Wines evaluated last month: 279 • Rejected: 238 • Approved: 41 • Selected: 12 JUNE 2011 Whathat’s’s New ThiThiss MMonth?onth? codes? Have you programmable. You can make seen those crazy them mean whatever you looking square would like. Scanning the code QR codes on various could take you to a video of the documents, signs, products and product, it could bring a photo random places? I even scanned to your screen, it could be a one with my iPhone in front text message of some sort, it of the House of Blues at could be a URL (as in our case), Downtown Disney and it it could be just about anything offered me a free plastic LED digital. Unlike a UPC code, QR beer glass for just taking it to codes are not registered and the gift shop. A QR code is a there is no universal database self-programmable code somewhere that that can mean whatever keeps track of all ould it heat up any the author wants it to the codes used.

1 faster? One day it is mean. In the case of These are virtually 1 the of the Month private codes 0 C 58 degrees and the

2 Club, each bottle designed to make

next day it is 88 degrees?

E beginning May 2011, your life easier Makes it hard to decide on

N will have its own QR and access to

U what to choose. code. When scanned, information faster J the code will take and simpler. Of course, as the heat rolls in your smart phone to the wine page I have been receiving mail we tend towards crisper at home where the QR white wines that can take a inside our website. You can read about code is on the cover letter chill and lighter reds that the wine, watch and even sometimes jump out of the glass with the tasting video on the outer envelope. or even order more Typically, instead of fruit. It is tricky to decide reading through the when the weather keeps right from your phone. So, you are whole mailed document, changing…but we’re all entertaining and one you can scan the code good. Some really nice wines of your guests is thrilled with and go right to the website or came through the door and I your wine selection (duh) and offer made, bypassing opening and reading all the contents. am excited for you to try they ask where you found them. it…you just twist the bottle to It really is quite amazing what the code and let them scan it is happening out there….and with their phone…done…and quite logical too. If we can use how impressed they will be! these technologies to cut down The coolest feature of a QR on wasted time, we have more Paul Kalemkiarian code is that they are self- time to enjoy wine! INSIDE THE TASTING ROOM THIS MONTH What’s New? 2 Vintners Series Earlier Selections 13 Classic Series: Vintage Flight Cab. Sauv. 3 Facebook 14 Classic Series: Stemmari Grillo 4 Limited Series: Kiamie / 15 Classic Series: Moody Press 5 Limited Series: Waipara Springs 16 Classic Series: Canyon Oaks Moscato 6 Limited Series: Taltarni 3 Monks 17 Classic Series Earlier Selections 7 Limited Series: Sonoma Hills 18 Tasting Journal / Cellar Notes 8 Limited Series Earlier Selections 19 Vintners Series: Greg Norman Petite Sirah 9 For Members Only 20 Vintners Series: Santa Carolina Sauv. Blanc 10 Gifts & More 21 Vintners Series: Last Chance 11 Recipes 22, 23 Vintners Series: Simboli Pinot Grigio 12 The Corkboard 24 1-800-949-9463 • www.WineoftheMonthClub.com 2 J U

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he Judd Family for the development of has grown intensely flavored fruit. The T in the United nearby Shandon area sees States for five consecutive temperatures that are, on generations dating back to average, 10 degrees higher the 1800s. Their pride and than San Miguel, making it joy is the vineyards property perfect for varietals that they own in Paso Robles. thrive in warmer growing conditions. Paso Robles is halfway

between Los Angeles and Lower yields generate more C L

San Francisco in San Luis intense flavors and the Judd A

Obispo County on ’s family is willing to sacrifice Cabernet S Sauvignon S I Central Coast. The growing quantity for higher quality. (Kab air nay C

season is defined by a They manage their vineyards Soe ving yahn) S E

climate of on a block-by- R

2006 I warm inland block basis, E afternoon tending to the Vintage Flight S breezes and individual Monterey, California a cool marine needs of each Color: influence at varietal in Deep magenta night. Daily matters of temperature irrigation, Nose: swings of 40 pruning and Blackberry, black degrees or harvesting. This cherry and chocolate more are not unusual during fine-tuned approach enables Palate: the growing season. Such them to get the most out Cherry with hints of conditions are ideal for of each block with each earth and spice growing world-class wine vintage. They also promote Finish: grapes, as they lengthen green practices where Very berry with cherry the growing season for the possible, such as the creation and vanilla achievement of fully defined of their own bio-fuels to flavors with balance and power their operation. structure. Drink now The 2006 through 2012 The vineyards encompass a is carefully selected from total of 114 acres in the only the finest grapes to Eastern foothills of Paso ensure a rich, balanced WOMC RATING Robles. The San Miguel wine and barrel-aged for 92 Points vineyards meander along two years in French, rocky terrain with a complex American, and Hungarian ITEM #: 611R1 mosaic of soils ranging from oak. It’s an elegant, yet Retail Price: $17.99/each sandy loam to clay. These powerful offering to Member Price: $9.99/each soils are well drained, which accompany seared fillet or Reorder price: $8.99/each naturally limits vine vigor prime rib. 50% Discount

