WOMC-News7/06 7/24/06 8:49 AM Page 1
NEWS FROM WINE OF THE MONTH CLUB Since 1972 August, 2006 Wines evaluated last month: 151 Rejected: 108 Approved: 43 Selected: 6 e welcome industry in Australia. This What’s New August as wine is another great the intensity example of Shiraz; rich in This Month of summer aromatics and mouth-feel, see page 2 W begins to wane. The wines the fruit is deep, ripe and it for this month are sure to is overall delicious. enhance all your summer parties and recipes. We LIMITED SERIES Send Us Your found some new and fun 2003 Tempranillo, e-mail Address! wines; White Merlot and Finca Sobreno, send to: Tempranillo, as well as Toro, Spain [email protected] the classics – Shiraz and There is a saying in Spain: Zinfandel. Enjoy! ‘tomando vino de Toro, mas que comer devoro’ – REGULAR SERIES drinking Toro wine is Congratulations to 2005 Cardiff, more devouring than Amy P. of Modesto, CA! White Merlot, eating. Well, we think that She is our Comment California you will devour this wine, Card winner of a Some say that White as it is as delicious as it is Merlot is on the way to reasonably priced. 3-Liter Bottle of wine. becoming the next big hit in the United States. We 2004 Zinfandel, are on the case with this Amazin X Winery, Gift Assortments appealing, unpretentious, Russian River Valley, see page 9 good summer quaffer. It is California a “must have” for all your The Zinfandel grape summer dining. makes world-class wines for daily enjoyment. If you New Member 2003 Shiraz, Rosenblum, enjoy wine, food, friends Application Mc Laren Vale, and family you will Australia certainly enjoy this for a Friend For much of the 20th Amazin wine from the see page 15 century, Shiraz has been Russian River Valley. the backbone of the wine
INSIDE THIS MONTH
WINE OF THE MONTH CLUB NEWS 1 ORDER FORMS 7–10 WHAT’S NEW?2UPCOMING EVENTS 11 REG. WHITE MERLOT, 2005. CARDIFF 3 WINE SHOPPE 12 REG. SHIRAZ, 2003. ROSENBLUM 4 ADVENTURES IN GOOD FOOD 13 LTD. TEMPRANILLO, 2003. FINCA SOBRENO 5 REGULAR & LTD TASTING NOTES 11, 14 LTD. ZINFANDEL, 2004. AMAZIN 6 WORD ON THE STREET 16 Join us on the Web: www.WineoftheMonthClub.com WOMC-News7/06 7/24/06 8:49 AM Page 2
A NOTE WHAT’S NEW THIS MONTH? FROM YOUR CELLARMASTER I should be more nationalistic. I should be more patriotic. I should be more in love with my ancestral country, Armenia. But I am not. Don’t get me wrong. We had a great time in the country. We were with lots of friends and saw some pretty amazing churches and sites. But as Joni Mitchell said, “You don’t know what Paul Kalemkiarian you’ve got until it’s gone,” life in a developing communist country is trying. Yes, a small Is it too hot? This weather in water bottle is only 30 cents and cigarettes are California is unbelievable. only $1, but a bartender only makes $200.00US Well, there are a few ways a month! Let me tell you about the wine. For to beat the heat. Slow the most part, it was awful. They have an down, wear light clothes and indigenous grape called Areni (r-n-ee). They have an early evening glass of this month's Rose use the grape for dry and sweet wine and I style wines. The Cardiff suppose it would make a decent wine if White Merlot (Regular vented properly. There was one bottle that was Series) is awesome for that palatable. It would never make the grade at chilled fruit. And the Iron Wine of the Month Club, but at least you Horse Rosato (Vintner didn’t immediately cough it up. So, my Series) is so complex; it goes buddies and I bought two bottles of this fine as an aperitif and as a wine and took it back to the hotel. Low dinner wine. and behold, when we went to drink them,
Salud! they both had gone through secondary fermentation and turned into yeast, red vinegar champagne! Yuck! Anyway, at least my accountant was on the trip with us, maybe Paul Kalemkiarian he’d let me write it off!
