Tree South Eastern Australia Chardonnay

2009 Grass Tree South Eastern Australia Chardonnay

Aromas of tropical fruits. Citrus blossom with a hint of lifted vanilla. Palate displays soft fruit flavors of melon and tropical fruits with a crisp citrus finish and generous length. This wine is best enjoyed with pan fried fish with a butter sauce or roasted chicken.

Originally posted 2010-09-30 14:23:39. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

2009 Mira Luna, Tough Day Chardonnay, Sonoma Carneros, California

2009 Mira Luna, Tough Day Chardonnay, Sonoma Carneros, California

Our 2009 Mira Luna, Tough Day Chardonnay, Sonoma Carneros, California (SON573) is a one-of-a kind Geerlings & Wade release crafted by Wine Director, Francis Sanders using Carneros grapes. The bottle features a whimsical edition of our Signature Selections Mira Luna label designed by Creative Director David Griffin, with a cartoon drawing of a woman relaxing in a tub sipping said Chardonnay.

The label is based on the characters seen in the wine comic strip, “Corked the Comic.” While poking fun at the winemaking industry, the strip chronicles the adventures of a fictitious Russian River Valley cult winery, Isinglas Cellars. Follow the fullmoon antics of this character and more at www.corkedthecomic.com.

Derived and bottled at a winery known to produce world class Chardonnay, this wine took three tries over a five-month period to get it right. The third time was truly the charmer! By final release, it developed into a Chardonnay exhibiting pristine varietal fruit proudly framed in Sonoma Carneros terroir, accessible to a rank beginner while providing value to the most jaded connoisseur.

Originally posted 2010-10-06 14:53:36. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

2009 Maison Elise Richard, Roussanne, vin de pays d’Oc, France

2009 Maison Elise Richard, Roussanne, vin de pays d’Oc, France

Brilliant coppery yellow in the glass, a 100% Roussanne fruit bomb of a big, round white. Typically, the Roussanne Rhone variety is seen in blends alongside Marsanne and Grenache Blanc. Here it proudly stands alone in an off-beat wine with an integrated bouquet of white flowers, tangy herbs, pear, golden delicious apple, kiwi and nuts. So lovely on the nose you could smell it forever. Soft, lush, honeyed pear flavors with the nose’s tangy herbs and a mineral note. Enough acidity to last – a nice unoaked Chardonnay or Alsatian white alternative.

Originally posted 2010-09-28 14:18:22. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

2006 Deltetto, Langhe Arneis, Piedmont, Italy

2006 Deltetto, Langhe Arneis, Piedmont, Italy

From “the emperor of Arneis”, winemaker Antonio Deltetto, an internationally recognized expert in this varietal, this wine shines a clear straw yellow color with greenish relfections. It opens with a rich bouquet of spring flowers, bananas, apple and apricot with pure well-balanced flavors of ripe fruit to follow.

2008 World Wine Championships, silver, highly recommended

Originally posted 2010-10-04 14:49:32. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

2008 Stone Briar, Sauvignon Blanc, California

2008 Stone Briar, Sauvignon Blanc, California

This Sauvignon Blanc is made in a bright, approachable style. Melon, guava and kiwi meld with honey-filled beeswax and that tell-tale scent of freshly-mown grass. The mouth is lively with zesty citrus displaying dry, crisp flavors of tropical fruit and melon. A crisp, refreshing finish.

Silver, Highly Recommended, Best Buy, 2010 World Wine Competition

“Pale golden straw color. Aromas of grapefruit custard, gooseberry jam, and grass follows through on a soft entry to a dry-yet-fruity medium body with gentle depth and a tangy, lemon pepper finish. A nice sipper or pair with salads.”

Originally posted 2010-09-24 14:02:27. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

New World Explorer White 3 Bottle Set – White Wines

New World Explorer White 3 Bottle Set

These world-class producers from outside the traditional wine-growing areas of Europe will be a welcome addition to your cellar.  Sample wines prevalent in the marketplace today and newcomers alike.

