Buena Vista Winery... Pioneers in Carneros Since 1857!

Yes...
This Champagne blending grape is both
Cool & Geeky!

The Very BEST of Spain... just arrived!
(Extremely Limited)

FranksWine.com - Pick for 2011 Wine of the Year:
Archstone Vineyards 2008 Napa Valley Chardonnay!

Roth Estate Winery of Alexander Valley!

100-Point Napa Cabernet for $15

100-Point Napa Cabernet for $15

Made you look!

This was a test and only a test. Did you really believe there was a 100-point Napa Cabernet Sauvignon selling for $15? Even if you didn't, you still clicked on the headline to find out what it was all about.

Consider all the red flags in that headline. A 100-point score means it's a perfect wine. Napa Cabernet Sauvignon is a favorite here at FranksWine and to most wine lovers. And a price tag of 15 bucks? Who doesn't love a bargain? Put those all together and it's the Mother of All Wine Headlines.

So why did I do it? I know most people are a sucker for flashy headlines... and my original subject line "$99 Case of South African Gems" didn't quite have the same cache. Face it, South African wines are just not popular. I needed something in your inbox to at least give me a shot at telling you how good these three wines are from Man Vintners. So unless you already hit delete, please hang in there for just a few more minutes!

When I met Tyrell Myburgh at a trade tasting in Baltimore earlier this year I knew he had some challenges in the wine biz. How does this South African Winemaker expect to attract my wine customers and steer them away from our California, Italian, French, South American, Australian, Spanish, Oregon, Washington, German and New Zealand wine sections at the shop? On some weeks we actually sell more Greek wine than South African! For starters he has a great personality and we hit it off immediately... that's always key. Here's what he had to say while I tasted through his entire portfolio of wines...

Marie, Anette & Nicky

It all started as a simple plan: to make a wine that we’d love to buy. We wanted quality wine that offered excellent value and great packaging. Not exactly an epiphany, perhaps, but enough to motivate us into action.

Of course, first we had to come up with a name. To keep peace in the families, we took our wives’ initials (we each have one wife) — that is how we explained to Marie, Anette and Nicky that we were going to be “busy” most weekends. “It’s for you!” we told them. And mostly it’s true.

We are José Conde and brothers Tyrrel and Philip Myburgh. We started making wine together in 2001. We’re further supported by a group of dedicated grape growers from the Agter-Paarl region.

From our first 500 cases made in a tractor shed, we have grown to producing over 175 000 cases per year and exporting to 25 countries. Our biggest selling wines are our Chenin Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon, but our area is well known also for Shiraz and Pinotage. And we think our other wines are pretty good, too.

Frank's MAN 12-pack Smapler Case!
You Get 4 Bottles of Each Wine for Only $99.99!
(You Save $79.89...That's 45% Off!)

	Jose Condé Director and Main MAN Married to Marie José (partner) spent 10 years in New York City and five in Tokyo only to realize that what he really wanted was to live in a small town at the tip of Africa. He is the owner/winemaker of the award-winning Stark-Condé Wines in Stellenbosch, his Cabernet Sauvignons have twice been chosen as Platter five-star wines and each has been rated 90 points or more by Wine Spectator magazine.
	Tyrrel Myburgh Director and Cellar Master Married to Anette Tyrrel (winemaker, partner) is the youngest member of the team and therefore has to do most of the work. His philosophy degree comes in very handy when cleaning out the tanks. He is a fifth-generation farmer in Paarl and together with his brother Philip (who is married to Nicky) is the owner/winemaker of the award-winning Joostenberg Wines
	Philip Myburgh Older Brother and Founding Partner Married to Nicky Philip is Tyrrel’s older brother and the (self-described) better-looking and smarter sibling. Less involved in the daily running of MAN Vintners, Philip is currently pursuing his career as an Advocate at the Cape High Court. Philip’s historic family home (built in 1756) provides the venue for many a raucous MAN party.

Frank's MAN 12-pack Smapler Case!
You Get 4 Bottles of Each Wine for Only $99.99!
(You Save $79.89...That's 45% Off!)

We'll have this South African trio of deliciousness open all week long at the shop starting today... and will carry on through 4pm Sunday! Pop in for a taste and pick up a 12 pack... we've got 'em packed up and ready to roll. On Saturday Kevin Mullarkey will be in the shop from 11am - 3pm pouring and talking about the winery... come in to chat and taste with him! And next time I have a boring subject line like "$99 Case of South African Gems" throw me a bone and open 'er up!

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MAN Vintners 2009 Pinotage
(Regularly priced at $14.99)
$8.39 with 12-pack Sampler Purchase!

A modern style red made from 90% Pinotage that showcases the best Pinot Noir-like characteristics of this indigenous grape.
Juicy bright fruits, soft tannins and a perfumed nose make this a very accessible Pinotage.

From the winemaker:
In order to focus on the generous fruit notes and full body, yet keep this softer and lighter than many Pinotages, we co-fermented a portion of the Pinotage with Viognier and blended in some Shiraz. Just a touch of oak maturation means the result is delicate and pretty, with beautiful red berry flavours, a hint of cinnamon and very gentle tannins.

Pairing:
The sweet flavours of the Pinotage makes the wine hold its own with most poultry or bold meat dishes - even spicy curries. And it's the best accompaniment to summer barbeque we know!

Pinotage 2009: "88 points: silky and juicy,” Stephen Tanzer

Frank's MAN 12-pack Smapler Case!
You Get 4 Bottles of Each Wine for Only $99.99!
(You Save $79.89...That's 45% Off!)

_________________________________

MAN Vintners 2009 Shiraz
(Regularly priced at $14.99)
$8.39 with 12-pack Sampler Purchase!

A real mouth-filling wine, the spicy and floral savory aromas are balanced by ripe fruit flavors and fine tannins on the palate.

From the winemaker:
The Agter-Paarl region is known for its characteristic "winegum" character - a very pure "grapey" fruit expression. We co-ferment some batches with a small portion of Viognier grapes to lift the aromatics and soften the tannins. 20% of the wine matures in small oak barrels for that hint of vanilla spice on the nose and to give extra encouragement to silky tannins. All in all, we like to think we've made a really great wine - and it helps to know that so many other people think so too.

Pairing:
Great with bold meat dishes, strong cheese and any other dish that needs a wine that can stand up to it.

Shiraz 2009: "88 points: immediate appeal," Stephen Tanzer

Frank's MAN 12-pack Smapler Case!
You Get 4 Bottles of Each Wine for Only $99.99!
(You Save $79.89...That's 45% Off!)

