WOMC-News1008 9/17/08 4:24 PM Page 1

NEWS FROM OF THE MONTH CLUB Since 1972 October 2008 evaluated last month: 372 Rejected: 348 Approved: 24 Selected: 6

What’s New “ bottle of you will find that it pairs This Month? wine begs beautifully with a lot of to be shared; different recipes. see page 2 I have never met a miserly wine LIMITED SERIES Send Us Your A lover.” e-mail Address! Le Chene Noir, 2006. -CLIFTON FADMAN . Cotes du send to: Rhone, [email protected] REGULAR SERIES This is a beautiful wine Lawson Ranch, 2005. made in a beautiful village Is this cool or what? . Monterey in and it California LOG ONTO comes with a beautiful www. We will always be in price tag. A hearty blend love with Merlot. It of Rhone , it is wineofthemonthclub.com may rise and fall in a perfect autumn wine. and click on popularity but that does Cheers! “Live Help” and you will not change the fact that be connected instantly the wine is delicious! Beronia, 2005. to one of our This is classic Merlot... . Membership Service Reps! soft and smooth with just the right price. Bodega Beronia pride themselves on making Gift Orders high quality wines. They Baguala, 2007. want to share with you the see page 9 Torrontes. Calchaqui centuries-old history in Valley, New Member every bottle. This is a Besides , benchmark of Rioja, Application Torrontes is at the heart elegant aromas and flavors for a Friend of Argentina wine- with just the right amount see page 15 making. This is a great of . white alternative and INSIDE THIS MONTH

WINEOFTHEMONTH CLUB NEWS 1 ORDER FORMS 7–10 WHAT’S NEW?2WOMC WINE RATING SCHEDULE 11 REG. MERLOT, 2005. LAWSON RANCH 3 MEMBER COMMENTS 12 REG. TORRONTES, 2007. BAGUALA 4 ADVENTURES IN GOOD FOOD 13 LTD. GRENACHE, 2006. LE CHENE NOIR 5 REGULAR & LTD TASTING NOTES 14, 11 LTD. TEMPRANILLO, 2005. BERONIA 6 WORD ON THE STREET 16 Join us on the Web: www.WineoftheMonthClub.com WOMC-News1008 9/17/08 4:24 PM Page 2

A NOTE WHAT’S NEW THIS MONTH? FROM YOUR CELLARMASTER We have talked about how the Wine of the Month Club is about family. My family. Your family. We have talked about how the Wine of the Month Club started as a business to help the wine consumer, not necessarily to sell bottles of wine. Did you get my email from last month regarding the movie “Bottle Shock?” (If you Paul Kalemkiarian didn’t, call us to update your email address at (800) 949-9463.) This movie is a great example of Hang on to your hats, how the wine business is about family and Katie, bar the door. The neighbors. There is no other wine club or even wines we have in store wine shop that can tell the stories that we can for you to close out 2008 tell about Chateau Montelana and the movie are remarkable. I am “Bottle Shock.” punching myself in the Unfortunately, I don’t have the page space here arm right now. Check out to tell the whole story, but would be happy to our new gift catalog email you the complete story upon your request. (enclosed with your In 1976, in a blind tasting of Chardonnays, shipment) . . . another an upstart California shocked the arm punch! sophisticated world by beating their best Burgundies. I can tell you that the owner of Salud! Chateau Montelana, Jim Barratt, was very close to my father when he owned Palos Verdes Wines and Spirits. In fact, I used to surf with his son when we were at Palos Verdes High Paul Kalemkiarian School together.

Membership in THE WINE OF THE MONTH CLUB is open to anyone with an interest in and an appreciation for superb wines... and excellent wine values. Membership is FREE. For more info write: WINE OF THE MONTH CLUB P.O. Box 660220, Arcadia, CA 91066 Or call: 1-800-949-WINE (9463) or (626) 303-1690 FAX: (626) 303-2597 Visit us at: www.WineoftheMonthClub.com Newsletter written by: Elizabeth Schweitzer, Master