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E N U J temmari cultivates daily basis by a group of five its own grapes in expert agronomists and a S two large estates team of 100 people in the along the windy south coast fields. The vineyards are of the island of Sicily. A total also monitored by a of 1,500 acres of estate computerized system that vineyards are planted in precisely manages the single varietal fields in order cultivation of the vines and to offer 100% single varietal the harvesting of the grapes. wines to the consumer. All of these measures are taken in order to obtain the S Stemmari’s new state-of- E highest level of quality Sicily I the-art facilities are utilized has to offer. R Grillo

E (Gree yo) to take full advantage of S what this bountiful land Celebrated for its hot sunny C

I 2010 has to offer. In homage to climate, historic monuments S S Stemmari the Sicilian and rich A

L Sicily, Italy tradition and culinary C territory, the tradition, Sicily Color: winery of the has been Very pale yellow Stemmari producing rich Nose: Estate is flavored and Hazelnut and constructed in full-bodied green apple the traditional wines since baglio style Greek and Palate: (a rustic villa). Roman times. Clean and The mix of Well known slightly spicy state-of-the- for its hot sun, Finish: art technology and intense light, and fertile soil, Delicate and crisp traditional architecture in Sicily has blossomed into the winery reflects the style one of the world’s most of the final product. promising wine regions in the world. The vineyards are located on the southern coast of Grillo is an important Drink now Sicily and are housed in found throughout the through 2011 two holdings: Sambuca di western regions of Sicily. It is Sicilia (Agrigento) and Acate crisp and light in texture, WOMC RATING (Ragusa). with moderate acidity and 93 Points notable fruit. Our selection The vines are cultivated is true to type with an in straight lines, with engaging nuttiness that ITEM #: 611W1 approximately 2,200 vines matches well with fleshy fish Retail Price: $12.99/each per acre and a production like sea bass or halibut in a Member Price: $9.99/each of approximately 4-5 lbs. rich tomato sauce. Reorder price: $7.99/each of grapes per vine. The 38% Discount vineyards are cared for on a

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teve Schafer started Steve and his wife Cindy S San Joaquin Wine have always enjoyed Company, owners of drinking wine along with Moody Press, in 2005 as the their many good friends, fulfillment of a personal including Joey and Diane passion. Steve, being in a Sagariballa, who would family farming business become partners in the along with his father “Corky” business in 2008. In 2005 and brother Mike, has grown Steve began purchasing winery equipment and

primarily wine and raisin C

stainless steel tanks. In 2006 L grapes along with almonds A for over 30 years in Madera, Steve chose a few select Zinfandel S (Zin fan dell) S varieties from his local I

California. In the business, C

ranches with his winemaker Steve manages the grape 2008 S Lee Nesbitt’s E acreage, while R

approval of the Moody Press I Mike manages San Joaquin, California E quality of those S the almond grapes, and the Color: acreage and winemaking Dark purple dad looks over process began! his sons to Nose: Crush had to Earth, licorice and keep them out take place at an black cherry of trouble. outside facility They farm 12 Palate: until finally in Ripe berry and plum wine varieties including 2008 all the equipment was Zinfandel, Cabernet Finish: ready to crush on site. Since Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Concentrated and then, all processes have tannic with , Syrah and Grenache. been completed at the plummy fruit Steve is also an advocate winery, including bottling. of sustainable winegrowing The first 4 wines were practices which was finished and ready to bottle in November 2008, just introduced by CAWG and Drink now before the November wine the Wine Institute in 2001. through 2013 trail event. Sustainable farming is a commitment to better This is a classic California WOMC RATING stewardship of the Zinfandel with rich, jammy 92 Points vineyards, as well as the strawberry and plum compo - community at large. Steve nents that just ooze out of ITEM #: 611R2 remains a member on the the glass, through the teeth Retail Price: $12.99/each board of the California and under the gums. Blast it Member Price: $9.99/each Sustainable Winegrowing through duck confit ravioli Reorder price: $8.99/each Alliance (CSWA). with a black truffle sauce. 31% Discount

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E N U J rroyo Seco Vineyards are some of the grapes that (ASV Wines, Inc.) is thrive in this region. A one of the largest wineries and grape growing Canyon Oaks is a line of operations in California. ASV limited production, reserve owns and operates two wines grown, produced and wineries located in the bottled from ASV’s vineyards San Joaquin Valley and along California’s Central California’s Central Coast. Coast. Located in the Their extensive vineyard premium grape-growing holdings include the of Monterey and Arroyo Seco, these

S premium wine growing

E vineyards yield intense, full- I appellations of Monterey,

R Moscato Arroyo Seco, and Paso flavored fruit of exceptional E (Moe skah toe) S Robles. ASV is family owned quality. For the Canyon Oaks