Membership in THE WINE OF THE MONTH CLUB and THE LIMITED SERIES 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
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DOMESTIC SELECTION
e all pretty harvested for this wine much know from some of the oldest the basics Merlot plantings in W about Merlot; Monterey County. 2005 was it is a red grape varietal that a spectacular vintage year produces easy-to- drink, for this area, so excellent soft, and fleshy wines. But, fruit was abundant. The what exactly is White juice was crushed and Merlot? White Merlot is fermented all in stainless made the same way as its steel. The wine has not famous cousin, White encountered any oak at all. 2005 Zinfandel and the wine is What is the result of a Merlot made the same way except without oak? A wine that is Cardiff that Merlot grapes are used fresh, fruity and appealing. instead of Zinfandel grapes. Vineyards When making standard The Cardiff White Merlot Merlot, the pressed juice has a beautiful pink color. White Merlot steeps with the grapes skins The nose is exuberant with (hwi¯t mare-lo) for a deep red color. smells of cotton candy, Remember, that all red wines peppermint, watermelon, California get their color from the and fresh picked straw- grape skins, not the juice. In berries. On the palate, the Color: wine is semi-dry, with just a the case of White Merlot, the Bright pink juice was only with the skins hint of sweet fruit, cherries, raspberries and crisp acidity. for a few brief moments, Nose: yielding a lighter color and You will find this a perfect Cotton candy, body. This blush wine is the summer sipper without perfect antidote for these breaking the bank. This is watermelon, cherry warm summer evenings and also a very food-friendly for pairing with our lighter wine and would love to sit Palate: summertime recipes. on the table with spicy Asian Semi-dry, crisp dishes, Thai curry, grilled acidity, strawberries, Cardiff Vineyards is located salmon, BBQ Chicken, red in the southern corner snapper or baked ham. On sweet fruit of Monterey County in page 13, Adventures in California. Their wine- Food, we have it paired with Finish: making goes back over 30 Cajun Marinated Chicken. Soft crisp finish years. Only the ripest Absolutely delicious! bunches of fruit were
CELLARING SUGGESTIONS 806A Retail Price: $10.99/each Special Member Price: $7.99/each Drink now, Reorder Price: $5.99/each not overly chilled 45% Discount $71.88/case
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IMPORTED SELECTION
he invincible and All of these factors are well- remarkable Dr. suited to grape growing. Rosenblum has Shiraz loves the heat and T done it again! Not dryness of the region. It only does he produce a bevy thrives in difficult terrain of high-quality, award- and soils. This wine was winning wines in California, crafted by blending the fruit he has recently branched from three premium vine- out to the ‘Down Under.’ yards, Minchella, Harvey Australia claims Shiraz as its “wits end” Vineyard, and own and the wines made Hillgrove Vineyard. from the Shiraz grape in Australia are the most The three lots were delicious in the world. So, it harvested and fermented stands to reason that when separately at the peak of 2003 Rosenblum wanted to try his ripeness. They were blended Rosenblum hand at making a Shiraz, he in Southern Australia and ventured to Australia. The then shipped to America. Jingalu region of McLaren Vale has Once in the United States, Shiraz had grapes planted there the wine was racked in new (shear- ahz) since 1838. It is bordered by barrels from the Rosenblum the city of Adelaide to the barrel collection. The label is McLaren Vale east, Sellicks Hill Range to made by a famed Aboriginal South Australia the south and the Gulf of St. artist named Jingalu. Vincent to the west. These Color: varying exposures cause The wine has a vibrant, dark Dark purple red many different climatic purple red color. The nose Nose: conditions. The cooling has intense sweet toasty oak Plum, black currant, influence of the water, the notes and perfumed smells blackberry of black currant, spice, and altitude of the hills, low Palate: rainfall and heat make it an blackberry. This is a deep, chewy, full-bodied wine Full-bodied, sweet ideal environment for many toasty oak, velvety with plenty of structure and grape varieties. There is also texture, deep, chewy a wide variety of soil types, flavors of deep, ripe red Finish: red sandy loam, grey loam, fruits. The finish is just end- Dry, lengthy finish sand, lime, and black loam. less. This wine is a keeper.
