Club Corner
October 2025 Rosé Club
BODEGAS MUGA This month, we’re taking a slightly different approach by spotlighting a single bottle from one exceptional producer. The focus this month will be on the esteemed Spanish winery Bodegas Muga, one of the most well regarded producers in Rioja. While the Muga family had been associated with viticulture in northwestern Rioja dating as far back as the 16th century, it wasn’t until 1932 that Isaac Muga and his wife Aurora Caño, reportedly a great wine taster who was able to identify different plots of land and the villages by taste, opened their own cellar. They met while working at La Rioja Alta S.A. where Isaac’s father worked as cellar master. Originally starting as negociants under the name Claretes Muga (Rioja Clarete was the name of the traditional rosé of the region) in the city of Haro, they bought wine from wineries and vineyards to blend and age with a focus on making rosé and young red wines for the first thirty years of the company. It wasn’t until the 1960s and the move to their current cellars in El Barrio de la Estación that the family shifted their focus from bulk wine to Reservas and Gran Reservas under the watch of the 2nd generation, brothers Manuel and Isacín. The winery has gained world renown while remaining family-owned, with Manuel's children Manu, Juan, Eduardo, and Ana in charge of sales, management, and communication, while their cousins oversee viticulture and winemaking with Jorge focused on reds while Isaac focused on whites and rosés. Being a 100% family business has allowed them to make long- term decisions and make significant investments in old vineyards. Bodegas Muga stands as one of the most traditional wineries in the world, where every stage of winemaking still takes place in oak barrels and vats. The winery employs a dedicated team solely for barrel management, carrying out racking by gravity and inspecting wines for sediment by candlelight. Every barrel and vat is crafted on-site by Muga’s own cooperage team—making it the only winery in Spain with its own master cooper. The master cooper’s son also works at the estate and is currently training to follow in his father’s footsteps. Each year, the Muga family travels to France and other regions to personally select oak trees, which are later fashioned into staves and seasoned for several years at the winery’s facilities. Flor de Muga is a higher-tier, single-vineyard wine that differs from Muga's "regular" wines through its use of premium fruit from older vines, a more meticulous winemaking process, and longer aging. While standard Muga wines are a blend of various plots, Flor de Muga is made from a very specific, strict selection of grapes from high-altitude old vines, resulting in a more complex, elegant, and refined wine. Think Pink! Justin Malesheetz-Wine Buyer 2024 Bodegas Muga Flor de Muga Rosato Region/Country of Origin: El Barrio de la Estación, Rioja, ES About the Vineyards: The family owns and cultivates a 400 hectare holding of vineyards, primarily located in three quality subzones of Rioja — the foothills of the Montes Obarenes, the Sonsierra Riojana, and the Alta Najerilla in Rioja Alta. The grapes used for this wine come from bush vines planted between 1927 and 1947 at high elevation in the Yalde and Alto Najerilla Valleys that are cultivated using sustainable viticulture practices. About the Winemaking: After closely monitoring the ripening process, the optimal harvest time is selected to maintain the grapes’ acidity and fresh fruit character. The grapes (100% Garnacha) are handpicked and transported to the winery in small, refrigerated crates to preserve their full aromatic potential. This rosé is made from free-run juice, the first wine to come out of the tank after fermentation with little or no pressure from the press. Following a very short maceration, fermentation is carried out with 100% ambient yeast in small wooden casks and a variety of large wooden vats with each plot fermenting separately. The wine is then aged on the lees for four months before bottling and release. Tasting Notes: A pale, almost clear salmon in the glass with a bright nose of tangerine, mineral, grapefruit and green strawberry. Medium bodied with crystalline laser like acidity and a tangy, salted grapefruit, strawberry, and red cherry palate with a long mineral and saline finish. Winemaker: Isaac Muga Price: $39.99 btl /$239.94 a 6-pack Suggested Food Pairing: Grilled watermelon and feta salad, arroz con pollo
Learn moreAugust Rosé of the Month Club
OFF THE BEATEN PATH While most are familiar with rosé from the Provence region of France, we know rosés are produced all over the world in a range of styles from fuller-bodied, almost light reds, to pale vin gris that drink more like white wines. This month we have a pair of rosés from regions you don’t see too often that show the range of what rosé can be. Vibrant pink and full of flavor, these rosés are sure to please your palate! The first selection is from the Marche region of Italy, which has a long but sometimes overlooked wine history. Starting with the Picenes, an Italic tribe inhabiting the Marche, vines were cultivated as early as the 9th century BCE. Wine growing flourished under Roman rule, and after the fall of Rome, monasteries preserved winemaking traditions. Benedictine and Cistercian monks cultivated vineyards, often linked to local abbeys and hill towns. In the Renaissance era, the Marche remained somewhat rural and isolated compared to Tuscany or Piedmont, so wines were largely consumed locally rather than achieving widespread fame. Unfortunately, Phylloxera devastated Marche’s vineyards in the late 19th century, but replanting occurred slowly, with many focusing on quantity over quality. Today, Marche balances small artisanal estates with cooperatives, producing a mix of traditional and modern styles. Sustainability and organic viticulture are increasingly important. The Marche region is located on the other side of the Apennine Mountains from Tuscany and Umbria, and is lined with sandy beaches along the Adriatic Sea facing Croatia. The combination of rolling hills and a cooling ocean breeze contributes to the structure of the bright but balanced whites the region is known for. The reds from the region are largely Sangiovese, the local Lacrima grape, and Montepulciano. However, this Marche rosé features Grenache, which was planted as part of an expansion in 2003 by the current winery owners, Paolo and Elisetta Capriotti, to complement the winery's traditional