C with two generations collection, the winemaker

I 2010

S currently managing the selects the finest fruit, and S Canyon Oaks company. Their then handcrafts A

L Monterey, California wineries and the wine with C vineyards are extraordinary Color: attention and Bright yellow part of an international care to produce Nose: agribusiness distinctive Musk oil and enterprise that wines with tropical mango includes a great nuance grapevine and depth. It Palate: nursery, table is the best Gorgeous musk grapes and the winery has and apricot other fresh fruits. to offer. Finish: The Canyon Oaks Moscato is Clean and fresh ASV was established in 1982 as a supplier of grapes and handcrafted from grapes wines to some of the most grown in California’s Central prestigious wineries in all Coast. Unique vineyard of California. They began conditions, which extend the bottling and selling their growing season, result in own limited production wines with bright acidity and Drink now wines in 2001. generous fruit flavors. through 2012 Arroyo Seco is comprised of Our selection is fashioned mainly an ancient river bed. after the lovely, light and WOMC RATING This soil is one of the key effervescent Moscatos of 93 Points factors that makes Arroyo Italy’s Piedmont area. Seco wines so complex. Though the wine has a touch ITEM #: 611W2 Vineyards are grown on of sweetness, its acidity Retail Price: $10.99/each well drained river cobbles lessens the impact and allows it to complement Member Price: $9.99/each and gravel. Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Cabernet myriad dishes from crab Reorder price: $7.99/each Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah salad to Lobster Diablo. 27% Discount

1-800-949-9463 • www.WineoftheMonthClub.com 6 Earlier CLASSIC SERIES favorites at REORDER prices!

Reg Reorder Case Item # Wine Name Retail Price Price Price 611R1 – Cabernet Sauvignon, 2006. $17.99 $8.99 $107.88 Vintage Flight “Cherry with hints of earth and spice”

611W1 – Grillo, 2010. Stemmari $12.99 $7.99 $95.88 “Clean and slightly spicy”

611R2 – Zinfandel, 2008. Moody Press $12.99 $8.99 $107.88 “Ripe berry and plum” C L 611W2 – Moscato, 2010. Canyon Oaks $10.99 $7.99 $95.88 A S

“Gorgeous musk and apricot” S I C

S E

511R1 – Merlot, 2009. Alma de Chile $15.99 $8.99 $107.88 R I

“Dense cherry and a touch of smoke” E S

511W1 – , 2010. $12.99 $7.99 $95.88 Corinto “White nectarine and herbs”

511R2 – Zinfandel, 2007. Dry Canyon $14.99 $8.99 $107.88 “Ripe berry and plum”

511W2 – Chardonnay, 2009. Caliterra $14.99 $7.99 $95.88 “Tropical citrus notes”

411R1 – Pinot Noir, 2009. Cate $15.99 $7.99 $95.88 “Bing cherry with hints of cotton candy”

411W1 – Chardonnay, 2010. Sol de Chile $12.99 $6.99 $83.88 “Fresh apple with a hint of spice”

411R2 – Nero d’Avola, 2009. Stemmari $12.99 $7.99 $95.88 “Leather and earth mixed with berries”

411W2 – Sauvignon Blanc, 2010. $12.99 $6.99 $83.88 Monte Blanco “White peach and citrus”

1-800-949-9463 • www.WineoftheMonthClub.com 7 - Tasting Journal -

Wine : ______Color : ______Dat e ______

Tasting Comments : ______

______

Overall Rating : ______(1-100)

Wine : ______Color : ______Dat e ______

Tasting Comments : ______L A

N ______R

U Overall Rating : ______(1-100) O J

G N

I Cellar Notes: T S A report on how previous selections are faring with age. A

T Obtained from actual tastings of wines under optimal conditions.

Classic Series: June 2009: Cabernet Sauvignon, 2006. Windy Ridge. Still great. Chardonnay, 2008. Santa Alicia. Drink up. June 2010: Chardonnay, 2008. Black Ridge. Perfect now. , 2008. Don Silvestre. Still going strong.

Vintners Series: June 2009: Cabernet Sauvignon, 2005. Old River. At its best now. Sauvignon Blanc, 2007. Hannah Nicole. Drink up. June 2010: Zinfandel, 2007. Verdant Circle. Still awesome. Drink or hold. Verdelho/Rousanne, 2009. Odisea. Drink up.

Limited Series: June 2009: Syrah/Mourvedre, 2006. Minassian-Young (Beyond the Pale). Still great. Verdejo, 2007. Marques de Irun. Great now. June 2010: Merlot, 2007. La Mision. Still great. Muller Thurgau, 2008. Ritratti. Best now.

