Crisp, refreshing, tingly…July begs for a Prosecco. The San Martino winery is housed between the hills of Valdobbiadene, near the Piave River, and Conegliano, both areas famous for producing Italy’s sparkling delight, Prosecco. Generally lighter and fruitier than Champagne and Cava, Prosecco has broken sales records in the past several years. This brut wine, made with the Glera variety, retains the slightest hint of residual sugar to balance its zingy acidity. It is also a “millesimato,” which means it is a vintaged wine, only crafted in the best years. Also of note is its shapely, beveled, and dark bottle, which would impress any fan of spumante wine. Scents of white flowers plus green apple, citrus and tangerine notes are abundant. While Prosecco and sparkling wines in general go with many different foods, especially fried foods, we suggest going in a more elegant route with your favorite fish dish or sushi, like the Endless Love roll from Sushi Café.
Vignoble de Reveur ‘Pierres Sauvages’ White – Alsace AOC – FR (Platinum)
A triple threat of Pinots, the ‘Pierres Sauvages’ is certainly a wine that you will ponder, even after leaving the tasting. Pinot Blanc and Gris are color mutations of the Pinot Noir variety, producing white wines. The winemakers chose a longer maceration, leaving the juice in contact with the skins and seeds (although the Pinot Noir was left on a shorter time), and they aged the wine on the lees for a year; both techniques contribute to more complexity and body. This blend exhibits interesting aromas of honeysuckle, subtle citrus, dried golden raisins, and yellow apple with a touch of salinity. While a classic Alsatian wine pairing is foie gras, you could grab something a bit less expensive, like the Gobi Manchurian appetizer from Sangam Indian Restaurant.
Maddelena Rosé – Paso Robles AVA – CA (Gold)
July is the perfect temperature for rosé, and the Maddelena will surely hit the spot! Maddelena falls under the umbrella of Riboli Family Wines, the four-generation family that operates the famous San Antonio Winery in California, which was awarded “Winery of the Year” by Wine Spectator in 2018. Sourced predominately from Grenache, with a touch of Syrah and Primitivo (also known as Zinfandel in Italy), this wine boasts zippy acidity and tangy fruits. Strawberry, watermelon, white peach, and hints of rose flower infuse both the nose and the palate. Rosés go with so many cuisines, but a delightful pairing would be the Chicken Florentine from Fera’s Italian. Or if at a picnic or poolside, try it with chicken salad.
Alta Marfa ‘Super TX’ Tempranillo – Texas Davis Mountains AVA – TX (Platinum)
When you think of Marfa, you might think of a bustling art scene and the Prada permanent sculpture installation that people Instagram on their way to the next big Texas town (three hours away…). But in true reinvention mode, the city has given birth to its first boutique winery, Alta Marfa. Embracing natural viticulture, Alta Marfa’s mission is to “make any drinker feel welcome, excited, and interested” about wine, whether a novice or a connoisseur. The ‘Super TX’ is 100% “Deluxe Tempranillo” sourced from multiple soil types and from three distinct regions of the state. It boasts juicy black currants, black cherry, and subtle spices. An interesting and enjoyable pairing with this wine would be the BBQ Brisket Taco at Rusty Taco.
In addition to having a fantastic name, the Domaine du Grand Belly estate is steeped in history. The original farmhouse was built by Italian charcoal makers who supplied Pope Clement V with all his carbon-based needs at his palace in Avignon, about 10 miles away. Currently, the estate is a sought-after wine resort and can be rented out for weddings and other celebrations (talk about an upgrade from coal!). The Domaine specializes in Côtes du Rhône, which is typically a red blend of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre (but could have up to 12 other grapes). In this case, it is an S-G-M, consisting of 50% Syrah, 40% Grenache, and 10% Mourvèdre. Bursting with red fruits, garrigue, and spice, this wine is easy-drinking and smooth. Game is the traditional pairing for a Côtes du Rhône, but the Smoky Mountain pulled pork sandwich platter from Juicy Pig Barbecue will do the trick!
Bodegas Añadas developed the “Care” line to showcase the city of Cariñena, in Aragon, which the ancient Romans nicknamed "Care.” The winemakers also pledge that their passion for vinification aligns with the English word “care,” so this wine is full of double entendre! Seeking to become the pioneers of Garnacha in Spain, the Tinto Sobre Lías is predominantly Garnacha with some Syrah. The Garnacha variety is drought- and wind-resistant, both constant concerns in Aragon, and delivers juicy, fruity wine. The Tinto evokes black and red fruits, from black cherry to plum, and finishes with mocha and spice. While this Spanish red would partner well with any grilled meats, stews, or casseroles, for something more nontraditional, try it with the Lamb Souvlakis from Feta’s Food truck, usually situated in front of Oak Street Draft House.
A winery devoted to the Pacific Northwest, Cedar + Salmon seeks to highlight the terroir of the second (WA) and fifth largest (OR) producing states of wine in the nation. In this case, southeastern Washington is the star. Mostly Bordeaux-style, this wine is blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Grenache, and Cabernet Franc. The varieties work together to produce big fruit, floral and herby aromas, plus silky tannins. Wild dark fruits, including black cherry and blackberry, are palpable, along with violet, allspice, and hazelnut. Despite the not-so-subtle salmon messaging of the brand, heaven on earth could be achieved with a glass of this red blend with the Smoked Wagyu Short Ribs from the Bartonville Store and Jeter’s Meat Shop. Yes, it’s a bit of a drive, but it’s a sensory experience!