_________________________________

MAN Vintners 2010 Sauvignon Blanc
(Regularly priced at $14.99)
$8.39 with 12-pack Sampler Purchase!

Vibrant with fresh acidity, MAN Vintners Sauvignon Blanc is wonderfully refreshing!
A lively bouquet and tropical fruit notes, which really make the wine stand apart from its often too green and grassy peers.

From the winemaker:
Our Sauvignon Blanc is one of the few wines where we bring in grapes from outside our growing region - fruit from the cooler coastal vineyards of Stellenbosch and Durbanville add fruit intensity. The 10% Semillon also helps the wine age well in the bottle. As with all our wines, we only choose grapes with a very concentrated flavour, so you enjoy a refreshingly crisp wine with a generous bouquet of pineapple and lime.

Pairing:
A great sipper... or try sushi, salads or fish dishes alongside a chilled glass.

Sauvignon Blanc 2010: "88 points: juicy and intense," – Stephen Tanzer

Frank's MAN 12-pack Smapler Case!
You Get 4 Bottles of Each Wine for Only $99.99!
(You Save $79.89...That's 45% Off!)

California's Lake County "Line 39"

California's Lake County "Line 39" is Ridiculously Good for the $$$

With more than 20 years experience growing grapes Roy Cecchetti knows what it takes to successfully bring to market "everyday wines for serious wine collectors." When launching Cecchetti Wine Company Roy enlisted Bob Broman to manage winemaking duties for him. This experience allowed Bob to travel across California's vast wine regions nurturing grower relationships to ensure quality fruit sources. Bob's commitment to detail creates the backbone for blending stylistic wines that are approachable, consistent, a good value, and can be enjoyed any day of the week. Together Roy and Bob strive to show wine consumers that good wine does not always come with a hefty price tag. I like the way these guys think!

Line 39 is produced in what Bob refers to as the The New Frontier - Lake County. This region's climate and soil composition are well-suited for producing wines that are versatile, sophisticated, and pair with a variety of food, especially the Petite Sirah and Sauvignon Blanc bottlings. With this confidence in the region, it should be no surprise that the brand name refers to latitude 39, where many of the great wine growing regions of the world are found.

So, where the hell is Lake County?!?



This video shows you the beauty of Lake County, and speaks to the unique aspects of wine grapes grown in the region.

Frank's "Line 39" 12-pack Smapler Case!
You Get 4 Bottles of Each Wine for Only $99.99!
(You Save $179.89...That's 45% Off!)

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Roy Cecchetti 2009 "Line 39" Petite Sirah
(Regularly priced at $14.99)
$8.39 with 12-pack Sampler Purchase!

The 2009 Petite Sirah offers aromas of red and black fruits,
with a hint of oak. A full-bodied wine that is both complex
and elegant, this wine boasts rich flavors of dark fruits,
cherries and a long finish that we believe will help put Lake
County on the map. This Petite Sirah calls out for big juicy
steak. 3,370 cases produced.

Frank's "Line 39" 12-pack Smapler Case!
You Get 4 Bottles of Each Wine for Only $99.99!
(You Save $179.89...That's 45% Off!)

____________________________________

Roy Cecchetti 2007 "Line 39" Cabernet Sauvignon
(Regularly priced at $14.99)
$8.39 with 12-pack Sampler Purchase!

Roy's 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon exhibits rich fruit flavors
of currant and blackberry with hints of pepper on the palate.
The wine finishes with subtle tannins that don’t overpower
this easy-to- drink Cabernet Sauvignon. 2,150 cases produced.

Frank's "Line 39" 12-pack Smapler Case!
You Get 4 Bottles of Each Wine for Only $99.99!
(You Save $179.89...That's 45% Off!)

____________________________________

Roy Cecchetti 2009 "Line 39" Sauvignon Blanc
(Regularly priced at $14.99)
$8.39 with 12-pack Sampler Purchase!

Varietally accurate, this 2009 Sauvignon Blanc opens with
vibrant aromas of grapefruit and lemon citrus, with subtle
grassy characters. On the palate, this wine does not
disappoint with refreshing flavors of grapefruit, lime and
lemon, balanced by bright, crisp acidity on the finish. This
easy sipping wine makes a perfect aperitif. 2,000 cases produced.

Frank's "Line 39" 12-pack Smapler Case!
You Get 4 Bottles of Each Wine for Only $99.99!
(You Save $179.89...That's 45% Off!)

Le Fonti a San Giorgio!

Le Fonti a San Giorgio!

Pictured with me at my shop are Cristina Rinaldi and Piera Giovanelli of Tuscany's Le Fonti a San Giorgio

Just yesterday Cristina Rinaldi - winery tour guide - came by FranksWine with proprietor/winemaker Piera Giovanelli on their way to our Tuscan Wine Dinner at Caffe Gelato... wish I coulda hung out with these ladies all night! Their smiles are as warm and inviting as their wines. For three generations the Giovanelli family winery Le Fonti a San Giorgio has stood on the beautiful Tuscan hill of Saint Lorenzo, in the Municipality of Montespertoli (Florence) surrounded by colorful Tuscan hills.

Situated in the heart of Chianti halfway between the cities of Florence and San Gimignano the farmhouse consists of an old country house subdivided into eight charming apartments, an old deconsecrated Chapel converted into an Inn with 15 rooms, two swimming pools, a restaurant reserved for their guests, and a wine cellar where the family produces and ages their wines. Yep... I got the invite! Now I gotta make the time to escape... but meanwhile I'll just drink their wonderful wines like the guests at Caffe Gelato did last night.

Wine Importer Tom Weisler, Janice Tayor of FranksWine with Cristina & Piera at Caffe Gelato

Maybe you'll get the invite? Stop by the shop on Saturday from 11am - 3pm to meet and taste with Cristina and Piera! Wine Importer Tom Weisler will be here as well to introduce you and do his best to translate. The Rosso and Bianco are our October CLUBVino Selections... I've added a 2nd 12pack Sampler this week to include the Chianti and Riserva. Hope to see you in the shop... ciao!

Frank's October CLUBVino 12-pack!
You Get 6 Bottles of Rosso & Bianco for Only $119.99!
(You Save $59.89...That's 33% Off!)

Frank's Le Fonti 12-pack!
You Get 3 Bottles of Each Wine for Only $179.99!
(You Save $89.89...That's 33% Off!)

_______________________________________

Le Fonti a San Giorgio 2010 Bianco
(Regularly priced at $14.99)
$9.99 with 12-pack Sampler Purchase!