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orld renowned what dish that you could W golfer Greg make an argument that all Norman's passion of them should be broken. for fine wine became the For instance, either while genesis of Greg Norman dining out or at home, he Estates, a collection of wines might choose a Chardonnay produced from some of the to accompany a juicy steak or finest growing regions in a Pinot or lighter Cabernet Australia and California. An or Merlot with chicken. avid wine collector and Anything can work as long strong believer in the role of as you enjoy it. Petite Sirah wine in an active, easygoing (Peh teet See rah) Norman picked Paso Robles, lifestyle, Greg's aim was to a rugged vineyard region 2008 produce approachable wines north of Santa that compete Greg Norman Barbara, for Paso Robles, California with the best this flavor- in the world. Color: packed Petite Very dense purple Many people Sirah. Petite

Nose: V assume that Sirah from this I

Boysenberry, N he prefers region has won blackberry and spice T N

Australian the highest E

Palate: R wine above competitive Leather and earth S

all others, scores and is mixed with lots of S E because that is where Greg acclaimed for its dark berries R I

Norman Estates originated, intensity. This wine was E

Finish: S but it isn't true. For him it aged in American oak to Concentrated and depends on the situation, mature the fruit's ripe tannic with menu choice and mood. He tannins and give it structure blackberry fruit is more of a casual wine and dimension. drinker than an intense wine A taste brings to mind a thick connoisseur and therefore Drink now slice of juicy blackberry pie, drinks whatever wine he has through 2017 but also shows plum and a desire for at that moment. dried fruit. It is rich and WOMC RATING Greg also thinks it is lush, and has just the right 93 Points important to drink whatever amount of spiciness in the wine you feel like with finish. A classic match with a ITEM #: V611R1 whatever food is being leg of lamb from the barbie. Retail Price: $18.99/each served. There are so many Member Price: $14.99/each conflicting “rules” out there Reorder price: $13.99/each on what wine to drink with 26% Discount

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E N U J ver 100 years ago today, and it was declared a a spirited business National Monument in 1973 O visionary, Luis for its architectural beauty Pereyra Cotapos, decided to and excellent state of get involved in the ambitious conservation. This warehouse project of winemaking in is the only remaining the distant land of South industrial building in Chile America. The name Santa that was constructed using Carolina was born from the the technique of binding great love its founder had bricks with a lime-based for his wife, Mrs. Carolina mortar (lime & egg whites), Iñiguez Vicuña. a technique that is still Sauvignon Blanc used today. (Soe ving yahn Blonk) In order to solidify his 2010 business, he invited a group Viña Santa Carolina invests of three French professionals in the latest technologies Santa Carolina to Chile lead by to optimize the Casablanca Valley, Chile the prestigious winemaking Color: enologist Germain process. Adding Light straw Bachelet. The together over Bachelet family 125 years of Nose:

S at one time was experience, the

E White peach I in charge of the dedicated work of

R and citrus selection of the their group of E S

Palate: noblest enologists, and S Fresh herbs grapevines in the privileged R

E and lime the Bordeaux land and climate N region in France. where their T Finish: N Together with vineyards are I Tart and herbal

V their families, they located, Viña Santa Carolina established themselves in has taken the path of the Chile and began the highly successful. plantation and production at the new winery. In this This Sauvignon Blanc is way, grapevines of Cabernet sourced from their vineyards Drink now Sauvignon, Merlot, Sauvignon in the Leyda Valley. Bright through 2011 Blanc, and Chardonnay were greenish-yellow with a planted in the finest lands of broad range of aromas such the Central Valley of Chile. as mineral notes along with WOMC RATING citrus and tropical fruit, pink 93 Points At the same time, French grapefruit and pineapple. architect Emile Doyeré was The refreshing, well- ITEM #: V611W1 contracted to design and balanced, perfectly integrated Retail Price: $17.99/each construct the winery and palate shows its impressive Member Price: $14.99/each warehouse. The results were acidity and a quite long Reorder price: $12.99/each so incredible that the winery finish to match a crab and remains intact and functional avocado melt. 28% Discount

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endocino County is sight in price because people making some of finally noticed that it may be M California's most the finest food friendly wine exciting Pinot Noir. Most of on the planet. Mendocino the Pinot Noir grapes are never has received the grown in the Anderson recognition it deserves for Valley, where warm days the great wines produced and cool nights, helped by here in the last 50 years. plenty of coastal fog, have That’s beginning to change provided a haven for this and hopefully it won’t go to grape as well as a their heads and cause prices spectacular view of the to increase. Right now they Pinot Noir (Peeno No wahr) redwoods. offer incredible value. 2009 The Mendocino County wine Pinot Noir is a difficult grape Last Chance area starts to grow no Mendocino, California about 100 matter where miles north of it comes from. Color: . The name Light magenta

