Warm Weather Pink Drinks

With the heatwave really hitting us over the next week, we thought we would focus on our favorite warm-weather pink drinks. Below is a list of some stand out bottles of rose that hit a few different price points and styles. 

Enjoy the sun everyone!

Staff Picks

2018 Villa Wolf Rose, $13
Grapes: 100% Pinot Noir 

Tasting Notes: Straightforward and super tasty Pinot Noir rose from Pfalz, Germany. The grapes are handpicked and sustainably farmed, then pressed gently over 4 days, which imparts its’ salmon color. This wine has ripe Jolly Rancher Strawberry + Watermelon, with rounded edges on the palette, and just a little citrusy zip on the finish. Gulpable, great picnic/camping wine. 

2019 Domaine de Fontsainte ‘Gris de Gris’  Rose, $19
Grapes: 90% Grenache Gris, 5% Carignan, 5% Mourvedre 

Tasting Notes: The Domaine Fontsainte Gris de Gris is a classic Kermit Lynch Import that consistently, year after year, overperforms for the price. Nicely textured mouthfeel with lush raspberries, tropical fruit aromas, and a clean zesty finish. Yum. 

2019 Ameztoi Rubentis Txakolina Rose, $23
Grapes: Blend of Hondarrabi Beltza and Hondarrabi Zuri   

Tasting Notes: Txakolina is a lightly effervescent wine from the Basque region, and Ameztoi is one of the most iconic and reputable vintners of Txakolina. This spritzy rose screams summertime! Fresh lemon peel and menthol aromatics, with elegant bubbles and lean green strawberries on the palette. Fantastic on its own, and pairs perfectly with fresh veggie salads and grilled seafood. 

 Geek of the Week

2018 Clos Cibonne ‘Cru Classé’ Cote de Provence, $40
Grapes: Blend of Grenache and Tibouren

 Tasting Notes: This rose stands apart from the others listed above, both in style and history. Made the same way by the same family for almost 100 years, Clos Cibonne makes an elegant rose that is highly sought after worldwide. This blend is a rich, plump style of rose, with aromas of sage and granite, and noteworthy flavors of marmalade and blood orange. This is another wine I consider to be both interesting and delicious!

Order for Delivery

Don’t forget to place your wine orders for delivery! You have until Thursday at 5 pm to get your orders in for wine and beer, and we'll bring it right to your doorstep Friday! Please email your orders to info@pdxbottleshop.com and let us know the style and price point you are looking for.

We will call you to confirm your order and you can pay over the phone. There is a $5 delivery charge and we will deliver within 5 miles of the shop. Easy peasy.

The Case of the Month is Back, Plus This Weeks Wine Recommendations

Case of the Month

You asked and we heard you. The Case of the Month has returned. Every month Jon, our wine buyer, is going to hand select a group of 12 wines which will be discounted down 20% off the original price. This month Jon has picked a mix of good value wines that are perfect for the warmer weather ahead. 

This month's case is $156 (a savings of $38!!) for pick up or $175 for Friday delivery (a $19 savings). Check it out. And to make it easier, you can order here, pay over the phone and we will bring it out to your car for you.   

Whites

(OR) 2019 Ridgecrest Old Vine Estate 
Grapes: 100% Pinot Gris 

Notes:  Nicely textured, subtle floral aromatics, crisp acidity. 

(FR) 2018 L’Enclos Cote de Gascogne
Grapes: Blend of Colombard and Ugni Blanc 

Notes: Light, bright, citrusy

(IT) 2018 Antica Enotria Puglia Bianco 
Grapes: Blend of Fiano and Falanghina

Notes: Yellow apple, cumquat, balanced minerality, great dinner food

Roses

(FR) 2019 Domaine Eugene Carrel Savoie Rose
Grapes: Blend of Gamay and Mondeuse

Notes: agreeably fruity, easily drinkable

 
(FR) 2019 Domaine Montrose Pays d’Oc Rose
Grapes: Blend of Grenache, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah

Notes: Elegant balance of roundness and freshness, red berries and lemon peel citrus

(SP) 2019 Bozeto de Exopto Rioja Rose
Grapes: Blend of Tempranillo and Garnacha

Notes: Clean, crisp, hint of peach and white pepper

Reds

(IT) 2017 Gulfi ‘Nerojbleo’ Sicilia Ross
Grapes: 100% Nero d’Avola

Notes: Leather with black fruit, yet surprisingly lively

(SP) 2018 Pago Casa Gran ‘Casa Benasal’
Grapes: Blend of Garnacha, Monastrell, Syrah