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DOMESTIC SELECTION

onterey County Rob Lawson is is located along a third-generation Napa the beautiful winemaker and has made M coast of wine with the great Mondavi California south of San family, the Napa Wine Francisco. The area is not Company, and the Folio a likely candidate for wine Wine Company before growing. It is so dry that setting out to make his own irrigation is mandatory label Lawson Ranch. This and the fog rolls in from is Merlot in its purest the Pacific and cools the expression. True Merlot northern region so the should have a round mouth- cannot ripen. feel, soft, juicy and Between 1968 and the just enough oak to make mid-seventies, vines were it interesting. Lawson hand- 2005 planted and it is now the selected the finest Merlot most heavily planted region grapes for his wine. The Lawson in all of California. The grapes were hand-sorted southern part of Monterey, and only the ripest was Ranch the Salinas valley, is warm used. He fermented the wine Merlot and sunny. The majority of in stainless steel and after it (mare-low) the vines are planted here. was pressed, the wine spent The major growing areas, 6 months in the company of Monterey, Arroyo Grande, Chalone, French oak. The wine is California Carmel Valley, and the balanced and delicious. It Santa Lucia Highlands grow shows a deep ruby color. The Color: premium grapes and are nose is friendly with fresh Deep ruby sold to prominent wine- aromas of blue , Nose: makers throughout the state. blackberries and wild Blue berries, You cannot make great wine cherry. The palate is medium blackberries, without great grapes and bodied with soft juicy for every winemaker, the tannins, some and wild cherry building blocks of their craft integrated tannins. The juicy Palate: begins with where the lingering finish entices you Medium-bodied, soft grapes were grown. The for another sip. Pair with juicy tannins, spice, grapes from Monterey medium spice dishes, integrated tannins County are coveted for their roasted pork, veal or Finish: distinct flavors and “sense minestrone soup. Lingering finish of place”. Monterey has over 85 growers and vintners with over 40,000 WOMC Rating acres of vines. 86 Points

CELLARING SUGGESTIONS 1008A Retail Price: $12.99/each Special Member Price: $10.85/each Enjoy now Reorder Price: $6.99/each through 2010 46% Discount $83.88/case

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IMPORT SELECTION

he of and developed throughout Finca la Buena are the song. Torrontes is the located in the signature white grape of T Calchaqui Valley Argentina. The grape and are among the highest in produces wine that is the world. Calchaqui Valley distinct and aromatic. Not is in Northwest Argentina. too long ago you would be The soil is fertile, the hard-pressed to find a bottle climate is dry and the of Torrontes to drink. Now summers are cool. What a the grape has gained great combination for wine- popularity and is quickly growing! Finca La Buena has rising in rank as the new over 500-acres planted 8 white alternative. We are 2007 years ago of Torrontes, proud to keep you posted Malbec, , Merlot, and and up-to-date with this Baguala . Way up in this trend with this Baguala corner of Argentina is the Torrontes. Torrontes is Torrontes cowboy heartland. It is the indigenous to Argentina and (tore-ahn- tez) “Texas” of Argentina. In is also grown in Chile for the early 19th century, the Pisco (the national drink Calchaqui Valley gaucho wars were fought of Chile). DNA shows a Argentina and the area won its relationship to independence and has since but they are not the same Color: gone its own way to being grape. Torrontes likes dry, Soft yellow with the Wild West of the country. windy conditions and hints of lime The land is covered with produces fragrant full- Nose: vines, Peruvian horses, bodied wines. It has a soft Fragrant, floral, farms and cattle. yellow color with hints of apricot, white lime. The nose is fragrant grapefruit, limeade Baguala is the national with white flowers, apricot, music of the mountain white grapefruit and limes. Palate: people of Argentina. The The palate is full-bodied, Full-bodied, music is uplifting and full crisp and dry with lemon, crisp, dry, lemon, of rhythms from various grapefruit, almond and grapefruit, instruments such as the citrus flavors. The finish is almonds, citrus guitar, drums, percussion soft and lingering, this will blocks and vocals. The Finish: pair nicely with Caesar Soft and lingering baguala has Indian origins salad, veal marsala and and is a chant composed of a macaroni and . (see WOMC Rating simple built on three our recipe on page 13.) notes and then improvised 86 Points

CELLARING SUGGESTIONS 1008B Retail Price: $11.99/each Special Member Price: $8.99/each Drink now Reorder Price: $6.99/each through 2009 42% Discount $83.88/case