2007 Lakeville Cellars, Maxwell Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc, Lake County, California (91 Points)

Produced from a single vineyard in Kelseyville, Lake County considered by many viticulturists to be the premiere area in the state for growing Sauvignon Blanc. Ripe fig, honey and crisp melon notes precede a layer of lemon, herb and tangy acidity. The wine is full-flavored and delicious to drink. Fermented in stainless steel to capture the essence of the natural grape. Serve with seafood or chicken with pasta and Asian cuisine.

Rietvallei Estate Wine Robertson Sauvignon Blanc, South Africa (91 points)

This South African white derives from one of the oldest wine farms in the Robertson region whose main production is Sauvignon Blanc. It boasts the classic herbaceous aromas of the varietal and characteristic crisp grapefuit and melon flavors. Excellent with fish and the perfect wine to take on a fresh green salad.

2008 Mira Luna Chardonnay

This rich, flavorful Chardonnay is made from grapes grown in Monterey County of California, which is famous for producing world class Chardonnays. This wine was made in stainless steel tanks and aged for 3 months in American oak barrels. It offers layer upon layer of tropical fruit flavors followed by mineral tones and apricot flavors. This medium bodied Chardonnay goes well with a variety of white meats, pastas and cheeses.

Originally posted 2010-09-30 16:17:36. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

2008 Glass Ridge, Pinot Grigio, California

2008 Glass Ridge, Pinot Grigio, California

A sunnier version of an Italian classic, our Pinot Grigio displays delicate floral and citrus aromas complemented by a slightly richer finish than its European counterpart. The grapes for this wine came from vineyards predominantly in California’s Central Coast growing areas, where warm days ripen the full fruit flavors in the grapes, while cool nights preserve the grapes’ crisp acidity.

Originally posted 2010-09-26 14:06:05. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

New World Explorer White 6 Bottle Set

New World Explorer White 6 Bottle Set

These world-class producers from outside the traditional wine-growing areas of Europe will be a welcome addition to your cellar.  Sample wines prevalent in the marketplace today and newcomers alike.

2007 Lakeville Cellars, Maxwell Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc, Lake County, California (91 Points)

Produced from a single vineyard in Kelseyville, Lake County considered by many viticulturists to be the premiere area in the state for growing Sauvignon Blanc. Ripe fig, honey and crisp melon notes precede a layer of lemon, herb and tangy acidity. The wine is full-flavored and delicious to drink. Fermented in stainless steel to capture the essence of the natural grape. Serve with seafood or chicken with pasta and Asian cuisine.

Rietvallei Estate Wine Robertson Sauvignon Blanc, South Africa (91 points)

This South African white derives from one of the oldest wine farms in the Robertson region whose main production is Sauvignon Blanc. It boasts the classic herbaceous aromas of the varietal and characteristic crisp grapefuit and melon flavors. Excellent with fish and the perfect wine to take on a fresh green salad.

2008 Mira Luna Chardonnay

This rich, flavorful Chardonnay is made from grapes grown in Monterey County of California, which is famous for producing world class Chardonnays. This wine was made in stainless steel tanks and aged for 3 months in American oak barrels. It offers layer upon layer of tropical fruit flavors followed by mineral tones and apricot flavors. This medium bodied Chardonnay goes well with a variety of white meats, pastas and cheeses.

Originally posted 2010-10-11 16:36:07. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

Calixte, Brut, Cremant d’Alsace

Calixte, Brut, Cremant d’Alsace

Full of white fruit (pears), flowers, nut flavors and aromas, this Brut (the driest of sparkling wines) offers balanced fruit and acidity (providing freshness and longevity).

This sparkling wine is made by Cave-Hunawihr and is named for Pope Calixte II who served in the 12th century. Luminous yellow with silvery hints that reflect gracious bubbles, this is a fresh and long lasting cremant with rich, floral aromas and a warm note of brioche. It is full and fleshy with a cheerful vitality sustained by a persistent stream of sprightly bubbles. What makes this wine unique is the addition of Pinot Blanc (30%) and Auxerrois (20%) to the Chardonnay base (50%), adding elegant and flowery aromas. Cremant d’Alsace is perfect as an apertif and as a reception wine. A wine to be enjoyed year-round, don’t wait for a special occasion. This wine won a silver medal at the 2007 Finger Lakes International Wine Competition.