CELLARING SUGGESTIONS 806B Retail Price: $19.99/each Special Member Price: $10.99/each Enjoy over the Reorder Price: $7.99/each next 7-8 years 60% Discount $95.88/case
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IMITED ERIES L S SELECTION
n the early 1990’s, a in Spain. This means that the group of Rioja grapes in Toro are often winemakers ready weeks earlier than I became interested other regions, but to in Toro. Toro is a region in maintain tradition, the Spain, at the western end of growers wait to harvest until the Duero River Valley near after October 10th. This the Portuguese border. results in wines that are Many Spanish wine naturally high in alcohol producers claim that the and ripeness. 2003 grapes produced in their Finca Sobreño was founded regions have unique in 1998 and owns 197 acres characteristics and qualities, Finca Sobreno of vineyards. The vineyards influenced by the each areas are over 30 years old and are special mix of climate, soil Tempranillo all 100% Tinta de Toro, and weather. The best (teh-prah-nee-ho) pruned “en vaso” (bush example of this is the vines). The winery uses only Tempranillo grape, the Spain new American oak barrels backbone grape of Spanish and bottles only the very wines. Some believe that the best juice from each hand- Color: grape started out as Pinot picked vintage. Deep dark red Noir from Burgundy and after it was transplanted to The Finca Sobreno Crianza Nose: Spain, developed its own has a dark deep red color. Earthy, spice, Spanish characteristics. The nose is very aromatic vanilla, sandalwood Tempranillo is grown all with spice, vanilla, sandal- over Spain and has adapted wood, and fruit. The palate Palate: to the many different soils is dry and full-bodied with a Full-bodied, and climates. In the Ribero nice balance of spice, rich, complex, spice, del Duero region, it is known ripe fruit and firm tannins. as Tinto del Pais and in the The Crianza indicates that blueberry, firm Toro region, it is called the wine has spent 7-8 tannins Tinta de Toro. This region months in oak. The finish is experiences hot dry long and spicy. Here is a Finish: summers, very cold winters good companion for red Dry, oaky finish and low rainfall. Toro is also meats and game dishes. one of the sunniest regions
CELLARING SUGGESTIONS L806C Regular Price: $19.99/each
Drink now or Reorder Price: $17.99/each cellar for 3-5 years 10% Discount $215.88/case
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IMITED ERIES L S SELECTION
infandel attracts vines that are 75 to 100 years the most loyal and old. Zinfandel aficionados enthusiastic fans believe that these old vines Z of any wine produce the best wines. variety in California. It is At its best, Zinfandel has the only varietal that has its a very fruity, raspberry own organized consumer jam quality. fan club. What fuels the passions of these thousands Amazin Zinfandel is made of Zinfandel lovers? It could with attention to detail and be the mystery surrounding is ‘true to form’ for a perfect the grapes origins. It has example of Zinfandel from been traced to Croatia where Russian River Valley. Many it was named Crljenak. It is Zinfandel devotees believe also the genetic twin to the that the Russian River Valley 2004 Primitivo grape grown in grows the finest Zinfandel X Winery Italy. Zinfandel came to the grapes in the state. United States in 1820 when True to its name, Amazin Amazin a New York