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IMITED ERIES L S SELECTION

ne of the most du Rhone. 95 communes are beautiful places in authorized to use the is Provence Villages designation. The O France. The appellation controls yields to Provencal sun, the mistral 38 hectoliters per hectare, winds, the smell of lavender, Grenache is required at not the miles of vineyards and, less than 50%, 20% must be of course, the fresh sea air Syrah and/or Mourvedre, combine to make this a the last 20% must be of other 2006 paradise on earth. Le Chene accepted varietals, and the Noir is located in the village alcohol must be at least 12%. Le Chene of Cairanne on the left bank The grapes for Le Chene of the Rhone River. Cairanne Noir were hand-harvested Noir is a lovely old village in the and macerated for 8 days Grenache, Syrah, heart of wine country. The to fully extract the color, , village sits on a hilltop flavor and tannins. The soil with views of the vineyards, in Cairanne is clay and Cinsault the other tiny villages and limestone and this gives the (greh-nahsh, serr-ah, kare-een-yahn, sin-so) landscape. The Knights wine a certain rustic flavor. Hospitalers lived here in the 30% of the grapes went Cotes du Rhone 12th century and basically through carbonic France not much has changed. The which rounded the tannins buildings have been restored and freshened the fruit Color: and some of the walls flavors. Le Chene Noir pours Deep ruby violet remain from the days of the a deep ruby violet color. The Nose: knights. Just outside these aromas of small berries, Strawberries, walls is the 17th –century strawberries, raspberries, raspberries, chapel, Notre-Dame des red fruit jam and greet red currant Exec which was built to you at the glass. The palate is house the citizens who dry, full-bodied and packed Palate: caught the plague in an with red fruit flavors laced Dry, full-bodied, attempt to prevent with a rustic charm and soft rustic, red fruit jam, contaminating the rest of tannins. It is great to drink spices, tannins the village. now with beef stew or Finish: roast meats and will also Beautiful long finish Le Chene Noir carries the cellar nicely for several distinction of AOC Cotes du more years. Rhone Village. This AOC is a WOMC Rating notch up from generic Cotes 87 Points

CELLARING SUGGESTIONS L1008C Retail Price: $21.99/each Special Member Price: $19.99/each Great to drink now and Reorder Price: $17.99/each through 2013 18% Discount $215.88/case

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IMITED ERIES L S SELECTION

ocated in the Rioja less -ageing, fresher Alta region of fruit flavors and better Spain, Beronia structure. Tempranillo is a L takes its name grape that loves the chalky after the natives, “the clay soils and temperate Berones” who inhabited the climate of Rioja. It is the region in the third century regal grape used to make the BC. Even way back then, the great Rioja wines. Jesus land was under vine. Its selected only the healthiest calcareous clay slopes and bunches of grapes. He 2005 near perfect climate creates fermented in stainless steel the ideal environment for for fruit freshness and then Beronia grapevines. The foundation laid the wine to rest for only of the Beronia traditions is 9 months in highly toasted Tempranillo their philosophy to transmit American oak. There is (the-prah-nee-oh) the personality of the grape plenty of fruit to stand up to to the wine through intuition the oak and the result is a Rioja Alta and exact wine that is fresh and Spain practices. Substantial new smooth yet complex. Color: investment at the winery This wine has won awards Dark red with state-of-the-art at international competitions equipment and the hiring of and has received high points Nose: talented winemaker, Jesus in wine reviews. It pours Mocha, toasted Lezaun has brought the a dark red color. The aromas bread, , wines to a new level of are complex with mocha, cherry, mulberry excellence. Jesus Lezaun is toasted bread, vanilla, Palate: highly regarded in the wine cherry, and mulberry. The Dry, deep fruit, industry and has made a palate is dry with deep fruit , cherry, coffee name for himself for making flavors of plum, cherry and Finish: some of the best Rose’ wines coffee. The finish is seamless Endless finish in the world. When he came and endless. What a great on board at Beronia, he was match with charred meat, looking to create a more pate’ and blue cheese! Enjoy! WOMC Rating modern style of wine with 87 Points

CELLARING SUGGESTIONS L1008D Retail Price: $20.99/each Special Member Price: $19.99/each Great drinking now and Reorder Price: $16.99/each through 2013 19% Discount $203.88/case

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IMITED ERIES L EARLIERS SELECTIONS

REGULAR MEMBER ITEM # DESCRIPTION PRICE/ DISC. QTY. REORDER PRICE/ TOTAL UNIT CASE/EACH Grenache, 2006. Le Chene Noir $215.88/cs L1008C $21.99 18% “Strawberries, raspberries, red currant” $17.99/ea Tempranillo, 2005. Beronia $203.88/cs L1008D $20.99 19% “Mocha, toasted bread, coffee, cherry” $16.99/ea , 2005. Chapelle Sainte Barbe $191.88/cs L1008E $18.99 17% “Pink grapefruit, pineapple, almonds” $15.99/ea , 2006. Lake Chalice $191.88/cs L1008F $18.99 15% “Passion fruit, black currant, citrus” $15.99/ea , 2005. Crescendo $227.88/cs L908C $31.99 41% “Blackberry, cedar, cinnamon spice” $18.99/ea , 2006. Glendonbrook $143.88/cs L908D $17.99 33% “, sliced pineapple, pears” $11.99/ea Cabernet Sauvignon, 2005. Evans & Tate $179.88/cs L908E $23.99 38% “Cassis, blackberry, dark chocolate” $14.99/ea , 2006. Bianchi $203.88/cs L908F $22.99 26% “Meyer lemon, white peach, sweet pear” $16.99/ea Cabernet Sauvignon, 2006. Valle Vista $191.88/cs L808C $23.50 32% “Blackberry, cedar, cocoa, cinnamon” $15.99/ea , 2007. Les Demoiselles Coiffees $191.88/cs L808D $19.50 18% “Strawberry, , wet stone, tangerine” $15.99/ea /, 2006. Il Conte $143.88/cs L808E $19.50 39% “Dark chocolate, red licorice, white pepper” $11.99/ea Semillon/Sauvignon Blanc 2006. Glendonbrook $143.88/cs L808F $18.50 35% “Pear, melon, white flowers, pepper” $11.99/ea Syrah, 2003. Spann $203.88/cs L708C $22.99 26% “Blueberry, black plum, ” $16.99/ea Tempranillo, 2006. Concordia $203.88/cs L708D $23.99 29% “Dark red berries, smoky, earthy” $16.99/ea Torrontes, 2007. Crios $179.88/cs L708E $19.99 25% “SpringSOLD flowers, ,OUT ripe melon” $14.99/ea Rielsing, 2006. BEX $143.88/cs L708F $15.99 25% “Sweet peach, pineapple, citrus rind” $11.99/ea You must be a Limited Series Member Sub-Total to order Limited Series wines. 8.25% CA Sales Tax S&H TOTAL 7 WOMC-News1008 9/17/08 4:24 PM Page 8