Many people ask about the differences in Syrah and Shiraz, and while there may not be one perfect summation, in general, Shiraz connotes a warmer climate, riper fruit, fuller body, and higher alcohol as opposed to Syrah, which can be a little leaner and more elegant. Australia brilliantly co-opted the grape from France (and certainly other wine regions) and turned Shiraz into its signature red wine. McLaren Vale just so happens to fall in South Australia, with its Mediterranean climate and sunny weather. The ‘Red Silk,’ produced from family-owned Oliverhill, is fuller-bodied, plush, and jammy, and comes in at a whopping 15.3% ABV! Luscious dark red and black fruits as well as cola and vanilla coalesce into a pleasant, if not hot, wine. The Ka-Pow spicy beef entrée at Andaman Thai Restaurant would partner nicely with the ‘Red Silk.’
Jul 9, 2023 at 12:57 PM
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June weather begs for a cool, crisp porch pounder, and the Nortico Alvarinho will assuage you! Positioned on the southern banks of the Minho River in far north Vinho Verde region, Galicia, Spain is just on the other side of the river. In the Minho region, the towns of Monção and Melgaço, solely devoted to the Alvarinho varietal, are like a walk back in time as ruins of medieval castles are dotted throughout the area. Using centuries’ old techniques, Alvarinho vines are planted in small granite plots (pergolas) known as “jardins” because they look like tiny gardens of grapey goodness. Interestingly, the Nortico allows the grapes to shine without the addition of aeration (i.e., carbon dioxide) as is the case with so many other Vinho Verdes. What you experience is lime, yellow apple, peach, and saline minerality with a clean finish. While the Portuguese love to accompany an Alvarinho with cornbread and butter, we suggest trying the Bermuda Barracuda fish tacos from Killer’s Tacos.
The world can be split into Chardonnay lovers and “ABC” fiends—Anything But Chardonnay. Chardonnay is the winemaker’s dream grape because it is neutral in nature, and winemakers are free to experiment and influence the grape however they see fit. While we at Steve’s have recently offered more lean, steely, and mineral options, this Chard is not that. It is truly what a big California Chard is supposed to be; it will please the Chard diehards and, although it may not recruit the “ABC’s,” it does its best to entice. Prominent notes of pear, tropical fruits, apricot, and nectarine are enveloped with vanilla, caramel, and yes, butter. The 14-month sur lies aging gives the wine a creamy feel. You just have to pair this wine with something creamy and delicious, like the Blackened Chicken Alfredo from Frilly’s Seafood Bayou Kitchen.
While Serbia may not be the first location you think of when it comes to wine, this unique offering really showcases the Balkans. Sfera comes from the Serbian word for “sphere,” referring to the round concrete vessel that is used in much of Bikicki’s winemaking process, and the “noir” is comprised of Pinot Noir and Black Muscat. Don’t let the name muscat deter you—this is a dry wine that really empowers the red and black fruits to sing. A low-intervention wine that uses native yeasts and used barrique aging, Sfera Noir is truly delightful and has surprisingly high alcohol (at 14.5%!). Subtle notes of rose mixed with cherry, plum, cranberry, and blackberry are rounded out with a touch of spice. Try it with the Harvest Bowl from Soulgood Vegan Café.
Larry Levin, winemaker for Block Nine, is a champion of Pinot Noir. Block Nine is just one of his many ventures, as he has had a hand in leading other well-known brands such as Quintessa, Franciscan, Mount Veeder, and Estancia, as well as projects in several states as well as Argentina. He calls himself a “vine to wine” consultant, and his experience with viticulture is evident when tasting this Pinot Noir. Well-balanced and unintimidating, it will entice white and bold red drinkers because of its accessibility and approachability. Floral aromas are complemented by red fruits, black tea, and spice on the palate. Pinot offers so many great pairings, but partnering this one with the Mesquite-Grilled Salmon from Prairie House will certainly prove tasty.
The Zuccardi Winery is having a moment. After planting their first vines in in Mendoza in 1963, the family has not only ensconced itself in Argentina, but in the world. Robert Parker has awarded three of their wines with 100 points, and Wine Enthusiast magazine has labeled them as “Best Winery in the New World” AND inducted them into the Best Vineyards’ Hall of Fame (bet you didn’t know that was a thing!). With a young research and development team, Sebastián Zuccardi has created the ideal winemaking vessel for them, a concrete vat with a long, tapered neck, “the element that makes it possible to work more naturally with the grape juices and wines.” He eschews oak aging and long maceration periods, wanting the fruit to speak for itself with minimal intervention. Through innovation and terroir-driven viticulture, Zuccardi has produced this Q Cabernet Franc (Q for quality!), with its gorgeous cherry, raspberry, cassis, and violet flavors. Almost any grilled or smoked meat would work well with Cab Franc, but for fun, treat yourself to the Smoked Shiner Pork Loin at Greenhouse and mix a little Argentina with your Texas.