local varieties. Our second rosé is coming all the way from Armenia, which, as a wine region, is matched only by Georgia in its history, with the oldest facilities uncovered in the region dating back over 6100 years. It has been known since antiquity for the quality of its goods (like wine, metals, and textiles), as noted by such ancient scholars as Herodotus, Strabo, and Xenophon, who were among the most important writers of the ancient world. Herodotus wrote of Armenian wine flowing down the Euphrates to Babylon; Xenophon described drinking from clay jars in village homes during his march through the region; and Strabo praised the fertile vineyards that shaped its economy. From antiquity to today, Armenia’s wines have been recognized as a mark of quality, deeply rooted in one of the world’s oldest winemaking traditions. Armenia is a mountainous landlocked country nestled in between Georgia, Iran, Azerbaijan, and Turkey. Its high-altitude vineyards, volcanic soils, and abundance of native grapes create a truly distinctive terroir. It has a Continental climate with hot, dry summers and cold winters, as well as large diurnal temperature shifts (warm days, cool nights) that help grapes retain acidity and aromatic complexity. There is abundant sunshine (over 300 days a year in many regions) which ensures full ripening, and the low humidity and wind reduce disease pressure, making organic viticulture highly feasible. Areni Noir, which is the grape variety of the rosé being featured, is the country’s flagship red grape, and it produces elegant, age-worthy wines with cherry, pomegranate, and spice notes. Think Pink! Justin Malesheetz- Wine Buyer Fillmore 2024 Poderi San Lazzaro Elise Marche Rosato Region/Country of Origin: Marche, Italy About the Winery: Poderi San Lazzaro traces back to Lorenzo Capriotti's acquisition of a farm nestled in the hills near Offida. This site, situated 290 meters above sea level, proved to be an ideal spot for growing grapes, located just 9 miles from the shores of the Adriatic Sea and 15 miles from the Apennine mountains. Lorenzo initiated the venture by cultivating vineyards filled with Montepulciano, Sangiovese, and Passerina grape varieties. In 2003, Paolo Capriotti and his wife Elisetta assumed control of the farm and winery. The estate, now under organic cultivation, spans 9.5 hectares with ages ranging from 15 to 60 years, complemented by 2 hectares of olive groves and an additional 2 hectares of wooded land. About the Winemaking: 80% Grenache and 20% Sangiovese fermented in temperature cold tanks and aged in stainless steel Tasting Notes: A vivid pale crimson in the glass with notes of ripe red cherry. Dry with balanced acidity and a fuller body, the juicy cherry and strawberry flavors glide through the long finish. Winemaker: Paolo Capriotti Price: $21.99 btl/ $237.50 Suggested food pairing: Bruschetta topped with tomato, garlic and basil, pasta with cheese or cream sauce, egg dishes, leafy salads with fall fruits, salmon dishes, poultry, spicy Asian dishes and soft cheeses like Camembert or Brie 2023 Voskevaz Areni Rosé Region/Country of Origin: Aragatsotn, Armenia About the Winery: Originally founded in 1932 and one of the only wineries allowed to work through Soviet rule, the Voskevaz Winery was has been run by Davit Hovhannisyan since 1997, who has recently been joined by his brothers, artist and architect Gagik Oganesyan and metalworker Armen Oganesyan. They focus on traditional indigenous varietals like Areni Noir, Haghtanak, and Voskehat and are one of the few producers in the region harvesting fruit from ancient bush trained vines ranging from 80 to 300 years of age. About the Winemaking: 100% Areni Noir from 80 to 100 year old vines 1600 meters above sea level cold pressed before fermentation and aging in stainless steel tanks. Tasting Notes: Pale salmon with a nose of cherry blossom, white peach, tangerine and strawberry. Medium bodied and fresh, with bright ruby grapefruit, stone fruit, fresh strawberry, and cherry flavors with a dry finish reminiscent of fresh citrus. Winemaker: David Hovhannisyan Price: $20.99 btl/$226.69 case Suggested Food Pairing: Raw fish anti-pasti, Light pasta dishes with vegetables or shrimp, Chicken Khorovats, Dolmas.
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June 2024 Rosé of the Month Club
For over 2,600 years, the production of wine has thrived in the South of France, starting from when the Greeks established Marseille in 600 BC. The cultivation and crafting of wine in Provence have been shaped by various cultures throughout its history. These include the Ancient Greeks, Romans, Gauls, Catalans, and Savoyards, who all contributed to the region by introducing a wide range of grape varieties. These encompass grapes of Greek and Roman roots, alongside Spanish, Italian, and traditional French wine grapes. Provence experiences a traditional Mediterranean climate, with its southern border being formed by the sea. The winters are mild, followed by hot summers and minimal rainfall. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, with the grapevines receiving more than 3,000 hours of sunlight each year, twice the necessary amount for the grapes to fully ripen. However, this abundance can have a negative impact if vineyard owners are not cautious, as it can potentially lead to over ripening of the grapes. The viticulture in Provence is influenced by the strong mistral wind that blows from the north. This wind has both positive and negative effects - it can cool the grapes during hot weather and dry them after rain, offering some protection against rot and grape diseases. However, if vines are not properly secured and protected by hillside landforms, the mistral wind can also cause damage. In areas where the wind is particularly strong, it is ideal to have vineyards on south-facing hillsides, as the hills provide some shelter from the strength of the mistral. The choice of grape varieties planted also plays a role in these areas, as south-facing slopes receive the most sunshine, which can easily over-expose delicate and early ripening varieties. Such varieties would be better suited on north-facing slopes in the warm climate of Provence. Provence has nine wine appellations with AOC status. The Côtes de Provence (featured this month) is the largest followed by Coteaux d'Aix-en-Provence and Coteaux Varois en Provence. The other 6 AOC are Les Baux-de-Provence, Pierrevert, Bandol (featured this month), Cassis, Bellet and Palette. The geographical boundaries of the