Notes: Dry, bold red, with rounded tannic structure

(IT) 2018 Tre Monti ‘Campo di Mezzo’
Grapes: 100% Sangiovese 

Notes: Dark fruit, well balanced, great pizza and spaghetti wine

(FR) 2017 Sainte Croix ‘Le Fournas’
Grapes: Blend of Grenache, Syrah, and Carignan

Notes: soft, with rich clean berry fruit, gulpable

(OR) 2017 Stafford Hill Tempranillo
Grapes: 100% Tempranillo

Notes: cocoa, earthy spice, vibrant black cherry fruit

(OR) 2019 Day Winery ‘Vin de Days’ Rouge
Grapes: Blend of Pinot Noir, Pinot Munier, and Pinot Gris

Notes: Fresh raspberry, cracked black pepper, and just a touch funky (in a good way)

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New Arrivals and Staff Picks

2019 Savage Grace Yakima Valley Sauvignon Blanc, $23
Grapes: 100% Sauvignon Blanc

 Tasting Notes: Grower, Mike Sauer, has been cultivating a handful of white varietals in this Washington region known mostly for its’ red wines. He planted a ‘field blend’ of Sauv Blanc Clones indigenouos to the Loire Valley in France, and the resulting wine is reminiscent of that clean ‘Old World’ style. Crips, citrusy, and mineral driven. Supremely food friendly.  

2019 J Christopher ‘Cristo Irresisto’ Rose, $18
Grapes: Grenache + Syrah blend 

Tasting Notes: Lovely straightforward drinking rose from reputable vintners sourcing grapes from along the Columbia Gorge. This wine is light and bright, with nice acidity and a subtle floral finish. A great wine for the warmer weeks ahead!

2016 Licenciado Reserva Rioja, $29
Grapes: 100% Tempranillo  

Tasting Notes: This new arrival recently scored 95 points in Decanter Magazine, and has garnered accolades for its’ flavor profile and also its’ affordability. The Licenciado Reserva a ruby color and has outstanding aromas of wild berry, vanilla, and spice. This wine has fantastic dark fruit tones balanced with notable, yet integrated tannins, and surprising acidity. I recommend buying 2 bottles now- one to drink this weekend, and one to drink in 10 years from now.  

Geek of the Week

2018  Tenuta San Lucia ‘Vensame Ancestrale’, $24
Grapes: 100% Famozo 

Tasting Notes: Super cool central Italian winery focusing on organic and biodynamic farming coupled with ancient wine making practices using esoteric indigenious grapes. This bottle of sparkling rose is both interesting and delicious- the color is a touch cloudy, and initial tastes include some savory herbs, the overall impression is fresh and clean, with deep ripe pear and citrus on the finish. So fun to enjoy!

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Order for Delivery

As always, you have until Thursday at 5 pm to get your orders in for wine and beer, and we'll bring it right to your doorstep on Friday! Just email your orders to info@pdxbottleshop.com and let us know the style and price point you are looking for. We will call you to confirm your order and you can pay over the phone. There is a $5 delivery charge and we will deliver within 5 miles of the shop. Easy peasy.

Fill Your Cups With Our Weekly Wine Recommendations

This week we are bringing you a mix of amazing wines. Bubbles, Rosé, Red and an interesting white. The perfect wines to enjoy as we move into summer. 

New Arrivals

2019 Planet Oregon Willamette Valley Rose Bubbles, $23
Grapes: 100% Pinot Noir 

Tasting Notes: Super cool local sparkling Rosé by one of our favorite vintners at Soter Vineyards. It’s sustainably and organically farmed, and a portion of the proceeds of the Planet Oregon wines are donated to the Oregon Environmental Council. In addition to the commendable mission here, this bottle is also super tasty! Full and rich on the palate, with generous strawberry fruit. Great warm weather wine. Great brunch fare wine. 

2017 Domaine Bruno Clair ‘Gran Vin de Bourgogne’ Marsannay Rosé, $28
Grapes: 100% Pinot Noir

Tasting Notes: Domaine Bruno Clair is a prestigious French Burgundy winery and wine family, with a history of producing top quality wines for over a century. This rosé is fantastic. Plump body and ruby colored.  Subtle herbs and macerated red berries on the palate, with a pleasant balance of acidity. This wine screams for an herbed pork chop. Yum. Extremely Limited! We were only able to bring in 8 bottles - so grab this while you can!!