EGULAR ERIES R EARLIERS SELECTIONS

REGULAR MEMBER ITEM # DESCRIPTION PRICE/ DISC. QTY. REORDER PRICE/ TOTAL UNIT CASE/EACH Merlot, 2005. Lawson Ranch $83.88/cs 1008A $12.99 46% “Blueberries, blackberries, wild cherry” $6.99/ea Torrontes, 2007. Baguala $83.88/cs 1008B $11.99 42% “Fragrant,floral, apricot, spice” $6.99/ea Sauvignon Blanc, 2007. Melanto $71.88/cs 908A $11.99 50% “Tropical, herbal spice, cut-grass” $5.99/ea Red Willie Blend, 2007. Master Peace $83.88/cs 908B $16.99 54% “Juicy black fruit, hint of earth, pepper” $6.99/ea Cab Sauvignon, 2006. Sycamore Lane $83.88/cs 808A $13.99 50% “Fresh red cherries, vanilla, herbal spice” $6.99/ea Sauvignon Blanc, 2008. La Palma $83.88/cs 808B $11.99 42% “Citrus, green apples, grapefruit” $6.99/ea Sauvignon Blanc, 2007. Graffiti $71.88/cs 708A $12.99 54% “Pineapple, wet stone, Meyer lemon” $5.99/ea Malbec, 2007. Patio De Tango $83.88/cs 708B $14.99 53% “Bing cherry, plum, ” $6.99/ea Cabernet Sauvignon, 2002. Hillcrest $95.88/cs 608A $18.99 58% “Black currant, mocha, coffee” $7.99/ea Pinot Grigio, 2007. Arancio $83.88/cs 608B $12.99 46% “Magnolia, floral, ripe citrus” $6.99/ea , 2007. Crooked Limb $83.88/cs 508A $12.99 46% “Honeysuckle, apple, pears” $6.99/ea Syrah, 2005. Lawson Ranch $95.88/cs 508B $15.99 50% “Red cherry, dark plum, pepper” $7.99/ea Red Blend, 2005. Bangin Red $95.88/cs 408A $16.99 53% “ChocolateSOLD covered cherries,OUT mocha, ” $7.99/ea Chardonnay, 2005. Andeluna $83.88/cs 408B $11.99 58% “Fig, honey, exotic mango” $6.99/ea Chardonnay, 2006. Yellow Bird $83.88/cs 308A $11.99 42% “Green apple, pear, citrus” $6.99/ea Merlot, 2005. PKNT $95.88/cs 308B $12.99 39% “SoftSOLD plum, black OUT fruit, berry” $7.99/ea Sub-Total 8.25% CA Sales Tax S&H TOTAL 8 WOMC-News1008 9/17/08 4:24 PM Page 9

INE F THE ONTH LUB W O GIFTM ORDERSC

GIFT # WINE OF THE MONTH CLUB GIFT MEMBERSHIPS QTY. PRICE TOTAL

10G 2 Bottles Current club selections $33.50* 20G 6 Bottles Assortment of recent selections $79.50* 30G 12 Bottles (1 Case) Assortment of recent selections $147.50* 4GP 4 Month Membership in WINE OF THE MONTH CLUB $118.00* Subscriptions: 2 Bottles (current Club selections) each month for 4 months (8 bottles total). 4QGP 4 Month Membership in WINE OF THE MONTH CLUB $118.00* Subscriptions: 2 Bottles every quarter for one year (8 bottles total). 5GP 6 Month Membership in WINE OF THE MONTH CLUB $175.00* Subscriptions: 2 Bottles (current Club selections) each month for 6 months (12 bottles total). 5BGP 6 Month Membership in WINE OF THE MONTH CLUB $175.00* 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 $347.00* Subscriptions: 2 Bottles (current Club selections) each month for 12 months (24 bottles total).