Bandol AOC coincide with the cultivation of 8 communes that possess soils rich in silica and limestone minerals. This highly favorable soil composition, in combination with the warm and coastal climate, creates the perfect conditions for the late maturation of the Mourvèdre grape, which is a predominant variety grown in the region. In the production of both red and rosé wines, it is mandatory for Mourvèdre to comprise at least 50% of the blend, although many winemakers prefer to incorporate a larger percentage. Additional grape varieties such as Grenache and Cinsaut are commonly used to complete the wine's overall composition. Think Pink! Carrie Upson- General Manager/Wine Buyer Grimaud Fleur de Provence Rosé 2023 Region/Country of Origin: Cotes de Provence, St- Tropez, France About the Winery: Located at the entrance to the village, the Cave Coopérative des Vignerons de Grimaud is one of the oldest companies in the Commune and certainly the most important in its sector of activity in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez. Clinging to the slopes overlooking the Gulf, the vineyard benefits from unique sunshine and beautiful maritime influences conducive to its development and essential for the quality of our rosés. Its terroir, heterogeneous but predominantly sandy-shale and limestone, allows the roots to penetrate deep, making the vines less sensitive to lack of water, also favoring the finesse of the aromas and complexity. The vines benefit from deep soils; they are mainly planted with Grenache, Syrah, Cinsault and Rolle. Each grape variety is skillfully planted on the most appropriate part to allow it to fully flourish. About the Winemaking: All of the grapes go direct to press with minimal skin contact, leading to a pale salmon color and a subtle grip. The must was fermented cold, preserving the freshness of floral aromatics and vibrant fruit intensity. 60% Grenache, 40% Cinsault. Tasting Notes: Soaring aromatics of watermelon, strawberry, raspberry and rose petal jump from the glass. Flavors of cherry, watermelon and kirsch lead to a wonderful burst of refreshing acidity on the finish. Winemaker: Founded in 1932, with 112 cooperating partners, the Cave today brings together more than 270 members spread across the 12 municipalities of the Gulf of St Tropez. Price: $17.99 btl/$194.29 case Suggested food pairing: Fried Chicken, Pepperoni Pizza, Couscous w/roasted veggies. Moulin del la Roque Les Hauts du Vallon Bandol Rosé 2023 Region/Country of Origin: Bandol AOC, Provence, France About the Winery: Founded in 1950 by the winegrowers of la Cadière d’Aazur, St-Cyr-sure-Mer and Sanary-sur-Mer, the Moulin de la Roque cellar was initially designed for the oak barrel maturing of Bandol red wines. In 1964, through the efforts of the winegrowers and following numerous alterations, it became a wine production center. About the Winemaking: Grapes are harvested manually and de-stemmed to avoid harsh tannins. The grapes are transferred to pneumatic presses and the juice flows into temperature controlled stainless steel tanks. Following alcoholic fermentation, there is a lengthy vatting period of 20-30 days to allow the young wine to come into its own. 62% Mourvedre, 22% Grenache, 16% Cinsault. Tasting Notes: In the glass, Les Hauts du Vallon Rosé reveals a delicate pale pink hue, reflecting the wine's finesse. The nose is a bouquet of summer aromas, with notes of ripe strawberries, citrus blossoms, and a touch of mineral freshness. On the palate, the wine unfolds with flavors of red currants, peaches, and a hint of Provencal herbs. The mouthfeel is crisp and refreshing, leading to a dry and lingering finish that leaves a subtle impression of Mediterranean salinity. Winemaker: Moulin de la Roque is the work of a group of winegrowing families united in the same goal. Since its foundation in 1950, they have worked together in a cooperative and supportive spirit. Price: $23.99 btl/ Case available by special order only Suggested Food Pairing: Nicoise salad, Hummus and pita chips, Grilled herbed chicken, fish tagine.
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June '24 Wine of the Month Club
Catalonia Spain The wine region of Catalonia is located in the northeast of Spain, south of the eastern Pyrenees, bordering France and along the Mediterranean coast. The region has almost 600 km of coastline, being strongly influenced by the maritime climate. The majority of vineyards in Catalonia are located in the south of Barcelona in areas that cover the coastal plain and hills to the west. Catalan wines, much like the culture of its people, exhibit a distinctiveness that sets them apart from those produced in the rest of Spain, contrasting with the Castilian, Galician, or Andalusian counterparts. In fact, during the autumn of 2014, a majority of Catalan voters expressed their support for secession from Spain through straw-poll ballots. Following this, separatist candidates triumphed in the regional elections a year later. Although the outcome of Catalan independence remains uncertain, the provinces of Barcelona, Tarragona, Lleida, and Girona are presently still part of Spain. Catalonia boasts ten designated wine regions, predominantly focusing on grape varieties that thrive in the Mediterranean climate. Among the red grape varieties, Garnacha and Carignan (also known as Cariñena or Samsó) take precedence, while the white grape varieties include Garnacha Blanca and Xarel-lo. Throughout Catalonia, one can also find plantations of Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, and Trepat, which are complemented by the white varieties Parellada and Macabeo (known as Viura in Rioja), often utilized in the production of Cava, Spain's renowned sparkling wine. Catalan wines are known for their robust body and high alcohol content, attributes attributed to both the grape varieties employed and the warm climatic conditions prevalent within the region. Moreover, the finest wines of Catalonia offer an enticing minerality derived from vineyards sown in granite, chalk, and cracked slate soils. Stretching west from the Mediterranean toward inland hills and mountains, Penedès is ground zero for sparkling wine production. If you’ve ever enjoyed a glass of Cava, chances are it came from Penedès, which accounts for around 95% of the world’s Cava production. But it’s not all bubbles, as Penedès has a small contingent of still-wine producers as well. Having enjoyed a tasty still varietal Xarel-lo (the most widely planted variety) I can attest that it is