nurseryman Zinfandel crackles with Zinfandel brought back multiple Russian River fruit and (zin-fan-del) cuttings from his travels finesse. The color is brilliant overseas. It eventually made dark violet. The nose is Russian River its way to California and is assertive with anise, black Valley now considered indigenous pepper, bramble berries to California. The grape is as California and cinnamon. versatile as Chardonnay in Color: that it can produce many It is full-bodied and loaded Dark violet different styles of wine. It with red fruit on the palate. Nose: can be light and fruity, much The finish lingers with ripe Anise, black pepper, like Beaujolais but can also fruit and spice. It is best bramble berries be complex and age worthy drunk young or within 3 to 5 Palate: like Cabernet Sauvignon. years while the fruit is still Dry, rich, raspberry, The vines are vigorous and brimming. Perhaps this wine red licorice very disease resistant. For is another reason Zinfandel Finish: this reason, there are many has such ardent followers. Lengthy finish Zinfandel vineyards with
CELLARING SUGGESTIONS L806D Regular Price: $19.99/each
Drink now or Reorder Price: $17.99/each cellar for 2-3 years 10% Discount $215.88/case
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IMITED ERIES L EARLIERS SELECTIONS
REGULAR MEMBER ITEM # DESCRIPTION PRICE/ DISC. QTY. REORDER PRICE/ TOTAL UNIT CASE/EACH Tempranillo, 2003. Finca Sobreno $215.88/cs L806C $19.99 10% “Earthy, sandalwood, spice” $17.99/ea Zinfandel, 2004. Amazin $215.88/cs L806D $19.99 10% “Anise, bramble berries, pepper” $17.99/ea Chardonnay, 2003. Tin Pony $191.88/cs L706C $19.99 20% “Green apple, cling peaches, vanilla” $15.99/ea Merlot, 2003. Monticello $239.88/cs L706D $22.99 13% “Olive, cherry, black licorice” $19.99/ea Rioja, 2002. Vina Salceda $227.88/cs L706E $20.99 10% “Dark cherry, spice, cinnamon” $18.99/ea Sauvignon Blanc, 2005. Phantom Rivers $227.88/cs L706F $20.99 10% “Lime, melon, grapefruit” $18.99/ea Red Blend, 2000. Fife Scarlet $239.88/cs L606C $39.99 50% “Cassis, dark chocolate, sweet cherry” $19.99/ea Pinot Gris, 2005. Norfolk Rise $155.88/cs L606D $17.99 28% “Pear, musk, exotic fruits” $12.99/ea Red Blend, 2000. Parador $227.88/cs L606E $29.99 37% “Blackberry,SOLD smokey, OUT sage” $18.99/ea Sauvignon Blanc, 2004. Allan Scott $167.88/cs L606F $17.99 22% “Citrus, lime, melon” $13.99/ea Pinot Blanc, 2004. Martin Schaetzel $179.88/cs L506C $19.99 25% “Hazelnut, vanilla, marigold” $14.99/ea Cabernet Sauv., 2003. Goundrey $191.88/cs L406C $19.95 20% “Blueberry,LIMITED cocoa, smoke” $15.99/ea Merlot, 2000, Fife $202.80/cs L406D $23.95 30% “Dark inkyLIMITED red, blueberry” $16.90/ea Sylvaner, 2005. Rancho Sisquoc $131.40/cs L406E $14.95 27% “Honeydew,SOLD sweet OUT pear, spice” $10.95/ea Chardonnay, 2003. Sandoval $167.40/cs L406F $16.49 16% “Dry,SOLD lush, caramel, OUT apple pie” $13.95/ea Red Blend, 2004. X Winery $179.88/cs L306C $18.99 21% “Rich cherry, blackberry, cassis” $14.99/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-News7/06 7/24/06 8:49 AM Page 8
EGULAR ERIES R EARLIERS SELECTIONS