LOG 2 Bottles (LIMITED SERIES) Current selections $44.98* LGP 1 Year Membership in WINE OF THE MONTH CLUB $484.76* Subscriptions: 2 Bottles (current Limited Series selections) every month for the next 12 months (24 bottles total).

WINE OF THE MONTH CLUB GIFT BASKETS ULTIMATE INDULGENCE This is out-the-door our biggest basket. A stylish stamped metal tub filled with both sweet and savory goodies. Hand picked by our staff in a demoractic vote, each item was selected for out right quality. This gift will absolutely make a huge impression on the recipient. Basket includes: one bottle of 2007 Oak Grove , one bottle 2006 St. Lucas Chardonnay, one bottle 2007 Arancio Pinot Grigio, one bottle 2006 Canyon Oaks Merlot,CaPachios Crackers, White Fudge and Almond Popcorn, Chocolate by numbers, East Shore Pretzels, Miss Scarlet’s OliveTapanade, Yurosek Farms Pistachios, Be-Bop Biscotti, Classic VA Peanut Brittle, Roasted Garlic Cheese, Theo Chocolate Phinney Bar, Wafer Cookies, Summer Sausage, Chocolate Earthquake Cake, assorted hard candies. Arrives in a festive red and copper bucket. #UIB $149.95 Free Shipping $149.95 THE CONNOISSEUR We searched to find the perfect six bottle carrying and storage case. Our travels landed this wonderful wood and leather chest. Sure to impress the discriminating wine lover. Gift includes: One bottle each: 2005 Jungle Room Sauvignon Blanc, 2007 Arancio Pinot Grigio,2007 Graffiti Sauvignon Blanc, 2007 Patio De Tango Malbec, 2002 Hillcrest Cabernet Sauvignon, 2004 Trewa Syrah, waiters and wine pourers. Arrives in our impressive six bottle carrying case. #CONB $99.95 Free Shipping $99.95 WINE AND CHEESE PICNIC It’s like a private party in a tote! Everything you need to create your own special picnic with that special someone. Basket includes: One bottle of 2002 Hillcrest Cabernet Sauvignon, one bottle 2005 Andeluna Chardonnay, Northwood’s Cheese with Pinot Grigio, The Works Crackers, assorted hard candies. Delivered in our insulated double wine tote complete with cheese board, knife and corkscrew. #WCPB $59.95 Free Shipping $59.95 Add this amount to GIFT ORDER TOTAL on line 1 on Order Form on page 10 GIFT ORDERS TOTAL

1. All wine assortments, as well as the first month of WINE OF THE 3. All recipients must be 21 years or older. MONTH CLUB membership, will be handsomely gift boxed. 4. If any of the items to be included is out of inventory, we A card will be attached with your greeting. guarantee that we will substitute a product of equal or superior 2 Shipments are made by UPS/Fed Ex/GSO and are guaranteed quality. Call us for weekend delivery. to arrive in perfect condition. *Gift wrapping included. 9 WOMC-News1008 9/17/08 4:24 PM Page 10

INE F THE ONTH LUB WTOTALO ORDERM INFORMATIONC

SHIPPING INSTRUCTIONS FOR GIFT ORDERS

Please Ship Gift # to: Name (please print)

Address (We do not ship to P. O. Boxes) City State ZIP

Special note on gift card:

Please Ship Gift # to: Name (please print)

Address (We do not ship to P. O. Boxes) City State ZIP

Special note on gift card: Attach another sheet of paper to list other recipients

All WINE OF THE MONTH CLUB gifts are guaranteed to arrive in perfect condition… gift boxed… and with a gift card. ORDERING INSTRUCTIONS GIFT ORDER TOTAL Check enclosed for WOMC EARLIER SELECTIONS TOTAL $ . Make check payable to: LIMITED SERIES MEMBERSHIP Wine of the Month Club. LIMITED SERIES EARLIER SELECTIONS TOTAL Charge my: 8.25% CA Sales Tax VISA Mastercard Shipping and Handling AmEx Discover GRAND TOTAL