2014 Fattorio Dezi, ‘Dezio Rosso,’ $25
Grapes: 100% Montepulciano  

Tasting Notes: Central Italian red from the region of Le Marche. Initially fruit forward with black and red fruit tones, firm tannic structure, and earthy forest floor herbs in the finish. We recommend popping this bottle and letting it breath for about 45 minutes before enjoying. This wine would be a great compliment to a savory mushroom focused dish. 

Geek of the Week

2013 Forlorn Hope ‘Nacre’, $26
Grapes: 100% Semillon 

Tasting Notes: Very unique wine by a cooky vintner with a cult following. Grown in the heart of Napa Valley, winemaker Matthew Rorick’s ‘Nacre’ is exceptional. He takes organically grown and handpressed 100% Semillon grape juice, then ferments in stainless steel with natural fermentation. Next, he lets the wine age in bottle for a minimum of 5 years before releasing. This wine can easily age for decades, but I recommend enjoying immediately! Crisp and focused acidity, with layers of depth of flavor on the palate. This wine is outstanding. 

Order for Delivery

We will happily deliver our beer and wine right to your doorstep each Friday (within 5 miles of the shop)! Place your beer and wine orders by Thursday at 5 pm.

Email your orders to info@pdxbottleshop.com and let us know the style and price point you are looking for. We will call you to confirm your order and you can pay over the phone. There is a $5 delivery charge and we will deliver within 5 miles of the shop. Cheers!

April Case of the Month

Italy
$189 (regular price $236)

Italy:  The world's largest producer of wine, and home to some of the oldest wine-producing lands on the planet. In its 20 wine regions, Italy grows close to 1000 (!) different grapes, and from this cover a surprisingly broad range of styles and flavor profiles. With so much ground to cover, the Bottle Shop put together a case of Italian wines that are crowd favorites. In addition, these wines showcase grapes + regions that are lesser known, yet deliver great products. This collection covers wines from the northernmost regions that border Austria, down past the tip of the boot and into Sicily. This is a super fun look at some interesting and tasty Italian wines. Please find descriptions of this month’s selection below. Enjoy!

(Trentino-Alto Adige) Pojer E Sandri Palai Dolomiti Muller Thurgau 2017, $24

The Pojer E Sandri winery is located in the Dolomites of northeastern Italy. Steep hillsides at high elevation in siltstone + limestone soils, and all stainless steel fermentation create this aromatic, mineral driven, citrusy white. Fun grape fact: Muller Thurgau is a cross of riesling and sylvaner grapes! This wine exhibits the best parts of both varietals.

Variety: 100% Muller Thurgau

Tasting Notes: Prominent acid and citrus, limestone minerality, subtle notes of under ripe stone fruit and blossoms.

Pairing: Watermelon Gazpacho, Eggs Benedict, brunch menu items!

(Alto Adige) Castelfeder Lagrein 2017, $23

The rugged terrain of German-speaking Alto Adige (also referred to as Südtirol) focuses on small-scale viticulture, with great value placed on local varieties—though international varieties have been widely planted since the 1800s. Sheltered by the Alps from harsh northerly winds, many of the best vineyards are at extreme altitude but on steep slopes to increase sunlight exposure. Lagrein is typically characterized with bold, herbaceous flavors, coupled with dark spicy fruit tones. The Castelfeder Lagrein is no acception - Aromas of blackberry, violet and dark spice lead while the juicy palate serves up raspberry, black cherry, clove and white pepper. It’s another lively Northern Italian wine, with firm but approachable tannins.

Variety: 100% Lagrein

Tasting Notes: Clove, blackberry, black + white pepper, rustic

Pairing: Stewed meats, BBQ

(Veneto) Ca La Bionda Valpolicella Classico 2017, $18

This winery is located in Valpolicella- the Italian wine region ranking just after Chianti in total Italian Demoninazione di Origine Controllata (DOC) wine production. Ca La Bionda was founded in 1902, and today, enjoys its fourth generation of family wine making. They use organic farming practices and only grapes indigenous to the region, a long-standing and thoughtful tradition resulting in a light, elegant, and easy drinking wine suitable as an aperitif or coupled with most savory meals.

Variety: 70 % Corvina, 20% Corvinone, 10% Rondinella, 10%  Molinara

Tasting Notes: fresh red fruits, violets, light bodied and bright on the palate

Pairing: This wine is great for spring inspired fare! Grilled asparagus, grilled corn, charcuterie.