indeed possible to get a still wine from the area. Other good still-wine bets include Chardonnay, Muscat, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Tempranillo. Penedès has also been the standard bearer when it comes to advancement and innovation as it was here that stainless steel and cold fermentation were first used. Montsant is home to old vine Garnacha and Carignan. The region wraps around the smaller Priorat and shares much in common with its more famous neighbor, including vines planted at high elevation in similar soils and climate. The good news is folks are not as knowledgeable about Monsant, so wines come at more modest prices. Some refer to the wines of the region as “poor man’s Priorat” which seriously undermines how great these wines can be. In addition to Garnacha and Carignan, Syrah and Garnacha Blanca also play an important role in the wines of the region. Like Priorat, the wines can be bold with high levels of alcohol, but can also yield refined and mineral-driven wines when made from fruit grown in high-elevation, stony soils. It may live in Priorat’s shadow, but during a recent tasting that featured both Montsant and Priorat wines, my vote went to the Montsant wines. Salud! Carrie Upson- General Manager and Wine Buyer 2022 Huguet de Can Feixes Blanc Selecció Region / Country of Origin: Cataluña, D.O. Penedes/Corpinnat, Spain About the vineyards: Estate vineyards in foothills of upper Pènedes region, Alt Pènedes, D.O. Pènedes, Cataluña at an altitude of 1400 feet. 100% organic – CCPAE (Consell Català de la Producció Agrària Ecològica), sustainable agriculture, 100% estate grown. One of 9 members of Corpinnat “born in the heart of the Penedes.” About the winemaking: Hand harvested with careful berry selection in vineyard and at sorting table • Gentle pneumatic pressing, natural settling • Fermentation in temperature controlled stainless steel tanks • Aged on lees in tank until bottling in February 2023. 40% Parellada, 29% Macabeo, 18% Xarel-lo, 8% Chardonnay, 5% Malvasia de Sitges. Tasting Notes: Fresh, fruity and floral aromas. Citrus notes and fullness complimented by stony minerality on the palate and crisp acidity. A young, dry white wine made from a careful selection of the native grape varietals grown at Can Feixes. “Aromas of nectarine, ginger and honeysuckle waft from the glass. This fully textured white is bright from the first sip and has flavors of pineapple, passion fruit and rose that evaporate into a vivid finish.” 92 Points Wine Enthusiast Winemaker: Josep Maria Huguet Price: $23.99 bottle/ $259.09 case Suggested Food Pairing: Paella, Romaine with garlic lemon anchovy dressing, Garlic shrimp linguine, Tortilla de patata 2020 Josep Grau Viticultor Efecte Volador Montsant Region / Country of Origin: Cataluña, D.O. Montsant, Spain About the Winery: “In Priorat region, we found the inspiration to get started in wine, first observing and then, in 2003, purchasing the first vineyard in the village of Capçanes, in DO Montsant.” They were attracted by the diversity of soils and terroirs in Montsant and their potential to make different wines. Gradually they were incorporating vineyards that they acquired from winegrowers who no longer wanted to farm their vines, usually old Garnacha and Cariñena plots. They also maintain close ties with growers who are involved in the business and share Josep Grau’s philosophy. About the winemaking: Hand harvested • Fermented in 1700 liter concrete vats using only indigenous yeasts at low temperature to protect fruit • Aged in concrete vats 6 months. 80% Garnacha 20% Cariñena Tasting Notes: Soaring with aromas of red berries and macerated cherries, a thrilling expression of Garnacha and Cariñena that personifies its name, “The feeling of flying.” The fruit pops with structure on a lively mouthfeel, with subtle tannin and nuances of rosemary, violets, and tar. Winemaker: Josep Grau Price: $23.99 bottle/ $259.09 case Suggested Food Pairings: Cassoulet, Duck confit, Spanish style white bean and sausage soup, Pontevedra style Spanish Chicken
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May 2024 Rosé of the Month Club
Château La Nerthe Every so often, I have the pleasure of being invited to winemaker lunches, where a visiting vigneron hosts wine buyers and showcases their wines alongside some fabulous food. Last week I was fortunate to attend one such event at Spruce with Rémi Jean from Château La Nerthe, and I was super impressed by the entire line up. As a matter of fact, I liked them so much that I bought both of their rosés for this month’s club! Purchased by the Tulle de Villefranche family in 1560, the historic Château was built in 1736, making Château La Nerthe one of the very oldest estates in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. They were also among the first to bottle it their own wine, starting in 1784, and export it outside of France. They also pioneered the practice of de-stemming 100% of their grapes prior to vinification in the 19th century, by which point theirs was the most expensive wine from Southern Rhone. In 1870, the Tulle de Villefranche family sold the property to the Joseph Ducos family, in part due to the devastation caused to the vineyards by phylloxera. The Ducos family made their mark on Chateau la Nerthe’s history by replanting the vineyard on grafted phylloxera-resistant rootstock and by planting new, local grape varieties; 10 of the 13 permitted varietals were planted. They maintained ownership of the property until 1941 when Château La Nerthe was bought at an auction by the Leclerc and Motte families. By 1985, Château La Nerthe had become dilapidated and was put up for sale by the Dereumaux family and purchased by the Richard family in partnership with David and Foillard negociants. Their goal for the estate was to revive the original values of excellence and innovation. A complete renovation of the estate took place and much of the vineyards were replanted. In 1991, Château La Nerthe was able to expand their holdings with the purchase of 54 acres of vines, which helped to create one of the largest estates in the Southern Rhône with 230 acres. In 1998, the vineyard was certified organic. Rémi Jean joined the Chateau la Nerthe team in late 2019 and has been placed in charge of the estate and its winemaking. He grew up in a family of farmers in Provence, and received his degree in winemaking and agricultural engineering at Ecole Nationale Supérieure Agronomique in Montpellier. Rémi began his career in the wine cellars of