The Slocum Press SLOCUM & SONS . IMPORTERS AND PURVEYORS OF FINE WINES & SPIRITS SINCE 1976
VOLUME 2 . ISSUE 4 . 2014 PROVENANCE VINEYARDS Unique Soils and Wines in the Heart of the Napa Valley
Situated in Rutherford in the heart of the Napa Valley, Provenance Vineyards has been growing and producing distinctive Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Sauvignon Blanc since 1999. Over the last fifteen years the wines have continued to show greater power and complexity, thanks in large part to the outstanding winemaking team. Winemaker Chris Cooney works in close step with the Director of Winemaking, Tom Rinaldi, one of the most highly regarded winemakers in California, and the driving force behind the enormous success and popularity of Napa Valley Merlot and Sauvignon Blanc. Prior to joining Provenance, Tom Rinaldi spent over two decades as the head winemaker at Duckhorn Vineyards. It was during this time at Duckhorn that he refined the styles of Cabernet, Merlot, and Sauvignon Blanc that made these wines so famous, and established Rinaldi as one of the reference point winemakers for these varietals in California. This expertise has been translated beautifully to the winemaking at Provenance. Lush Merlot, rich yet elegant Cabernet, and exotic, perfumed Sauvignon Blanc – these are the hallmarks of the Provenance wines. As Robert Parker noted in his latest review of California wines, “The delicious Sauvignon Blancs from Provenance are exceptionally well made.”
Hewitt Vineyard P Wave Adjacent to the Provenance Estate in Rutherford is a small Starting in 2011, Provenance introduced Cabernet Sauvignon vineyard that was first planted in 1880. their first new wine in almost a decade. Known as the Hewitt Estate, this vineyard produces some of the Dubbed “P Wave” (a name that refers to the best Cabernet fruit in Rutherford. Tom Rinaldi saw the great frequent earthquakes and seismic activity potential of this historic vineyard, and he made the first Hewitt in Northern California), this full-bodied, Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon in the 2001 vintage. This wine has juicy, and bright red wine is a blend of many become highly sought after, and the 2010 vintage was honored grapes, mostly Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, by being named #4 Wine of the Year by Wine Spectator in 2013. Grenache, Syrah, and Tempranillo. A unique Because of the vineyard’s tiny size and its scarcity, you’ll have to blend that exudes power and fruit, this is keep your eyes peeled for the next release! unapologetically delicious!
DESCRIPTION ITEM # SIZE CASE BOTTLE PROVENANCE Sauvignon Blanc 2012 51123 750 ml $184 $18.99 PROVENANCE Carneros Merlot 2010 5003703 750 ml $284 $24.67 PROVENANCE Cabernet Sauvignon Rutherford 2011 5033511 750 ml $336 $29 PROVENANCE P Wave Red Blend 2011 5165111 750 ml $336 $29
SLOCUM & SONS . NORTH HAVEN, CT . (203) 239-8000 . SLOCUMANDSONS.COM ISSUE 4 2
Ron Barceló is among the 10 brands chosen by the IWSR (International Wine & Spirits Research) to form part of the exclusive Elite Brands List. This award is granted to alcohol brands of all categories that sell over 1 million cases worldwide, with 40% of its sales outside its core market. Ron Barceló has achieved the highest growth rate among all brands with which it shares this distinction. Ron Barcelo Rums are made from freshly extracted Caribbean sugarcane juice.
Ron Barceló Imperial was awarded by the prestigious Beverage Testing Institute of Chicago as the best rum in the world, carrying the badge of being the first rum to receive the highest score in the history of this institute: 97/100.
And it’s Kosher! The Kosher Certification is awarded to industries that follow rigorous processes and hygiene in their production system. Ron Barceló was certified as Kosher on August 24, 2011, showing the care provided for the fine development of its products at its plant in San Pedro de Macorís, Dominican Republic.
DESCRIPTION ITEM # SIZE CASE BOTTLE RON BARCELO BLANCO RUM 1508 750 ml $112 $10.83 RON BARCELO DORADO RUM 1509 750 ml $112 $10.83 RON BARCELO ANEJO RUM 1990 1.75 L $128 $26.99 RON BARCELO ANEJO RUM 1510 750 ml $148 $14.33 RON BARCELO GRAN ANEJO RUM 1511 750 ml $188 $17.83 RON BARCELO GRAN ANEJO PLATINUM 1513 750 ml $188 $17.33 RON BARCELO IMPERIAL RUM 1512 750 ml $288 $25 RON BARCELO IMPERIAL 30TH ANNIVERSARY 2747 750 ml $980 $82.66
INSIDE THIS ISSUE 3 10 WINES TO TRY 12 WHAT THE HECK IS THAT? 4 THE CHABLIS DISTRICT 13 ONE FAMILY. ONE FIELD. 5-7 DISTILLERY FEATURE 14 CHINACO TEQUILA 8 PROVENCAL ROSÉ 15 THE ART OF DRINK 9 OLDEST RUM IN PUERTO RICO 16 APRIL PICKS 10-11 SLOCUM IMPORTS ISSUE 4 3
THE SPANISH WINES OF
Over the past 15 years, two visionary Spaniards, Patrick Mata and Alberto Orte, have been passionately dedicated to bringing us “unique terrior-driven wines of extraordinary value” and boy have they succeeded. They started with 3 wines and have expended to over 100 from all over Spain. Their company, Ole Imports, also provides one of the best websites in the business (oleimports.com) which puts all the key information we look for in one page on each of their fantastic wines. Patrick Mata is one of the world’s foremost experts on Spanish wine with a palate second to none. Robert Parker says, “These wines are among my favorites from this motivated company. Readers should seek them out as they represent sensational values from viticultural regions throughout Spain.”