Few Texas winemakers have fought for Texas wine to be seen as legitimate more than William “Bill” Blackmon and Chris Brundrett. Since 2017, they have pushed for legislation similar to California’s; the goal being when you experience a Texas wine, the grapes should actually be from Texas. In 2021, a compromise bill was passed (they didn’t get their 100%er): if a label specifies one of eight Texas AVAs, 85% minimum must come from that AVA (similar to the EU’s laws), and if a label designates a vineyard, at least 95% must originate from the stated vineyard. William Chris proudly displays the “Grown in Texas” logo on their bottles, and this ‘Skeleton Key’ Cab showcases High Plains fruit. It has some quintessential Cab notes: black cherry, cassis, subtle green bell pepper, and baking spices and would definitely be complemented with BBQ or something like the Ranch Hand burger from The Dive Bar and Restaurant.
The Flor d’Penalva Tinto is a lovely red blend of three grapes: Touriga Nacional, Tinto Roriz (also known as Tempranillo), and Tinta Pinheira, usually used for blending. Touriga Nacional is most often associated as the primary variety used in Ports, so all three of these combined coalesces into a richly-hued, tannic, full-bodied red. Notes of violet, plum, forest fruits, and earth prevail, and the Flor de Penalva is satisfying and quaffable. While a rustic Portuguese recommendation would pair this wine with grilled lamb hearts, I say let’s go in a different direction with some Thai food. The Beef Mas-Sa-Mun Curry dish at Thai Square will whet your appetite.
While we have enjoyed Piattelli before at the bar, it is always fun to entice with a smooth and bold red, especially at the end of a tasting. Piattelli is led by female winemaker Valeria Antolin, who has been with Piattelli since its inception, worked her way up the ranks. Piattelli wines, highly rated in Wine Spectator, sources grapes for this wine from old vines in Luján de Cuyo and the Uco Valley. The ‘Trinita’ is a blend of Malbec, Cabernet, and Merlot, and evokes a luscious black currant flavor bomb, with plummy, cherry, and mocha notes along with spice from 24 months of oak and bottle aging. The braised short rib plate from our friends at The Chestnut Tree would be a wonderful accompaniment to the ’Trinita.’
Jun 2, 2023 at 5:27 AM
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In order when tasting all 8 wines.
Who hasn’t heard of Caymus? Well, this elegant and light-bodied gem is crafted by Jenny Wagner, daughter of pioneer Chuck, as part of the Emmolo brand. Wagner named the line “Emmolo” in tribute to her maternal lineage so that her mother’s maiden name could live on in perpetuity. Sauvignon Blanc is a perfect warm weather wine, and this gorgeous treat offers floral notes of honeysuckle and lemon blossom as well as stone fruit and melon. There is a kick of electric acidity but with a balance of minerality and tanginess. Wagner prides this wine on not being overly green, as so many Sauvignon Blancs can be. This wine needs something equally light and refreshing, like the grilled fish of the day at Hoochie’s.
While we have welcomed Bill Stoller’s wines into the bar before (Chemistry and Chehalem are two all-time favorites), we are thrilled to share the Dundee Hills Rosé, a glorious springtime wine, made from Pinot Noir. The Stoller name is synonymous with environmental and social good deeds within Oregon, and the brand also makes some pretty lovely grape juice! Dundee Hills, known as the location where grapes were first planted in Willamette, is also the most densely planted AVA in the area. This Rosé entices with its orange blossom and dried rose petals, and citrus zest on the nose and enlivens your tastebuds with strawberry, nectarine, grapefruit, and white tea. It would be a refreshing accompaniment to the Lacy Salad, an amalgam of good things, from Barley & Board.
Locked in between the Indian and South Atlantic oceans, Stellenbosch has a maritime climate. Hence, winemakers Xander Grier and Nathan Valentine named their label “Salt Rock” to denote the coastal influence on their wines (and yes, this is a follow-up to the Salt Rock Pét Nat from last month). According to the winemakers, the El Niño phenomenon began just as the wine started fermenting. This ‘El Niño’ uses Cinsault, a minor Rhône fresh and fruity variety best known as one of the parents of South Africa’s Pinotage. It uses minimal intervention and is a big brother to—you guessed it—the Salt Rock 'La Niña,’ derived from Sauvignon Blanc (maybe a future club wine?). Subtle floral notes of lavender plus raspberry, cranberry, and cherry dominate along with touches of white pepper and smoke. Try it with the vegetable korma plate at Sangham Indian Restaurant.
Heed James Rahn’s wise words: “Wine does not need to be draped in the mystique in which it is often clothed even though sometimes it merits magical status.” He insists that wine should be delicious, and his Gamay Noir certainly is! Sommelier James Rahn plunged into the world of winemaking with his desire to make wine more accessible and fun. He chooses to showcase 100% varietal grapes and not make blends. This Gamay Noir is light, approachable, and exhibits perfumed notes of peony and iris along with a touch of earthiness. Red fruits erupt in the nose and mouth, including cherry, cranberry, raspberry, red currant. Gamay pairs wonderfully with lighter grilled meats (there’s a reason Gamay is so popular at Thanksgiving!), but it is also an ideal partner for a charcuterie board from our friends at Ten:One Artisanal Cheese Shop.
Back-to-back Gamays, both in an Old World style, should be an interesting and fun comparison this month! There is a long history of winemaking in the Bouchard family, dating back to 1750 when Joseph Bouchard committed to being a wine broker instead of working in the fabric business, the family’s original trade. The Bouchard name has extensive roots in Burgundy and Beaujolais, and the portfolio of wine releases since the 18th century is staggering. This Gamay sings of essential Beaujolais, celebrating the pink granite soils and earthy terroir that make up Beaujolais-Villages. Aromas of rose and red fruits and, once imbibed, notes of strawberry and cherry are plentiful, mixed with savory minerality. A creamy poultry dish such as the stuffed chicken breast, along with its buttery mashed potatoes and fresh veggie of the day, from Houlihan’s, would be a pleasant pairing.