REGULAR MEMBER ITEM # DESCRIPTION PRICE/ DISC. QTY. REORDER PRICE/ TOTAL UNIT CASE/EACH White Merlot, 2005. Cardiff $71.88/cs 806A $10.99 45% “Watermelon, cotton candy, cherry” $7.99/ea Shiraz, 2003, Rosenblum $95.88/cs 806B $19.99 60% “Plum, black currant, berry” $7.99/ea Cabernet Sauvignon, 2004. King Fish $83.99/cs 706A $15.99 56% “Black plums, cedar, currants” $6.99/ea Sauvignon Blanc, 2004, Coppola $71.88/cs 706B $14.99 60% “Tropical fruit, pears, figs” $5.99/ea Chardonnay, 2005. Sycamore Lane $71.88/cs 606A $10.99 46% “Fresh apple, pear, peach” $5.99/ea Cabernet Sauvignon, 2003. Feudo Arancio $89.88/cs 606B $12.99 40% “Black currants, spices, black plums” $7.49/ea Merlot, 2003. Sonoma Creek $107.88/cs 506C $12.99 31% “Blueberries, plum, cedar” $8.99/ea Torrontes, 2005. St. Lucas $71.88/cs 506B $11.99 50% “Aromatic, passion fruit, melon” $5.99/ea Viognier, 2005. Steel Creek $83.88/cs 406A $10.99 37% “Dry, rich, pear, peach” $6.99/ea Carmenere, 2005. Gracia $95.88/cs 406B $12.99 39% “Dark spices, black pepper” $7.99/ea Merlot, 2001. Armstrong Ridge $95.88/cs 306A $14.99 47% “Lush, ripe plums, mint” $7.99/ea Mendoza White, 2004. Apalooza $83.88/cs 306B $9.99 30% “Flowers,SOLD mineral, OUT citrus” $6.99/ea Sauvignon Blanc, 04. Grove Street $83.88/cs 206A $12.99 46% “Pineapple,LIMITED banana, pears” $6.49/ea Cabernet Sauvignon, 02. Deakin $95.88/cs 206B $12.99 38% “Black Currant, mint, chocolate” $7.99/ea Merlot, 1999. Havens $107.88/cs 106C $22.50 60% “Red cherry cola, plum” $8.99/ea Sauvignon Blanc, 2004. Deakin $83.88/cs 106B $11.99 41% “Tropical fruit, pear, citrus” $6.99/ea Sub-Total 8.25% CA Sales Tax S&H TOTAL 8 WOMC-News7/06 7/24/06 8:49 AM 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 2006 GIFT BASKETS TOCB TOUCH OF CLASS Basket includes: One bottle of 2002 ESTRADA CREEK ZINFANDEL, Wine and Cheese Crackers, Camembert Cheese, Assorted Hard Candies. Delivered in a wooden wine caddy suitable for display. #TOCB $44.99 + $3.71 CA Sales Tax + $11.00 Shipping & Handling ($15.00 outside CA) $44.99 WCB WINE CELEBRATION BASKET Basket includes: One bottle of 2004 POSTALES CABERNET/MALBEC, Santa Barbara Olives, Zesty Cheddar Cheese Spread, Wine and Cheese Crackers, Honey Mustard Sourdough Nuggets, Camambert Cheese, Cutting Board Paddle, Cheese Spreader, Assorted Hard Candies. Delivered in a copper wine bucket. #WCB $49.99 + $4.12 CA Sales Tax + $14.00 Shipping & Handling ($19.50 outside CA) $49.99 VIP THE VIP BASKET Basket includes: One bottle of 2002 AGUSTINOS MERLOT, one bottle 2004 OAKHURST CHARDONNAY, Wine and Cheese Crackers, Zesty Cheddar Cheese Spread, Camembert Cheese Spread, Summer Sausage, Fontazzi Popcorn, Honey Mustard Sourdough Nuggets, Ron Ranch Honey Roasted Peanuts, Mrs. Mays Cashew Crunch, Parmesan Bruschetta Crackers, Brent and Sam’s Gourmet Cookies, Nathan’s Crips, Almond Roca, Lindt Assorted Truffles, After Eight Dark Chocolate Biscuits, Harry & David Milk Chocolate Bars, Stahmann’s Pecan Briggle, Demitasse Minis, Mrs. Beasley’s Chocolate Chip Cookies, Assorted hard Candies. Delivered in a large rectangular basket with liner. #VIP + $111.00 + $9.16 CA Sales Tax + $14.00 Shipping & Handling ($19.50 outside CA) $111.00 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 United Parcel Service and are quality. Call us for weekend delivery. guaranteed to arrive in perfect condition. *Gift wrapping included. 9 WOMC-News7/06 7/24/06 8:49 AM 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
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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-News7/06 7/24/06 8:49 AM Page 11
IMITED ERIES L TASTINGS NOTES
TEMPRANILLO, 2003. FINCA SOBRENO ZINFANDEL , 2004. AMAZIN X WINERY 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.