It is an “pinot” comes Nose: V I absolutely from the French Bing cherry with N

hints of cinnamon T

spectacular word “pin” N region with the which means and cotton candy E R

Pacific Ocean “pine cone” Palate: S crashing because the Full, but not S E against high bluffs in the clusters are shaped like a overbearing R I west, redwood forests, vine - pine cone with the grapes E Finish: S yards adorning mountain very close together. It Lovely spice with ridges and fog shrouded also has a thin skin. This touches of mint valleys. Mendocino County combination of tight clusters has some of the most and a thin exterior makes spectacular coastal view the grapes susceptible to anywhere on Earth. We’re mold and rot. Drink now not sure if that makes the through 2014 wine better, but who knows? But, when it works, it really It couldn’t hurt. works. This beauty is just what the doctor ordered as WOMC RATING 92 Points Our Last Chance selection is a the classic Pinot Noir. Its first chance for many of you myriad flavors and exotic ITEM #: V611R2 to taste Pinot Noir from spice components make it a Retail Price: $19.99/each Mendocino. natural for lamb shanks, Member Price: $14.99/each chicken lasagna or even Reorder price: $13.99/each We think this a good thing. poached salmon. Pinot Noir has gone out of 30% Discount

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E N U J he concept of the Trentino, Cantina La Vis owners of Simboli constitutes a collective T was to find the best heritage of winemaking soils in the region and that unites 1400 growers. contract with the owners to Launched in 2007, the buy the grapes. The range Simboli brand represents of soils chosen in specific a selection of the most vineyards was done so with important wine styles of the very distinct mineralogical Trentino region, each features in mind. The result expressing a strong bond has been a uniquely fertile with its cultural history. Pinot Grigio co-operation between sound Simple or aromatic, fresh (Peeno Greegio) viticultural instinct and and fruity with subtle hints cutting-edge oenology. of complexity, each reflect 2009 a perfect Simboli Two decades harmony Trentino, Italy later, with between the tens of Trentino Color: thousands of Golden region and the data analyses work of man. Nose: and correla - S

E Guava, pear and tions behind Pinot Grigio I

R roasted nuts them, Simboli is the most E

S is yielding popular white Palate: S Lovely pear nuance fruit in every grape in Italy. R

E with honeysuckle sense. It is exported N Pinpointing the right grape to every country in the T Finish: N for the right soil has world and is also the most I Very crisp with a touch

V established their reputation ubiquitous white grape of guava for producing highly grown in the entire country. distinctive wines brimming Every one of the 21 separate with local character and growing areas in Italy make historical significance. No a Pinot Grigio, but it is an Drink now less important, the vines accepted fact that the best through 2012 flourish with less human ones come from the intervention. That means Northeastern corner of the using significantly fewer country, namely Trentino WOMC RATING chemicals and more natural and Fruili. 93 Points means of insect and pest control. The Simboli Pinot Grigio has a straw yellow color, with a ITEM #: V611W2 In 1850, the Cembran family delicate and pleasing nose, Retail Price: $18.99/each built the beginnings of the showing notes of pear and Member Price: $14.99/each current winery, which was floral tones. A classic Reorder price: $12.99/each formed into a cooperative in accompaniment with light 32% Discount 1948. Located in the heart of cheeses, salads and canapés. 1-800-949-9463 • www.WineoftheMonthClub.com 12 VINTNERS SERIES 3 1 ! 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 s 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 e e ...... c s i 3 5 3 7 5 5 5 5 5 5 7 5 e r a 4 5 4 6 5 5 5 5 5 5 6 5 C c P 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 m i $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ r o r c p 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 e . e 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 d ...... c r b i R 2 1 2 1 2 2 2 2 2 2 3 3 r o 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 u P E e $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ l R D C e c R i h 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 r t 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 P g O ......

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iamie Wine Cellars relationships to access the is a collaboration "pick of the litter" from K between three reputable growers. Each of enthusiasts with diverse the vineyards and growers yet complementary that he works with are backgrounds. Winemaker unique, and together they Steve Glossner has as much form the foundation for or more experience working Kiamie Wine Cellars's with Westside Paso Robles distinctive wine blends. fruit as anybody in the game. General Manager Ruby-garnet in hue, scents Aram Deirmenjian’s family of dark cherry, cranberry, Syrah/Grenache has been farming grapes in pomegranate and hints of (R'Own Style Blend) California for 30 years. Greg cardamom, this rightly-knit Johnson has over a decade’s offering can use some 2006 experience retailing wine aeration in its youth to allow in one of New the elegance to Kiamie York’s top wine unfold. Bright Paso Robles, California shops. They strawberry and Color: share a vision: rhubarb flavors Deep purple to create truly are highlighted distinctive by candied red Nose: blends not licorice and hot Currant, blackberry limited to a cinnamon and black pepper predefined spice. Medium Palate: wine style, but in weight with Very clean; grapey instead made from the best fine-grained and licorice with fruit Paso Robles has to offer. tannins, this beauty will benefit from some cellaring. soft tannins Their wines are unique Drink over the next two to Finish: blends of fruit from Westside three years. Long and foreboding Paso Robles’s mountain L with strawberry and I vineyards. Kiamie Wine We liked this wine before we M

vanilla swash I Cellars proudly works with a even tasted it because of the T E

clever name. R’Own is a D handful of select growers in Drink now

the Paso Robles , play on the word Rhone S from which the blend of through 2013 E all of which have vineyards R

grapes originates. Try with I within a 2-mile radius of E one another. Their vineyard pan-seared duck breast, WOMC RATING S sources are located between caramelized red onion and 93 Points the sub-appellations of red wine reduction, China Adelaida and the Templeton black rice and a sautéed ITEM #: L611R1 gap. Winemaker Steve vegetable ragout. Retail Price: $22.99/each Glossner's long history with Member Price: $19.99/each Westside Paso Robles fruit Reorder price: $15.99/each lends the know how and 30% Discount