This brilliant blend of 60% Malvasia, 30% Trebbiano and 10% Chardonnay is explosive on both the nose and the palate with notes of peach, apple, pear, white cranberry and almond, as well as flowers and crushed sea shell. Chill it, pop it and enjoy it... the crisp acidity should make this Tuscan white continue to evolve for another year or two in the bottle. Perfect wine with mussels or clams!

Frank's October CLUBVino 12-pack!
You Get 6 Bottles of Rosso & Bianco for Only $119.99!
(You Save $59.89...That's 33% Off!)

Frank's Le Fonti 12-pack!
You Get 3 Bottles of Each Wine for Only $179.99!
(You Save $89.89...That's 33% Off!)

_______________________________________

Le Fonti a San Giorgio 2009 Rosso
(Regularly priced at $14.99)
$9.99 with 12-pack Sampler Purchase!

This gutsy blend of 95% Sangiovese and 5% Caniolo has an intense ruby red color with hints of violet, aromas of wild berries and a rich, smooth, full-bodied taste, marked by earthiness, fruit, intense structure, a spicy finish, and ripe, rounded tannins. A natural for rich saucy pasta dishes!

Frank's October CLUBVino 12-pack!
You Get 6 Bottles of Rosso & Bianco for Only $119.99!
(You Save $59.89...That's 33% Off!)

Frank's Le Fonti 12-pack!
You Get 3 Bottles of Each Wine for Only $179.99!
(You Save $89.89...That's 33% Off!)

_______________________________________

BURGUNDY BLOWOUT!

LAST DAY!!!!! Extended!!
One Week Burgundy Blow Out!
**Now 30% Off!**

30% Off Sale Ends Sunday, September 25th October 2nd!!
All Wines are In Stock!

We're making room for the anticipated arrival of the stellar 2009 Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from Burgundy, but first we've gotta make space by clearing out the equally rivaled 2008s and a handful of 2007s. We sold through most of our inventory last week, but this is what's left... get them at 30% OFF!! The prices here are incredibly aggressive and the best in the country! Bold statement to make but it's true... go ahead... google it, bing it, snooth it, wine-searcher it! I'm not BS'ing here... hands down, best prices!

These are some of Burgundy's top producers' wines and the competition is sure to raise their eyebrows when the see that I'm "dumping" them at 30% Off! Some of the selections are limited to 2 or 3 bottles availability, so get 'em before they're gone. Feel free to give me a call and I'll walk you through the list...
1-800-AT-FRANKs or send me a personal email Frank@FranksWine.com

30% Off Sale Ends Sunday, September 25th October 2nd!!
All Wines are In Stock!

RED BURGUNDY ~ 2008

Lucien Le Moine 2008 Clos de la Roche Grand Cru $199.99 Now $133.99
LLM 2008 Gevrey Chambertin 1er Cru les Cazetiers $119.99 Now $79.99
LLM 2008 Morey St Denis 1er Cru Clos des Ormes $99.99 Now $66.99
LLM 2008 Clos Saint Denis Grand Cru $229.99 Now $153.99

Jean Grivot 2008 Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru $149.99 Now $99.99
Jean Grivot 2008 Echezeaux Grand Cru $179.99 Now $119.99

Arnoux Lachaux 2008 Vosne Romanee 1er Cru Aux Reignots $149.99 Now $99.99

Lignier Michelot 2008 Morey St Denis 1er Cru les Chenevery $89.99 Now $59.99
Lignier Michelot 2008 Morey St Denis 1er Cru Aux Chezeaux $89.99 Now $59.99
Lignier Michelot 2008 Morey St Denis 1er Cru Aux Charmes $89.99 Now $59.99

Louis Jadot 2008 Chambolle Musigny 1er Cru les Fuees $69.99 Now $46.89
Louis Jadot 2008 Corton Pougets Grand Cru $79.99 Now $53.59
Dom Chevillon Chezeaux 2008 Nuits St Georges
1er Cru Les St George $69.99 Now $46.89

30% Off Sale Ends Sunday, September 25th October 2nd!!
All Wines are In Stock!

RED BURGUNDY ~ 2007

LLM 2007 Nuits St Georges 1er Cru les Cailles $119.99 Now $79.99
LLM 2007 Gevrey Chambertin 1er Cru les Cazetiers $149.99 Now $99.99
LLM 2007 Bonnes Mares Grand Cru $199.99 Now $133.99
LLM 2007 Gevrey Chambertin 1er Cru Lavaut St Jacques $129.99 Now $86.99
LLM 2007 Volnay 1er Cru Santenots $129.99 Now $86.99
LLM 2007 Mazis Chambertin Grand Cru $199.99 Now $133.99
LLM 2007 Clos St Denis Grand Cru $199.99 Now $133.99

Louis Jadot 2007 Chambolle Musigny 1er Cru les Fuees $79.99 Now $53.59
Louis Jadot 2007 Chambolle Musigny les Amoureuses $249.99 Now $167.49
Jean Grivot 2007 Vosne Romanee 1er Cru Aux Reignots $199.99 Now $133.99

30% Off Sale Ends Sunday, September 25th October 2nd!!
All Wines are In Stock!

RED BURGUNDY ~ 2006

Perrot Minot 2006 Vieilles Vignes Vosne Romanee $89.99 Now $59.99
Perrot Minot 2006 Vieilles Vignes Chambolle Musigny $89.99 Now $59.99

Robert Arnoux 2006 Nuits St Georges
1er Cru Clos de Corvees Pagets $89.99 Now $59.99
Dom Dujac 2006 Vosne Romanee
1er Cru les Beaux Monts $249.99 Now $167.49

30% Off Sale Ends Sunday, September 25th October 2nd!!
All Wines are In Stock!


RED BURGUNDY ~ 2005/2004/2003
Nicolas Rossignol 2005 Volnay 1er Cru Fremiets $89.99 Now $59.99
Perrot Minot 2004 Mazoyeres Chambertin VV $199.99 Now $133.99
Perrot Minot 2004 Chambolle Musigny 1er Cru les Fuees $149.99 Now $99.99
Henri Gouges 2003 Nuits St Georges 1er Cru les Saint Georges $129.99 Now $86.99


WHITE BURGUNDY ~ 2008
Hubert Lamey 2008 Saint Aubin 1er Cru Derriere chez Edouard $99.99 Now $66.99
Hubert Lamey 2008 Saint Aubin 1er Cru En Remilly $69.99 Now $46.89
Hubert Lamey 2008 Saint Aubin 1er Cru Les Frionnes $69.99 Now $46.89

30% Off Sale Ends Sunday, September 25th October 2nd!!
All Wines are In Stock!

