WOMC-News407 3/22/07 1:13 PM Page 1
NEWS FROM WINE OF THE MONTH CLUB Since 1972 April, 2007 Wines evaluated last month: 135 Rejected: 105 Approved: 30 Selected: 8 ature’s chaotic 2004, Gum Bear, Cab/Shiraz/ What’s New burst of spring Merlot. Coonawarra, growth and Australia This Month color makes The loveable Australian Koala see page 2 for a lot of lives in the gum trees Nweeding and thinning. We throughout Australia; hence, select seeds and plants their nickname "gum bears.” for our gardens. Political This award-winning wine has Send Us Your candidates arrive on the fascinating mulberry and e-mail Address! scene; some to be kept cherry flavors that will drink and some to be set aside. now or cellar very well. send to: Basketball teams and [email protected] singers play their best only LIMITED SERIES to drop from the field. This month’s wine testing was in 2003, York Mountain, Pinot the spirit of the Spring Noir. Paso Robles, California season. We tasted over 130 The York Mountain appellation Home Wine wines, and we narrowed is one of the smallest Tasting Parties! our list to a final eight recognized appellations in selections for you. Here’s to California. This Pinot Noir see page 11 captures the unique terroir, and April’s winners! the charm of the York Mountain Winery, which is the oldest REGULAR SERIES winery in continuous operation 2004, Peralta, Chardonnay. in Central Coast California. Gift Assortments Central Coast, California 2003, Kunde, Cabernet see page 9 The Peralta Family Winery Sauvignon. Sonoma, has a well-defined strategy California of producing wines of Imagine flavors of black cherry quality and balance at and velvety chocolate. No, it’s New Member prices that are affordable not fine candy, but something Application for everyday consumption. better—the 2003 Kunde for a Friend Their Chardonnay certainly Cabernet Sauvignon. Pour a meets their criteria. From glass while you are grilling see page 15 their family to yours, and prepare for another “Salude!” memorable dinner.
INSIDE THIS MONTH
WINE OF THE MONTH CLUB NEWS 1 ORDER FORMS 7–10 WHAT’S NEW?2UPCOMING EVENTS 11 REG. CHARDONNAY, 2004. PERALTA 3 MEMBER COMMENTS 12 REG. CAB/SHIRAZ/MERLOT, 2004. GUM BEAR 4 ADVENTURES IN GOOD FOOD 13 LTD. PINOT NOIR, 2003. YORK MOUNTAIN 5 REGULAR & LTD TASTING NOTES 11, 14 LTD. CABERNET SAUVIGNON, 2003. KUNDE 6 WORD ON THE STREET 16 Join us on the Web: www.WineoftheMonthClub.com WOMC-News407 3/22/07 1:13 PM Page 2
A NOTE WHAT’S NEW THIS MONTH? FROM YOUR CELLARMASTER Here we go. The wines just keep "pouring in here" (pun intended.) In the wine world there is "overproduction" and a "glut." When Charles Shaw started their miracle run at the $1.99 wine business, there was a clear-cut glut of wine. This means that not only is wine sitting in tanks waiting to be bottled (sometimes two vintages Paul Kalemkiarian ago), there are grapes hanging on the vine that may never be picked. Literally, many vineyards We had such a great time at that don't have contracts won't even pick their
the Las Vegas Wine Dinner! grapes when there is a clear-cut "glut."
I encourage all of you to Overproduction is different. The wine industry in California has had overproduction for four take a break and visit us years now and 2006 is about the same. However, at our next dinner. We overproduction is not as serious as a glut and the celebrated three birthdays bottom line is that you might see a slight fall in prices or a few more sale stacks at your favorite and a retirement! wine shop. This is not a "severe" situation. It is like the housing market. People are panicking See you at the next one! because their house isn't selling in a week like a year ago, but it will sell in a few weeks (which under normal circumstances, is perfectly fine). The bottom line is that we are seeing more wines than usual and some wines that otherwise would
Paul Kalemkiarian have been unaffordable are being offered to us for this vintage only to clear out inventory. In other words, "We Win!"
Membership in THE WINE OF THE MONTH CLUB is open to anyone with an interest in and an appreciation for superb wines... and excellent wine values. Membership is FREE. For more info write: WINE OF THE MONTH CLUB P.O. Box 660220, Arcadia, CA 91066 Or call: 1-800-949-WINE (9463) or (626) 303-1690 FAX: (626) 303-2597 Visit us at: www.WineoftheMonthClub.com Newsletter written by: Elizabeth Schweitzer, Master Sommelier
2 1-800-949-WINE • www.wineofthemonthclub.com WOMC-News407 3/22/07 1:13 PM Page 3
DOMESTIC SELECTION
he Peralta Adobe buyers will buy not just one, in San Jose, but two bottles. They keep California, is their prices low by having T city’s oldest some of the lowest per-case home. Now a historical profits in the industry. Their landmark, the 1797 structure business strategy is that is what stands from El competitive pricing of good Pueblo de San José de wine will drive sales. Guadalupe. Luis Peralta lived in the adobe when he The 2004 Peralta ran the government of San Chardonnay is a wine that Jose from 1807 to 1822. you can appreciate for its 2004 Peralta became a prominent delicious taste and good member of the community, value. About 90% of the Peralta a public official and grape grapes are from the Scheid grower. The Peralta Wine vineyards in Monterey, one Chardonnay Company is named after of the coolest areas in (shar-doe-nay) great grandmother, Rosalie California. The other 10% are Peralta, who is a descendant from Santa Barbara County. Central Coast of Luis Peralta. “Our goal at These are grapes usually California Peralta Winery is to preserve found in far more expensive the heritage of our ancestors wines. Forget the cork— Color: and keep their name and Peralta wines are bottled Medium straw their dedication in tact,” using modern screw caps Nose: says winemaker and blender to insure quality and Clean grapefruit, Ed Masciana. drinkability. The color of tropical fruit, this Chardonnay is medium ripe apple Ed Masciana knows that straw. The nose is clean and history and wine need to be fresh with grapefruit and Palate: appreciated. He says, “What tropical fruit. The palate is Soft, creamy, good is a great wine if no soft and creamy with ripe ripe apple, one can afford it?” Peralta apple fruit, citrus and hints butterscotch, vanilla Family Wine Company’s of butterscotch and vanilla. Finish: focus is to make wines of The finish is balanced and Balanced and such great quality and lingering. This is great with lingering competitive prices that most crab salad or lobster ravioli.