Languedoc, spending one harvest there, after which he moved to Cairanne, a Côtes du Rhône Villages Cru, to work as assistant winemaker. From 2004 to 2007, he was cellar master and winemaker for Maison Louis Jadot in Beaujolais under the helm of Jacques Lardiere. Beginning with the mentorship of Jacques and through first-hand experience over the years, Rémi has learned that the quality of the wine begins with the quality of the grape and level of care and skill in vineyard management. He practices minimal intervention in the cellar and in winemaking, while keeping informed of the latest technology, and believing that it should be employed only when needed. Rémi Jean has had a long partnership with the Richard Family Wineries, previously working as General Manager for their Bordeaux properties, Château de Corcelles and Château des Tours. Think Pink! Carrie Upson- General Manager Château La Nerthe Prieuré de Montézargues Tavel 2022 Region: Tavel AOC, Rhône Valley, France About the Vineyard: A historic vineyard, the Prieuré de Montézargues was originally a monastery dating from 1199. The property covers 84 acres and is sheltered from the Mistral wind by the Montagne Noire mountain range. The original stone priory buildings blend seamlessly into the landscape, forming a micro-terroir and the unique personality of the Montézargues estate wines. This micro-terroir is composed of sandy soils covered by a layer of ‘galets’ - large, round, well-worn stones that were carried down from the Alps by glaciers during the last ice age. About the winemaking: Grapes are hand-harvested early in the morning and carefully sorted. The grapes undergo direct pressing in a pneumatic press for three hours. After fermentation at a low temperature, the wine is blended and aged on fine lees for four months in stainless steel vats. Grenache Noir, Blanc & Gris (50%), Mourvèdre (15%), Cinsault (15%), Syrah (10%), Clairette (10%). Tasting notes: A bright cherry pink, this Tavel rosé shows aromas of ripe peaches, strawberries and orange peel. On the palate, this complex and balanced wine has notes of anise and grapefruit with a mineral streak. It has good length and finishes with zesty lime notes. Winemaker: Rèmi Jean Price per bottle/Price per case: $21.99 btl/237.50 Suggested Food Pairing: Seared tuna, grilled fish, tomato salad Château La Nerthe “Les Cassagnes” Côtes du Rhône Rosé 2022 Region: Côtes du Rhône AOC, Rhône Valley, France Harvest notes: The 2022 vintage in France was marked by very hot temperatures and severe drought in all vineyards. There were no climatic events in the vineyards, but the harvest began early. Overall, the quantity obtained was normal despite the heat wave. About the winemaking: Hand-harvested grapes are carefully sorted once they arrive in the cellar, and then undergo direct pressing in a pneumatic press for three hours. The wine is fermented in temperature-controlled tanks at a low temperature to maintain its freshness, and ages for four months on fine lees in stainless steel vats. Vineyards are certified AB Organic. GRAPES: Grenache (60%), Mourvèdre (30%), Cinsault (20%) Tasting notes: “A fruity nose with lots of apricots, peaches and brown sugar. Medium body with creamy texture and mid-palate volume. Velvety and generous with a lush finish. From organically grown grapes. Drink now.” 92 Points JS Winemaker: Rèmi Jean Price per bottle/Price per case: $16.99 btl/$183.49 cs Suggested Food Pairing: Charcuterie platters, goat cheese terrine, grilled chicken marinated with olive oil, lemon, and thyme.
Learn moreApril 2024 Rosé Club
Spain holds the rank of the third largest wine producer globally, following Italy and France. The country devotes a significant amount of land to vineyards, with over one million acres dedicated to wine production. Spain boasts 60 officially recognized wine regions, known as Denominaciones de Origen (D.O.), which operate similarly to France's appellations, enforcing specific laws to ensure the quality of wines produced in each region. Spain consists of 17 autonomous regions, and this month's featured wines originate from Navarra, home to the famous Pamplona and the running of the bulls, as well as Rioja, a region steeped in history encompassing a massive 161000 acres of land. The Rioja wine region is located in northern Spain, primarily within the autonomous community of La Rioja but also extending into parts of Navarre and the Basque Country. It is known for its picturesque landscapes, with the Ebro River flowing through the region. Rioja has a unique climate influenced by both Atlantic and Mediterranean weather patterns. The region experiences hot summers and relatively mild winters, with variations in microclimates across its three subregions. The diverse terroir includes a mix of soils such as clay, limestone, and alluvial deposits, contributing to the different wine styles produced here. Many wineries in Rioja combine modern winemaking practices with respect for age-old traditions, resulting in a diverse range of high-quality wines. While Rioja is primarily known for its red and white wines, the production of rosé wine in the region has gained popularity in recent years. Rosé wines from Rioja, known as "Rosado" in Spanish, offer a unique expression of the region's winemaking prowess and terroir. The Navarra D.O., situated to the east of Rioja, represents the Basque region. Wine cultivation in Navarra dates back to the Roman era in the first century A.D. However, the region's reputation for winemaking truly flourished during the late Middle Ages. Pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago, a medieval pilgrimage route experiencing a recent surge in popularity, began praising the exceptional quality of wines encountered while passing through the Kingdom of Navarra. Additionally, the Navarra throne was occupied by a series of French monarchs during this time, leading to a three-century cultural renaissance that is still evident today in the region's late Romanesque and high Gothic architectural treasures. Moreover, a lingering French influence can be observed in the local sensibilities surrounding food and wine. The region had a reputation for its celebrated rosés made from the native Garnacha Tinta grape even before D.O. Navarra was established in 1933. Navarra rosé wines are known for their versatility and food-friendliness and often exhibit a balance between fruitiness, acidity, and minerality. This makes them suitable for various occasions and culinary pairings. Whether enjoyed as a refreshing apéritif