August 2002 Sauvignon Blanc, 2002. Morgan. Drink now. Tempranillo, 1999. Clos du Bois. Drink now. August 2003 Barbera d’ Asti, 2001. Garitina. Drink through 2007. Aix-en-Provence, 1999. Moulin de la Dame. Drink now. August 2004 Zinfandel, 2002. Jessie’s Grove. Drink through 2007. Pinot Noir, 2001. Pessagno. Drink through 2006. August 2005 Malbec, 2003. Del Fin Del Mundo. Drink or hold. Cabernet Sauvignon, 1999. Santo Stefano. Drink now or hold through 2007.
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 1-800-949-9463
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 Susan at THE WINE OF THE MONTH CLUB 1-800-949-9463 or email [email protected]
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The Wine Shoppe
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!
Wine Appreciation Classes Third Wednesday of each month. For info, call 1-800-949-9463
MEMBER COMMENTS “Look forward to receiving your “Love your service, specials and selections and sharing them with especially the wine!” friends and family. Always excellent J.F., MONTROSE, CA wines.” J.C., CLOVERDALE, CA “We always look forward to our selections – every bottle is a winner! “Everyone there is so nice and the wine P.G., LA MESA, CA is always incredible. I really love the $6.00 a bottle reorder price. I stock up “We belong to all 3 Levels and have when I see that!” been Members since the early days!” N.D., ALTA LOMA, CA B.P., HUNTINGTON BEACH, CA
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ADVENTURES IN GOOD FOOD Perfectly paired with the Cardiff White Lightly oil the grill grate. Drain the chicken Merlot, this simple and yummy recipe and discard the marinade. Place the chicken for Cajun Chicken will make a most on the hot grill and cook for 6-8 minutes on memorable meal. each side, or until juices run clear.
WHITE MERLOT MARINATED Serve with Basmati rice, a green salad, and a CAJUN CHICKEN delicious glass of Cardiff White Merlot.
Serves 10.
INGREDIENTS: So rich and jammy, the Jingalu Shiraz is a perfect choice for this elegant entrée. If you 2 cups vegetable oil like, you can substitute beef for the venison. 2 Tbsp. Cajun seasoning 1 cup White Merlot VENISON MEDALLIONS WITH FRUIT SAUCE 2 Tbsp. dried Italian-style seasoning 2 Tbsp. lemon pepper Serves 2. Garlic powder to taste INGREDIENTS: 10 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves – 12 ounces venison tenderloin pounded to half inch thickness 2 cups Jingalu Shiraz PREPARATION: 2 Tbsp. soy sauce
In a large shallow dish, mix the oil, Cajun 2 cloves garlic, pressed or minced seasoning, Italian seasoning, wine, garlic 2 Tbsp. butter or oil powder and lemon pepper. Place the chicken Salt and pepper in the dish and thoroughly coat with the 2 Tbsp. fruit preserves, jam or marmalade mixture. Cover and refrigerate for one hour. PREPARATION: Preheat the grill for high heat. Remove any fat from the tenderloin and slice into 6 one-inch thick medallions Mix the wine, soy sauce and garlic in a non- reactive container or a zip-lock plastic bag. Add medallions and marinate for about an hour. Remove the medallions from the marinade and pat dry. Cook marinade over medium-high heat until reduced to about a half cup and then stir in fruit preserves and set aside. Heat skillet, add butter or oil. Lightly salt and pepper the medallions. When skillet is hot, add meat and cook to desired doneness, but not past medium (pink center). While the meat cooks, it will only take a few minutes, bring the marinade to a boil and reduce to one-fourth cup. Serve medallions on a warm plate and spoon the sauce over.