CELLARING SUGGESTIONS 407A Retail Price: $13.99/each Special Member Price: $8.99/each Drink now Reorder Price: $5.99/each slightly chilled 57% Discount $71.88/case
1-800-949-WINE • www.wineofthemonthclub.com 3 WOMC-News407 3/22/07 1:13 PM Page 4
IMPORTED SELECTION
oonawarra is region. By farming his an aboriginal own vineyards he has the word for opportunity to influence the C “honeysuckle.” quality and characteristics of Coonawara is a relatively his harvest. His winemaker, isolated area half-way Roger Harbord, holds a between Melbourne and degree in Oenology from Adelaide. Isolated but not Roseworthy Agricultural unknown, Coonawarra is College, and has over 22 arguably Australia’s best years of winemaking red wine growing region. experience. He has a It has been producing reputation for making wines award-winning wines year that are approachable, well after year both locally and structured, and affordable. internationally. Roger has been awarded over 540 awards and Coonawarra is famous for trophies for his wines. 2004 the band of Terra Rossa soil that runs through the Roger relies on his Gum Bear region. The cigar shaped experience to bring out the strip is covered with red best of three varieties in this Cabernet/ earth, which is covered by 2004 Gum Bear wine. The Shiraz/Merlot calcrete, which is covered Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, (ka-bur-nay/shear-ahz by limestone. The other and Merlot grapes were all /mare-low) important feature of the harvested and fermented region is the climate. The separately, then blended Coonawarra Coonawarra region is artfully under Roger’s Australia inland from the Southern careful watch. The result is (Antarctic) Ocean and the a wine of medium crimson Color: climate is cool to moderate— color. The nose is aggressive Brilliant plum red much like the Bordeaux with intense plum, spice, Nose: region in France. What sets and floral. The palate is fresh Fresh plum, it apart is the cloud cover with blackberry, plums and spice, floral during ripening. The clouds spice. The oak is integrated Palate: create a long, cool, extended and the finish is long and Medium-bodied, ripening season that allows fruity. This is an appealing well-balanced, the fruit to gain flavor, wine to drink now with mulberry, cherry, acidity, and complexity. venison, or duck with persistent tannins juniper berries, but it will Rex Watson is the largest also cellar through at Finish: independent grape grower least 2010. Long and fruity in this world-famous
CELLARING SUGGESTIONS 407B Retail Price: $12.99/each Special Member Price: $9.99/each Enjoy now or Reorder Price: $6.99/each cellar through 2010 47% Discount $83.88/case
4 1-800-949-WINE • www.wineofthemonthclub.com WOMC-News407 3/22/07 1:13 PM Page 5
IMITED ERIES L S SELECTION
n a tiny corner of the York Mountain appellation world, tucked in the is one of the smallest mountains between AVAs (American Viticultural I Cambria and Paso Areas) in California. York Robles, there are rolling hills Mountain is located just and deep valleys warmed west of Paso Robles in with plenty of sunshine and San Luis Obispo along the cooled by the proximity of eastern slopes of the Santa the ocean. It’s a land of old Lucia Mountains. York oak trees and Spanish moss; Mountain is considered a it’s a land where grapevines cool region. It sits east of thrive. Here is the York the mountains at higher 2003 Mountain Winery. The elevations, so it receives the winery has been in ocean breezes that are York operation since 1882, when blocked from the Paso Mountain apple farmer Andrew York Robles area. York Mountain realized that his soil and Vineyard is the only winery Pinot Noir climate would be ideal for in the York Mountain AVA, (pee-no nwah) growing grapes. He named although there are other it Ascension Winery. He vineyards in the area. York Mountain planted Mission, Zinfandel, California The 2003 York Mountain and Alicante Bouschet Pinot Noir pours bright, Color: grapes. His sons and light red. The nose is Bright light red grandsons tended the vines uplifting with red fruit, and sold their wine to Nose: dried cranberries, cinnamon merchants in San Francisco. Red fruit, dried and toffee. One sip tells you After 90 years, the family cranberries, it is dry with soft, silky sold the winery to cinnamon, toffee tannins, cherry fruit, and Mr. Goldman, and in 2001 Palate: well-balanced acidity with a Mr. Goldman sold it to Dry, soft, silky lingering and refreshing Mary and David Weyrich. tannins, cherry fruit, finish. This wine will pair They, too, are continuing well balanced beautifully with salmon and the family-run tradition roasted chicken, and it will Finish: by employing several of hold up to steaks as well. Lingering and their eight children in refreshing the operation.