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E N U J aipara Springs The vineyard of 60 acres Winery and Cafe is planted primarily with W is located in the Riesling. The wines are heart of the Waipara Valley crafted in two differing on the South Island of styles, the fresh fruit-driven New Zealand. The vineyard wines under the Waipara contains some of the oldest Springs label and the vines in the valley providing structurally driven wines of entirely estate grown the Premo label. wines with a depth and intensity that only old vines The focus of the Premo can produce. Riesling is to create a slightly Riesling sweet style of Riesling (Rees ling) Waipara Springs was first with botrytis influence that established by the Moore 2006 has natural acidity to make and the Grant families in a true table Waipara Springs 1989. Bruce wine of Waipara, New Zealand and Jill Moore elegance. The had lived on grapes were Color: the property harvested in Golden straw for many years two passes. and together The first one Nose: planted the first White peach was for grape vines at grapes to Palate: Waipara Springs provide the Lovely peach, lemon in 1982. bulk of the peel and nectarine The Waipara blend with Springs Estate the intense Finish: Vineyard, from Riesling which Premo Crisp and clean flavors and wines are sourced, has a soil with a peach jam the second one when the that renders wines totally component grapes were influenced by

S unique. Derived from a botrytis, which gives a touch E

I prehistoric lakebed at the of sweetness and a powerful R center of the Waipara E impact. S Valley floor, the vineyard

Drink now

D through 2015 soils are a rich blend of clay

E Aromatically infused with

T and limestone.

I lemons, lime, ripe apricots

M and a hint of barrel spice, I WOMC RATING With vines sheltered from L 94 Points the prevailing easterly winds this Riesling has a supple by the Teviotdale range, high texture of bees wax and spice with charred citrus ITEM #: L611W2 midsummer heat combines with low rainfall, long warm rind flavors. It is spectacular Retail Price: $21.99/each days and cold nights during with shrimp in a basil cream Member Price: $19.99/each to provide near sauce. Reorder price: $13.99/each perfect conditions for high 36% Discount quality grapes.

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altarni was early 1820s. The next major established in 1969 attempt to grow grapes T in Australia’s Victoria commercially was by Diego Provence. It was one of the Bernacchi who set up the first wineries there and is Maria Island Company off the still thought of as one of East Coast on Maria Island in the finest wineries in the 1886. This company lasted country. Taltarni's vineyards until 1895. are an evocation of The revitalizing of Bordeaux in the Australian Tasmania’s wine industry countryside. Looking at the Cabernet began in the 1950s. In 1959 vines one could be forgiven Sauvignon/Merlot a Frenchman, Jean Miguet, for thinking that this is a (Kab air nay Soe ving began a yahn Mare low) piece of vineyard in France. The 2006 Lalla using pattern of Taltarni 3 Monks closely spaced vineyards Tasmania, Australia and trellised nestles up to plantings. Color: the sloping Deep magenta The grapes hills and the ripened well Nose: red end each row. and good wine was made. Blackberry, black Taltarni, like its wines, has cherry, earth and proved that the marriage of Taltarni Three Monks is a chocolate tradition and technology testament to the innovative Palate: from different parts of the approach taken by their Blackberry with world can succeed in a winemaking team. By hints of earth, leather and spice distinctive location. It is combining Old World known as the Australian tradition with New World Finish: L I

Very berry with cherry M Pyrenees and can produce flexibility, this range of and vanilla I something of quality that is wines breaks conventional T E both unique to the soil in boundaries with more Drink now D

unusual wine styles. The through 2012 S which it is grown, and E Cabernet and Merlot are R remarkable in world terms. I E

sourced from selected WOMC RATING S Victoria has a longer history vineyards in Victoria. 92 Points in wine than most realize. Cabernet and Merlot are The first vigneron was classic blending partners ITEM #: L611R3 Bartholomew Broughton of with the Cabernet providing Retail Price: $20.99/each New Town north of Hobart length and structure and the Member Price: $19.99/each who began to grow grapes Merlot adding softness and Reorder price: $15.99/each with great success in the mid-palate weight. 24% Discount