Originally posted 2010-09-24 15:01:36. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

New World Explorer White 12 Bottle Set

New World Explorer White 12 Bottle Set

These world-class producers from outside the traditional wine-growing areas of Europe will be a welcome addition to your cellar.  Sample wines prevalent in the marketplace today and newcomers alike.

2007 Lakeville Cellars, Maxwell Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc, Lake County, California (91 Points)

Produced from a single vineyard in Kelseyville, Lake County considered by many viticulturists to be the premiere area in the state for growing Sauvignon Blanc. Ripe fig, honey and crisp melon notes precede a layer of lemon, herb and tangy acidity. The wine is full-flavored and delicious to drink. Fermented in stainless steel to capture the essence of the natural grape. Serve with seafood or chicken with pasta and Asian cuisine.

Rietvallei Estate Wine Robertson Sauvignon Blanc, South Africa (91 points)

This South African white derives from one of the oldest wine farms in the Robertson region whose main production is Sauvignon Blanc. It boasts the classic herbaceous aromas of the varietal and characteristic crisp grapefuit and melon flavors. Excellent with fish and the perfect wine to take on a fresh green salad.

2008 Mira Luna Chardonnay

This rich, flavorful Chardonnay is made from grapes grown in Monterey County of California, which is famous for producing world class Chardonnays. This wine was made in stainless steel tanks and aged for 3 months in American oak barrels. It offers layer upon layer of tropical fruit flavors followed by mineral tones and apricot flavors. This medium bodied Chardonnay goes well with a variety of white meats, pastas and cheeses.

Originally posted 2010-10-06 16:30:38. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

2008 Chateau Montelena Potter Valley Riesling

2008 Chateau Montelena Potter Valley Riesling

In the glass this Riesling has a bright pale yellow hue with good depth of color. The nose is clean, rich and inviting, opening with fresh honeysuckle and apricot jam followed by peach and candied orange notes, riding over a slight hint of oak. The mouthfeel is soft and fleshy, and is dominated by great big peach and apricot flavors along with good firm acidity. It has a nice full length with lots of lichee and a hint of clove on the finish. This Chateau Montelena 2008 Potter Valley Riesling can be likened to a Renoir: big, round and fleshy with soft edges; it is elegant, well composed, and utterly enjoyable.

Originally posted 2010-09-28 15:07:00. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

2008 Grass Tree, Riverina Traminer Riesling, South Eastern Australia

2008 Grass Tree, Riverina Traminer Riesling, South Eastern Australia

Traminer and Riesling from select vineyards in the Riverina were chosen for their intense varietal characters and fermented cold to retain freshness.  This Aussie offers lifted floral aromas of rose with Turkish delight and fresh citrus flavors. The crisp acidity of Riesling is a perfect match for the generously rounded Traminer fruit. Great balance with a soft, round lasting finish.

Silver, Best Buy –  2010 World Wine Championships
“Pale golden yellow color. Very floral apricot marmalade and orange blossom aromas follow through on a silky entry to a fruity, off-dry light-to-medium body with good depth and tangy mouthwatering acidity. Finishes with a hint of vanilla cream. A very attractive sipper.”

Originally posted 2010-09-28 14:14:39. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

2007 Mira Luna Chardonnay, California

2007 Mira Luna Chardonnay, California

Ask any Chardonnay lover about the best areas for growing their favorite grape, and the response will probably be Napa Valley or Sonoma County. However, we’ve delivered on a Chardonnay from two prime growing spots: Monterey and Lodi, alternate sources to higher priced real estate. These locales produce many of the best value wines, something that we specialize in here. One sip of the 2007 Mira Luna Chardonnay, and you’ll be sold!

