Notes From the Cellar……..

Here we are with another beautiful weekend upon us, giving us another reason to think about great food, wine and seasonal cocktails.  Join us Fri/Sat July 18&19 from 3-6 as we sample an assortment of wines and spirits on the tasting table.

’13 Kato Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, New Zealand – New Zealand has perhaps become most recognized for its unique signature style of Sauvignon Blanc, delivering fresh, zippy, wines with explosions of citrus flavor.  Kato, meaning “harvest” in Maori, is produced from vineyards in the Awatere Valley, within the famous Marlborough region.  The 2013 is tangy and refreshing, showing clean, crisp flavors and aromas of lime blossom, passion fruit and pink grapefruit.  In general, NZ Sauvignon makes a great accompaniment to all kinds of shellfish and as a patio sipper on its own.  $11.99

’13 Sean Minor Vin Gris Pinot Noir Rosé, Carneros, California – Sean Minor has created a well-deserved reputation providing top quality yet well priced wines from major growing areas in and around Napa Valley.  This Carneros Rosé displays remarkable restraint and subtle notes from an area where Pinot Noir can often border on over ripeness and poor acidity.  This vibrant, salmon colored wine shows aromas of cherry, strawberry, and watermelon, giving way to flavors of strawberry, raspberry and hints of spice.  Try this rosé with smoked salmon, salads and goat cheese.  $15.99

’11 Château de Francs ‘Les Cerisiers,’ Francs Côtes de Bordeaux, France – The Francs area within the broad Côtes de Bordeaux appellation can produce stunning “sleeper” values in the right vintage, from the right producer.  This wine is a Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon blend displaying a nose of plums and blackberries, with hints of tobacco leaf.  The palate is full and balanced with hints of red fruits and eucalyptus and tobacco.  Still in its youth, this wine will rapidly evolve in the glass.  Pair this wine with red meats, grilled or roasted.  $20.99

Nahmias et Fils Mahia – This is a unique spirit from a small distiller in New York based on an ancient recipe from Morocco.  It is essentially an eau du vie  distilled with figs and anise.  Surprisingly versatile, it is very complex as a sipping spirit, for the brandy or grappa aficionado, or as a base for an array of cocktails.  We have the Mahia available to try on its own or in our unique twist on the margarita, we have dubbed the “Mahiarita.”