or paired with Mediterranean cuisine, Navarra rosé wines offer a delightful drinking experience. Think Pink, Carrie Upson General Manager Maximo Abete “Casalasierra” Rosé 2021 Region/Country of Origin: Navarra, Spain About the Vintage: Vintage marked by the big frost in april, which affected a quarter of our vineyard and the poor fruit set of the Garnacha variety. It results in a yield 40% lower than the average. Warm and very dry summer season benefitted from cool nights which helped keep balance in the fruit. Rain at the beginning of September delayed the starting of the harvest and adding to cool temperatures made a slow and balanced maturation. Tasty and concentrated wines with fresh fruit and low pHs. Feeling of a great vintage. About the Winemaking: Gentle de-stemming and cold skin contact for 12 hours. Free run juice to obtain the must without using pressure (bleeding method). Fermentation without skins at low temperature in concrete vat during 19 days. Bottled in November 2021 Tasting Notes: An intense bright pink color with purple glints. Very pronounced nose with red berry fruits (strawberry, raspberry), candy fruits and herbal base. Fresh attack, very refreshing body with a good acidity and balanced lingering finish full of fruity aromas. Good balance between acidity and fruitiness. Winemakers: Yoanna and Maria Abete Price per bottle / Price per case: $19.99 / $205.09 Suggested Food Pairing: With everything; Navarra vegetables, white meats, grilled meats, rice, pasta, pizza. Ostatu Rioja Rosato 2022 Region/Country of Origin: Rioja, Spain About the Winery: The secret lies in the high-altitude, bush-trained vineyards of indigenous tempranillo, garnacha, and viura vines in the foothills of the Sierra de Cantabria mountains. Theirs is a singular mountain rosé produced from some of Ostatu’s oldest and highest-elevation vineyards in the village of Samaniego: La Paul, Valdepedro, and Carrera at 600m to 650m. Samaniego is located directly at the convergence of the Atlantic and the Mediterranean climatic influences, which mold the character of the vintages. This unique soil and climate also lend a certain austerity and structure to Ostatu wines, which differentiates them from the Rioja wines of other subzones. Ostatu is pure Alavesa mountain wine, born of the tension and energy of an extreme climate. About the Winemaking: Grapes are farmed organically, and only native yeasts are utilized to ferment in stainless steel tanks, yielding a light, refreshing rosé from Rioja with substance, as well as charm. After a manual harvest, the grapes are destemmed and gently pressed before undergoing a short maceration. The wine then ferments with indigenous yeasts in stainless steel tanks at low temperatures (15°C to 16°C) on the lees for 44 days. Afterward, the wine is cold stabilized and gently filtered through diatomaceous earth before bottling. 63% Tempranillo / 35% Garnacha / 2% Viura. Certified Organic by ENEEK (Basque Organic Regulatory Council). Tasting Notes: Intense aroma of red fruits (strawberries, raspberries, currants), some citrus skin (orange peel) and fine minerality. Very fresh and balanced on the palate with good acidity. Finishes with a great balance of flavors, fruitiness and warmth. Winemaker: Gonzalo Sáenz de Samaniego Price per bottle / Price per case: $19.99/ $215.89 case Suggested Food Pairing: Patatas Bravas Jamin Iberico Gambas al Ajillo Salmon salad
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January '24 Rosé Club
Grenache Rosé Garnacha/Grenache, a widely cultivated grape variety, has its origins in Europe, specifically in the region that is now eastern Spain/southern France. Flourishing in the arid Mediterranean climate, this grape quickly made its way to other areas in the south and east, starting with Catalonia and later expanding to regions under the Crown of Aragón's influence during the 12th-17th centuries (Corsica, Sardinia, southern Italy, Sicily, Croatia, and even Greece). The 18th and 19th centuries witnessed further expansion of Garnacha/Grenache beyond Europe, reaching non-European regions such as Australia, North Africa, and California. So, this month we’ve selected an old world Garnacha Peluda Rosat from Catalonia, and a new world Grenache rosé from San Luis Obispo. La Lieff Wines began as Lieff Wines in Rutherford, California, the jewel of the Napa Valley Wine World, on a rocky outcrop above Auberge du Soleil. Even though the Lieff Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon would ultimately be named one of the Big Guns of Napa Valley (Wine Spectator 2015), the family eventually left Napa for the increasingly dynamic and less crowded California Central Coast. There, they purchased a ranch in San Luis Obispo County, and began growing Rhone varietals like Grenache, Syrah, and Sauvignon Blanc. Three years ago, the metamorphosis was complete as La Lieff Wines emerged under the stewardship of Gretchen Lieff (who is also vice president of the Santa Barbara Wildlife Care Network) and the inspiration of Gaia, the Greek mythological earth goddess and mother responsible for all planetary life. Edetària produces authentic wines with indigenous grapes, searching the purest soil expression, and restoring old vines' value thanks to organic winemaking in Gandesa DO Terra Alta, south of Barcelona. Joan Àngel Lliberia, Edetària’s heart and soul, started this adventure after studying Agricultural Engineering studies in Lleida and taking a Master of Science in Wine Management at OIV (Office International de la Vigne et du vin.) His first wine professional wine management work was in France, before he moved back to Catalunya, to continue his career in the wine sector, and later on with multinational corporations. Eventually, memories of a childhood lived amongst a universe of vineyards, grapes and cellars, and his passion for wine called him back to his origins to set up Edetària. This project is a dream come true, a homage to his oenologist grandfather Llorens and his viticulturist parents Pepita and Angel, and a wonderful legacy to pass on to future generations. Cheers! Carrie Upson-General Manager 2021 La Lieff Rosé of Grenache Region/Country of Origin: San Luis Obispo, California About the Winery: California’s Central Coast has more women winemakers than any other region in the world. This gives La Lieff an opportunity to be a truly woman owned and operated wine company. All key elements are managed by women, from the vineyard ownership/management, the winemaking, and the icon of the brand - Gaia, the Goddess