The exceptional quality of Bourgogne is due to a number of factors. Its vineyards slope gently down toward the East, providing the vines with long sun exposure yet avoiding afternoon heat. The soil there is very calcareous (chalky; containing calcium carbonate), offering good drainage. Well-drained soils have a higher average temperature, which assists ripening. Pinot Noir seems to reflect more pronounced Gout de Terroir, or flavor of the soil, than other black grape types, making vineyard site selection a critical factor.

It is my joy and honor to represent so many of Burgundy's shining stars, from humble overachievers, to marquee royalty. It is indeed rare to find so many of the greatest producers under one roof. I'm proud to have built a portfolio that rivals any fine wine store on planet Earth... right here in Wilmington, Delaware! Being a big fish in a small pond often means we get the top wines from producers around the world. Feel free to personally contact me with any questions or interests about the people, places, and wines of the Cote D'Or... Frank@FranksWine.com

Here's a list of the producers with whom I have built relationships:

Archstone Vineyards!

Half Off Napa Valley's "Stealth" Archstone Vineyards!

Another one of the “stealth” labels FranksWine has discovered! Archstone gets a great deal on excess juice from major wineries, and creates high quality wines that cost far less than their siblings with the more famous labels. A little inside scoop on whose juice this may be: the label is owned by Diageo who also owns Sterling Vineyards and BV Vineyards both of Napa Valley. Duh. That tells me one thing... these wines are declassified Sterling Napa Valley Chardonnay and BV Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon. The winery or Diageo won't tell you that but I just did!

I've thrown these 2 wines under our Xselections
Program which means you can mix or match 'em to get

20% Off by the Bottle $19.99 - $4.00 = $15.99
33% Off by the 6-pack $19.99 - $6.60 = $13.39
50% Off by the 12-pack $19.99 - $9.99 = $9.99

We'll have these 2 Napa beauties open all holiday weekend for your palate's pleasure!
We love these wines so much here at FranksWine that I made them our September CLUBVino Selections... members' choice!

Read more

Frank'sSeptember CLUBVino 12-pack!
You Get 6 Bottles of Each Sparkling Wine for Only $119.99!
(You Save $119.89...That's 50% Off!)

___________________________________________________________

Archstone Vineyards 2007 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
(Regularly priced at $19.99)
$9.99 with 12-pack Sampler Purchase!

Tight and focused fruit; aromas of dark earth, berry and black cherry dominate the nose. Opening onto the palate are hints of spiciness, a bit more earth and chocolate truffles. Nicely weighted on the finish, which presents more dark fruit and a touch of integrated tannins. A superb value in Napa Cabernet from the stellar 2007 vintage!

Frank'sSeptember CLUBVino 12-pack!
You Get 6 Bottles of Each Sparkling Wine for Only $119.99!
(You Save $119.89...That's 50% Off!)

___________________________________________________________

Archstone Vineyards 2008 Napa Valley Chardonnay
(Regularly priced at $19.99)
$9.99 with 12-pack Sampler Purchase!

This is an excellent value for a Napa Valley Chardonnay even at $20! Golden in color, the wine has savory notes of tropical fruit on the nose. Creamy in texture; the flavors of banana, pineapple and papaya come through, with a nutty toastiness on the finish. This would be a delightful wine to pair with pasta primavera with scallops and asiago cheese.

Frank'sSeptember CLUBVino 12-pack!
You Get 6 Bottles of Each Sparkling Wine for Only $119.99!
(You Save $119.89...That's 50% Off!)

Mollydooker 2010!

***Special Notice on Wednesday's Breaking News***

By now many of you have read the news about the forklift mishap where $1,000,000 worth of Mollydooker 2010 Velvet Glove Shiraz earmarked for the US market has been destroyed... tragic! Sparky Marquis has assured me that our allocation of the wine will
not be affected by this disaster, and he will indeed still be pouring the 2010 Velvet
Glove freely at our September 19th Mollydooker Winemaker Dinner.

Because of the increased awareness of the wine we will need to limit the purchase
of the 2010 Velvet Glove to 1 bottle per person. Those of you who purchased the
2009 vintage will be able to purchase the same number bottles of the 2010 and
your orders will be filled first.

I received 81 emails and Facebook posts related to this story... thank you for reaching
out! In case you missed it:

http://newsfeedresearcher.com/data/articles_b31/wine-marquis-bottle.html

YouTube video of The Velvet Glove accident!

A YouTube THANK YOU from Sparky & Sarah Marquis!

Mollydooker Wines

Husband and wife Sparky and Sarah Marquis launched their South Australia Mollydooker winery in 2005. The wines were an instant sensation and have sold out very quickly each year since.

Mollydooker is Australian slang for a leftie, as both Sarah and Sparky are left-handed. The wines, featuring Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, are big, but beautifully balanced.

What do the critics say?

Robert Parker of the Wine Advocate, the world's preeminent wine critic, named Sarah and Sparky "Wine Personalities of the Year," calling Sparky "a brilliant viticulturist." On five occasions, he awarded one of their wines 99 points. Only two or three other living red wine makers in the world have achieved that acclaim.

Wine Spectator reviews more than 10,000 wines each year. 0.1% achieve the famous "Top Ten." A wine from Mollydooker has achieved that remarkable status in each of the last two years.

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"The 2010 Boxer HAS ARRIVED!"

Mollydooker "Velvet Glove" - $199.99 less 15% = $169.99 by the bottle

Mollydooker "Maitre D" - Cabernet $24.99 less 15% = $21.24 by the bottle

Mollydooker "Two Left Feet" - Cab/Shz Blend $24.99 less 15% = $21.24 by the bottle

Mollydooker "Gigglepot" - Cabernet Sauv $59.99 less 15% = $50.99 by the bottle

Mollydooker "The Scooter" - Merlot $24.99 less 15% = $21.24 by the bottle

Mollydooker "Carnival of Love" - Shiraz $89.99 less 15% = $76.49 by the bottle

Mollydooker "Enchanted Path" - Shiraz/Cab $89.99 less 15% = $76.49 by the bottle

Mollydooker "Blue Eyed Boy" - Shiraz $59.99 less 15% = $50.99 by the bottle

"The 2010 Boxer HAS ARRIVED!"