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E N U J ere’s a story that is winemakers, a laboratory/ as fascinating as quality control manager H the wine. It doesn’t and technical staff, and happen very often, but when production planners. it does, it’s pretty fun. The grapes were grown Tim Wong, the Director of in Sonoma’s prestigious Winemaking for Sonoma Russian River by the Delicato Hills, was born in Guangdong Family. Founded by Gasparé Province in China. He Indelicato in 1924, Delicato immigrated to the United Family Vineyards’s goal has States at an early age and always been to grow the Chardonnay eventually attended the finest possible grapes, and (Shar doe nay) University of California, then use those grapes to 2009 Davis, graduating in 1973 create premium wines at with a Bachelor of Arts in affordable prices. They have Sonoma Hills Chemistry. been a model Russian River, California in the San He then spent Joaquin Valley Color: over 30 years for making Pale gold at wineries in quality wines Nose: various roles in an area Fresh apple and vanilla including known more Chemist, for inexpensive Palate: Process Control jugs than Rich pineapple Enologist, premium with a hint of spice Winemaker wines. More Finish: and Winery/Facility than 85 years later, Apple and vanilla Manager. Tim was responsi - Gasparé's original vision ble for the blending and fin - continues with the third ishing of approximately four generation of Indelicato million cases annually of family members.

S table, dessert, sparkling, and E I brandy wines. The cool breezes and R morning fog that envelops E S

Drink now In his current role as Director the grapes of Sonoma’s

D of Winemaking, he oversees Russian River are of the

E through 2012

T the crushing of as much reasons why the grapes from I here languish on the vine

M as 150,000 tons of grapes I WOMC RATING L annually. Tim's duties also longer than most. Add to 92 Points include administration, that soil that is composed budgeting, providing support of decomposed river bed ITEM #: L611W4 to marketing/sales efforts, leftovers and you have grape Retail Price: $21.99/each product development, Valhalla. Luscious and true Member Price: $19.99/each customer service, and quality to form tropical flavors Reorder price: $14.99/each control. He supervises a staff just scream for lobster thermador. 32% Discount of twenty which includes

1-800-949-9463 • www.WineoftheMonthClub.com 18 Earlier LIMITED SERIES favorites at REORDER prices!

Reg Reorder Case Item # Wine Name Retail Price Price Price L611R1 - Syrah/Grenache, 2006. Kiamie $22.99 $15.99 $191.88 “Leather and earth mixed with lots of berries”

L611W2 – Riesling, 2006. Waipara Springs $21.99 $13.99 $167.88 “Lovely peach, lemon peel and nectarine”

L611R3 – Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot, 2006. $20.99 $15.99 $191.88 Taltarni “Blackberry with hints of earth, leather and spice”

L611W4 – Chardonnay, 2009. $21.99 $14.99 $179.88 Sonoma Hills “Rich pineapple with a hint of spice”

L511R1 – Tempranillo, 2007. Rejadorada $22.99 $14.99 $179.88 “Earth, licorice and black cherry”

L511R2 – , 2008. Enkidu $21.99 $14.99 $179.88 “Tart cherry, leather and earth”

L511W3 – Sauvignon Blanc, 2009. Babcock $19.99 $14.99 $179.88 “Lime and lychee nut”

L511W4 – Sauvignon Blanc, 2009. $21.99 $13.99 $167.88 Henry Marionnet “White peach and citrus” L I

L411R1 – Syrah, 2007. $32.99 $17.99 $215.88 M

Les Caves Roties de Pente I T

“Cassis, game and chocolate” E D

S

L411W2 – Chardonnay, 2007. Stephen Ross $29.99 $16.99 $203.88 E “Green apple and spice” R I E S

L411R3 – Zinfandel, 2007. Thornton $21.99 $15.99 $191.88 “Earth, licorice and black cherry”

L411W4 – Torrontes, 2010. La Yunta $20.99 $15.99 $191.88 “Asian pear and honeysuckle”

1-800-949-9463 • www.WineoftheMonthClub.com 19 FOR MEMBERSS O ONNLLYY F O R M E M B E R Q&A "What exactly is Prosecco?” Q ~ D.R., Las Vegas, NV

Prosecco is a light, slightly sparkling A. wine (the Italians call it frizzante) that has become extremely popular in the last 10 years. It is both a wine as well as a grape. The Prosecco grape is primarily grown in Italy’s Veneto region. It is also

S grown in the Valdobbiadene and Conegliano

R wine regions, both north of Venice. E B M E

M “What is icewine? ” Q ~ D.B., Colorado Springs, CO

Icewine is truly one of the most distinguished, if not THE most A. distinguished wine made in the world. It is also the most expensive to produce. Only a few places can even make it and only one, Okanagan Valley in central Canada, can produce it regularly. The conditions have to be perfect or the entire crop is lost. If icewine is to be attempted by the winery, a small amount of grapes are left on the vine after the normal harvest which could be anywhere from mid- September to late October. Two diverse conditions must take place. The temperature has to be way below freezing, like 25 degrees F. The sun has to always be out during the day. What happens here is that the sun is keeping the plant alive and slowly building the sugars in the grapes through photosynthesis. This can go on for months, sometimes into January of the following year! When the grapes are finally picked, the water inside them has frozen. They are given a very light pressing to release the frozen ice from the grapes. That ice is just water. It is discarded and what’s left is fermented into wine. It’s like reducing the wine by 80% and fermenting what’s left. The result is incredibly rich and flavorful. Of course, if the sun doesn’t come out or it warms up or rains, the ice in the grapes turns to water and the vine shuts down. Goodbye, icewine.