The best part is Patrick Mata will be in Connecticut with his fantastic portfolio to taste and answer any questions you may have. Patrick will be tasting wines from many regions of all prices, including wines highly sought after and limited in availability. So if you’re looking for value to “pour by the glass” or something special for that “collector” come join us: WEDNESDAY, APRIL 23rd, from 1-5pm at BARCELONA RESTAURANT 4180 Black Rock Turnpike Fairfield, CT
10 WINES TO TRY
Barco de Piedra 2011 Ipsum Verdejo 2012 100% Tempranillo 100% Verdejo It exhibits notes of flowers, licorice, new saddle leather, black currants Dry and nervy, offering a refreshingly bitter quality to the taut lemon and cherries. and lime flavors. ITEM # 1749811 CASE $120 ITEM #1722112 CASE $88
Cal Blanca 2009 Zestos Garnacha 2012 100% Tempranillo 100% Garnacha Seductive aromas of raspberry, potpourri and licorice, with a note of Raspberry and cherry on the fragrant nose, with a spicy quality adding white pepper adding lift and vivacity. complexity. ITEM # 1750309 CASE $88 ITEM # 1721812 CASE $72
Carro 2011 Torremoron 2012 50% Monastrell, 30% Syrah, 12% Merlot, 8% Tempranillo 100% Tempranillo It possesses spice and earthy, new saddle leather notes intermixed with A beautiful texture, and a big, sweet bouquet of blackberries, black notions of cherry jam, truffles and loamy soil. cherries, licorice and lead pencil shavings. ITEM # 1722411 CASE $72 ITEM # 1714712 CASE $96
Cortijo Rioja 2012 Papa Godello 2012 100% Tempranillo 100% Godello Lots of ripe black cherry notes intermixed with hints of roasted herbs, Possesses the texture of a classy white Burgundy, as well as lots of loamy soil and spice box. honeyed citrus, spring flower, quince and apricot characteristics. ITEM # 17202 CASE $68 SIZE 1.5 L ITEM #1726312 CASE $112 ITEM # 1710203 CASE $80 SIZE 750 ml Dacu Tempranillo 2011 Ludovicus Tinto 2011 100% Tempranillo 40% Garnacha, 20% Syrah, 15% Carinena, 15% It exhibits terrific wild berry/Zinfandel-like fruit, pepper, earth and Tempranillo, 10% Merlot roasted herb characteristics. Richly fruity, pure and heady. Juicy and intensely fruity, with sweet blackberry and cherry-cola flavor. ITEM # 1734411 CASE $80 ITEM #1722611 CASE $104 ISSUE 4 4
The Chablis District
Burgundy Paris
The Chablis region is the most northern wine district in Burgundy, France. In fact it actually Chablis lies closer to Champagne (19 miles) than Beaune (60 miles) and roughly measures 108 square miles. Only Champagne & Alsace have a more northern location. Chablis’s claim to fame is the geological formation of limestone and clay that it shares with parts of southern England. This soil is known as Kimmeridgian, after the Dorset village of Kimmeridge, and is a composition of limestone, clay and fossilized oyster shells. This soil provides the distinctively mineral and flinty notes that all Chablis drinkers adore. Most Chablis is fermented in stainless steel, but older oak barrels are used in some of the Cru wines. Its close proximity to Paris provided the perfect marketplace for this unique style to gain popularity. The great Chardonnay grape is believed to have been first planted here by Monks in the 12th Century and only later made its way south to the rest of Burgundy. The Class structure is the same as Burgundy. In addition to Chablis AOC and Petite Chablis, there are seven Grand Cru vineyards which are all bundled together on one contiguous southwest facing slope of exceptional location and seventeen Premier Cru vineyards that are scattered around on isolated slopes of excellent exposure. Chablis AOC DESCRIPTION ITEM # SIZE CASE BOTTLE DOMAINE VAUDON Chablis AC 2012 849712 750 ml $160 $19.99 WILLIAM FEVRE Chablis Champs Royaux 2012 817712 750 ml $176 $15.67 LOUIS MAX Chablis St. Jean 2012 848312 750 ml $176 $15.66
Chablis Premier Cru DESCRIPTION ITEM # SIZE CASE BOTTLE DOMAINE VAUDON Chablis Vaudon 2011 850611 750 ml $224 $19.67 WILLIAM FEVRE Chablis Fourchaume 2011 829311 750 ml $399 $33.25 WILLIAM FEVRE Chablis Montee De Tonnere 2011 837511 750 ml $440 $37.67 WILLIAM FEVRE Chablis Vaulorent 2011 828911 750 ml $520 $44.33 LOUIS MAX Chablis Fourchaume 2011 848411 750 ml $240 $21
Chablis Grand Cru DESCRIPTION ITEM # SIZE CASE BOTTLE DOMAINE VAUDON Chablis Bougros 2011 850311 750 ml $300 (6 btls) $51 DOMAINE VAUDON Chablis Les Clos 2011 850411 750 ml $324 (6 btls) $61.99 WILLIAM FEVRE Chablis Bougros 2011 837611 750 ml $712 $60.33 WILLIAM FEVRE Chablis Les Preuses 2011 837711 750 ml $784 $66.33
In the store Read the back label
Don’t recognize a producer?
Look for one of these reliable importers’ names ISSUE 4 5
Distillery Feature
Luxardo is Italy’s premier family liqueur producer. Luxardo is best known in the United States for its flagship Maraschino liqueur, but the company produces a wide range of classic Italian liqueurs beyond this.