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SHIPPING AND HANDLING To order by phone call TOLL FREE FOR EARLIER SELECTION ORDERS Number CA Average 1-800-949-WINE of Bottles Shipping Out of State (1-800-949-9463) Shipping Monday – Friday 8 am – 5 pm (Pacific Time) 1 – 2 $7.58 $9.53 To order by mail or fax 3 – 4 $9.46 $12.81 please complete this order form. 5 – 6 $11.46 $17.41 FAX 626-303-2597 (24 hours a day) 7 – 8 $13.36 $21.66 Or mail to: WINE OF THE MONTH CLUB 9 – 10 $14.71 $24.76 P.O. Box 660220, Arcadia, CA 91066 11 – 12 $16.16 $28.11 Or shop online at: www.WineoftheMonthClub.com 10 Please call for shipping prices outside CA in states where permissible. WOMC-News1008 9/17/08 4:24 PM Page 11

IMITED ERIES L TASTINGS NOTES

GRENACHE, 2006. LE CHENE NOIR TEMPRANILLO, 2005. BERONIA 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.

October 2004 Zinfandel, 2000. Saviez. Drink up. Crossfire, 2003. Jan Kris. Drink now. October 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon, 2001. Piattelli. Drink now. Nero d’Avola, 2003. Kudyah. Drink now. October 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon, 2003. Finca Koch. Drink through 2008. Merlot, 2005. Grayson. Drink through 2008. October 2007 Shiraz, 2001. Koonowla.Drink through 2008. Chardonnay, 2005. Siqueira. Drink now.

WOMC WINE RATING SCHEDULE

-: Classic in all senses. Nose, mouth feel, indications. -: Quality wine with redeeming value. Worth every penny. -: Great value for the quality. Great example of what the wine should be considering terrior, grape and price. -: For the price and quality, the wine is good but no over redeeming value. -: Poor value for the price and not even worth the alcohol content.  or Less: If you dump it, you’ll be charged for toxic clean-up.

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Gift Assortments Celebrate any occasion with Special Gifts for friends, family and business associates. Visit our website at www.wineofthemonthclub.com for gift baskets, gift memberships and various wine assortments. Give a Wine of the Month Club special gift and you will be the “toast” of the celebration!

MEMBER COMMENTS “Have been very satisfied! Gave up “Consistently good value.” our membership in a club at the local J.L., SAN DIEGO,CA wine shop” “Love this membership! We get W.O., MT. VERNON, NH excited to see our wine every month!” “We LOVE you guys. You always have V.P., VANCOUVER, WA outstanding wines at a great price!” C.K., DANA POINT, CA “WOMC is superior to any other wine club I have been involved with.” “Have never been disappointed!” L.K., KANSAS CITY, MO R.S., APPLETON, WI

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ADVENTURES IN GOOD FOOD Nothing screams comfort food more than The rustic and complex fruit of Le Chene macaroni and cheese. As the weather Noir will be a great match with the many becomes cooler, warm up with a glass of flavors and textures in this recipe. Light the Baguala Torrontes and this yummy recipe. fire, pour a glass and enjoy this hearty meal.

BEST MACARONI AND CHEESE BEEF STEW WITH INGREDIENTS: INGREDIENTS: 2 cups (8 ounces) elbow macaroni 1/2 cup flour 1 stick 2 pounds beef, cubed 1/4 cup minced onions 1/2 cup butter or oil 3 tbsp. flour 2 cups Le Chene Noir 2 cups of milk or light cream 5 cups prepared beef bouillon or beef stock 1/2 cup dry (or water) 5 carrots, thickly sliced, washed, pared 2 cups grated sharp cheddar (1/2 pound) 7 stalks celery, sliced 1/2 cup bread crumbs (topping) 2 medium onions, diced Salt and freshly ground pepper 5 cloves garlic, minced Cayenne to taste 1/2 tsp. paprika 5 medium potatoes, cubed 2 bay PREPARATION: a pinch of paprika Bring 4 qt. salted water to a rapid boil and 1 tablespoon parsley, minced cook the macaroni until not quite tender. pepper, to taste Drain macaroni and set aside. In sauté pan, melt 1/2 the stick of butter (or PREPARATION: 4 tablespoons). When melted, stir in the In a large frying pan, heat 1/2 the butter or breadcrumbs and toast just until lightly olive oil and sauté the carrots, celery, onion, browned. Remove breadcrumbs from pan potatoes, and garlic until slightly browned. and set aside. Wipe pan clean with paper Set aside. towel and re-use for next step. Breadcrumb topping: Melt remaining butter, add onions, Combine flour, paprika, parsley, and some and stir over low heat until onions are just pepper in a shallow bowl, and roll the beef in translucent, but not browned. Stir in the flour it until well coated on all sides. Melt remain- and seasonings. Continue to cook for an ing butter or pour oil into in a large stew pot, additional 2-3 minutes. Add the wine, and and then add meat. then gradually stir in the milk or cream. Sauté the meat until well browned. Add the Simmer over low heat, stirring constantly previously prepared and sauté for until the is thickened and smooth. about two minutes with the beef in the stew Add cheese and continue stirring until the pot. cheese melts. Add the wine and sauté another three or four minutes. Combine the macaroni with the cheese sauce. Turn out into a generously buttered casserole While the pot is hot, pour in the prepared dish (approximately 1 1/2 quarts). If you bouillon and the bay Leaves and allow sim- have any extra grated cheese, you can mering covered for about 2-5 hours. After sprinkle this on top along with the 1/2 cup of such time the vegetables and beef should be buttered, toasted bread crumbs. very tender. Bake in a preheated 350 degree Fahrenheit At this point remove the lid, sift in any addi- oven for approximately 20 minutes or until tional flour required to thicken to desired heated all the way through and golden consistency (use fresh flour - not from bowl), brown on top. and allow the liquid to simmer 30 minutes or until ready.