(Piedmont) Francesco Rinaldi Grignolino d’Asti 2017, $21

Located in Piedmont in the town of Barolo itself, the domaine of Francesco Rinaldi was founded in 1870. Although this region is most famous for Barolos and Barberas, the Grignolino grape yields one of my favorite wines to drink. All stainless steel fermentation. Light bodied, bright sour cherry fruit, black pepper, and just a bit of old world funk.

Variety: 100% Grignolino

Tasting Notes: tarty berry + cherry fruit, nice acid, subtle tannic structure, lightly herbal

Pairing: Great pork chop wine!

(Piedmont) Vietti "Tre Vigne" Barbera d'Asti 2016, $19

Here is another offering from Piedmont- and another family run winery for over 100 years. This is a textbook example of one of Italy’s most famous grapes. Aged in both neutral oak barrels and stainless steel vats- the Vietti family produces a Barbera d’Asti that is dry, medium bodied and has refreshing acidity. It is well balanced with good integration of oak, good complexity and a long finish of red cherries.

Variety: 100% Barbera D’Asti

Tasting Notes: Generous red and blue fruit, smooth textured, floral and mineral notes

Pairing: Grilled vegetables, Mushroom Risotto

(Emilio-Romagna) Fattoria Zerbina "Ceregio" Trebbiano 2017, $15

Fattoria Zerbina is located in the region of Romagna, which borders Tuscany on its northernmost side.The “Ceregio” is made from all Trebbiano grapes, and is a delightful option for springtime. Fresh, light bodied, and bright on the palette. A great sunshine wine!

Variety: 100% Trebbiano

Tasting Notes: Crisp + light on the palette, prominent citrus zest, light tropical fruit

Pairing: spring salad with feta cheese, sauteed white fish

(Tuscany) Fattoria Poggerino, Chianti Classico DOCG 2015,  $28

Located in the heart of Tuscany, Fattoria Poggerino is a family run operation that holds strict organic farming practices. This Chianti Classico brings familiar Italian wine characteristics - Bright ruby red color, on the nose notes of blackberries, leather, cherries and red currant with a touch of liquorice and vanilla. Sweet and persistent tannins.

Variety: 100% Sangiovese

Tasting Notes: Cherries and oak notes with great acidity and ripeness.

Pairing: Bistecca alla Fiorentina

(Abruzzo) Faraone Vigne Rosso Cerasuolo d’Abruzzo DOC 2017, $16

The Faraone family and vineyard has been making wines in the central Italian region of Abruzzo since the 1930’s. They make a variety of wines, and under a few different labels- the Faraone Le Vigne label focuses on accessible and tasty day to day wines at a great value. Although labeled “Cerasuolo d’Abruzzo,” this wine is made from all Montepulciano grapes.

Here, Cerasuolo means "bright cherry" and relates to the deep color the wine gets during the fermentation process, as well as the bright and lively tasting notes.

Variety: 100% Montepulciano d’Abruzzo

Tasting Notes: Medium bodied, dark red cherry, well balanced with integrated smooth tannins. Great food wine!

Pairing: Crispy brussels sprouts, roasted sausages and potatoes

(Calabria) Scala di Ciro Rosso Classico Superiore, $16

Down to the ‘toe’ of the Italian boot we find a winery run by the Scala family since 1949- the domaine is now run by Luigi Scala, who leads the production of Cirò wines following family traditions. From the growing of the grapes to the refinement and aging of the wines, Scala favors quality over quantity and aims to produce distinguished Calabrian wines. This Gagliopo is hearty, yet easy drinking with red fruit + spice aromas, and undertones of cranberry on the palate.

Variety: 100% Gaglioppo

Tasting Notes: Lightly dry and aromatic, integrated tannins, nice berry fruit, well balanced.

Pairing: Sun Dried tomatoes, beef tartare

(Basilicata) D'Angelo Aglianico del Vulture 2015, $18

The D’Angelo winery, whose name has been identified with Aglianico for approximately a century, represents a long history for Basilicata and its region. In 1971, Aglianico del Vulture received DOC status. Their Aglianico is aged in large wooden botti for nearly 20 months.Opaque crimson-tinged plum in the glass, d’Angelo’s 2015 Aglianico has aromas of salted plums, violets, and peppery volcanic soil. Firmly tannic, a touch spicy, and bittersweet chocolate finish.