The Company was founded in Zara in 1821, a port city on the Dalmatian coast which had been, for more than six centuries, an integral part of the “Serenissima” republic of Venice. At the fall of the Venetian republic in 1797, Zara was designated the capital of the Kingdom of Dalmatia, under Austrian sovereignty. A Genoese businessman, Girolamo Luxardo, moved there with his family in 1817. His wife, Maria Canevari, was especially interested in perfecting a “rosolio maraschino,” a liqueur produced in Dalmatia since medieval times. The liqueur she produced was of such high quality that it claimed the attention not only of family and friends, but also of serious connoisseurs. Her husband founded a distillery in 1821 to produce Maraschino. After 8 years of research and perfecting the product he obtained an exclusive “privilege” from the Emperor of Austria: this was a valuable and cherished acknowledgment of the superior quality of the Luxardo liqueur, and today the firm continues to be proud to bear the denomination: “PRIVILEGIATA FABBRICA MARASCHINO EXCELSIOR”
The distillery was nearly destroyed during World War II, and was subsequently relocated in the Veneto region by Giorgio Luxardo, the only surviving brother from the fourth generation of the Luxardo lineage, at a time when the majority of the Italian population living in Dalmatia was forced into exile.
Currently under direction of the sixth generation of Luxardos, the Luxardo company is completely family owned, honoring the tradition Girolamo established 190 years ago. The family owns and manages the largest European orchards of the sour cherry Marasca variety, with 30,000+ trees located near Padova and Venice in northeastern Italy. Today, the Luxardos are producing a full line of classic, high quality Italian liqueurs. Refined Italian craftsmanship and generations of expertise go into every stage of Luxardo products. With the mounting interest and expertise in the art of cocktails and mixology, the Luxardo line continues to amass a dedicated following.
Maraschino Luxardo Maraschino is a specialty known and appreciated around the world. Luxardo Maraschino Originale is a classic, and the Luxardo family still produces this wonderful liqueur according to the original formula used by Girolamo Luxardo in 1821. The patented, hand-woven, straw- plaited round bottle has become an iconic symbol of the brand. Maraschino is one of very few liqueurs produced by distillation. It is made from the Luxardo Marasca cherry, a sour cherry variety cultivated exclusively by Luxardo in the Veneto region of Italy. It is aged 3 years in Larchwood, and the distillate is allowed to mature for one to two years in Finnish Ashwood vats–a wood that does not lend its color even after many years of maturing. The spirit is then diluted and sugared. This famous liqueur is the necessary ingredient in classic cocktails, such as the Aviation and Hemingway Daiquiri. It gives these drinks their distinctive qualities. “An object of cult worship among mixologists. Its presence is as good as a sign saying, EXCELLENT DRINKS MADE HERE.” –Legendary cocktail historian, David Wondrich
DESCRIPTION ITEM # SIZE CASE BOTTLE LUXARDO Maraschino 1622 750 ml $280 $24.33 ISSUE 4 6
Apricot Liqueur Amaro Abano One of the few apricot based liqueurs in Amaro means bitter in Italian. Although the world, Luxardo Apricot is an infusion Luxardo Amaro Abano is more like of apricot peels in pure alcohol then aged bittersweet. In this Amaro are seven infused for 3 months in large oak casks before being herbs and roots including cardamom, bottled. cinnamon and bitter orange peel. Amaro Sweet and well-rounded. Fresh on the palate Abano is a medium bitter; it is drunk with a persistent fragrance. straight after a meal with or without ice to help digestion.
DESCRIPTION ITEM # SIZE CASE BOTTLE LUXARDO Apricot 2889 750 ml $228 $20 LUXARDO Amaro Abano 2063 750 ml $204 $18
Bitter Orange Espresso Liqueur Liqueur Caffè Espresso is a MUST for any A Campari-type aperitif in the well-stocked bar! Luxardo style, first made in 1885. A luscious coffee liqueur from A pleasant aperitif obtained from Luxardo. Infused with the best the infusion of several fruits and coffees from Central America herbs such as sweet oranges, bitter and Kenya, with the Arabica type oranges, rhubarb, marjoram and predominating. thyme in pure alcohol.
DESCRIPTION ITEM # SIZE CASE BOTTLE LUXARDO Bitter Orange Liqueur 2603 750 ml $224 $19.66 LUXARDO Espresso Liqueur 1621 750 ml $206 $19.08
Limoncello Triplum (Triple Sec) Limoncello is a world-renowned Italian It is difficult to make a good Orange liqueur. liqueur. Luxardo’s time-honored production Luxardo passes the test with flying colors. methods of infusing alcohol with peels, pulp The refined Triple Sec of Luxardo is and juice enhance the natural aroma and the result of the distillation of bitter bright citrus taste of lemons harvested in oranges from Curaçao and sweet oranges Southern Italy. The finish is medium-long, and tangerines from Sicily, enriched by properly juicy and oily, and in a word luscious; the delicate aroma of orange blossoms. a superb, understated and classy Limoncello. Luxardo’s TRIPLUM Orange Liqueur is Luxardo first advertised its Limoncello in vibrant, sharp and elegantly dry, with ripe 1905. flavors bursting from the glass.