Montepulciano is a grape and a place, but the grape is never grown in the place (thanks, Italy!). Sanvito Montepulciano is grown in the region of Abruzzo, which borders the Adriatic Sea. Unlike the predominant grape of Italy, Sangiovese (which is grown in the town of Montepulciano!), the Monte grape is a bit more deeply colored, savory, and earthy. By the way, Montepulciano is Italy’s second most planted grape, and it is also often confused with another Sangiovese-based wine known as Vino Nobile di Montalcino (thanks, Italy!). The Sanvito offers up notes off violet, sour cherry, red plum, boysenberry (a sort of raspberry-blackberry hybrid), and dried Italian herbs. There may not be a better sensory experience than pairing this wine with your favorite pie from Zalat Pizza.
Legend has it that the term Merlot comes from merle, the French word for blackbird, a reference to its dark-hued berries. This McIntyre Merlot, from the region of Arroyo Seco in the Santa Lucia Highlands AVA, is grown in what is considered a ‘Goldilocks’ microclimate as the vines are not subjected to the Salinas Valley winds that other nearby vineyards suffer from, and the grapes are able to ripen fully in intense sunlight (it’s “just right”!). The experience of this wine is lush, juicy, and well-balanced, from the notes of iris, an earthy, spicy flower to blackberry, cassis, espresso bean, cocoa, and dried herbs. This wine would benefit from an equally compelling food pairing, something with dark meat, like the Steak Taco platter at Loco Café.
Circling back to Caymus and Suisan Valley, Jenny Wagner can also blow our minds with a complex blend of Zinfandel and Petite Sirah, humorously titled ‘The Walking Fool.’ The name is an homage to Jenny’s great-great grandfather who, despite losing four children, remained upbeat and humble throughout his life (and yes, he walked a lot). The wine’s spirit flower is the heliotrope, which emits a vanilla-cherry scent along with marzipan and licorice. ‘The Walking Fool’ bursts with red fruits galore: raspberry, cranberry, cherry, and strawberry. But it is the secondary and tertiary notes that abound, from cigar box to mocha to leather. The wine is juicy and decadent and begs for a hand-cut steak, like the Buffalo Ribeye, from Queenie’s.
May 3, 2023 at 7:49 AM
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Through our partnership with non-profit environmental conservation organizations, Vina Robles plants trees with a portion of the proceeds from every bottle of The Arborist sold.
Partnering with One Tree Planted and the Arbor Day Foundation is a natural extension of the winery’s passion for trees and sustainable viticulture. One Tree Planted is a non-profit organization on a mission to make it simple for everyone to help the environment by planting trees. Founded in 2014, One Tree Planted has doubled the number of trees it has planted every year.
"The Arborist, a dynamic red blend, is dedicated to our founder Hans Nef, and named for the arborist who saved the life of the iconic 300+ year-old oak tree featured on our label. Mr. Nef was known for his love of trees; he named the winery for them (robles is Spanish for “oaks”) and put an oak tree on the first Vina Robles wine label. That same tree still exists and is rooted in our estate Jardine Vineyard. Which is rather profound, as its health was declining when Mr. Nef purchased the vineyard in 1997. We are grateful to the arborist who was able to save it in 2014, allowing us all to continue to benefit from its beauty and positive environmental impact."
Apr 28, 2023 at 8:41 AM
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Garnacha Blanca is a drought-resistant, warm-weather grape that is a mutation of the Grenache Noir grape we all know and love, heavily grown in the southern Rhône as well as Spain. This wine from Navarra, Spain, is more precisely from the tiny area of San Martin de Unx, an idyllic town with an alabaster church on a hill. While the region boasts a handful of wineries, Hacienda Uvanis is a boutique winery operating under the larger label of Bodegas San Martin. This Garnacha Blanca is light and fruity, with an abundance of white floral notes on the nose along with stone fruits, green pear, and minerality on the palate. It will be delightful paired with an ahi tuna poke bowl from Po-K Loco.
Some people buy wines just because of the famous wine distributor on the label. We chose this wine because of the name (Bruno LaFon) and the desire to bring an unoaked, clean Chardonnay to the wine club since it’s been a minute! While we know many will choose almost any wine but a Chard, we want you to give one of the most widely planted grapes in the world a shot today, especially with warmer weather ahead. The P’tit Chardo has a playful label, but the wine itself is crisp, tangy, and on the cusp of elegant. It hits you with citrus and tropical notes of pineapple and peach, finishing with some nutty flavors. The next time you head to Shuck Me, try their chilled boiled shrimp with a glass of Le P’tit Chardo.
Winemakers Xander Grier and Nathan Valentine named their label “Salt Rock” to denote the coastal influence of the South Atlantic ocean on Stellenbosch. Pét nats (pétillent naturel) are the “cool kids” of the sparkling world because they are bottled before the first fermentation is complete, and the wine is left to do its thing, unveiling flavors that literally change from day to day (but beware: pét nats should be drunk within a few months). The Salt Rock pét nat is a delightful pink-salmon color, and it a swirl of watermelon, raspberry, strawberry in the glass, with more sophisticated notes of Country Time lemonade and a bit of salinity. It is the perfect picnic wine (you only need a bottlecap opener!) and would be fabulous paired with minty tabbouleh from Layalina Mediterranean Restaurant.