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EGULAR ERIES R TASTINGS NOTES

MERLOT, 2005. LAWSON RANCH TORRONTES, 2007. BAGUALA 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 REGULAR SERIES Selections are faring with age. Obtained from actual tastings on wines under cellar conditions and/or vintner, importer or wholesaler surveys. October 2004 Chardonnay, 2003. Canyon Oaks. Drink now. , 2003. Vinas de Cuyum. Drink up.. October 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon, 2004. Canyon Oaks. Drink now. Sauvignon Blanc/Semillon, 2004. Newen. Drink now. October 2006 Chardonnay, 2005. Bliss. Drink now. Merlot /Cab, 2005. Southern Most. Drink now. October 2007 Chardonnay, 2001. Napa Girl. Drink up. Nero d Avola/Merlot, 2005. Epicuro. Drink through 2008.

MEMBER INQUIRY It had to happen eventually with different types of wine with the low-carb trend in Dear Liz: and their levels of alcohol. full swing. But the good I saw a bottle of Wine contains no and news is that even among the ‘low carb’ wine at negligible . When low carb dieters, wine is not the store. How many you are concerned about the enemy. calories and carbs, stay away According to the US carbs does wine have from sugary dessert wines Department of Agriculture’s that it needs to be and worst of all, port wines. nutrition database, for a five- lowered? Do you think Any food or drink in excess ounce serving of dry white that there is a market will result in consequences wine, the carb is 1.18 g and for these wines? to our health and well being, for dry red wine, it is 2.51. so always drink and eat According the Alcohol and –B.T., SANTA FE, NM in moderation. Excess in Tobacco Tax and Trade moderation and moderation rules, any drink with less nutritional info, including in excess is the rule. than 7 grams can be called calories. low carb. When low-carbing is your The US Dietary Guidelines diet, cut out the French fries Wines are not required to list report that a 5-ounce glass of and dessert, and enjoy a carbs, but if they do, they wine contains about 100 good glass of wine instead. must also list all the calories, but there is variance

14 1-800-949-WINE • www.wineofthemonthclub.com WOMC-News1008 9/17/08 4:24 PM Page 15

SIGN UP AFRIEND AND... RECEIVE A SET OF SWAROVSKY WINE CHARMS To join the WINE OF THE MONTH CLUB, just fill in and return this NEW MEMBER ACCEPTANCE FORM ❏ YES. Sign me up for the Wine of the Month Club and then send me my first month’s selection of two specially chosen wines. I understand that each month I will receive additional wines but I may cancel my membership at any time with no further obligation. My monthly cost for the two-bottle wine selection will be $19.85 (one red and one white) plus sales tax and $7.58 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 $28.50 which you will apply to my final shipment when I decide to cancel.

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Important delivery information: We can ship to CA, CO, ID, IL, MO, ND, NE, NH, NM, NV, OH, OR, TX, WI, WV, WY. Shipments cannot be made to a Post Office box. If an adult is not regularly at this address during normal United Parcel Service/Federal Express delivery hours, please specify a neighbor’s, or office address, for the shipments. Mail this enrollment to: WINE OF THE MONTH CLUB, PO Box 660220, Arcadia, CA 91066

All WINE OF THE MONTH CLUB Call toll-free wines are fully guaranteed. 1-800-949-WINE You may cancel your 8 am - 5 pm PST or fax 24 hours 626-303-2597 membership at any time. www.WineoftheMonthClub.com 15 WOMC-News1008 9/17/08 4:24 PM Page 16

WORD FOR MEMBERS ONLY... ON THE STREET Our shipping prices Can’t find it? are the lowest in the business! Gotta have it? Only $7.48 We source wine from all over the to ship 2-bottles! world. Special for birthdays, WineInsiders.com Holmes, PA ~ $8.95 anniversaries, you name it. We also Club have access to old and rare cellars. Camarillo, CA ~ $13.00 Let us help you find a rare wine. Finewine.com McLean, VA ~ $12.95 Call or email us with your rare wine All Corked Up specifications and let us do the work. Santa Clarita, CA ~$13.00 We can’t guarantee we’ll find it, but Wally’s Wines Los Angeles, CA ~ $11.00 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 $7.58 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.