DESCRIPTION ITEM # SIZE CASE BOTTLE LUXARDO Limoncello 1634 750 ml $204 $18 LUXARDO Triplum (Triple Sec) 1423 750 ml $214 $19.83 ISSUE 4 7
Sambuca Dei Cesari The anise plant, originating from China, All the countries of the Mediterranean became known in ancient times for its basin embrace the age old tradition of therapeutic properties. Throughout the having an anise-based national liqueur. centuries, it became widespread through the Italy is no exception with its Sambuca. Mediterranean coast, where it became widely Luxardo Sambuca is strictly Italian used in preparing traditional dishes and desserts. and produced with the infusion of Most commonly, the oils obtained from anise elderberry and green aniseed. were used by liqueur firms to produce a selection Sambuca is a sweet but strong liqueur, of liqueurs such as French Pastis, Spanish Anis, containing essential oils obtained by Turkish Raki and Greek Ouzo. The word for steam when distilling the seeds of Sambuca was derived from the Arab word for anise, star anise, which are soluble in pure “Zammut.” The word “zammù” still exists in the Sicilian dialect, meaning alcohol. A concentrated solution of an anise drink diluted with water. On the front label is featured the Arch sugar and other natural aromas is of Constantine in Rome (315 AD). added to this.
DESCRIPTION ITEM # SIZE CASE BOTTLE LUXARDO Sambuca dei Cesari 1623 750 ml $218 $19.17
Cherry Liqueur Luxardo’s second historical speciality after Maraschino Originale. It is a liqueur of Marasca cherries (a sour cherry variety exclusively cultivated by Luxardo)–a variant of cherry brandy. It is obtained by the infusion of fermented Marasca juice, matured for two years in oak vats. Luxardo Cherry Liqueur was renamed with the curious name of Sangue Morlacco (Morlacco blood) by the poet Gabriele D’Annunzio in 1919, at the time of the Fiume military expedition, due to its dark red color (furthermore, the name “Morlacco” is derived from the name of a proud people of the Dalmatian hinterland).
DESCRIPTION ITEM # SIZE CASE BOTTLE LUXARDO Cherry Liqueur 2902 750 ml $228 $20
Amaretto di Saschira A classic and refined almond liqueur, with a velvety taste and a fragrant almond aroma. Made from pure almond paste, it is aged for eight months in larch vats before bottling. With its distinctive, well-rounded almond taste, Luxardo Amaretto is distinguished from other amaretto by the quality of the almonds, which come from southern Sicily, the best almond region in the Mediterranean basin.
DESCRIPTION ITEM # SIZE CASE BOTTLE LUXARDO Amaretto di Saschira 1620 750 ml $210 $19
Luxardo Maraschino Cherries DESCRIPTION ITEM # SIZE PRICE CASE 60 Cherries 22807 400g jar $14 $156 500 Cherries 22806 3 kg can $62 $244 1000 Cherries 22818 5.6 kg can $101 $400 ISSUE 4 8
PROVENCAL ROSÉ France
Situated in Southeastern France, it was the first Roman Province outside Italy. The Romans called this region “Provincia Nostra” meaning “our Province.” Rosé wine accounts for roughly half of the wine production, and the love of this style has exploded here with us in America. Provence is the only region outside Bordeaux to have a Cru Classé system. A Mediterranean climate with its sea influence from the south, provide mild winters and very warm summers. The grapevines receive 3,000 hours of sunshine per year which is twice the amount needed to fully ripen grapes. The main varietals are Carignan, Cinsault, Grenache, and Mourvedre, with Cabernet and Syrah growing in popularity. For increased quality in Rosé, vintners limit Carignan to 40% and mandate a minimum of 60% be blended from Grenache, Cinsault, Mourvedre and Tibouran. The AOC also requires a minimum of 20% of the Rosé to be blended from the Saignée method of maceration. Here are some beautiful Provencal Rosé’s arriving at Slocum & Sons, please check with your representative for dates and quantities.
LUC BELAIRE TERRES DE ST. LOUIS CHÂTEAU DE BERNE SPARKLING ROSÉ ROSÉ 2013 ROSÉ 2013
Nothing sets the mood This is the Rosé to sell Full-bodied and crisp, better than sparkling all year long. Light, this wine is in the style of Rosé, so start your salmon-pink, with complex more expensive rosés from evenings with a “POP.” aromas, ripe red fruits the region. Ripe peaches, and a racy acidity. citrus and flowers on every sip.
DESCRIPTION ITEM # SIZE CASE BOTTLE LUC BELAIRE Sparkling Rosé 18363 750 ml $126 (6 btls) $29.99 TERRES DE ST. LOUIS Rosé 2013 1607713 750 ml $88 $10.99 CHÂTEAU DE BERNE Rosé 2013 1609113 750 ml $88 (6 btls) $15.66
2014 RESULTS
DOUBLE GOLD Medal TOMATIN 18 Year Old Single Malt Scotch
GOLD Medal TOMATIN Single Malt Scotch Legacy
GOLD Medal TOMATIN 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch ISSUE 4 9
Ron del Barrilito “The Oldest Rum Producer in Puerto Rico”
★ ★ ★ About Ron del Barrilito Ron del Barrilito is a brand of rum produced in Bayamón, Puerto Rico, by Edmundo B. Fernández Inc. The Fernández family, beginning with Fernando Fernández, has been producing rum in Bayamón since 1804, making it the oldest rum manufacturer in Puerto Rico. By around 1880, the Ron del Barrilito brand was formed, and soon after it was the drink of choice for wealthy families in and around Bayamón, substituting brandy and cognac. The process used for making the rum today is basically the same as the one used in the mid-1800s. In 1940, the Fernández family organized the company, which became Edmundo B. Fernández Inc., and continued to sell Ron del Barrilito in both 2 and 3 star varieties.