The House of Mommessin just exudes fancy French winemaking from their logo, a crest with a golden key, and their austere website which boasts that “exactitude, respect, [and] transparency are the crucial principles of our philosophy.” This particular wine, made from the “sovereign” Gamay grape, is from a Beaujolais-Villages, a vast area that surrounds that 10 cru of Beaujolais. Mommessin strives for minimal intervention in their winemaking techniques (hence, exactitude, respect, and transparency). Prominent Beaujolais techniques include hand-harvesting the grapes, semi-carbonic maceration, and a devatting during fermentation to gently extract flavors. The wine shines with red and black fruits, alongside subtle spice. While a charcuterie board would be a great pairing, something more substantial like a rotisserie platter from Cowboy Chicken would certainly hold up to the Beaujolais.
Picture it—Sicily…hopefully, you get the reference (or maybe “The Golden Girls” is on my TV too often)! The most widely planted grape in Sicily is Nero d’Avola, locally known as Calebrese. This wine has an interested story as it uses partially withered grapes in its second fermentation. This process contributes some body and flavor to the wine while not adding excess alcohol (this one clocks in at 13.5%). Mulberry is a key descriptor for Nero d’Avola. Also present are notes of dried fig, prune, vanilla, and something close to “fruit roll up.” The next time you are in Aubrey, head to the World Famous Moms, and grab some of their meatloaf to try along side the Torre dei Giganti Nero d’Avola.
Verdant landscapes abound in Tuscany, of course, and the wine producer Avignonesi wants to ensure that the rolling hills stay green. The company boasts multiple certifications that show their dedication to eco-progress, including organic, biodynamic, and vegan production; they were also named a Certified B Corporation (a global movement supporting inclusive, equitable, and regenerative economic systems). The Cantaloro Rosso, a Super Tuscan, is a blend of Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. While the Sangiovese weighs in at 57%, the Bordeaux varietals amp up the flavors, contributing cherry, blueberry, menthol, and sweet spices. A glass of the Cantaloro Rosso would measure up to the decadent meatballs (or beyond meatballs if you want to go vegan!) from Graffiti Pasta.
The Zolo Signature Red flew off our shelves several months ago, so we wanted to entice you with the Mendoza’s most popular grape variety, a Malbec from Zolo head Patricia Ortiz. A former endocrinologist, Ortiz is also president of Bodegas de Argentina, a sort of wine chamber of commerce. She enlisted big names Fabien Valenzuela and Jean Claude Berreout, of Petrus fame, to work their winemaking alchemy. Dark and rich, the Malbec does not disappoint with its in-your-face black cherry, blueberry, and plum flavors that are harmonized with sweeter notes of violet and mocha. This Reserve Malbec would pair amazingly with spicy and umami-rich food; try it with the California Black Bean Burger from Seven Mile Café (yes, it’s okay to have some wine for lunch!).
The Shannon Family of Wines owns some pretty well-known brands: Ovis, Clay Shannon, Buck Shack, the more restrained Steele, and, of course, Shannon Ridge. The Shannon Ridge ‘High Elevation’ Cabernet utilizes several different appellations to bring ripe, bright fruit together in a mix of phenolic euphoria. The mission of the Shannon Family is to focus on organic and sustainable farming, which is never easy at 2,600 feet above sea level! This Cabernet, with touches of Malbec and Petite Sirah, plays into the decadent nature of the fruit and oak: cranberry, blackberry, black cherry complemented by sweeter allspice, black pepper, and toast. It is time to take out your wet naps because this wine could definitely benefit from a plate of St. Louis style ribs from Juicy Pig Barbecue (or for our vegetarians, try it with the smoked jackfruit sandwich).
If you like richly hued, concentrated wine and really cool label art, you will love this wine! We have had the “I’m the Boss” Chardonnay at the bar in the past, and this cheeky wine is a fun addition to our portfolio. It is technically an “SGM” because there is a predominance of Syrah (60%), along with 30% Grenache, and 10% Mourvèdre. The “double ripasse” from the title—not a common wine term—is in reference to an extended maceration on the pomace (basically the deflated grape skins after the pressing) to get as much color and flavor as possible (it is probably a naughty pun as well, given the title). The wine gratifies with smoke, pepper, chocolate, and dried herbs along with juicy black and red fruits. It will stand up to a bold beef entrée, like brisket burnt ends from Prairie House. This wine is limited in quantities as only 10 cases made it to the United States. We have committed to 5 of those cases and may be able to get our hands on a couple more if we run through our inventory early in the month. For those who have not been around for our Big Dog wines in the past, this is an $80 bottle of wine and you will be able to take one of these as your club wine for the month.
Apr 7, 2023 at 6:00 AM
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So….how are we doing?
Is the new format of the email working well for you?
Are you finding the information you are most interested in more quickly?
There is so much going on and so little “time” to share the details.
So here we go….
Upcoming Events
Get your advance seating online.
You can learn more about all that is happening this month online at Events.
Cigars: We have restocked the humidors with many of the customer favorites we were either out of or very low on inventory. With the weather improving, we are ready for those wine lovers who enjoy a nice cigar on the patio. Smoking is available on our Russell Street patio.