1-800-949-9463 • www.WineoftheMonthClub.com 20 Gifts & More

A. The Bottle Shock Experience (Wine and DVD) Uncork this gorgeous Chardonnay, put in A the DVD and sip your way through the movie “Bottle Shock" to see the story unfold of how burst onto the world scene. The location: Paris; the wine: Chateau Montelena Chardonnay; the story: History! A must for all wine enthusiasts.

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Visit our website at www.WineoftheMonthClub.com for gift baskets, gift memberships and various wine assortments. 21 Recipes Braised Pork Chops and Fennel

Ingredients: 1 medium fennel bulb (about 12 ounces), stalks removed and discarded 2 teaspoons kosher salt, plus more as needed 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more as needed 3/4 teaspoon hot paprika 3 (1-inch-thick) bone-in pork loin chops 2 tablespoons olive oil 1/2 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced 2 medium garlic cloves, thinly sliced 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh thyme leaves 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth 1/2 cup dry vermouth 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 1/2 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

Preparation: Trim the top and bottom of the fennel bulb and cut it in half through the core. Cut each half lengthwise into 1/4-inch- thick slices; set aside. Place the measured salt and pepper and 1/2 teaspoon of the paprika in a small bowl and stir to combine. Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels, then sprinkle on all sides with the paprika mixture; set aside. Heat the oil in a large frying pan with a tightfitting lid over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the pork chops and sear until golden brown on both sides, about 6 to 7 minutes total. Remove to a plate and set aside. Reduce the heat to medium and add the reserved fennel, onion, garlic, thyme, and remaining 1/4 teaspoon paprika to the pan. Season with salt and pepper and sauté until the fennel begins to brown, about 5 minutes. Add the broth and vermouth and bring to a boil, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Return the pork chops and any accumulated juices to the pan, nestling the chops in the fennel. Cover, reduce the heat to low, and simmer until the chops are firm and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center registers 140°F, about 8 to 10 minutes. Remove the pork chops to a plate, cover loosely with foil, and let rest. Increase the heat to medium and simmer the sauce, uncovered, until reduced by about a third and slightly thickened, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat, add the mustard, zest, and lemon juice, and stir to combine. Season with additional salt and pepper as needed. Serve the sauce alongside the pork chops and fennel. Serve the sauce alongside the pork chops and fennel, and with a glass of Greg Norman Petite Sirah.

22 Recipes Chilled Sweet and Sour Sole

Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds sole fillets Fine sea salt Unbleached all-purpose flour for dredging 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil plus more for frying 2 1/2 cups thinly sliced onion (about 1 medium) 1 1/4 cups white balsamic vinegar 2 1/2 tablespoons pine nuts 2 1/2 packed tablespoons golden raisins, soaked in boiling water to cover for 1 minute, then drained and roughly chopped 1 1/2 tablespoons finely chopped flat-leaf parsley

Preparation: Rinse fish and pat dry. Season both sides of fillets with salt, then dredge in flour, shaking off excess. Line a baking sheet with paper towels. In a large skillet, heat 1/2 inch oil over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking. In batches, fry fish in a single layer until just opaque in center and lightly golden, about 2 minutes per side (when turning, carefully turn fillets away from, not toward, you). Transfer to baking sheet to drain. Combine 1/2 cup oil and onion in skillet; cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until onion is softened (do not brown), 12 to 15 minutes. Add vinegar, bring to a gentle simmer and cook 3 minutes. Add nuts and raisins, reduce to a bare simmer and cook 5 minutes more. Transfer fish to a deep serving dish or baking dish and cover with onion mixture. Let cool completely, then chill, covered, several hours or 1 day to allow fish to take on flavor. Sprinkle with parsley before serving. Service with a glass of Waipara Springs Riesling.

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Caption this Picture Contest

I don’t remember if this picture was taken before we started the videotaping or after! Create a winning caption for this picture of me and Ed (wine author and my podcast co-host), and win 6 bottles of wine from my private stash! Go to www.womclub.com /caption to submit your caption. Take me to the contest!

Membership in the Wine of the Month Club is open to anyone with an interest in and appreciation for superb wines...and excellent wine values. Membership is FREE. Wine of the Month Club CALL: 1-800-949-9463 or [626] 303-1690 P.O. Box 660220, Arcadia, CA 91066 FAX: [626] 303-2597 Website: www.WineoftheMonthClub.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/WineoftheMonthClub Twitter: Twitter: http://twitter.com/wineofthemonth Newsletter written by: Ed Masciana, Wine Author

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