Fun Fact Since 1942, there has been a special barrel set Point of difference aside in the company cellar with instructions that it only be opened when Puerto Rico is a free state. Nearly all spirits are cut down to lower their ABV with water If this occurs, its contents would be offered free of after their time in barrel, except for those certain spirits destined charge in the Bayamón town square. to become connoisseur-level barrel strength bottlings. The reason for this is to bring them into a pleasant, softer drink ABV range. Basically, this is dilution. What makes Ron del Barrilito distinctively different in the way they treat their rum is they dilute with water before (rather than after) aging it at a low proof. This method allows the flavors of all the blended rum components of Barrilito to fully marry and remain undiluted because even the water content in that spirit is being flavored and polished by the wood barrel.
Fernando Fernández, 8th generation master rum blender THE RUMS
2 Star ★ ★ 3 Star ★ ★ ★
Aged a minimum of 3 years in used Aged between 6-10 years in used 130 Bourbon and 130 gallon Sherry barrels gallon Sherry barrels “The bouquet is charmingly understated “The nosing passes find mature smells with subtle scents of yellow fruit pulp, of men’s club leather chairs, old books, toffee, milk chocolate and vanilla bean. molasses, honey, milk chocolate and Palate entry is balanced, nicely acidic, nougat. The palate entry is a touch smoky creamy, cane sweet and warm; midpalate and very sweet; the honey and molasses accentuates dark chocolate. Finish is tastes come to the fore at the midpalate. confident and elegant. State-of-the-art, F i n i s h i s w a r m , c o m f o r t a b l e a n d m a t u r e . ” properly oak-aged rum.” - Wine Enthusiast - Wine Enthusiast
DESCRIPTION ITEM # SIZE CASE BOTTLE RON DEL BARRILITO 2 star 3016 750 ml $240 $21 RON DEL BARRILITO 3 star 3017 750 ml $280 $24.33 ISSUE 4 10
mports Slocum I
Slocum Imports is a division of Slocum & Sons with a selection of imported wines which are purchased directly from the wine estates within its portfolio. This is a highly-selective and well-diversified portfolio representing an array of outstanding producers from various wine regions around the world. The purpose is to select a wine estate which represents either the highest quality or best value in its region, sometimes both. Many of the producers utilize sustainable agriculture and organic, biodynamic farming to reach the purest expression of grape varietal, microclimate and terroir, yielding wines of excellent balance and complexity.
One of the most important advantages which Slocum Imports offers is the ability to market its wines through Slocum & Sons at pricing well below the competition. This is done by cutting out an additional layer of supplier markups which can be as high as 40%. However, price savings alone is not necessarily the key to success. Quality is equally as important as the selling price. When you have both, as is the case with the selections of Slocum Imports, price and quality opportunities are unparalleled in the market.
Unparalleled in the market, that’s a pretty bold statement to make isn’t it? There is plenty of proof to support this with wines within the Slocum Imports portfolio receiving exceptional critical acclaim from the most important national and international wine publications. When you see the words “Imported by Slocum & Sons,” it’s a guarantee of outstanding quality from Slocum Imports.
Germany and Austria The strength of the Slocum Imports portfolio resides predominantly with the selections from Germany and Austria. In fact, Slocum Imports acts as the national importer for many of these fine producers. This portfolio has a proven reputation as a leader within the industry offering an obsessively beautiful, hand-selected collection of wines. Several estates from Germany are amongst the most fabled names in the country while others represent creative innovation and value. Austria’s wine estates are generations old but are now managed by a young and innovative generation. They are the rising stars of today’s Austrian wine culture. Wine critics from around the world have confirmed the quality from these elite producers by singing praises of their wines.
An Assortment of German and Austrian Gems That Won’t Break the Bank
Germany Von Schleinitz VS Riesling Dry 2012 From the northern part of the Mosel comes this small estate, only 15 acres in all. Vineyards here are some of the steepest in the world and breathtakingly beautiful. All the fruit for this wine comes from the estate’s steep vineyards. WINE: Dry to off-dry style with beautiful hints of ripe apple and slate both in bouquet and flavor, balanced by firm crisp acidity. Schloss Schönborn Estate Riesling 2012 One of the oldest wine estates in Germany dating back to 1349 of family ownership. This is one of the greatest names of the Rheingau wine district if not in all of Germany. WINE: 100% estate-grown fruit coming from the some of the best sites in the region, this is a delicious wine offering flavors of peach and mineral entwined by a crunchy level of bright acidity. The finish is long and zesty. Typical of the Schönborn style, there is an air of aristocracy in the complexion of this beautiful wine. ISSUE 4 11
Diehl Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir) 2011 Simply one of the best value producers from Germany today. This is a state of the art family-owned winery from the Pfalz, the sunniest and driest of all Germany’s wine regions, an idyllic setting for the production of Pinot Noir and full-flavored Rieslings. WINE: One taste of this superbly delicious Pinot Noir and you will see for yourself what all the fuss is with this producer. The wine has power, richness and succulence, somewhat akin a new world style of Pinot. More velvety though, with a subtle essence of grace and elegance. The flavors are long with enough tannin to fill the palate, but not overpower it. Superbly crafted and simply delicious.