CELLARING SUGGESTIONS L407C Retail Price: $19.99/each Special Member Price: $17.99/each Drink and savor Reorder Price: $14.99/each now through 2007 25% Discount $179.88/case
1-800-949-WINE • www.wineofthemonthclub.com 5 WOMC-News407 3/22/07 1:13 PM Page 6
IMITED ERIES L S SELECTION
or over 100 years, hillsides, and mountains of five generations the vineyards. There are of family different soil types as well. members have The vineyards are blocked F tended the and managed separately to vineyards and produced give each vine its most ideal estate wines at the Kunde growing conditions. Not Estate Winery in Sonoma, only are the vines nurtured, California. In 1990, the but the land is protected too. family built a new, 17,000 The family says, “We are square foot winery with stewards of the land. In aging caves. Ever mindful of harmony with a host of their legacy, the family sustainable agricultural worked with the Sonoma practices, we bring the finest Historical Society to build fruit into the winery, a the winery as a reproduction philosophical approach to 2003 of one of the original winegrowing that ensures buildings, the Kinneybrook that our family’s estate Kunde Ranch cattle barn. The will retain its viability for Kunde Winery holds the generations to come.” Cabernet estate's original Bonded (Sustainable agricultural Sauvignon Winery Number, 202. The practices strive to conserve (ka-bur-nay new winery has state-of-the- the resources of the saw-veehn-yawn) art winemaking facilities, environment, and minimize including stainless steel the negative impact to the crusher-stemmers, fermenting land and its creatures.) Sonoma tanks, and beautiful French California and American oak barrels. The reward for their old- Along the hillside behind world care and modern Color: the winery are more than winemaking is this Deep ruby 32,000 square feet of caves wonderful Cabernet Sauvignon. The color pours Nose: that store 5,500 barrels in Black cherry, natural, ideal, temperature a deep ruby. The nose is and humidity. bursting with black cherry, chocolate, candy, chocolate, bell peppers and bell peppers The expansive winery is smoke. The palate is satin matched by the vast acreage smooth with milk chocolate, Palate: of the vineyards. It is the ripe cherries, plums and soft Dry, full-bodied, largest contiguous vineyard integrated tannins. Throw a concentrated dark in California. Over 1,850 steak on the grill, pour a fruit, vanilla, smoke acres are planted with 20 glass of Kunde Cabernet varieties of grapes. Seven Sauvignon, and get ready for Finish: different microclimates can a great evening. Complex and long be identified in the valleys,
CELLARING SUGGESTIONS L407D Retail Price: $24.99/each Special Member Price: $21.99/each Enjoy now and Reorder Price: $18.99/each through 2010 24% Discount $227.88/case
6 1-800-949-WINE • www.wineofthemonthclub.com WOMC-News407 3/22/07 1:13 PM Page 7
IMITED ERIES L EARLIERS SELECTIONS
REGULAR MEMBER ITEM # DESCRIPTION PRICE/ DISC. QTY. REORDER PRICE/ TOTAL UNIT CASE/EACH Pinot Noir, 2003. York Mountain $179.88/cs L407C $19.99 25% “Red fruit, cinnamon, toffee” $14.99/ea Cabernet Sauvignon, 2003. Kunde $227.88/cs L407D $24.99 24% “Black cherry, chocolate, bell peppers” $18.99/ea Chardonnay, 2006. Haras $155.88/cs L407E $16.99 24% “Citrus, mineral and pineapple” $12.99/ea Chard/Sauv Blanc/Viognier, 2005. La Poule Blanche $143.88/cs L407F $14.99 20% “Ripe tropical fruit, citrus” $11.99/ea Chianti Classico, 2003. Casale dello Sparviero $203.88/cs L307C $24.95 32% “Wild berries, sweet lilac, dried cherry” $16.99/ea Sauvignon Blanc, 2005. Torea $155.88/cs L307D $19.95 35% “Herbal, ripe lime, red pepper” $12.99/ea Cabernet Sauvignon, 2004. X-Winery $191.40/cs L307E $21.95 28% “Black cherry, subtle oak, coffee” $15.95/ea Pinot Grigio, 2005. Durandi $143.88/cs L307F $16.95 30% “Apricot, lemon, floral” $11.99/ea Cabernet Sauvignon, 2002. Encierra $239.88/cs L207C $26.99 26% “Dark fruit, spice, cedar, blackcurrant” $19.99/ea Merlot, 2003. Kenneth Volk $179.88/cs L207D $19.99 26% “Plum, berry, fig, mocha” $14.99/ea Lugana, 2004. Costaripa $179.88/cs L207E $18.99 22% “Apples, pear, cherry blossom, jasmine” $14.99/ea Chardonnay, 2004. Trewa $191.88/cs L207F $25.99 39% “Tropical fruit, ripe melon, fig, oak” $15.99/ea Cabernet Franc, 2003. Napa Redwood $239.88/cs L107C $34.99 43% “Plums, black cherry, spicy oak” $19.99/ea Syrah, 2002. Mandolin $143.88/cs L107D $17.99 34% “Blueberry, black currant, raspberry” $11.99/ea Riesling, 2005. Sander $179.88/cs L107E $18.99 22% “Peaches, pear, lime” $14.99/ea Pinot Blanc, 2005. Sander $143.88/cs L107F $15.99 26% “Ripe apple, floral, buttery” $11.99/ea You must be a Limited Series Member Sub-Total to order Limited Series wines. 8.25% CA Sales Tax S&H TOTAL 7 WOMC-News407 3/22/07 1:13 PM Page 8
EGULAR ERIES R EARLIERS SELECTIONS
REGULAR MEMBER ITEM # DESCRIPTION PRICE/ DISC. QTY. REORDER PRICE/ TOTAL UNIT CASE/EACH Chardonnay, 2004. Peralta. $71.88/cs 407A $13.99 57% “Grapefruit, tropical fruit, ripe apple” $5.99/ea Cab/Shiraz/Merlot, 2004. Gum Bear $83.88/cs 407B $12.99 47% “Fresh plum, spice, floral” $6.99/ea Petite Sirah, 2005. Copper Fish $83.88/cs 307A $13.99 50% “Ripe red fruit, spice, sweet oak” $6.99/ea Sauvignon Blanc, 2006. Monkey Puzzle $71.88/cs 307B $10.99 45% “Forward citrus, parsley, granny smith apple” $5.99/ea Chardonnay, 2005. Crooked Limb $71.88/cs 207A $11.99 50% “Green apples, peaches, butter” $5.99/ea Merlot/Malbec/Cab. Sauvignon, 2006. Flagtree $95.88/cs 207B $13.99 43% “Raspberry, marmalade, floral” $7.99/ea Merlot, 2005. Canyon Oaks $71.88/cs 107A $11.99 50% “Berry fruit, plums, toasted walnuts” $5.99/ea Bairrada, 2005. Alianca $71.88/cs 107B $9.99 40% “Herbal, lemon, floral” $5.99/ea Brut, N.V. Rime’ $95.88/cs 1206A $19.95 60% “Grapefruit, lemon, green apple” $7.99/ea Muscat Canelli, 2005. Maddalena $71.88/cs 1206B $10.99 45% “Creamy apricot, pears, honey” $5.99/ea Malbec, 2004. Wild Gaucho $71.88/cs 1206C $11.99 51% “Tobacco,SOLD truffles, OUT Morello cherries” $5.99/ea Colombard, 2005. Colombelle $83.88/cs 1206D $10.99 36% “Citrus, floral, sweet melon” $6.99/ea Merlot, 2004. Kinderwood $95.88/cs 1106A $11.99 34% “Blackberry, spice, ripe fruit, vanilla” $7.99/ea Sauvignon Blanc/Chardonnay, 2006. Flagtree $71.88/cs 1106B $9.99 40% “Citrus, green herbs, honey” $5.99/ea Chardonnay, 2005. Bliss $71.88/cs 1006A $11.00 46% “Green apple, pear, butter” $5.99/ea Cabernet Sauvignon/ Merlot, 2005. Southern Most $107.88/cs 1006B $12.00 25% “Black cherry, toasty oak, cinnamon” $8.99/ea Sub-Total 8.25% CA Sales Tax S&H TOTAL 8 WOMC-News407 3/22/07 1:13 PM Page 9
INE F THE ONTH LUB W O GIFTM ORDERSC
GIFT # WINE OF THE MONTH CLUB GIFT MEMBERSHIPS QTY. PRICE TOTAL
10G 2 Bottles Current club selections $21.95* 20G 6 Bottles Assortment of recent selections $58.85* 30G 12 Bottles (1 Case) Assortment of recent selections $114.20* 4GP 4 Month Membership in WINE OF THE MONTH CLUB $77.30* Subscriptions: 2 Bottles (current Club selections) each month for 4 months (8 bottles total). 4QGP 4 Month Membership in WINE OF THE MONTH CLUB $77.30* Subscriptions: 2 Bottles every quarter for one year (8 bottles total). 5GP 6 Month Membership in WINE OF THE MONTH CLUB $114.20* Subscriptions: 2 Bottles (current Club selections) each month for 6 months (12 bottles total). 5BGP 6 Month Membership in WINE OF THE MONTH CLUB $114.20* Subscriptions: 2 Bottles (current Club selections) every other month for 6 months (12 bottles total). 6GP 1 Year Membership in WINE OF THE MONTH CLUB $224.90* Subscriptions: 2 Bottles (current Club selections) each month for 12 months (24 bottles total).
LOG 2 Bottles (LIMITED SERIES) Current selections $43.50* LGP 1 Year Membership in WINE OF THE MONTH CLUB $483.50* Subscriptions: 2 Bottles (current Limited Series selections) every month for the next 12 months (24 bottles total).