Speaking of Patio Weather….we have our outdoor glass covers available for sale to keep those annoying critters out of your glass of wine or beer. You can pick up a single cover or a set of 4. Come check them out here at the bar, or order online for pick up here at Steve's. Our-Wines-and-Products/Merchandise
Travel Events: We are excited to be working with Walter and Kim Eagleton on a trip to France in 2024 for Steve's Wine Bar guests. Specifically to the Burgundy and Beaujolais regions. We have booked the chateau for two weeks. There is still room available for those interested in spending the first week of the trip with us in October of 2024. You can learn more online at Artistic Gourmet Travel October 2024.
Paso Robles Tastings: We are headed to Paso Robles the week of June 4 - 10. We have been in contact with some of our favorite wineries plus several we have not yet visited. If you are interested in joining us for tastings in Paso, send us an email and we will let you what the plans are as of the time of the email.
March Birthdays: We are going to add a little more fun to this month. March is Steve's birth month and we want to invite everyone who has a Birthday in March to come out on Sunday, March 26th from 5 to 7pm for a Birthday drink. We will have select wines available to enjoy as a complimentary glass of wine for your Birthday. Prefer a beer? You can enjoy a beer on us for your Birthday as well. So mark your calendars and come join us for a Sunday afternoon party.
In closing, we thank you for your amazing support! And to all the new (and old) customers visiting us for the first time here on Industrial, thanks for visiting with us. We are so pleased to hear all the positive comments about the space from those who are seeing the space for the first time. The patio on the front and back, the space in general, and how much everyone appreciates the musical experiences we have put together.
Have a great day and we'll see you soon!
Cheers!
Steve, Karen and the entire Steve’s Wine Bar Team.
Mar 21, 2023 at 11:40 AM
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When people consider Vinho Verde, they usually think of a unique style of zesty wine associated with the northernmost region of Portugal (technically, it is named after the physical location itself, not the wine). The Minho and the Lima flow through the area (also named the same as nearby locations—yikes!), and verdant hillsides abound throughout Vinho Verde. Geography lesson aside, this wine spotlights the indigenous grapes of Loureiro, Trajadura, Pedernã, and Alvarinho. Pale straw-green in hue and slightly effervescent, there are aromas and flavors of lemon, verbena, gooseberry, and grapefruit. An order of Baja shrimp tacos from Rusty Taco would complement this easy-drinking white from Portugal.
Highly rated by James Suckling, the Olema Sauvignon Blanc is both quintessential and unique. Olema’s goal is to feature well-known regions like the Loire and Sonoma which produce solid varieties without sticker shock. They market their wines as suitable for both everyday imbibing and special occasions, and the Sauvignon Blanc does not disappoint! Teeming with zippy acidity, the wine is aged in stainless steel to maintain the aromatic quality of the grape. On the nose, citrus, and jasmine emerge upfront, culminating in a balance of lemon-lime-kumquat goodness on the palate. Sauvignon Blanc can withstand an equally high-acid partner in cuisine, like the Insalata Caprese from Giuseppe’s.
It’s a love story for the ages: in 1908, founder Giovanni Cielo became smitten with a small estate overlooking the castles of Romeo and Juliet in the Veneto region near Verona and Vicenza. Three generations later, the Cielo family has grown the business into a success story. Displaying love for their community, the Cielo family gives to the charitable organization winetowater.org with every bottle purchase. The Rosso, a proprietary red blend, is a lighter, fruit-driven red, with an ABV of 14%. With medium tannins and medium acidity, the Rosso pops with red fruits: red currant, raspberry, and red cherry delight the senses, with additional notes of violet, mushroom, and walnut on the finish. Enjoy this red blend with the Meat Me pizza from Crooked Crust.
It’s an oversimplification to say the French know a little something about wine. Bordeaux, off of France’s Atlantic coast, encompasses over 50 appellations and crafts 65 different wine styles. The Gironde Estuary, north of the city, has created the concept of “left bank” and “right bank” wine. This blend consisting of 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon is decidedly “right bank.” The Merlot contributes blueberry, plum, black cherry, and mint, while the Cab balances the vintage by adding a bit more body, tannin, tobacco, and spice. A Bordeaux blend is as classic as a wine lover can get for a bolder red. Sip this wine with an entrée of Chicken Biryani from Green Zatar Mediterranean Cuisine.
Husband and wife Francesco and Pauline head up Tenuta Foresto, a vineyard set in the idyllic Asti hills. They farm in Nizza Monferrato, a UNESCO heritage site, in Piedmont. This 100% Barbera is unfined, unfiltered, and aged in both cement and old oak as the winemakers prize holistic and organic practices. In fact, they promote Raw Wine fairs, which are two-day events where hundreds of like-minded grape-growers, vintners, and wine lovers get together to showcase low-intervention, biodynamic, and natural wines (the next fair is in Los Angeles on April 23-24!). Delicate wild red cherry, strawberry, and herbal notes permeate ‘La Ideale.’ On the palate, flavors of blackberry jam, plum, violet, and rosemary abound. While Barbera easily marries with Italian food, experience ‘La Ideale’ with a GreenHouse’s seasonal salad, a tangy mix of greens, goat cheese, cherries, walnuts, and roasted sweet potatoes.