Austria Felsner Grüner Veltliner 2012 Manfred Felsner, owner of this estate is a firm believer in allowing Mother Nature to nurture his vineyards rather than using today’s modern technology of chemical application. The results are impressive. In fact, of all the Austrian wine estates represented by Slocum Imports, the Felsner wines have the most depth and concentration. They are powerfully complex wines with tremendous balance and sophistication. WINE: There are a number of Grüners available in liter bottles, but none offer the sophistication and depth of flavor as this beauty from Felsner. Felsner’s Grüner is made exclusively for Slocum & Sons and no expense has been spared in the production. There’s the typical Felsner depth of flavor here with superb balance. A classic Grüner, perfect for all occasions. Andreas Eder Grüner Veltliner 2011 Andreas Eder is an elite producer from Austria’s most important wine region, Wachau. Eder is capable of producing the most profound and intensely flavored Rieslings and Grüners within the Slocum Imports portfolio. This comes from a combination of the Wachau’s diverse soils ideally suited to Grüner Veltliner and Riesling, as well as Andreas Eder’s supreme gift as a master winemaker. He’s a quiet guy who lets his wines do all the talking. WINE: A perfect illustration of a beautifully-etched Grüner from this talented winemaker. A wine of power, richness and concentration, it is filled with flavors of spiced citrus awash in black pepper, mineral and light toast. This smorgasbord of flavors is accentuated by the wine’s refined, yet powerful level of acidity. Groiss Grüner Veltliner Alte Reben 2011 Prices are great, the wines are delicious and the packaging is fantastic. Herbert Groiss, owner and winemaker, believes in the principle of Integrated Production, allowing natural cultivation to be consistent with the laws of nature. The results speak for themselves, with Groiss being our biggest selling Austrian wine estate. WINE: The fruit for this wine comes from vines that are between 30-40 years old which are located in the estate’s Steinberg vineyard, comprised almost entirely of loess soil, ideally suited to the growth of superb Grüner Veltliner. These gnarly old vines provide more power and concentration of flavor in the wine, providing loads of opulence and succulence without losing any level of brilliance. A beauty.
DESCRIPTION ITEM # SIZE CASE BOTTLE FREIHERR VON SCHLEINITZ VS Riesling Dry 2012 1129212 750 ml $96 $9 SCHLOSS SCHÖNBORN Estate Riesling 2012 1126612 750 ml $144 $12.99 DIEHL Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir) 2011 1133511 750 ml $124 $11.33 FELSNER Grüner Veltliner 2012 2505712 1 L $112 $10.33 EDER Grüner Veltliner 2011 2506611 750 ml $136 $12.33 GROISS Grüner Veltliner Alte Reben 2011 2509911 750 ml $64 $11.66 ISSUE 4 12
THE WHAT THE HECK IS THAT? SPOTLIGHT Where the weird stuff gets explained!
RHUM CLEMENT CREOLE SHRUB This isn’t just another orange liqueur. It is a superb blend of the finest white and aged Agricole Rhums, married with macerated Créole spices and sun-bleached bitter orange peels. While Rhum Clement keeps that spicing recipe to themselves, we can at least imagine the basic gumbo seasoning lineup, cayenne, paprika, and allspice, as that’s what gives Creole cooking its identity. The Creole Shrubb is macerated in oak casks, and sweetened with pure sugarcane syrup. What results is a unique liqueur that bursts with luscious aromas and flavors reminiscent of Martinique. Use it as a replacement for Triple Sec or Grand Marnier, or simply end a meal with it in a snifter.
DESCRIPTION ITEM # SIZE CASE BOTTLE RHUM CLEMENT Creole Shrub 3141 750 ml $286.92 $24.99
Originality and Purity in Carneros
Imagine looking at the landscape of the far south of the Napa Valley in the late 1970’s. The cool, fog-influenced climate, the rolling hills, the soils that beg to raise great Pinot Noir and Chardonnay… the leisure suits. This was the view for Larry Brooks, the founder and winemaker at Acacia in 1979. He had a vision of producing world class Pinot Noir and Chardonnay that would come to define the styles of these varietals in California. Acacia has always strived to make elegant, balanced wines that are made to be enjoyed with great food.
Recognized as an AVA in 1983, Carneros brings the dual influences of cool climate and shallow soils to bear on the wines produced here. The challenging soil and low rainfall keep crop vigor in check, intensifying flavors in the fruit, while the maritime effect extends the growing season, preserving freshness and fineness in the wines. Both the Carneros Pinot Noir and Chardonnay convey the freshness and complexity of their varietals, and offer incredible value in these categories.
The A by Acacia wines are unbelievable values, bringing deep and complex flavors beyond their price point. This lineup includes Central Coast-sourced Chardonnay and Unoaked Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and a delicious dry red blend that marries Syrah and Tempranillo. These A by Acacia wines are also amazingly fast turners on the shelf, with an average turn rate that is one of the highest in the category! ISSUE 4 13
ONE FAMILY. ONE FIELD.
ESTATE GROWN . ESTATE DISTILLED . ESTATE BOTTLED
For over eight generations the Beckmann family has been at the center of the Tequila world–from the first distillery, started in 1758 by their ancestor, Jose Antonio de Cuervo–to today’s eighth generation descendant, and President of Tierra de Agaves, Jorge Beckmann. The beginnings of Lunazul itself started with Jorge’s father, and 7th generation descendant, Francisco Beckmann. Francisco sold his stake in the Cuervo Distillery in 1992, keeping his share of the agave fields, to pursue his personal goal–to distill the best small-batch Tequilas in the world. With this purpose in mind, he founded the Tierra de Agaves estate in 2004 and soon after began producing Lunazul 100% Agave Tequila. The Beckmann family is the oldest dynasty of tequila producers; no other family can match its rich and diverse history. And the tradition continues to this day with their spirituous agave expressions.
ONE FAMILY. ONE FIELD.
The Beckmann family is one of the largest independent agave growers in Mexico with 4,000 acres of land and over 4 million agave plants. Their knowledge of soil and weather conditions, as well as generations of experience, gives virtually unmatched care and development to their most valuable asset, the agave. The agaves come from a single region and are planted, cultivated and harvested by the same grower, Tierra de Agaves. Most importantly, this ensures a consistency of superior quality that no other brand can claim.