Variety: 100% Aglianico

Tasting Notes: crunchy, juicy, with loads of perfumes and firm tannins the wine fresh

Pairing: hard cheeses, hearty pasta, eggplant parmigiana

(Sicily) Tascante Ghiaia Nera Etna Rosso 2016, $21

This Nerello Mascalese is harvested from the Tascante estates on the Etna volcano in Sicily. The grape's natural tannins have been softened and the wine shows generous fruit tones, mineral notes, leather, tobacco and exotic spices.

Variety: 100% Nerello Mascalese

Tasting Notes: Ripe fruits, mineral, charcoal with plenty of acid

Pairing: Cumin spiced lentils and feta cheese

(Sicily) Poggio Anima Asmodeus Nero D' Avola 2017, $17

2017 marks the fifth vintage from this vineyard.  The vineyard is located in central Sicily, in the province of Caltanissetta, at about 1,600 feet above sea level.  The most prominent red wine variety in Sicily is nero d'Avola, which yields full-bodied, well-structured and juicy red wines sometimes compared to syrahs. This Poggio Anima is dark with forward notes of ripe plum. Finishes with fruit sweetness and a licorice note with soft gripping tannins.

Variety: 100% Nero d’Avola

Tasting Notes: Dark juicy fruit, licorice, leather

Pairing: Penne Arabiata, great pizza wine!

March Case of the Month

$195 case (originally $243)

(FR) NV Louis De Grenelle Cremant de Loire, Loire $20

Located in the Saumur appellation of the Loire valley in France, this lovely bottle of bubbly is sustainably farmed atop limestone and chalk soils. The resulting wine is crisp, with a tight mineral structure. This is a great value for the quality.

Variety: 85% Chenin Blanc, 10% Chardonnay, 5% Cab Franc

Tasting Notes: Fresh and lean on the palette, mineral driven bubbly, with subtle fruit

Pairing: Great on its own as an aperitif, shellfish, grilled asparagus

(SP) Acustic Celler Blanc, Montsant $21

Acustic Celler makes their wine with 35-85 year old vines on organic + rocky soils, and believes in minimal intervention during the fermentation process. They use indigenous grape varieties, manual labor, and sensitive cellar handling. Made with care through and through, Acustic wines have a uniquely approachable drinkability. Predominantly Grenache Blanc, this white is initially broad on the palate with caramelized fruit tones, but finishes with unexpectedly clean minerality.

Variety: 60% White Garnatxa, 25% Macabeu, 10% Pink Garnacha, 5% Pansal

Tasting Notes: Round mouthfeel, with crisp finish.  Yellow apple fruit, and mineral.

Pairing: Mixed veggie + cheese quiche, or a sweet corn salsa.

(OR) Carlton Hill Pinot Noir Rose, Yamhill-Carlton $21

Carlton Hill Vineyard is unusual among its Oregon peers and neighbors because it enjoys a pure eastern exposure to the sun, not unlike the great Grand Cru vineyards of Burgundy, but in contrast to most Oregon vineyards which face south. The resulting rose has a structural depth you can taste, while retaining its’ fun and freshnes.

Variety: 100% Pinot Noir

Tasting Notes: Floral aromas, bright lemon zest

Pairing: Perfect with roasted ham

(IT) 2016 Olianas Perdixi Bovale, Sardinia $28

Olianas Winery is located in Sardinia, and produces organic and biodynamic whites and reds. Grown in clay and sandy soils, this ‘Perdixi’ is a grape blend of mostly Bovale + a little Carignano. This wine is deep ruby red and well structured.  

Variety: 75% Bovale, 25% Carignano

Tasting Notes: Rust, red berry with integrated tannins

Pairing: Great with penne arrabiata

(IT) 2017 Damiano Ciolli, Silene Cesanese, Olevano Romano $20

Damiano Ciolli comes from 4 generations of vintners, and is producing 100% steel fermented Cesanese just a few miles outside of Rome. Sprouting from volcanic soils, this wine offers up aromas of green forest floor herb + dried roses, with ripe plum + cherries on the palate. It's medium bodied and not the least bit heavy, a charming wine easily paired with a variety of savory foods.

Variety: 100% Cesanese

Tasting Notes: Forest floor herbs, nicely balanced acidity and minerality. Lean on the palette, yet exhibiting some ripe fruit tones.

Pairing: Caprese salad with fresh basil

(FR) 2016 Les Capucins, Languedoc $12

Located in one of the southernmost regions in France and grown on Limestone soils at moderate elevations, Les Capucins is perhaps the most focused of this month’s terroir driven wines. Another awesome value wine and a perfect expression of syrah: Full mouth, fine tannins, fresh aromas, great balance.