of the Earth, who is featured on the La Lieff label. Grown in San Luis Obispo County along California’s Central Coast, the grapes continue to create our world class wines. Proximity to the ocean, orientation of the numerous canyons, and varying elevations produce diverse microclimates, allowing production of both cool and warm weather loving wine-grape varieties. About the Winemaking: The Grenache grapes used for this Rosé were not a by-product of red wine production; instead, they were crafted in the style of white wine; the grapes being gently whole cluster pressed allowing the optimum extraction of tannins and color. The resulting juice was racked to a tank and chilled to 45°F for two days, letting the juice clarify before inoculating for primary fermentation. Malolactic fermentation was prevented in this wine. Before bottling, this Rosé was maintained in stainless steel and kept at a temperature no greater than 58°F, helping it retain its true varietal characteristics and vibrant acidity. Tasting Notes: Pale Quartz Pink in color, this dry Rosé, is ripe, round and distinctive for its aromas and flavor profile, offering notes of strawberry, watermelon, and ruby red grapefruit, with hints of cardamom and lime zest. Winemaker: Kris Curran Price: $25.99 btl/ $280.69 Suggested Food Pairing: Gambas à la plancha, Quiche and Frittata, Pepper crusted tuna, Char Siu Bao. Edetaria, via Terra Garnatxa Rosat 2022 Terra Alta DO Catalonia Region/Country of Origin: Catalonia, Spain About the Winery: Garnacha Peluda (aka Hairy Grenache) gets its name from its downy, fuzzy leaves. As with rosemary and other Mediterranean plants, this seems to have evolved to allow the vine to conserve moisture in the heat. This grape variety is resistant to drought, it adapts well to arid soils and is less sensitive to pests. It is a mutation of the Red Grenache and is native to Catalonia. Edetaria uses sustainable practices to achieve the purest and the most genuine expression from their vineyards A few examples of their practices are: -preserving the soil’s structure and oxygenating it by rotating till and no-till cover crops, -using green fertilizers (pruning remains, cover crops cuts) and manure, -never using chemical fungicides and insecticides. Sustainable and organic practices used not only in the vineyards, but also in the cellar in the cellar, via solar energy. About the Winemaking: After soft destemming, skin contact is allowed for a few hours at 5°C. Fermentation: After debourbage, fermentation occurs at 16°C. Once fermentation is completed, they work with the fine lees to achieve a nice creaminess. Tasting Notes: Subtle salmon color with fresh red, zesty fruit and mineral aromas The wine tastes elegant, fresh and complex with a great balance of creaminess and acidity. Winemaker: Joan Àngel Lliberia Price: $13.99 bottle/$151.09 case Suggested Food Pairing: Coconut Curry soup, Onion confit stuffed with ham, Seafood Paella, Tiramisu.
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Red Rogues Q2 2022
What is the global wine grape? It could be Cabernet Sauvignon - currently the most planted. (It is definitely not Airen, the previous title-holder, a white varietal grown exclusively in Spain.) If we’re looking for something that will grow pretty much anywhere, we’ll take Chardonnay, cultivated in more countries than any other. In terms of prestige - and exchange value - it’s probably Pinot Noir from Burgundy. But if we had to pick a grape that really ties the tasting room together, an oenophile Esperanto, we might go with Grenache. It’s not the most obvious choice. Grenache predominates almost nowhere, even the places where it is predominantly grown (Spain and France together account for some 80ish %.) It isn’t one of the 6 noble varietals, and though it was the world’s most planted red wine grape for a brief moment at the turn of the last century. It has since become more scarce, uprooted on account of EU vine pull directives. But Grenache is a grape so ancient its origins are still shrouded in argument (some claim it comes from Spain; others, Sardinia -where it is called Cannonau). It conjugates to an entire alphabet of alternate names, from Abundante to Vernatxa (including the essential white iteration Grenache Blanc), and it is the primary source material for most the world’s red blends. Any Rhone or Rhone-style blend, including Châteauneuf du Pape, is likely mostly Grenache, as are the prized reds of Priorat in Spain. It is frequently used in rose and dessert wine, and cultivated in some capacity in California, Australia, South Africa and the Middle East (there’s reputedly even 12,000 acres under vine in China.) What makes it so ubiquitous? Grenache is a sturdy late-ripening grape that does well in hot and dry environments; the long growing season produces a high alcohol, fruit forward wine – lush, smooth and light on tannins – ideal for adding flavor and character to frequent blending partners like Syrah and Mourvedre. It is also quite terroir sensitive, so while red berry fruit like strawberries, raspberries (some even liken it to a fruit roll-up) are a relatively consistent hallmark, Grenache might also feature notes of pepper, leather, cinnamon, licorice, citrus fruit, oregano, flowers and earth, depending on age and point of origin. In other words: if you think you don’t like Grenache, you probably just haven’t tasted the right one yet. So this quarter, we are excited to share three of our favorites from three different continents. From Australia’s Barossa Valley, the Cirillo Estate “Vincent” cuvee is culled from two vineyard sites hosting the world’s oldest Grenache vines, dating back to 1848. From southern Rhone in France, we have Domaine Gramenon, a relatively new label from a winemaking family committed to organic and biodynamic production in perhaps Grenache’s most distinguished region. And in California, Casa Dumetz’s Sonja Magdevski spent years exploring almost every last Grenache vine in Santa Barbara County to locate the right grapes for her extremely small production Clementine Carter label. As she says, “Farming Grenache is all about nuance. I have made a lot of Grenache in my 15+ years making wine and I joke that I don’t really know what Grenache tastes like.” We’re not sure either, but we look forward to many more years of trying to find out. Cheers! The PlumpJack Wine Buying Team Cirillo Estate Wines “The Vincent” Grenache Location: Barossa Valley, Australia About the Winery: The Cirillo family moved to the small district of Light Pass in 