Lunazul Blanco Lunazul Reposado Lunazul Anejo Refreshing fruity nose Rested 6 months in used Aged for 12 to 18 months exhibiting tropical and Bourbon barrels. The nose in used Bourbon barrels. apples notes with a strong is subtle and fruity and has Initial aromas reveal background of salt and notes of grilled pineapple. charred oak with light citrus. A pure expression It tastes like lush caramel notes of dried plums and of natural agave. In the with layers of semi-sweet toasty almonds, then move mouth, Lunazul Blanco vanilla that emerge into to spice and vanilla. This has some weight and has oakiness and pure vanilla. anejo is full bodied and has a peppery edge, with ripe The finish is smoky with a balance of sweetness and fruit flavors and citrus, then hints of spice. pepper. It has a long lasting finishes with a hint warm finish with spice. of vanilla.
DESCRIPTION ITEM # SIZE CASE BOTTLE LUNAZUL Blanco 1220 1.75 L $194 $39.99 LUNAZUL Blanco 1234 1 L $195.92 $17.32 LUNAZUL Blanco 1246 750 ml $189.52 $16.79 LUNAZUL Reposado 1221 1.75 L $194 $39.99 LUNAZUL Reposado 1235 1 L $195.92 $17.32 LUNAZUL Reposado 1247 750 ml $189.52 $16.79 LUNAZUL Anejo 1056 750 ml $197 $19.99 ISSUE 4 14
Founded in 1977, the renowned Tequilera La Gonzalena blazed trails by being the only distillery authorized to produce tequila in the state of Tamaulipas and bringing the first ultra–premium tequila to the US in 1983. Bold and full-flavored, Chinaco isn’t designed for the timid, even taking its name from the legendary warriors who defended Mexico in the 1800s. Chinaco were the owners of large haciendas during the 18th and 19th centuries and became the legendary fighters, who were the tireless defenders of Mexico during the War of Reform (1850s) and the French Intervention (1863). The Chinaco Founder, Guillermo Gonzalez, was the great-grandson of the leader of the Chinacos. Today, the renowned distillery remains in the hands of Guillermo’s sons, who continue to handcraft the award-winning Chinaco with an unmatched passion for time-honored methods of distilling tequila from 100% blue agave. What makes Chinaco Unique? • Chinaco is the only distillery authorized to produce tequila in Tamaulipas, whereas other Tequila producing regions have hundreds! • Unlike those of Jalisco, the soils of Tamaulipas are loam, sand and clay, which may attribute to the pronounced minerality in Chinaco Tequila. • Chinaco is less than forty miles from the Gulf of Mexico on the country’s eastern coast. This proximity to the sea influences the flavor during the aging process, imparting a salinity and brininess to Chinaco. • Organic, Estate-Controlled Agave: Agaves for Chinaco are organic, as the plantations in Tamaulipas do not require fertilizers or herbicides.
Taste Originality and enjoy an expression of tequila terroir that only Chinaco can offer. “Our top-rated tequila, the Chinaco 10 MOST INFLUENTIAL SPIRITS BRANDS OF THE PAST 25 YEARS Blanco, garnered three and a half stars “Chinaco Añejo Tequila (1983). The packaging and the price matched the overall from the panel; it was also our high quality of this first super-premium tequila. Today, boutique tequilas best value. For me it was, simply, a are a dime a dozen (if by the dime you mean $1,000). But in 1983, this benchmark tequila” heady, perfectly balanced tequila was a revelation.” -New York Times -Wine & Spirits Magazine BLANCOS THAT WILL KNOCK YOUR SOCKS OFF! “The entire line is “One of the more seductive blanco aromas. In the mouth, superb and highly it’s mannered, sweet and delivers some old-fashion distinctive, with a agave heat and loads of chewy texture. My choice as the particularly rich, quintessential margarita base. filled-in quality to -Wine Enthusiast the body.” -Forbes THE BLACK BOTTLE Each Chinaco Negro bottle is a single cask selection under the “Extra Anejo” designation. Lost in the cellars of Tequilera la Gonzalena Distillery were 12 casks of aging tequila, 7 of which were deemed worthy enough to bottle under the exclusive Chinaco Negro label.
DESCRIPTION ITEM # SIZE CASE BOTTLE CHINACO Blanco 1503 750 ml $328 $28.33 CHINACO Reposado 1504 750 ml $440 $37.66 CHINACO Anejo 1505 750 ml $536 $45.66 CHINACO Negro Extra Anejo Lot 71 1506 750 ml $2,108 $176.66 ISSUE 4 15
[THE ART OF DRINK: Shaken and Stirred [ The Margarita
If there is one thing that we know for sure about the Margarita it’s that no one really knows where the cocktail came from. Actually, all the claims would make your head spin!
Some claims to the invention of the Margarita are: One of the earlier claims says Carlos “Danny” Herrera developed the drink at his Tijuana restaurant, Rancho La Gloria, around 1938 for an aspiring actress named Marjorie King who was allergic to all hard alcohol other than tequila and, to make the liquor more pleasant to this fussy client, he combined the elements of a traditional tequila shot: tequila, salt and a wedge of lime. In the celebrated Café Royal Cocktail Book, published in 1937, author William J. Tarling lists a cocktail called the Picador, which lists as its ingredients: tequila, Cointreau and lime juice. Do those ingredients ring a bell? One of the more popular stories involves Margarita Sames, a wealthy Dallas socialite who claimed she whipped up the drink for friends at her Acapulco vacation home in 1948, then named it after herself. One of her guests that day happened to be Tommy Hilton, who eventually helped this drink’s popularity by adding it to the bar menu at his hotel chain. Unfortunately, where the wrench gets thrown in for Mrs. Sames is, according to The Complete Book of Spirits by Anthony Dias Blue, the first importer of Jose Cuervo in the United States advertised with the tagline, “Margarita: it’s more than a girl’s name.” This was in 1945, three years before Sames claimed to have invented the drink. See what I mean by make your head spin? And these are just a few of the claims! We may just have to accept not knowing the Margarita’s historical background and just talk about something we do know; what’s in it!