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TASTING NOTES
WHITE MERLOT, 2005. CARDIFF SHIRAZ, 2003. ROSENBLUM 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. August 2002 Shiraz/Cab, 2001. Banrock Station. Drink through 2005. Pinot Blanc, 2001. Steel Creek. Drink up. August 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon, 2000. Soscol Ridge. Drink through 2005. Viognier, 2001. Steel Creek. Drink now. August 2004 Malbec, 2003. St. Lucas. Drink now through 2010. Viognier, 2003. Montoya. Drink now through 2006. August 2005 Zinfandel, 2002. Estrada Creek. Drink through 2006. Chardonnay, 2004. Oakhurst. Drink now.
MEMBER INQUIRY For any wine lover, storing wine Storing wines after they have is very important. First we need I am curious about been opened can be challenging. to realize your wine storing how to store my wines There are gas systems and motivations. There are usually they are expensive. There are three: storing wines for the short properly and also Vacu-vin systems and then there term, storing wines for the long how long should is an inert spray called Wine haul and storing wine (or I keep them? Preserve, which displaces the saving) wines that have already Thanks! oxygen in the bottle before you been opened. Short-term storage return the cork. It is best to is for wines that you will – E.G., CUCAMONGA, CA consume open bottles as soon consume within 6 months. These as possible after opening. are bottles you just bought at the around the refrigerator. It’s hot, Knowing how long to age wines store for dinner or bottles that light, and vibrates. Long-term can be tricky. Heavy, complex have been pulled from long-term storage is for wines that you will wines will gain complexity and storage to be consumed soon. keep for more than 6 months. lose fruitiness as they age. The closer you can store all Again, you will need a place that Tannic wines will become your wines at ideal standards, is dark, free of vibrations and mellow and softer. Vintage, the better. Keep the bottles so odors. Ideally, the temperature producer and grape varietal are that the cork stays moist, the should be 50 to 55 degrees also factors to consider. It is best wines are at the lowest stable Fahrenheit and 70 percent to check with your trusted temperature possible, and the humidity to keep the corks from retailer as to how long to keep a location is free of vibration and drying. A lower temperature wine or if it is best consumed other odors. Keeping the wines is preferred, but a constant soon. Good luck! in an interior closet is a good temperature is preferable to one solution. Do not store them on or that fluctuates.
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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 $18.45 (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
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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.
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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-News7/06 7/24/06 8:49 AM Page 16
WORD FOR MEMBERS ONLY... ON THE STREET Can’t find it? What others are saying about our selections! Gotta have it? March 2006 Selections: We source wine from all over the world. Special vintages for birthdays, Estrada Creek Zinfandel anniversaries, you name it. We also “What a great tasting wine!” have access to old and rare cellars. This wine has been seen on Let us help you find a rare wine. several wine lists for $35.00 and $40.00. Call or email us with your rare wine Our re-order price is $6.99. specifications and let us do the work. It’s good to be a member, We can’t guarantee we’ll find it, but don’t you think? 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-News7/06 7/24/06 8:49 AM Page 17
IMITED ERIES L S SELECTION