WINE OF THE MONTH CLUB 2007 GIFT BASKETS CPB THE CROWD PLEASER Let everyone savor the flavors of our biggest basket. Plenty to go around for all to enjoy! Basket includes: One bottle of 2003 Rosenblum Shiraz, one bottle of 2005 Sycamore Lane Chardonnay, Thatcher’s Popcorn, Artisan Breadsticks, Sourdough Truffles, Upper Crust Cookies, Savannah Cookies, Kara’s All American taffy, Kara’s assorted Chocolate Bars, Greek Gourmet Kalamata Olive Spread, Mississippi Cheese Straws, Homestyle Peanuts, Dillions Peanut Brittle, Lady Walton Cookies, Stuffed Gourmet Olives, Upper Crust Crostini, Nicolettes Cookies, Malto Bella Malt Balls, Classic Vanilla Caramels, Starr Ridge cookies, assorted hard candies. Delivered in a large oval basket. #CPB $114.00 + $9.98 CA sales tax + $14.00 Shipping & Handling ($19.50 S&H outside CA) $114.00 WCPB WINE AND CHEESE PICNIC This gift allows you to take the celebration with you. Everything you need to create your own special picnic. Basket includes: One bottle of 2002 Domaine St. George Cabernet, one bottle of 2006 Sycamore Lane Chardonnay, Northwood’s Cheese with Shiraz, Starr Ridge crackers, assorted hard candies. Delivered in our insulated double wine tote complete with cheese board, knife and corkscrew. #WCPB $49.95 + $4.37 Ca sales tax + $8.50 Shipping & Handling ($10.50 S&H outside CA) $49.95 SOMSPEC SOMETHING SPECIAL Chic and simple this gift will make anyone feel special. Basket includes: One bottle of 2002 Brutocao Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon, Kara’s Chocolate bar, Starr Ridge cookies, assorted hard candies. Arrives in a rectangular wicker basket. #SOMSPEC $19.95 +$1.75 CA sales tax + $7.50 Shipping & Handling ($9.50 S&H outside CA) $19.95 Add this amount to GIFT ORDER TOTAL on line 1 on Order Form on page 10 GIFT ORDERS TOTAL
1. All wine assortments, as well as the first month of WINE OF THE 3. All recipients must be 21 years or older. MONTH CLUB membership, will be handsomely gift boxed. 4. If any of the items to be included is out of inventory, we A card will be attached with your greeting. guarantee that we will substitute a product of equal or superior 2 Shipments are made by UPS/Fed Ex and are guaranteed to quality. Call us for weekend delivery. arrive in perfect condition. *Gift wrapping included. 9 WOMC-News407 3/22/07 1:13 PM Page 10
INE F THE ONTH LUB WTOTALO ORDERM INFORMATIONC
SHIPPING INSTRUCTIONS FOR GIFT ORDERS
Please Ship Gift # to: Name (please print)
Address (We do not ship to P. O. Boxes) City State ZIP
Special note on gift card:
Please Ship Gift # to: Name (please print)
Address (We do not ship to P. O. Boxes) City State ZIP
Special note on gift card: Attach another sheet of paper to list other recipients
All WINE OF THE MONTH CLUB gifts are guaranteed to arrive in perfect condition… gift boxed… and with a gift card. ORDERING INSTRUCTIONS GIFT ORDER TOTAL Check enclosed for WOMC EARLIER SELECTIONS TOTAL $ . Make check payable to: LIMITED SERIES MEMBERSHIP Wine of the Month Club. LIMITED SERIES EARLIER SELECTIONS TOTAL Charge my: 8.25% CA Sales Tax VISA Mastercard Shipping and Handling AmEx Discover GRAND TOTAL
Card # Exp. Date / /
Name (Please Print) Signature
Shipping Address (We do not ship to P. O. Boxes)
City State Zip
Phone (day) Phone (evening) E-Mail Address
SHIPPING AND HANDLING To order by phone call TOLL FREE GIFT FOR EARLIER SELECTION ORDERS ORDERS CA Out-of-State Number CA Average 1-800-949-WINE Shipping Shipping of Bottles Shipping Out of State (1-800-949-9463) Shipping Monday – Friday 8 am – 5 pm (Pacific Time) Gift #10G & LOG $6.97 $9.02 1 – 2 $6.97 $9.02 To order by mail or fax Gift #20G $10.95 $16.90 3 – 4 $7.95 $11.30 please complete this order form. Gift #30G $15.65 $27.60 5 – 6 $10.95 $15.65 FAX 626-303-2597 (24 hours a day) Gift #4GP & 4QGP $27.88 $36.08 7 – 8 $12.85 $18.55 Or mail to: WINE OF THE MONTH CLUB Gift #5B, 5BGP $41.82 $54.12 9 – 10 $14.20 $21.15 P.O. Box 660220, Arcadia, CA 91066 Gift #6GP & LGP $83.64 $108.84 11 – 12 $15.65 $24.15 Or shop online at: www.WineoftheMonthClub.com 10 Please call for shipping prices outside CA in states where permissible. WOMC-News407 3/22/07 1:13 PM Page 11
IMITED ERIES L TASTINGS NOTES
PINOT NOIR, 2003. YORK MOUNTAIN CABERNET SAUVIGNON, 2003. KUNDE Date Tested Color Date Tested Color Nose Nose Taste Taste Tracking Notes Tracking Notes Date Comments Date Comments Date Comments Date Comments Date Comments Date Comments
CELLAR NOTES
A report on how previous LIMITED SERIES Selections are faring with age. Obtained from actual tastings on wines under cellar conditions and/or vintner, importer or wholesaler surveys.
April 2003 Chardonnay, 2001. Salitage. Drink now. Chianti Classico Reserva, 1997. Volpaia. Drink now. April 2004 Cotes du Rhone, 2001. Louis Bernard. Drink up. Pinot Noir, 2002. Solaris. Drink now. April 2005 Pinot Noir, 2003. Hill of Content. Drink now. Salice Salentino, 2000. Gladiator. Drink through 2007. April 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon, 2003. Goundrey. Drink or hold. Merlot, 2003. Fife. Drink through 2009.