Variety: 75% Syrah, 25% Grenache

Tasting Notes: Full bodied, dark blackberry, cedar

Pairing: Braised lamb

(OR) 2016 Stafford Hill Tempranillo, Willamette Valley $16

Local wine maker, Bill Holloran's Stafford Hill Tempranillo offers a look at the potential for fuller-bodied red wines from Oregon; volcanic soils and a cooler climate (as opposed to the clay soils and arid climates of Spain) help to give this Oregon wine its unique character. This has a meaty texture, medium+ acid, and forward berry fruits on the palate, with a tight and herbaceous finish.

Variety: 100% Tempranillo

Tasting Notes: Olive, bacon fat and dried rosemary notes accenting light, red berry-like fruit. Tannins firm up the finish.

Pairing: BBQ’d meats and veggies, BBQ sauce

(FR) 2014 Angelique Leon, Chinon $17

This wine is made from all estate grown grapes and 40 year old vines. Sustainable farming, manual harvesting, and minimal intervention winemaking. Thoughtfully made, this wine reflects classic Chinon aromas of black currant and savory herbs.

Variety: 100% Cab Franc

Tasting Notes: Green bell pepper, dark blackberry, fine tannic backbone

Pairing: Root vegetable stew

(SP) 2017 Alvaro Palacios Camins del Priorat, Priorat $27

The vintner, Alvaro Palacios, has been pioneering the movement towards sustainable farming practices in Priorat. Palacios is undoubtedly one of the architects and primary reasons for Priorat's elevation to a premier fine wine region over the past 20 years. His winery practices biodynamic farming with fields of 70 year old vines. Camins del Priorat offers full-bodied flavors with rich, deeply concentrated sour cherry and floral flavors.

Variety: 85% Garnacha, 10% Carinena, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon

Tasting Notes: Juicy black fruit and liquorice, dark spices, firm tannins

Pairing: Roast chicken with roast fennel and herbs

(FR) 2014 Domaine Sainte Croix "Le Fournas", Corbieres $15

Domaine Sainte Croix is owned and run by the English husband and wife team of Jon and Elizabeth Bowen, who have extensive experience working both in classic French stone caves and giant, steel wineries in many parts of the world. Their 32 acre winery is located in Corbieres, a region in southeast France, just inland from the mediterranean sea. 100% destemmed fruit, stainless steel fermented, organic, native yeasts, all from sandy limestone soils. This bright purple wine yields rich aromas of black + red currant, with plump plum and cassis on the palate. A great $15 wine!

Variety: 45% Carignan, 23% Syrah, 25% Grenache, 7% Mourvedre

Tasting Notes: Juicy fruit, nice tannins, fresh herbs

Pairing: A great burger wine!

(CA) 2015 Marietta Armé Cab Sauv, Napa Valley $24

Marietta’s husband, Armé, lived, worked, and fished throughout Alexander Valley, the Yorkville Highlands, and the McDowell Valley. From their vineyards in those same valleys, the vintners combine the best of what these sites offer to create a unique Cabernet Sauvignon. This wine is robust, rich, and fruit forward, indicative of contemporary red wine making in the Napa valley region.

Variety: 83% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Merlot, 6% Malbec, 2% Petit Verdot

Tasting Notes: Blueberry jam, spice, leather

Pairing: Grilled steak with rosemary

(Or) 2017 Owen Roe Syrah Ex Umbris, Willamette Valley $22

This wine was introduced as a one-time bottling in 2002 after a wild fire struck the vineyard’s surrounding hillsides. The residual ash and smoke resonated in the Syrah grapes, creating a very memorable wine. A number of vintages later, vintner Owen Roe continues to make this bold Syrah comprised from several exceptional vineyards in the Columbia, Yakima and Walla Walla Valleys. You’ll find vanilla notes are interlaced with juicy flavors of blackberry jam, Bing cherry compote and subtle hints of cocoa nib.

Variety: 100% Syrah

Tasting Notes: Vanilla, berry jam, full bodied, nicely integrated tannic structure

Pairing: Pork Loin or roasted Eggplant

February Case of the Month: Terroir

Case of the Month $179 (Regular Price $224)

Terroir is a popular term used by wine enthusiasts globally- but what does it mean to describe a wine that is reflective of its terroir? Terroir is how a particular region’s climate, soils, terrain, and winemaking traditions affect the taste of the wine. For the February Case of the Month, our team member Jon offers a selection of 6 pairs of grape varieties or grape blends that highlight this super fun wine concept. Taste and learn how the same grapes can have distinct expressions when grown in different parts of the world. Below you’ll find descriptions of the wines featured this month. We hope you enjoy the selection!