auvignon Blanc is pocketbook. The wines have known as the won trophies and awards in flagship grape in New Zealand and overseas. S New Zealand. It is Justin Papesch is the wine- the varietal that put New maker and he firmly Zealand on the wine map. believes that winemaking The Sauvignon Blanc made is a team effort which in New Zealand is unrivaled starts in the vineyard with and for good reasons. First Mother Nature. He likes to and foremost, the flavors stay on the cutting edge of 2003 cannot be duplicated and winemaking practices and they are delicious. combines innovative flair Marlborough with classic winemaking Like a jewel sparkling in the techniques. With his hands- Pacific sun, Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc on approach in the winery sits at the top of the South (saw-veen-yahn blah) and in the vineyards, Justin Island of New Zealand. It is makes wines that are a region with breath-taking characteristic of the Marlborough beauty. It also boasts the renowned Marlborough New Zealand most sunshine hours in all of region. New Zealand. The secret of Color: Marlborough is in the ter- This Sauvignon Blanc is a rain, the sun-baked plains clear, light yellow in color. Clear light yellow and riverbeds, the warm The nose is fresh and days and crisp, cool nights. forward with smells of Nose: If you believe that great wine limes, mandarins, white Limes, mandarin, is made in the vineyard, then pepper and dill. The palate is white pepper Marlborough Sauvignon soft and fresh with peach Blanc will confirm it. fruit, limeade, grapefruit Palate: and some spice. It finished Dry, light-bodied, Marlborough Wines is a clean and crisp. You can peach, lemons, limes privately owned winery never go wrong serving this established in 1997. Their wine with Caesar salad or Finish: mission has always been to soft cheeses. It is also a great make quality wines with a Crisp clean finish aperitif before dinner. ‘hands-on’ approach that are easy to drink and easy on the
CELLARING SUGGESTIONS L806E Regular Price: $17.99/each
Drink now Reorder Price: $14.99/each slightly chilled 17% Discount $179.88/case
1-800-949-WINE • www.wineofthemonthclub.com WOMC-News7/06 7/24/06 8:49 AM Page 18
IMITED ERIES L S SELECTION
oughton Wine Blanc to make dry wines as Company well as luscious dessert began in 1836. wines. The Semillon in H It is located in Western Australia makes Western Australia, the oldest complex, long-lived wines wine region in all of and blends beautifully with Australia. Western Australia Sauvignon Blanc. The round, is very large and is rich with viscous texture and fig, minerals, pristine white lemon-drop flavors of beaches and home to the rare Semillon complement giant karri trees. The area is Sauvignon’s Blanc crisp, cooled by the breezes off the herbaceous personality. Indian Ocean and is blessed with soils that grapevines 2005 was a perfect vintage 2005 love. Houghton has always for both Semillon and been and still remains at the Sauvignon Blanc. It was Houghton forefront of viticultural very warm throughout the Sauvignon awareness, innovation and growing season, but never tradition in Western too hot. This long growing Blanc/Semillon Australia. Their wines season guaranteed ideal (saw-veehn- represent the superb fruit of ripening and flavors. The yawn- blahn / the region. The winery wine was fermented in sehm-ee-yon) built its reputation from the stainless steel and was Swan Valley legendary Jack Mann, bottled early to encourage its winemaker at Houghton for freshness and fruit appeal. Western 51 vintages. His passion and Australia It shows a clear, pale yellow genius was to produce wines Color: with great quality, character color with hints of lime. and regional character. His The nose is exuberant with Pale yellow with legend earned Houghton citrus, melon, freshly cut lime tints the reputation as Western grass and a touch of smoke. Nose: Australia’s finest winery. The palate is smooth and Herbaceous, citrus, Today, Winemaker Rob soft with vibrant acidity, and melon, smoky Bowen remains true to the flavors of melon and citrus. history of the winery. His This is an elegant wine Palate: winemaking is an example which expresses the quality Dry, medium- of excellence. and purity of the fruit in bodied, mineral, Western Australia. It will melon, crisp acidity Semillon is a leading grape pair beautifully with fruit Finish: varietal in France’s salads, pasta with light Lengthy, mouth- cream sauce or halibut. Bordeaux region, where it is watering finish blended with Sauvignon
CELLARING SUGGESTIONS L806F Regular Price: $17.49/each
Drink now Reorder Price: $14.99/each slightly chilled 14% Discount $179.88/case
1-800-949-WINE • www.wineofthemonthclub.com