MEMBER UPCOMING EVENTS
WINE DINNERS!!! If you are interested in a Wine of the Month Club dinner in your area please contact [email protected] or call her at (800) 949-9463. HOME WINE TASTING PARTIES Many members have asked us about both our wine tasting parties and about conducting wine seminars. So, in combining the two ideas we have introduced the WINE OF THE MONTH CLUB WINE TASTING PARTIES. If you are living in Southern California or the Reno area, and are interested in hosting a home wine tasting party, please call us at 1-800-949-9463 or send an email to [email protected]
1-800-949-WINE • www.wineofthemonthclub.com 11 WOMC-News407 3/22/07 1:13 PM Page 12
Gift Assortments Celebrate any occasion with Special Gifts for friends, family and business associates. Visit our website at www.wineofthemonthclub.com for gift baskets, gift memberships and various wine assortments. Give a Wine of the Month Club special gift and you will be the “toast” of the celebration!
MEMBER COMMENTS “Love the club….never had a bottle of “Love the selections and variety…. wine that I have not enjoyed!” I would never otherwise get to K.W., BERKLEY, CA experience them.” T.K., EL CAJON, CA “I’m just learning about wines. Wine of the Month Club has been a great help.” “I’m happy to recommend WOMC C.V., GAULEY BRIDGE, WV to everyone I know with an interest in wine!” “Your descriptions are great and very C.R., MOUNTAINVIEW, CA enticing. No doubt we were impressed.” E.T., ALBUQUERQUE, NM
12 1-800-949-WINE • www.wineofthemonthclub.com WOMC-News407 3/22/07 1:13 PM Page 13
ADVENTURES IN GOOD FOOD Looking for a delicious salad? This salad The classic Rib Eye gets a boost with a will be unforgettable with a glass of chilled tomato-basil relish. Perfect with the Gum Peralta Chardonnay. Bear and Kunde Cabernets. CRAB, MANGO AND RIB-EYE STEAKS AVOCADO SALAD WITH TOMATO-BASIL RELISH Serves 4 Serves 4 SALAD DRESSING: INGREDIENTS: 1 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil 4 bone-in beef rib eye steaks 1 ripe mango, peeled, pitted & diced (1-1/2” thick, 12-16 oz each) (also available frozen) 3 Tbsp. balsamic vinegar 1/4 cup water 3 Tbsp. olive oil 1 tsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice 1 pound firm yet ripe tomatoes Salt and fresh ground pepper to taste 2 Tbsp. chopped fresh basil leaves Heat the olive oil in small pan.. Add the 2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced mango, season with salt and pepper. Cook, Salt and freshly ground pepper stirring, for about 3 minutes until fruit is very PREPARATION: tender. Add water, bring to a boil, and Trim excess surface fat from steaks. Rinse remove from heat. Stir in lemon juice. Pour steaks and pat dry; set in a single layer on the mixture into a blender and puree until a plate. smooth. Chill. In a small bowl, mix half the vinegar and half SALAD: the olive oil. Rub mixture all over steaks to 1 lb. lump crab meat coat. Let stand for at least 15 minutes, or 1 1/2 Tbsp. lime juice cover and chill up to 4 hours. 3 Tbsp. olive oil Rinse, core, and coarsely chop tomatoes. In 1 Tbsp. cilantro, finely chopped a bowl, mix tomatoes, basil, garlic, and 2 tsp. mint leaves, finely chopped remaining vinegar and olive oil. Add salt 1 Tbsp. minced shallot or purple onion to taste. 1 ripe mango, peeled, pitted and diced Lay steaks on an oiled grill over a solid bed 1 ripe avocado, pitted, peeled and diced of hot coals or high heat. Close lid. Cook Tabasco sauce steaks, turning once until browned on both Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste sides and done to liking, about 10-13 minutes In a bowl, pick through the crab meat to for medium rare. remove small pieces of shell. Add half of the Transfer steaks to cilantro and mint, the shallot, 1 Tbsp. lime plates. Let rest in a juice, 2 Tbsp. olive oil, 10 drops Tabasco, warm place 3-5 and salt and pepper. Mix gently with a fork. minutes. Salt and Set aside. pepper to taste. In a separate bowl, add the mango, avocado, Garnish with 1 Tbsp. olive oil, 1-1/2 Tbsp. lime juice, the tomato-basil relish. remaining cilantro and mint, 10 drops Tabasco, and salt and pepper. Mix gently. Layer the crab and the mango mixtures in four small bowls. Chill for 1-2 hours. To serve: Remove salads from bowls onto plates. Drizzle the salad dressing over and around the salads. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
1-800-949-WINE • www.wineofthemonthclub.com 13 WOMC-News407 3/22/07 1:13 PM Page 14
TASTING NOTES
CHARDONNAY, 2004. PERALTA CABERNET/SHIRAZ/MERLOT , 2004. GUM BEAR Date Tested Color Date Tested Color Nose Nose Taste Taste Tracking Notes Tracking Notes Date Comments Date Comments Date Comments Date Comments Date Comments Date Comments
WINE OF THE MONTH CLUB CELLAR NOTES