________________________________________________

... and last but not least "The Boxer" 2010 Shiraz

This wine sells out within weeks here at Frank's Union Wine Mart each and every year. Because of our upcoming Winemakers Dinner with Sparky Marquis, quantities are even more limited! Get it while you can: $249.99 per 12-pack case (net bottle price $20.84 reflects a 31% discount)... OR $149.99 per 6-pack case (net bottle price $24.99 which reflects a 17% discount)! We'll have it in the shop by the bottle while supplies last (which usually isn't for too long!) for $29.99.

WOW - an incredibly powerful and complex Shiraz with sweet fruit and lovely structural tannin. Complexed by combining the regional flavors of grapes from McLaren Vale, Langhorne Creek and Padthaway, this wine has incredible power and purity.

"The 2010 Boxer HAS ARRIVED!"

Frank's Mollydooker The Boxer 2010!
(regularly priced at $29.99)
17% Off by the 6-pack - $149.99
(net bottle price $24.99)
31% Off by the 12-pack - $249.99
(net bottle price $20.84)

Parker's Wine Advocate Praises This Italian Duo!

Last week I promoted the bargain Summer Reds from Tamas Winery (which we sold out of over the weekend but more just arrived today!) which many of you said you were going to use as "fluff" to fill your cellars. Well, this week I've got 2 Italian gems which you'll need to make room for... these are why you built your cellar in the first place!

The ratings speak for themselves here... rule of thumb: if Parker likes 'em, I'm gonna love 'em! Just in case you're not a Parker fan, you can taste and evaluate them yourself before you load up. We'll have these Tuscan and Piemontese beauties open this Saturday from 11am - 3pm and Sunday from 12noon - 4pm. Summer Reds these are not... but hey, they're a hell of a lot of fun to taste on a hot and humid July day!

Frank's Italian Parker 6-pack!
You Get 3 Bottles of Each Wine for Only $299.99!
(You Save $119.95...That's 29% Off!)

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Parusso 2006 Bussia Barolo ~ Piemonte
(Regularly priced at $79.99)
$56.79 with 6-pack Sampler Purchase!

Marco Parusso stopped by the shop in April
and tasted us through his 2006 lineup...
the Bussia Barolo is his baby and my
favorite as well! - Frank

The 2006 Barolo Bussia reveals a multitude of balsamic, mineral-infused aromas and flavors. Large-scaled and dramatic, the Bussia sweeps across the palate, showing off tons of pedigree and sheer class. The Bussia is quite a bit more backward than the Le Coste-Mosconi, and it will require considerable cellaring, but it is a beauty. Flowers, spices and minerals waft out of the glass on the sensual, ethereal finish. I also tasted the Riserva version of this wine, which won't be released for a few years. For now, let me just say the 2006 Riserva is shaping up to be another hugely promising, important wine from Parusso in this vintage. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2031.

Score: 95 - February 2010

Frank's Italian Parker 6-pack!
You Get 3 Bottles of Each Wine for Only $299.99!
(You Save $119.95...That's 29% Off!)

__________________________________________

La Rasina 2006 Brunello di Montalcino ~ Tuscany
(Regularly priced at $59.99)
$42.59 with 6-pack Sampler Purchase!

The 2006 Brunello di Montalcino is a deep, intense wine laced with black cherries, minerals, crushed flowers, and violets. This shows superb polish and elegance all the way through to the textured, expansive finish. La Rasina's Brunello is one of the more opulent wines of the vintage but all of the elements come together quite nicely, especially with some time in the glass. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2022.

Score: 93 - May 2010

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Bodegas Faustino VII 2009 Blanco
(regularly priced at $14.99)
$8.09 with 12-pack Sampler Purchase!

Production Area
Grapes are harvested exclusively from Faustino estate vineyards in Spain's Rioja region.
Grape Varieties
100% Viura
Vinification
The wine is released four months after bottling.
Tasting Notes
The color is gold with light green reflections. On the nose are nuances of citrus combined with floral notes. The palate is crisp and dry with suggestions of fennel and citrus... ideal with shellfish!

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Bodegas Faustino VII 2008 Rioja
(regularly priced at $19.99)
$10.79 with 12-pack Sampler Purchase!

Production Area
Grapes are harvested exclusively from Faustino estate vineyards in Spain's Rioja region.
Grape Varieties
50%Tempranillo, 50% Garnacha
Vinification
It is aged 10 months in oak casks and in bottle for 6 months prior to its release.
Tasting Notes
The estate-bottled 2008 Faustino VII was aged for six months in tank and ten months in seasoned French and American oak. Dark ruby in color, it has an alluring nose of violets, mineral, incense and blackberry. In the mouth it shows off some finesse with its silky, easy-going personality. This expressive Rioja finishes with no hard edges. Drink it over the next three years.

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Bodegas Campillo 2001 Reserva Selecta
(regularly priced at $39.99)
$21.59 with 12-pack Sampler Purchase!

Production Area
From Campillo's estate vineyards in Spain's Rioja region. These vineyards were planted in the late 1970s.
Grape Varieties
100% Tempranillo
Vinification
It is aged 1 year in oak casks and is refined in bottle for 2 years prior to its release.
Tasting Notes
The 2001 Reserva is composed of 100% Tempranillo sourced from 50+-year-old vines. It was aged in French and American oak, some of it new. Purple-colored, the wine has an excellent perfume of toasty oak, pencil lead, mineral and blackberry. This is followed by a medium to full-bodied, firm wine with enough structure to permit 3-4 years of further evolution. It is nicely balanced by a broad band of ripe, spicy fruit leading to a 30-second finish. Drink this well-made Rioja from 2012-2025!

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Bodegas Campillo1996 Reserva Especial Rioja
(regularly priced at $49.99)
$26.99 with 12-pack Sampler Purchase!

Production Area
From mature vines (planted in the mid-1960s) in Campillo's estate vineyards in Rioja, Spain.
Grape Varieties
60% Tempranillo; 15% Graciano; 25% Cabernet Sauvignon
Vinification
Grapes were harvested in late September and early October. They were de-stemmed and underwent temperature-controlled fermentation, then maceration with light pumping over, followed by malolactic fermentation. The wine was initially matured in 2- to 4-year-old American oak barrels for a period of 16 months. It was then transferred to new French oak barrels where it aged for a further 10 months before bottling. The wine was bottled in 2000.
Tasting Notes
Tobacco, licorice, raisin, dried cherry and a puff of smoke give this healthy Reserva an inviting, traditional bouquet. The palate is lively yet smooth, with integrated acidity pushing mature flavors of berry, plum, caramel and chocolate. A classic Rioja that is ready to drink now or can cellar for an additional 6 years for a more velveted palate.