Elizabeth Rose is part of a family-run empire that also includes Oakville and Ghost Block. The namesake is a reference to managing partner and grape grower Andrew Hoxsey’s eldest daughter (her husband is the winemaker, so they really keep the business in the family!). Cooled by the San Pablo Bay, the vineyards are swathed in generous sunlight, resulting in balanced, ripe fruit. The ‘Chockablock,’ a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Malbec, is certified organic and aged in neutral oak for 12 months. On the nose, the wine offers a bouquet of strawberry, red cherry, rose, and violet. Once tasted, the ‘Chockablock’ expands into a dark fruity delight with hints of vanilla, cedar, and mocha. If you’re wanting some soul food to enjoy with this wine, order a chopped beef sandwich combo from Clara’s Kitchen, and smile as you imbibe.
Following up the huge success of December’s the ‘Bishop’ Shiraz (Svetlana and Matt’s choice) comes the ‘Wallace,’ a Shiraz and Grenache blend from Barossa Valley. These two varieties naturally complement each other: Shiraz brings power and body while Grenache, a workhorse of a grape, adds softness and juicy fruit. The ‘Wallace’ is named after Colin Glaetzer’s wife, whose ancestors hail from Fife, Scotland; thus, the Celtic cross, thistle, and knot on the label are an homage to her Celtic roots. The Shiraz is matured in old oak barrels for 16 months, but to preserve the structure of old vine Barossa Grenache, oak contact is avoided. Red fruits from the Grenache dominate the nose, rounded out by licorice, star anise and smoke from the Shiraz. Bright red cherry and red plum give way to blackberry, currant, and black pepper on the palate. Chargrilled veggies are a perfect pairing for the ‘Wallace,’ so swing by Café Brazil and try it with their Southwest vegan burger.
People love their Paso Robles wines, and this one in particular has an environmental and philanthropist twist: as of the writing of these notes, 32,727 trees have been planted in a partnership between Vina Robles and a non-profit with the goal of preserving the planet. Vina Robles specializes in Rhone and Bordeaux varieties due to proximity to the Santa Lucia Mountains, which trap heat during the afternoons, resulting in ample sunshine in the vineyards and ripe, juicy fruit. ‘The Arborist,’ so named for a horticultural magician who saved the tree featured on the label, is a unique blend of Syrah, Petite Sirah, Grenache, and Tannat. The wine is aged for 18 months in small- and large-format French, Hungarian, and American oak to smooth out the tannins. Notes of blackberry, black plum, strawberry, mocha, black pepper, and cedar dominate the palate. Pair this with something as equally decadent, a black and blue ribeye from Cartwright’s Ranch House.
Mar 6, 2023 at 9:52 AM
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Welcome to March! Well, for those reading this on February 28, farewell February!
We are trying a little different format to the email today. Quick hits first, then a brief written update.
Blind Tasting Events: They start tonight. If you are considering attending all 4, grab the "4-pack" reservation today as it will go away after the tasting tonight.
The first blind tasting is 7 - 8:30pm tonight, and the theme is "Where is this wine from?"
Go online and reserve your seats at one or more of these tastings.
Upcoming Events
Get your advance seating online.
You can learn more about all that is happening this month online at Events.
Live Music and the Cover Charge: We have been asked several times by guests who come into the bar when we have live music if they have to pay the cover charge for the band if they are here to "just drink". The simple answer is yes. We find that most people do come in during live music to enjoy both the wine and the music. But, if they are truly here to just have a glass of wine, people can sit on the front patio without having to pay a cover charge. In the past we have charged cover to sit on the back patio as we normally broadcast the show to the patio so people can enjoy the music outdoors.
Our Monday Night special listening events have been quite well received and we have two more coming up in March. The first is next Monday, March 6th with the Greg Waits Nonet - Small Big Band. Seats are avaialble to reserve online for the event. The next one will be March 27th with a special performance with Rosana Eckert. We will have more info and reservations online soon.
Blind Tasting Events: We are kicking off our Blind Tasting series tonight at 7pm. We still have seats available but get your reservation in early today as we will be ordering the cheese board from 10:1 Artisan Cheese at noon today.
We have four weeks of blind tasting events each Tuesday evening starting on the 28th. Each week we will have a different "theme". On the 28th, we will focus on 4 wines from 4 distinct regions of the wine world, and the challenge is to identify where each wine is from. On March 7th we will be looking at "what grape is in my glass?" The following week will be "Is this sweet or fruity?" And the final week we will taste 4 wines and the challenge will be to identify what price range each wine falls into. You can register for one or more events individually, or if you like, you can purchase the 4 weeks up front and save a few $'s. Along with tasting the wines, we will be working with our friends at 10:1 Cheese to have something to pair with each wine.
Travel Events: We are excited to be working with Walter and Kim Eagleton on a trip to France in 2024 for Steve's Wine Bar guests. Specifically to the Burgundy and Beaujolais regions. There is still room available for those interested in spending a week with us in October of 2024. You can learn more online at Artistic Gourmet Travel October 2024.
Wine Club: The March wine club wines have been chosen and are being delivered this week. We will be kicking off our March club tastings this Friday afternoon! For those club members who missed the February tasting, you can taste through Friday and after that, you can still come in during the month of March and pick a couple of bottles from the list. We will have a couple of the wines still open by the glass in March as they were a hit this last month.
Not a wine club member? You can learn more online at Steve's Wine Bar Wine Club.
Have a great day and we'll see you soon!
Cheers!
Steve, Karen and the entire Steve’s Wine Bar Team.
Feb 28, 2023 at 9:30 AM
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Time is moving forward and February is wrapping up in just 7 days. Over the next several days we have some fun things happening here at Steve's as we look forward to amazing music, fun tastings, and great friends.