(NZ) 2017 Marisco 'The Ned' Pinot Gris $16

This award-winning wine hails from the Waihopai Valley in Marlborough, New Zealand. To produce the distinct flavor of ‘The Ned,’ vintners take a portion of the grapes used and give 5 days of skin contact during the winemaking process, which helps to impart the wines’ salmon-like color as well as its unique acidic structure and mouth-feel.

Variety: 100% Pinot Gris. Steel fermented.

Tasting Notes: Aromatic and floral, vibrant acidity. Green watermelon, citrus. 

Pairing: Great aperitif wine, and nice with lighter fare including grilled fish and salads of bitter lettuces.

(OR) 2016 Lady Hill Pinot Gris. $18

The Zorn-Owen family has been farming the same land in the Willamette Valley since the 1850s. Jerry and Elaine Owen began producing wines on the property in 1995. They now offer a broad selection of grapes and styles, including their Pinot Gris, grown in clay rich soils on slow sloping hills of their St. Columbian Vineyard. This is a great example of ‘Tipicity of Terroir’ for our local wine regions- an aromatic and lively wine, with a touch of residual sugar and creaminess.

Variety: 100% Pinot Gris. Both steel and neutral oak fermented.

Tasting Notes: Aromatic and floral. Citrus pith, yellow pear, honeysuckle.

Pairing: Cheddar and Gruyere fondue, fettuccine alfredo pasta

 (IT) 2017 Castelfeder Chard $19

Castelfeder was founded in 1969 and is a small private winery located in the Alto Adige, one of Italy’s Northern-most wine regions. The rugged terrain of German-speaking Alto Adige focuses on small-scale viticulture, with great value placed on local varieties. The vineyard being situated at higher elevations with steep slopes assist in creating a well structured, mineral driven wine. It reads lean and bright on the palette, and is simply fun to drink.

Variety: 100% Chardonnay

Tasting Notes: Wet limestone and citrus pith, medium bodied with hint of white pepper and green pear.

Pairing: Very food friendly- enjoy with herb roasted chicken and potatoes, or a spicy seafood stew.

(FR) 2017 Bernard Defaix Chablis $25

Fourth generation from a family of vine-growers, Bernard Defaix started his operation in 1959. The two sons of Bernard have been managing the domain for the last 20 years. This wine is aged in stainless steel tanks, which is the typical practice for the region. The Defaix Chablis is characterized by its freshness and structure. This vintage is an accessible, textbook example of chardonnay from the Chablis.

Variety: 100% Chardonnay

Tasting Notes: Flinty, lemon, green apple, and prominent slate minerality

Pairing: Oysters, Crab Roll, Moules Frite

(OR) Division Gamay Noir ‘Lutte’ $26

Division Winemaking Company is a Portland, Oregon based winery founded in 2010 by Kate Norris and Thomas Monroe. They are greatly inspired by the wineries of Loire, Beaujolais, Burgundy and the Northern Rhone where they first learned winemaking and viticulture. Determined to make approachable and balanced wines though minimal manipulation, the winemakers have a passion to work with well farmed and terroir expressive vineyards, many of which are organic and/or biodynamic. This wine, named "Lutte," which means "fight to overcome" in French, refers to the particularly challenging year of weather the grapes had to endure on the vines. This Gamay is notably pretty, offering a silky and lush texture with dark cranberry fruit and bright acidity.

Variety: 100% Gamay

Tasting Notes: Red and blue berry fruit, black pepper, a touch earthy

Pairing: Roasted pork shank, bacon braised greens

(Fr) 2014 Roland Pignard Morgon $24

Roland Pignard took over the family estate in 1977 and immediately turned towards organic and biodynamic practices. Pignard land has 60 year old vines that produce Gamay wine with subtle, pure fruit, lovely acidity and a pronounced mineral character.  This wine is age worthy, and delicious served with a slight chill.

Variety: 100% Gamay

Tasting Notes: Graphite, damp soil, dusty tannins, raspberry, plum

Pairing: Steak, game birds, pork chop

(FR) Chateau La Coustarelle 2014, Cahours $15

Wines carrying the Cahors appellation must be made with 70% Malbec, making it the primary grape of region. Once used as the backbone for many Bordeaux wines, this thick-skinned, late-ripening grape produces deeply colored wines. Château la Coustarelle is owned by Michel and Nadine Cassot. With their 30 year old vines aged in oak barrels, the duo produces bold, but well balanced reds with prominent structure.