“The 1996 Reserva Especial is darker in color, with an intense nose of vanilla, coconut, and dark fruits. Like all of the Campillo wines it is elegantly styled with its light tannin well concealed. It is just slightly less concentrated than the 1994 Gran Reserva but it, too,
is drinking well now and will last at least for another decade.” 91points ~ Robert Parker

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Welcome Winemaker Rick Davis of Calstar Cellars!

There still may be time to come dine with artisan winemaker Rick Davis - his first Delaware visit!
- of Sonoma County's Calstar Cellars in the beloved Christina Room at The Hotel du Pont
this Friday, March 11th! Chef de Cuisine Keith Miller has created a stellar menu to complement
Rick's tiny production wines.

Rick specializes in cool climate varietals like Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, and has worked with
many of the top producers on the Sonoma Coast. Rick's passion is to produce high quality,
food-friendly wines that can be shared at every table knowing the bounty of the vine. I hope
you can join us for this intimate dinner!

We're honored to have him kick off the weekend's festivities, but even if you miss the wine dinner you'll still get a shot to taste with Rick at the shop on Saturday from 11am - 3pm! If you're going to Frank's Golden Wine Event at The Hotel du Pont Saturday evening stop in beforehand and Rick will get the party started early as he takes you through his 5 new releases!

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Calstar Cellars 2009 Manchester Ridge Chardonnay
(regularly priced at $49.99)
$30.99 with 10-pack Sampler Purchase!

200 Cases Produced

Manchester Ridge Coast Mountain Vineyards are located east of
Manchester, California along the first ridge three miles inland from the
Pacific Coast at an elevation of 2,000 feet. Up to 162 acres of vineyard
can be developed on this flat top ridge that uniquely has less than a 10%
slope.

The potential wine grape quality of this location is unsurpassed along the
California coast. Coastal vineyards at these elevations receive the
highest solar quality in the northern coastal counties and the soils are of
excellent quality and water is sufficient.

Pale straw in color with exuberant aromas of lemon curd layered with
Asian pear exploding on the palate. The aromas mingle with a lush
palate of pear framed by sweet oak. This medium-bodied wine has
balanced acidity and carries a long, lemon citrus finish.

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Calstar Cellars 2007 Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
(regularly priced at $39.99)
$24.79 with 10-pack Sampler Purchase!

285 Cases Produced

The Sonoma Coast, a world-renowned growing region southwest of the
Russian River and just six miles from the Pacific Ocean is known
worldwide for its cool-climate Pinot Noir and microclimates that contribute
to slow grape maturation and optimum ripeness.

Each Sonoma Coast vineyard that contributes to the 2007 Sonoma Coast
Pinot Noir expresses unique site characteristics including the
Sangiacomo Roberts Road Vineyard with early morning sun and daily
ocean breeze from the Petaluma gap, Halberg Vineyard with high
planting density and coastal fog, Dunah Vineyard impeccably-farmed and
planted with Pommard 115 and 667 varietal clones, Balletto Vineyard with
rich loam soil and steady winds and the Four Sisters Vineyard located at
the southern end of the Sonoma Coast overlooking the San Pablo Bay
planted with Swan 115 and 777 clone varietals.

Bright crimson color and fragrant notes of rose petal and sun-ripened
berries with understated flavors of root beer and balanced floral and
spiced fruit. This medium-bodied Pinot Noir has a balanced, elegant
structure that draws the ripe fruit through a lingering finish of orange peel and earthy warm spice.

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Calstar Cellars 2007 Alta Zinfandel
(regularly priced at $29.99)
$18.59 with 10-pack Sampler Purchase!

180 Cases Produced

100% Zinfandel Cardanini Vineyard, El Dorado County

As a true Zinfandel lover, Proprietor and Winemaker, Rick Davis, wanted
a vineyard that balanced the big, jammy notes of classic Zin with the
minerality, lean tannins and age-ability of a cooler climate. In the hills of
El Dorado County, vineyards range from 1,200 to 3,500 feet in elevation,
exposing Zinfandel to hot, sultry days and very chilly nights during the
summer season. In addition, the growing season is longer than most
appellations, with slow, gradual ripening creating balanced, food-friendly
Zinfandels worthy of cellar time.

Clear, deep crimson color with hints of purple. The aromas are complex
with bright, primary notes of raspberry, bramble, jam and vanilla with dark chocolate undertones. Medium bodied with flavors of raspberry with a sweet oak frame around firm tannins and balanced acidity. A long,
lingering finish rounds out the 2007 Alta Zin.

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Calstar Cellars 2009 Sauvignon Blanc
(regularly priced at $24.99)
$15.49 with 10-pack Sampler Purchase!

181 Cases Produced

Hopkins Ranch, Russian River Valley

The premier vintage of Calstar Cellars Sauvignon Blanc introduces a
small lot of grapes sourced from the Hopkins Ranch vineyard in the
Russian River Valley. With a long, cool growing season, the cool climate
of the Russian River Valley keeps wines crisp while allowing the natural
character of the climate to shine through. The picturesque Hopkins
Ranch leads down-slope towards the Russian River.

The grapes offer a combination of a sophisticated Sancerre of the Loire
Valley and the grassier New Zealand selections. This is a California wine
for a Sauvignon Blanc enthusiast.

Pale straw color with aromas of wet stone, grass and citrus. Crisp minerality compliments the medium-bodied, full-flavored profile leading to a clean, lengthy finish. This Sauvignon Blanc is the perfect compliment for warm weather fare.

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Calstar Cellars 2007 ZaZa Old Vine Zinfandel
(regularly priced at $16.99)
$10.49 with 10-pack Sampler Purchase!

600 Cases Produced

100% Zinfandel, Stokes Vineyard, Lodi

Proprietor and Winemaker, Rick Davis first met Bill Stokes, owner of
Stokes Vineyard, over ten years ago while searching for old vine
Zinfandel in the up-and-coming area of Lodi in San Joaquin County. The
fruit from Stokes Vineyard never disappoints with richness and intensity
that comes from old vines with subtle spice notes that all speak to the
vineyard management and site.

Clear, bright ruby color with glints of violet. Extremely aromatic with
notes of cranberry, blueberry and dried herbs. Flavors mirror the nose
with additional hints of strawberry, pomegranate and cinnamon. This Old Vine Zinfandel has the characteristic intense fruit of an older vine but remains lively with cherry acidity and fine tannins.