1970. Vincent Cirillo became the custodian of some exceptional vineyards that were planted in 1848; today it is noted to constitute the oldest surviving and producing Grenache and Semillon parcels in the world. Their prized fruit went to well‐known producers; Rockford, Peter Lehmann, St. Hallet and Torbreck. Marco Cirillo, the youngest of four children, had always helped the family cultivate and preserve their precious Grenache, Semillon and Shiraz vineyards. It was during the late 1990’s when Marco was studying winemaking through Charles Sturt University in Wagga Wagga, and actively working as a cellar hand where he honed his skills as an exceptional winemaker that he is today. The family farm and ancestor vineyards grow in around 8ft of pure golden sand, which is a common terroir of the Vine‐Vale area. Marco and Vincent remain the only two people who have ever pruned the 1848 Grenache vineyard in the past 40 years. The early ‘basket‐pruning’ style that was adopted by Vince in the 70’s has helped the vines support themselves and continue to produce incomparable fruit each year. Their meticulous craftsmanship is why this vineyard is a picture of health today. About The Winemaking: From two 100+ year old vineyards from the renowned Barossa Valley. Aged 12 months in 90 year old Foudre barrels. 100% Grenache 14 14% ABV. Total Acidity: 6.8gms/l Residual Sugar: 0.05 gms/l pH: 3.5 Tasting Notes: The Vincent offers inviting aromas of rich fruit and white pepper. The palate is generous with intense true varietal characteristics. It’s delicately rounded and generous. A superb Grenache that has a lingering finish. A wine that can be enjoyed now, or well into the future Winemaker: Vincent & Marco Cirillo Price per bottle: $40 / Price per case: $432 Suggested Food Pairings: Stew Collard Greens Burgers Gramenon Côtes-du-Rhône “La Sagesse” 2020 Location: Southern Rhone, France About the Winemaker: Michèle Aubéry-Laurent and her husband Philippe, bottled their first vintage of Domaine Gramenon in 1990, in the far northern-eastern stretches of the southern Rhône, in the town of Montbrison-sur-Lez. In 1999, in an unexpected twist of fate, Phillippe was killed in a tragic accident. Michèle was suddenly left on her own with their three children, vineyards, and a winery to deal with. Crushed but undaunted, Michèle stepped to the forefront, boldly picking up where Philippe left off. Over the years, Michèle has discovered her own creative voice in her new vocation; in so doing she has catapulted Domaine Gramenon into cult wine status. Today, she works twenty-six hectares with her talented son, Maxime François (a rising star in his own right), farming both young and very old vines alike. They employ organic and biodynamic practices in the vineyards, with a strong non-interventionist stance in the cellars. About the Winemaking: Domaine Gramenon is the authentic embodiment of the philosophies that the Laurents espouse. They do not merely champion organic farming, but they incorporate the concept of sustainability into their daily lives by growing their own food and raising their own animals. Though Michèle and Maxime continue to test the confines of the appellation, the cellars are unsurprisingly old-fashioned. The Laurents use gravity-fed tanks and age their wines in oak demi-muids and foudres. That they take such gutsy risks as bottling old-vine fruit with so little sulfur, without fining or filtration, only demonstrates the lengths they will go to in order to highlight the freshness, purity, and intoxicating aromas of their small, rare production. Clay, Limestone varied with gravel, galets roulés, and/or sand soils 50-70 year old vines. 100% Grenache. Grapes are partially de-stemmed and macerated for 15 days in cement tank. The wine ages for 12 months in barrique and demi-muids. Tasting Notes: Three terroirs make up this cuvée you would be sage to decant, or hold up to ten years in a cool place. A sandy parcel brings lively floral aromatics and elegant fruit, clay contributes depth and fleshiness, and a third plot on rocky limestone makes its presence felt on the tightly wound, almost salty finish. A masterpiece of old-vine Grenache. Winemaker: Michèle Aubéry-Laurent & Maxime François Laurent Price per bottle: $46 / Price per case: $496.80 Suggested Food Pairing: Roast Chicken Vegetarian Pasta Clementine Carter Santa Rita Hills Grenache 2020 Location: Santa Rita Hills, CA About the winemaker: “My undergraduate work is in Political Science from the University of Michigan and my graduate work is in Journalism from Michigan State University. I received a Fulbright Scholarship to The Republic of Macedonia in 1998-1999 to study ethnic issues. The pursuit was to better understand the paths toward peace. I do that now through wine. My wine education and training are primarily on the job, in the vineyard and the cellar, and through the viticulture and enology classes at Allan Hancock College in Santa Maria, Calif. I started making wine in the garage in 2004 and moved to commercial production in 2008. My mentors and inspirations in Santa Barbara County and beyond are too many to list here. You’d be reading names and places for days. Thankfully the list keeps growing each year. This is a wonderful area to make wine with extraordinary fruit. Come and visit, taste some wine, and I will tell you all about it.” - Sonja Magdevksi About the winemaking: Spear and Robert Rae vineyards are the two vineyards used to source this wine, both are farmed organically. Spear receives morning warmth on its east facing sandy slope protected from the fierce oceanic westward afternoon winds. The fruit is plump, juicy and strategic in focus. Robert Rae is perched high above Santa Rosa road overlooking the entire Sta. Rita Hills from its intimate sunlight receiving west-facing clay-loam vista. 50% whole cluster fermentation. Long, cool gentle fermentation. 30+ days on the skins. Pressed into neutral French oak barrels for aging. Tasting Notes: “Winemaker Sonja Magdevski hit her stride in this vintage, and this appellation blend gives a great window into the style. Fresh and fruity aromas of cranberry, wild strawberry and cherry juice are leveled by a wet stone streak on the nose. The palate is very carbonic in style, ranging from snappy red fruits to wet gravel to a light white-sage aromatic flavor” - Wine Enthusiast Winemaker: Sonja Magdevski Price per bottle: $38 / Price per case: $410.4 Suggested Food Pairing: BBQ Salmon Sour cherry scones
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