Live Music: This last week was fantastic! With the great music from all the musicians who came in to perform, especially the Tixier brothers on our special Monday night event. We continue that musical experience this week with The Pan-Tones Wednesday evening, then Friday with special guest artist from NY, saxophonist Jeff Antoniuk, Irish music Saturday afternoon, and the Ed Soph Trio on Saturday evening. You don't get much better than that anywhere in the country.
Our Monday Night special events have been quite well received and we have two more coming up in March. The first is on March 6th with the Greg Waits Nonet - Small Big Band. Seats are avaialble to reserve online for the event. The next one will be March 27th with a special performance with Rosana Eckert. We will have more info and reservations online soon.
Blind Tasting Events: We are kicking off our Blind Tasting series on the 28th. We will have four weeks of blind tasting events each Tuesday evening starting on the 28th. Each week we will have a different "theme". On the 28th, we will focus on 4 wines from 4 distinct regions of the wine world, and the challenge is to identify where each wine is from. On March 7th we will be looking at "what grape is in my glass?" The following week will be "Is this sweet or fruity?" And the final week we will taste 4 wines and the challenge will be to identify what price range each wine falls into. You can register for one or more events individually, or if you like, you can purchase the 4 weeks up front and save a few $'s. Along with tasting the wines, we will be working with our friends at 10:1 Cheese to have something to pair with each wine.
Go online and reserve your seats at one or more of these tastings.
Special Wines: We purchased a special wine from Piattelli Vineyards in Argentina for Valentines Day called the Arlene. It was a hit by the glass and several people have purchased a bottle. We still have a few bottles left, so consider grabbing one for your next special dinner or party.
"The Arlene is an elegant and rare vintage like none we have released or experienced at Piattelli." - Alejandro Nesman, Winemaker, Piattelli.
We also picked up a really fun Cabernet from our friends at Vina Robles in Paso Robles, CA; the Mountain Road Reserve Cabernet. Another big bodied, full flavored Cabernet Sauvignon. Quantities are limited, so make sure to grab a bottle or two in the next couple of weeks.
Check out the calendar online to see what events and experiences we have scheduled in the days to come and make your reservation.
We hope to see you this week, and if not, then some day over the next couple of weeks.
Upcoming Events include:
Get your advance seating online.
You can learn more about all that is happening this month online at Events.
Have a great day and we'll see you soon!
Cheers!
Steve, Karen and the entire Steve’s Wine Bar Team.
Feb 22, 2023 at 7:23 AM
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Happy Super Bowl Sunday! We hope your day is a going well, and if you have a "horse in the race" we wish you good luck on a big win!
Even though we do not have Big Plans for today, we will have the game on our TV's with sound and we will be pouring amazing wines, and plenty of options on beer too! Looking to enjoy some patio time? We'll have the TV and sound going on the back patio and if you wish to enjoy a cigar during the game, we have a nice selction to consider. So come join us if you do not have any party plans in place today, or you just need to get away from house. Don't forget, you can bring your own food, so feel free to order up from one of the restaurants around us, or bring in your own Sunday game-day spread.
Tomorrow (Monday) we have the amazing Tixier brothers performing at 7pm. We have sold out of the advance reserve seats, but we still have room available if you desire to stop in and join us for the concert. Doors will officially open at 6pm and the music is planned to start at 7pm. This is not a "business as usual" night as will not be doing wine tastings and other activities so we can create a quiet space to listen and enjoy these amazing musicians.
Tuesday is Valentines Day. We have some fun options for those looking to have a very special glass of wine with their loved one, plus a cholcolate and a rose.
We have purchased a special wine from Piattelli Vineyards in Argentina. High in the Andes surrounding Salta, Piattelli’s Cafayate wines are made from select estate fruit grown at over 5,900 feet elevation. The splendor of this area, with its pure water and extreme thermal amplitudes produce grapes bursting with flavor, which make this not only one of the most beautiful, but also one of the premier grape growing regions in the world. The Arlene is an award winning red blend of Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc, aged 18 months in French & American oak barrels.
"The Arlene is an elegant and rare vintage like none we have released or experienced at Piattelli." - Alejandro Nesman, Winemaker, Piattelli.
When we had a chance to taste this wine a couple of weeks ago with the representative from the winery, we felt is was special enough to bring in just for this Valentine's evening. Plus the story that goes along with it is perfect for Valentine's Day. So stop in and hear the story and have a glass or two with us this Tuesday.
We will have a "package" that includes 1 glass of the Arlene, chocolate from Candy Haven, and a yellow rose (you will know why when you hear the Arlene Story) for $35. If you wish to simply enjoy a glass sans chocolate and the rose, it is $25.
Prefer a different wine from a red blend? We will be doing a similar package with any of our wines on our By-the-Glass Menu with the chocolate and a rose for $25.
On Wednesday night we have a special performance with Ginny Mac. We have sold out of all our table seating for the evening, but like our Monday concert, we will have room for people to sit at the bar, the patio, and the tasting room.
We hope to see you this week, and if not, then some day over the next couple of weeks.
Upcoming Events include:
Get your advance seating online.
You can learn more about all that is happening this month online at Events.
Stay tuned for a special announcement about our blind tasting events coming soon.
Have a great day and we'll see you soon!
Cheers!
Steve, Karen and the entire Steve’s Wine Bar Team.
Feb 12, 2023 at 12:06 PM
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