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Add this amount to Limited Series MEMBERSHIP 16 TOTAL on line ➂ on Order Form, page 10 WOMC-News1008 9/17/08 4:24 PM Page 17

IMITED ERIES L S SELECTION

he Valley is ripe the fruit will always known the world have a marked acidity to over for its high balance the fruit and alcohol. T quality wines in They’re excellent food all styles. The area makes wines. is the region in world-class rose’, white, red, the lower valley. This region sparkling, and sweet dessert is rich with history, tales and wines. The main varieties wars. ‘The wine is made near are Sauvignon Blanc, the city of and has 2005 Chenin Blanc, and been popular since the 6th but there are century. Almost half of the Chapelle over a dozen other grapes production here is the Sainte Barbe grown successfully there as famous Rose’ d’Anjou made well, including Chardonnay with Cabernet Franc. The Chenin Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon. Chenin Blanc made in Anjou (sheh-neen blah) The is located in is the best in the entire the heart of France. The world. The Coteaux du Anjou, France Loire is the longest river in Layon is arguably one of France and much of France’s the greatest dessert wines Color: history took place along on the planet made with Pale golden yellow the Loire. The 630 mile Chenin Blanc. Nose: long river runs from the Chapelle Sainte Barbe is Ripe fruit, pink mountains of central France delicious! It pours a pale grapefruit, to the coast of Brittany. The golden yellow. The aromas pineapple, toast Loire Valley is covered with are ripe fruit, pink vineyards and it is the third Palate: grapefruit, pineapple and largest viticultural region in Dry, light, crisp, toast. The palate is dry and France. It is the largest citrus, almonds, light with citrus, almonds region for growing white creamy pineapple (from oak ) and wine in France and the creamy pineapple. The clean Finish: second largest for sparkling lingering finish will lead Clean lingering wine. The length of the river back for another sip. Great finish offers many different soils with quiche, goat cheese and micro-climates. Overall, and seafood. the climate is cool and this WOMC Rating insures that no matter how 86 Points

CELLARING SUGGESTIONS L1008E Retail Price: $18.99/each Special Member Price: $17.99/each Enjoy now and Reorder Price: $15.99/each through 2009 17% Discount $191.88/case

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IMITED ERIES L S SELECTION

e all know is respected and talented. by now that When he is through with Marlborough in New Zealand he W New Zealand ventures to to make makes awesome Sauvignon wine there. He has been with Blanc. It is difficult to Lake Chalice since 1997. He impossible to make a bad strives for quality at every wine from here. The weather step of the winemaking brings excellent flowering process. The grapes for this conditions in the spring and Sauvignon Blanc were harvest shows ripe fruit and sourced from seven sites in 2006 plenty of grapes. Lake Marlborough. The grapes for Chalice is one of the few Lake Chalice enjoy a warm, Lake Chalice remaining privately owned sunny autumn with cool in Marlborough. It nights and produce wines Sauvignon Blanc was founded in 1989 with 28 that are vibrant and zingy in (saw-veehn-yawn blah) acres under vine. They now classis Marlborough fashion. own four key sites The grapes were pressed Marlborough and source fruit from immediately, and then cool New Zealand carefully selected growers fermented in stainless steel as well. Owners, Chris tanks. The wine is vibrant Color: Gambistis and Phil Binnie and the closure Pale straw with along with winemaker, insures freshness. It has a green hues Matt Thomson share a pale straw color with green Nose: sturdy philosophy: to hues. The nose is perfumed Passion fruit, make quality wines from with passion fruit, black- , citrus Marlborough grapes. Chris currant and citrus. The wine has a long history in is medium-bodied with Palate: restaurants and hospitality dry, mouth-watering acidity Medium-body, dry, and he knew early on that and gooseberry fruit. The mouth-watering acidity, gooseberry his love of wine would lead mineral note on the finish him to his own winery. makes this a great match Finish: Phil used to be a police oysters, poached seafood Long mineral finish officer before earning a and grilled asparagus. degree in . WOMC Rating Winemaker, Matt Thomson 87 Points

CELLARING SUGGESTIONS L1008F Retail Price: $18.99/each Special Member Price: $17.99/each Drink now through early Reorder Price: $15.99/each 2009, slightly chilled 15% Discount $191.88/case

1-800-949-WINE • www.wineofthemonthclub.com