Mira Luna is a signature wine we’re proud to call our own. We reserve the Mira Luna label for our best Burgundy varietals, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. But it’s not every year we’re able to find a product good enough to bear this label. For the current release we turned to Shahin Shahabi and his team at Stonehedge Winery, Dennis Patton and Jon Alexander-Hills. They judiciously sourced fruit from cooler pockets in Monterey and Lodi, knowing that the climate in these areas allows for full flavor development while still maintaining the appropriate level of acidity.

Part of this wine went through “malolactic fermentation” (MLF), a process that literally turns the “malic” acid of the wine (as in a tart green apple) to “lactic” acid (as in milk). This is a natural bacterial conversion that makes the wine taste softer and fuller adding a buttery texture. Barrel aging in oak adds complexity and contributes the vanilla flavor for what the French call a “kiss” of oak — not the trendy “naked” Chardonnay becoming so popular today, but not the “overwooded” oaky variety either.

The result? A formula for a top-drawer Chardonnay. Judges have agreed. As the recipient of two medals at recent wine competitions, it’s a winner! But, at $14.99 it won’t last. It’s one of our buy-by-the-case specials. Stock up today!

“Shy apple bobbing water and lemon cake aromas follow through on soft entry to a dryish light-to-medium body with a quick lemon, praline, and peach pit finish.” (2010 World Wine Championships)

Tasting Notes

A rich, flavorful Chardonnay made from grapes grown in Monterey County and Lodi, areas becoming famous for producing world class Chardonnays. Made in stainless steel tanks and aged for 3 months in American oak barrels, it offers layer upon layer of tropical fruit flavors followed by mineral tones and a hint of oak.

Awards

Silver, 2010 San Francisco Chronicle International Wine Competition. Bronze, 2010 World Wine Championships.

Originally posted 2010-10-02 14:27:25. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

2005 Glass Ridge, Vintner’s Select Chardonnay, California

2005 Glass Ridge, Vintner’s Select Chardonnay, California

Continuing with original philosophy of coastal Chardonnays and the terroir concept of cool climate growing, this Chardonnay is sourced from hand-selected blocs of “Old Oak Ranch” on the hillsides of Santa Lucia Highlands. The cool Pacific fog covers the vineyard until overpowered by the unyeilding California sun in the early afternoon. The combination of cool mornings and warm afternoons allow the grapes to attain full ripeness without sacrificing a well balanced acidity.

It offers a rich core of pineapple-pear notes with buttery hints of toasty vanilla oak supported by just the right touch of acidity. Boldly rich, yet refreshingly crisp and clean, it is the Chardonnay right for all occasions.

Continuing with original philosophy of coastal Chardonnays and the terroir concept of cool climate growing, this Chardonnay is sourced from hand-selected blocs of “Old Oak Ranch” on the hillsides of Santa Lucia Highlands. The cool Pacific fog covers the vineyard until overpowered by the unyeilding California sun in the early afternoon. The combination of cool mornings and warm afternoons allow the grapes to attain full ripeness without sacrificing a well balanced acidity.

It offers a rich core of pineapple-pear notes with buttery hints of toasty vanilla oak supported by just the right touch of acidity. Boldly rich, yet refreshingly crisp and clean, it is the Chardonnay right for all occasions.

Originally posted 2010-09-22 13:49:27. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

2006 Davis Family Vineyards, Russian River Chardonnay, Sonoma County Chardonnay, California

2006 Davis Family Vineyards, Russian River Chardonnay, Sonoma County Chardonnay, California

The aim of Davis Family Vineyards is to find that magical balance between winemaking expression and respect for nature”s gifts. Wine Enthusiast Magazine has highlighted founder and winemaker Guy Davis in their feature titled “California”s Most Dependable Chardonnay Producers” for a reason … because he is.

This wine offers a rich, round character of spiced apples and pears lifted and enhanced by crisp citrus and minerality. An instant sell out when released each Spring!

Originally posted 2010-09-30 15:12:07. Republished by Blog Post Promoter