Variety: 90% Malbec, 10% Tannat

Tasting Notes: Ripe blue and black fruit, licorice, well integrated tannins

Pairing: Bacon Cheeseburger, Steak, Braised Ox Tail

(OR) Powers Malbec $13

The powers family has been making wine in the Columbia Valley, Washington since 1982. This Malbec uses 40% stainless steel fermentation, and also 3 year aged French oak barrels. Showing lush layered fragrant aromatics of blackberry and violet, this Malbec jumps out on the palate with nice depth and complexity.

Variety: 93% Malbec, 7% Mourvedre

Tasting Notes: plum, pomegranate, forest herbs, black tea, and orange zest

Pairing: Carne asada burrito, Steak Frites

(CA) 2015 Green + Red Chile Canyons Zinfandel $30

Briary and zesty, and still in a youthful phase, offering wild berry, underbrush and cracked pepper flavors that finish with a touch of rustic tannins. Green & Red Vineyard, named for its red iron soils veined with green serpentine, is located in the steep hills on the east side of Napa Valley. The planting was started in 1972 on grounds with vineyards originally planted in the 1890s. All their wines are estate grown. This wine is aged in both American and French Oak, with 20% new oak.

Variety: 100% Zinfandel

Tasting Notes: Dark purple plum, sage, black peppercorn

Pairing: BBQ’d meats, charred veggies

(IT) Felline Primativo di Manduria DOC, Puglia $12

The Felline vineyards sit in the heart of the historic Manduria, located on the coastal heel of the Italian boot. The area has a warm growing season and deep red, calcareous bedrock soils with older vines dating to the 1940’s. Averaging 50 years of age, these old vines grow as free standing bushes in iron-rich red earth with clay subsoil. Today, the wines produce masculine, complex and concentrated wines.

Variety: 100% Primativo (Zinfandel)

Tasting Notes: Savory, prominent tannins, firm acidity, tart red fruit

Pairing: Meatball Sub, Pasta Bolognese

(Sp) Pago Casa Gran Casa Benasal Tinto 'elegant' 2014 $14

The wine making team at Pago Casa Gran uses all estate grapes that are grown following the strict European organic standards. Their fields are biodynamic, and they use native yeasts during the fermentation process. This Spanish estate is located in the Les Alcusses, a protected valley and preserved as a cultural landmark at the foothill of La Batida mountain, where wineries have existed since the 4th century B.C. Their ‘elegant’ grapes are grown in sand and clay soils, and fermented in both concrete vessels and French oak barrels. The result is a full-bodied, fruit driven red, with balanced tannins + acidity.

Variety: 50% Garnacha (Grenache), 30% Syrah, 20% Monastrell (Mourvedre)

Tasting Notes: Red and Blue fruit tones, soft dusty tannins, nice acidity

Pairing: Roasted Sausage and Broccolini

(FR) Chateau Paraza Minervois $12

The Minervois appellation lies in the western part of the Languedoc region in France. Chateau Paraza is a family run operation that uses organic and sustainable farming techniques. Their grapes are estate grown on clay-limestone soils, and range between 30-50 year vines. This classic French grape blend produces a focused and fresh, medium bodied red.

Variety: 40% Grenache, 40% Syrah, 20% Mourvedre

Tasting Notes: Kitchen spice, black cherry, brambleberry, leather

Pairing: Soft + fragrant cheeses, beef strogonoff

March 2018 Case of the Month

12 Great wines for one great price!

March Case of the Month $177 (Regular Price $221)

NV Broadbent Vinho Verde, PT
2015 Pike Road Chardonnay, OR
2017 Swick Wines Rose of Pinot Noir, OR
2015 Red Hawk Vineyard, Grateful Red Pinot Noir, OR
2015 Anne Amie Pinot Noir, OR
2014 Ad Lucem Elaina Red, OR
2015 Tendu 1L Red Wine, CA
2016 Saint Cosme Cotes-Du-Rhone, FR
2014 Ciacci Piccolomini d'Aragona, Rosso di Montalcino, IT
2007 Vina Olabarri, Gran Reserva Rioja, SP
2014 Navaherreros Garnacha de Bernabeleva, SP
2014 Olivares Altos de la Hoya Monastrell, SP