A Margarita cocktail is tequila, orange liqueur and fresh lime juice at its most basic form. It is shaken with ice, strained, served up and garnished with a salted rim. It’s the perfect combination of salty, sour, sweet and bitter.
Try a couple of these recipes and forget about who invented it, you won’t get too far…
THE PERFECT MARGARITA THE CREOLE MARGARITA This is a simple Margarita and what makes it perfect is the This isn’t a Margarita you enjoy while listening to Jazz in the extraordinary, high quality ingredients and fresh juice. Chinaco’s Bayou while jamming a po’boy in your face. It’s a delectable, unique expression of agave and Luxardo’s intense expression of orangey tequila drink made with Rhum Clement’s Creole Shrub orange makes for an explosively refreshing drink. and a kick!
2 oz Chinaco Blanco Tequila 2 oz. Lunazul Blanco Tequila 1 oz Fresh Lime Juice ¾ oz. Rhum Clement Creole Shrubb ¾ oz Luxardo Triplum Triple Sec ½ oz. fresh orange juice ½ oz. fresh lime juice Rub the rim of a cocktail glass with a wedge of lime. Dip Rub ½ the rim of a rocks glass with a wedge of lime. Dip into kosher salt to coat the rim. Shake with ice and strain into kosher salt to coat ½ the rim. Shake with ice and strain into the glass. Garnish with a lime wedge. into the glass filled with ice. Garnish with a lime wedge and a light shake of ground cayenne pepper on the surface of the drink. ISSUE 4 16
APRIL WINE PICKS
Item # Case Bottle Case Savings ACACIA Chardonnay Carneros 2012 201005 $174 $15.50 ($65) ACACIA Pinot Noir Carneros 2012 5031305 $174 $15.50 ($65) CADE Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain 2009 5122609 $664 $74.99 ($32) CARRO Red Blend 2011 1722411 $72 $9.99 ($19) CAYMUS Belle Glos “Meiomi” 2012 5143712 $160 (12 pk) $19.99 ($81) CAYMUS Special Select Cabernet 2011 5039711 $560 (6 pk) $119.99 ($120) CHALONE Pinot Noir Monterey 5066904 $113 $12.99 ($42) CHALONE Cabernet, Chardonnay & Merlot All Listed $88 $9.99 ($31) CLICQUOT Brut N/V “Yellow Label” 375ml Lowest Price 18149 $499 $20.79 ($129) CLICQUOT Rose N/V 750ml Lowest Price 18077 $544 $49.99 ($93) CLINE Ancient Vine Zinfandel, Mourvedre & Cool Climate Pinot Noir All Listed $120 $14.99 ($25) FERRARI CARANO Fume Blanc 2012 Last Time Special Price 224512 $104 $12.99 ($40) GRAYSON CELLARS Cabernet, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir & Merlot All Listed $88 $9.99 ($8) HESS SELECT Cabernet Sauvignon 2011 5030204 $128 $14.99 ($24) HESS SELECT Malbec & Treo Red Blend All Listed $124 $14.99 ($28) LINE 39 Cabernet, Chard, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Sauv Blanc & Petite Sirah All Listed $84 $9.99 ($12) MACROSTIE Chardonnay Sonoma Coast 2012 5091712 $168 $15 ($16) MER SOLEIL (by Caymus) Chardonnay “Silver” Ceramic Bottle 5085212 $160 $19.99 ($129) PROVENANCE Cabernet Rutherford 2011 5033511 $336 $29 ($64) REDTREE Pinot Noir, Cabernet, Chard, Pinot Grigio, Zinfandel, Moscato All Listed $68 $8.99 ($20) RIFF Pinot Grigio (By Alois Lageder) 1263612 $80 $9.99 ($16) ROSEMOUNT Shiraz 1.5 L 1917603 $76.44 (6 pk) $16.99 ($18) ROSEMOUNT Chardonnay 1.5 L 19131 $67.44 (6 pk) $15.99 ($12.48) SEA RIDGE Chardonnay, Cabernet & Merlot, 1.5 L All Listed $40 $8.99 ($17.50) SEGURA VIUDAS Brut 18967 $80 $9.99 ($16) SEGURA VIUDAS Brut Rose 18209 $80 $9.99 ($16) PENFOLDS Thomas Hyland Shiraz 1922004 $105 $12.99 ($15) PENFOLDS Thomas Hyland Cabernet 1905103 $105 $12.99 ($15) PENFOLDS Thomas Hyland Chardonnay 1922103 $89 $10.99 ($15) VIETTI Barbera D’Asti Tre Vigne 6072811 $136 $12.33 ($17) YELLOW TAIL 1.5 L All Types $60.96 $11.99 ($10.50) APRIL SPIRIT PICKS
LADY BLIGH Spiced Rum 1.75 L w/250ml hitch hikers 3021 $99 $20.99 ($13) UV Vodka 750ml All Types $106 $11.99 ($12) UV Vodka 50ml All Types $79.20 $6.90 ($19.80) (120 pk) Sleeve VESICA Potato Vodka 750ml 1895 $108 $10 ($12)
NORTH HAVEN, CT . (203) 239-8000 . SLOCUMANDSONS.COM SLOCUM & SONS IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS. PRICES ARE SUBJECT TO AMENDMENT.