A report on how previous WINE OF THE MONTH CLUB Selections are faring with age. Obtained from actual tastings on wines under cellar conditions and/or vintner, importer or wholesaler surveys. April 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon, 2000. Summerland. Drink through 2007. Semillon. Chardonnay, 2002. Enrico Mercuri. Drink up. April 2004 Sauvignon Blanc, 2003. Peralta. Drink now. Shiraz, 2001. Deakin Estate. Drink up. April 2005 Napa Red, 2001. Palio Vecchio. Drink through 2007. Sauvignon Blanc, 2004. Catamayor. Drink now. April 2006 Viognier, 2005. Steel Creek. Drink up. Carmenere, 2005. Gracia. Drink through 2008. MEMBER INQUIRY There is a process to mushrooms just to name training the palate for Do you have any a few. I am naming just tasting wine. But, I have suggestions to train my smells in the food group. to warn you that it is palate to taste wine? How about nature? There an endless road. Most are so many different – G. MOORE importantly, you will DETROIT, MI flower smells, gardenia, need to train your sense red rose, pink rose, of smell. The nose knows. glass of Pinot Noir. cherry blossom, jasmine, Most of what we taste is Notice the smell of new fresh cut grass and earth. directly related to what leather seats or walk into Once you recognize these we smell. Training your a store that sells leather smells you will taste sense of smell is easy and and then remember it them in the glass. It’s endless. Let’s start with when you get a whiff of fascinating and fun! All basic descriptors such as Cabernet Sauvignon. these and a million other strawberries and black When you are cooking, smells and flavors will berries; smell black berry make an extra effort to keep you on the wine jam and a bowl of identify the smell of bell tasting path for many a strawberries and then peppers, dill, asparagus, year to come. recognize it the next time cayenne pepper, lemon you put your nose in peel, olives and
14 1-800-949-WINE • www.wineofthemonthclub.com WOMC-News407 3/22/07 1:13 PM Page 15
SIGN UP AFRIEND AND... RECEIVE A SET OF SWAROVSKY WINE CHARMS To join the WINE OF THE MONTH CLUB, just fill in and return this NEW MEMBER ACCEPTANCE FORM ❏ YES. Sign me up for the Wine of the Month Club and then send me my first month’s selection of two specially chosen wines. I understand that each month I will receive additional wines but I may cancel my membership at any time with no further obligation. My monthly cost for the two-bottle wine selection will be $18.98 (one red and one white) plus sales tax and $6.97 for shipping and handling. (Outside California, slightly higher.) MUST BE OVER 21 YEARS OLD TO ENROLL. Each month, you will receive 2 specially selected wines, one red and one white. However, if you would prefer ONLY WHITE or ONLY RED (slightly higher), please check the appropriate box below. You will receive 2 identical bottles of selected red or white wine each month. ❏ I prefer WHITE WINE only. ❏ I prefer RED WINE only.
PAYMENT Prices subject to change. BY CREDIT CARD — Charge my monthly wine purchase to my credit card, and enclose the copy of the invoice in my monthly wine shipment. ❏ American Express ❏ Discover ❏ MasterCard ❏ VISA
Card # Exp. Date / /
BY CHECK — Please bill me monthly. Enclose the invoice in my shipment of wine. I understand the next month’s selection will not be sent until I pay the current one. I am enclosing the required one month’s deposit of $26.94 which you will apply to my final shipment when I decide to cancel.
Check # Amount $ ✔ Signature (NECESSARY FOR CREDIT CARD ORDERS) Name (Please Print)
Shipping Address (We do not ship to P. O. Boxes)
City State Zip ( ) ( ) Phone (day) Phone (evening) E-Mail Address
Important delivery information: We can ship to CA, CO, ID, IL, MO, ND, NE, NH, NM, NV, OH, OR, TX, WV, WY. Shipments cannot be made to a Post Office box. If an adult is not regularly at this address during normal United Parcel Service/Federal Express delivery hours, please specify a neighbor’s, or office address, for the shipments. Mail this enrollment to: WINE OF THE MONTH CLUB, PO Box 660220, Arcadia, CA 91066
All WINE OF THE MONTH CLUB Call toll-free wines are fully guaranteed. 1-800-949-WINE You may cancel your 8 am - 5 pm PST or fax 24 hours 626-303-2597 membership at any time. www.WineoftheMonthClub.com 15 WOMC-News407 3/22/07 1:13 PM Page 16
WORD FOR MEMBERS ONLY... ON THE STREET What others are saying Can’t find it? about our selections! Gotta have it? November 2006 Vintners Series: We source wine from all over the Stuart Cellars world. Special vintages for birthdays, Viognier, 2005 anniversaries, you name it. We also It’s a hit! Editors at Wine Enthusiast Magazine have have access to old and rare cellars. bestowed a coveted 90-point Let us help you find a rare wine. rating on the Stuart Cellars 2005 Viognier! Call or email us with your rare wine You tasted it in specifications and let us do the work. November 2006! We can’t guarantee we’ll find it, but Our Members are on the cutting edge! we can guarantee a great effort.
Discover the Limited Series now and receive a set of Swarovski Crystal Wine Charms FREE! Here’s a charming idea for your next party or dinner. Slip one of these attractive wine charms around the stem of each person’s glass. Designed with a wine theme, each YOURS charm is different so your guests will know FREE! they aren’t mistakenly picking up someone else’s glass. Made from pewter and world- famous Swarovski crystal beads from Austria, the charms are yours FREE just for trying the Limited Series. A $24.95 value.
Join now and receive a set of Swarovski Wine Charms free. ❏ Sign me up for THE LIMITED SERIES Each month $40.00 plus tax and $6.97 shipping & handling. (Outside of California, slightly higher).
2 bottles each month. Free membership, guaranteed wines, cancel anytime. ❏ Red wine only. (Slightly higher) ❏ White wine only. ❏ One red, one white. Please fill out information on the last page of this Order Form.
LIMITED SERIES TOTAL
Add this amount to Limited Series MEMBERSHIP 16 TOTAL on line ➂ on Order Form, page 10 WOMC-News407 3/22/07 1:13 PM Page 17
IMITED ERIES L S SELECTION
he Maipo Valley fertilize the vineyards, Haras is located in de Pirque uses compost of central Chile, materials discarded from T south of both the winery and from Santiago. It’s magically the thoroughbred farm. surrounded by the Andes Insects and diseases are Mountains to the east, controlled with an coastal mountains to the environmentally friendly west, and the Maipo River to approach of sustainable the north. The Maipo Valley agriculture. This reduces the has a warm, desert-like use of chemical fertilizers, climate with very little rain. fungicides, and insecticides. The sandy, fast-draining soils have never known The grapes for the 2006 Phylloxera and are perfectly Haras Chardonnay were all 2006 hand-harvested. The delicate suited for Chardonnay. It’s a Haras small region, yet it’s the handling of the grapes most popular appellation in minimizes bruising and damage to the grapes. The Chardonnay Chile, producing the most (shar-doe-nay) exclusive wines. fruit was whole-bunch pressed, and after a brief Maipo Valley Pirque is a small mountain settling, it was racked into town in the Maipo Valley. new and two-year-old Chile Vines have been planted French oak barrels for six Color: here since 1834. In 1991 months of fermentation. Golden yellow with entrepreneur Eduardo Matte tints of green decided to pursue two of his The wine’s color is a golden yellow with hints of green. Nose: lifelong desires. After a Citrus, mineral, highly successful business The nose allures you with citrus, mineral, pineapple, pineapple, career, he bought an estate, toffee, basil Haras de Pirque. Eduardo toffee and basil. The palate is wanted to launch a major dry, lush and complex with Palate: winery (he loves wine), ripe fruit, toasty pineapple, Dry, lush, ripe fruit, and expand the existing lemon, vanilla and a toasty pineapple, thoroughbred farm (he loves lingering spicy oak finish. lemon, vanilla, horses). He has succeeded This wine is absolutely spicy oak delicious. Serve it with with both projects, inter- Finish: confidence with Brie cheese twining them in a unique Slight oaky finish and successful way. To and Chicken Cacciatore.
CELLARING SUGGESTIONS L407E Retail Price: $16.99/each Special Member Price: $15.99/each Drink now Reorder Price: $12.99/each through 2007 24% Discount $155.88/case
1-800-949-WINE • www.wineofthemonthclub.com WOMC-News407 3/22/07 1:13 PM Page 18
IMITED ERIES L S SELECTION
“ in de Pays” attention to the production means “country of smaller quantities of wines.” In higher quality wines. Wine V France in 1979 lovers all over the world are the term was officially enjoying the results. identified for those wines The French often blend that are superior to “Vin de wines to develop a “taste” Table.” Wines that meet the for the region. Winemaker “Vin de Pays” standard must Sacha Lichine understands meet guidelines regarding this tradition. He is the the geographic areas of the son of the great wine vineyards, grape varieties, ambassador, Alexis Lichine. production quantities, and 2005 Sacha has made his own alcoholic levels. They must mark on the wine world by La Poule receive final approval of a conducting tours and by tasting panel. Blanche being a Bordeaux negociant. Vin de Pays d’Oc is one of He is now making Chardonnay/ the four regional Vin de Pays beautifully crafted wines Sauv Blanc/ in France. It’s also known as that showcase his talents Viognier the Languedoc-Roussillon as well as the region’s (Shar-doe-nay/ area, and it stretches from vineyards. saw-veehn-yahn-blah/ the Pyrenees Mountains to vee-on-yeah) The 2005 La Poule Blanche is the Mediterranean Sea. Vin a blend of 50% Chardonnay, de Pays d’Oc is the largest Vin de 40% Sauvignon Blanc, and contributor to the Vin de pays d’Oc 10% Viognier. The color is Pays category of wines. The France deep yellow. The nose is region’s vineyards, covering inviting with ripe tropical Color: over one million acres, fruit, citrus, wet stone, Deep yellow comprise the largest bananas and mango. The cultivated wine area in the Nose: palate is well-balanced, world. These vineyards Ripe tropical fruit, dry and soft, with flavors produce billions of gallons citrus, wet stone of pineapple, pears, spice, of wine each year. For many Palate: and butter. The finish is years, these wines were “Vin Dry, soft, pineapple, refreshing and lingering. Ordinaire,” and still today a pears, spice buttery This wine will pair nicely lot of basic table wine is with seafood linguine and Finish: produced in the area. The Caesar salad. Refreshing 1979 ruling focused more
CELLARING SUGGESTIONS L407F Retail Price: $14.99/each Special Member Price: $13.99/each Drink and savor Reorder Price: $11.99/each now through 2007 20% Discount $143.88/case
1-800-949-WINE • www.wineofthemonthclub.com