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The Philadelphia Inquirer's Craig LaBan
Recommends...

Sonoma County's Geyser Peak Winery...

Russian River Valley vs Central Otago...
Pinot Noir from California & New Zealand!

Russian River Valley vs Central Otago...
Pinot Noir from California & New Zealand!

Berridge Vineyards ~ Central Otago, New Zealand

Pinot Noir is still the "it" grape amongst wine lovers. We all would love to drink Burgundy located at latitude 45º North but that can be a bit draining on the wallet. Where to go? I'd rather go 45º South and delve into the deliciousness of Central Otago! It's the Southern-most grape-growing region in the world with its oldest vines traced back to 1864, relatively new by wine standards. While well over 100 million people live between 38º and 45º North there are less than 400,000 living in the Southern strip. New Zealander winemakers feel this reflects in a lack of pollution and disease pressure - there is no vineyard in Central Otago within 120 miles of a traffic light!

Sonoma Acres ~ Russian River Valley, California

Now lets go back up North to California's Russian River Valley at latitude 38º ... although quite populated it's another cool-climate and well-known region for growing Pinot Noir. There you'll see beautiful vineyards within a stones-throw of many traffic lights, and perhaps a few gas stations. Make a difference? I don't think so. Sorry New Zealand, I love your wine, but I'm not buyin' into your theory! It's all about the sunshine, cool temps, rich soils and just enough rainfall.

Come out and taste for yourself... we'll even brown-bag the 2 Pinot Noirs and have you taste them blind! These 2 wines are great finds in the ever-growing Jonathan Newman portfolio of Xselections... we love 'em both here at FranksWine!

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_____________________________________________________________________

Berridge Vineyards 2008 Drystone Pinot Noir ~ Central Otago
(regularly priced at $39.99)
$19.19 with 6-pack Sampler Purchase!

The Central Otago appellation shows how great New Zealand Pinots can be. Dan Duckhorn’s partner in founding both the winery and Goldeneye Pinot Noir, Dick Berridge, fell in love with the Central Otago and believed its location, climate and soil offered the unique combination to make his world class Pinot Noir.

Gorgeous aromas of red fruit, a touch of alluring earthiness, sweet red cherries and spices. Rich on the palate and satin textured with bright fruit including raspberries, strawberries, and currants with nice depth and a pleasant, long finish.

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_____________________________________________________________________

Sonoma Acres 2008 Pinot Noir ~ Russian River Valley
(regularly priced at $29.99)
$14.39 with 6-pack Sampler Purchase!

One of the more compelling Quality Price Ratio’s (QPR) in Pinot Noirs I have sampled this year! A bright ruby red color with nice red fruit aromas of red cherry, wild strawberries, and pomegranate. On the elegant side with bright cheery fruit with red currants, cherries, perfumed strawberry and cola and touches of nutmeg- cinnamon spice and acacia flowers.

Aged in French oak for eleven months, gives it just a touch of vanilla oak with a very pleasant mouth feel, round tannins and a refreshing finish. This is indeed 100% Pinot Noir that is all grown exclusively in Sonoma's Russian River Valley. 2008 was a solid harvest but had very low yields and therefore limited production.

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Our 1st Arrival from Bordeaux's Stellar 2009 Vintage: Chateau Le Roc!

Parker says it will prove far superior to most vintages and not far off the quality of 2005 and 2000. Eighteen wines are given scores of 98 to 100, which is remarkable, even in a great vintage.

The Chateau Le Roc is the first 2009 that I have at the shop... and for the net bottle price of $8.33 you can't find a better red wine, period. I challenge you to find one! I'm a HUGE fan of this wonderful little Bordeaux, to me this is the style I can really get behind, big fruit and ripe complexity. Bordeaux needs more people to know about these kind of wines and value they bring to the table. It's a blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petite Verdot... classic! Juicy red fruit and soft tannins make this a very approachable red you can open at a moment's notice to make any night a special night.

Frank's January CLUBVino Selection!
20% Off by the Bottle - $13.59
(regularly priced at $16.99)
33% Off by the 6-Pack - $69.99
(net bottle price $11.39)
50% Off by the 12-pack - $99.99
(net bottle price $8.33)

Chono 2007 Reserva Carmenere-Syrah ~ Elqui Valley
(regularly priced at $19.99)
$13.39 with 12-pack Sampler Purchase!

Combining two different terroirs in Elqui, with the Carmenere coming from Arenal vineyards, close to Vicuña, at 900 meters above the sea level, with an incredible dry weather that permits to harvest in mid June. The Syrah comes from Titon vineyards, only 25 kilometers from the seashore in the same valley, a cool weather vineyard. Both vineyards have the advantage of being in the valley with most clear skies in the world. The outstanding luminosity permits a very gentil growth and ripening of the grapes.

The soils have an alluvial origin and are in the border of the Elqui river. Its natural fertility is very low, as well as the organic matter content of them. The yields are only 9 tons per hectare and the fruit shows a very high concentration.

The components, 65% of Carmenere gives a very elegant softness with ripe tannins and big volume. The Syrah ads and incredible freshness to this wine. Think sour cherries with hints of soft leather!

This is a very limited production of just 1,100 cases. 30% of this wine was aged for 6 months in new French and American barrels.

Winemaking was in hands of Alvaro Espinoza and Juan Carlos Faundez.

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Palin 2008 Chardonnay Organic ~ Casablanca Valley
(regularly priced at $14.99)
$9.99 with 12-pack Sampler Purchase!

The grapes that give rise to this Organic Palin Chardonnay came from 15 year old vineyards in the Casablanca valley. They were hand-picked and carried in 12 kilo bins starting the first week of March, when they reached the desired ripening. Then, the grapes passed a double-belt selection system to eliminate leaves and any other foreign substance before being gently pressed.

The vinification process took place using stainless steel tanks, selected yeasts, low fermentation temperatures, pump-overs and gentle lees stirring to ensure the optimal results.

50% of the blend was aged for 5 months in French and American oak barrels, and the remainder spent 5 months in stainless steel tanks to carefully preserve the variety's fresh and fruity characteristics.

Prior to bottling, the wine was lightly fined with bentonite and cold-stabilized to prevent tartaric precipitations.

Clean and bright, this wine has an intense yet delicate pale greenish-yellow color. Intense tropical fruit aromas blend with pear, pineapple, almonds, walnuts and ends with a nice, long finish. 950 cases produced.

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Cucao 2009 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon ~ Central Valley
(regularly priced at $14.99)
$9.99 with 12-pack Sampler Purchase!

This Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve was made with carefully-selected grapes: 85% is Cabernet from Maipo valley, and the remaining 15% is Syrah from the Colchagua valley.

The grapes were hand-picked at their peak of maturity in late April and early May to achieve rich, ripe, and persistent fruit on the palate. Upon arrival at the winery, the grapes were hand-inspected, and all leaves and other foreign matter were removed before destemming and crushing. A 7-day pre-fermentation at 41ºF increased the concentration and fruit flavors in the must.

The alcoholic fermentation, followed by an extended period of skin contact, further defined the wine's character and concentration. Half of the wine was aged for 8 months in French and American oaks barrels, whereas the remaining must stayed in stainless tanks to preserve its concentrated, ripe fruit characteristics. In the final blend these two concepts were brought together for a wine that is complex, intense, elegant and unforgettable, one that truly expresses the best of Maipo valley's Cabernets.

The wine was gently filtered, bottled, and allowed to rest several months before starting its distribution of just over 1,800 cases.

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Rayun 2008 Syrah ~ Rapel Valley
(regularly priced at $9.99)
$6.69 with 12-pack Sampler Purchase!

This wine is made out of grapes of vineyards in Totihue, on the foothills of the Andes mountains and Nancagua, on the west coast range of mountains from Rapel valley.

The grapes were picked in April 2008 at their peak of maturity. Fermentation took place in stainless steel tanks over a period of 7 days converting sugar to alcohol and extract polyphenols (tannins and coloring matter), which provide the excellent characteristics of Syrah as well as the great varietal expressions of red fruit, plums and blueberries.

Once fermentation was complete, the Syrah remains in inert stainless steel tanks to preserve the fruit characteristics, contributing pleasing and delicate notes of vanilla, tobacco, and honey.

Several months later, the wine was then gently fined, stabilized, filtered, bottled, and once its ideal evolution was confirmed, it was released for distribution. 2,650 cases produced. This wine is ridiculously good for the money... Bravo Alvaro and Juan Carlos!

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"ABC Wines": Anything But Chardonnay
and Cabernet!

Louisa Sawyer Lindquist is a pioneer in her own right, planting
one of the first albarino vineyards in California in the mid-1990’s.

She now makes about 2,500 cases of Spanish varietal wines
each year under her Verdad label, which are also featured
in the tasting room.

The couple purchased an 80-acre property in Edna Valley eight years ago, and planted half of it with Syrah and Spanish varietals. They farm organically and biodynamically, primarily because, “it’s the right thing to do.” Lindquist said a European grower told him, “Bob, I don’t understand a lot of it, but I just know that it works.”

And they’re not the only ones in the family making wine. Son Ethan started his own brand called Ethan (not yet available in Delaware) in 2001, and son Luke is the winemaker for Tres Hermanas. Nine-year-old Theo isn’t in the family business yet. “He still has some learning to do,” Lindquist said with a smile.

Qupé 2009 Santa Ynez Marsanne
(regularly priced at $24.99)
$15.99 with 12-pack Sampler Purchase!

This wine is a blend of 81% Marsanne and 19% Roussanne.
The grapes were whole cluster pressed, chilled and settled for 48 hours,
then put into neutral French oak barrels for fermentation, complete malo
and 8 months aging.

This is a classic example of our Marsanne— flinty, minerally, and with
just a hint of green pear and orange rind. The wine has refreshing acidity, impeccable balance and all at 12.6% alcohol. Marsanne with balance like this is very age worthy. Drink this as a refreshing aperitif or with seafood and lighter fare over the next year or so - or put it down for at least 10
years for a complex, honey-nut experience. 1,284 cases produced.

Qupe 2008 Bien Nacido Syrah
(regularly priced at $34.99)
$22.39 with 12-pack Sampler Purchase!

This wine is 100% Syrah from the Bien Nacido Vineyard in the Santa
Maria Valley in the very northern reaches of Santa Barbara County. Aging was done in all French oak with about 25% new oak using a combination
of François Frères and Ermitage barrels. It was aged between 13 and 15 months in barrel.

Very fragrant and spicy Syrah with lots of black and white pepper,
lavender and deep berry fruit. This wine has plenty of depth and body
but with a sleek, crisp mouthfeel that makes you keep wanting more.
2,815 cases produced.

Verdad 2007 Santa Ynez Valley Tempranillo
(regularly priced at $24.99)
$15.99 with 12-pack Sampler Purchase!

This wine is 75% Tempranillo, 15% Syrah and 10% Grenache. The Tempranillo was farmed organically at Ibarra-Young Vineyard in Los Olivos. The Grenache was farmed biodynamically at Purisima Mountain Vineyard in Los Olivos and the Syrah is from the Bien Nacido Vineyard.

Tempranillo makes a bold, earthy, somewhat tannic wine with lots of chocolate and spice... think of it as the most masculine component, almost macho in nature. This is why Louisa blended it with the silky, supple, ripe syrah from Bien Nacido Vineyard, possibly the best vineyard for Syrah in California, which adds a lovely lush middle along with ripe berry flavors
and pepper. The superb, more feminine Grenache adds gorgeous wild
berry aromatics and brightens the whole blend.

The wine was blended together in March of 2006 and aged a total of 16 months before bottling. The wine has ripe cherry and berry aromas with layers of black cherry, cocoa and spicy-smoky flavors with a touch of cinnamon and toast. This is a full-bodied wine with rich flavors and good balance and a long satisfying finish. 720 cases produced.

Verdad 2009 Grenache Tempranillo Rose
(regularly priced at $19.99)
$12.79 with 12-pack Sampler Purchase!

This Rosé is made up of 10% of Tempranillo which was picked early and de-stemmed then pressed after about 12 hours of skin contact. This is the first time in 3 years Louisa used a small amount of Tempranillo for Rosé. In the past she used about 5% “en saignée,’ a technique that bleeds the juice from a red wine (therefore riper) ferment. Louisa found that even this tiny percentage of ripe Tempranillo was overwhelming in the blend because of its smoky-spicy-gamey quality. She realized that in order to use Tempranillo in her Grenache-based Rosé it must be picked early when the fruitier flavors dominate.

The Grenache was also picked early. The majority was de-stemmed in the afternoon, left overnight on the skins, and then pressed after about 12 15 hours of skin contact. The last 3 ton lot of Grenache was whole cluster pressed because Louisa didn’t want to extract any more color.

The resulting wine is fresh and lively with wild strawberry aromas layered with watermelon and subtle spice. It finishes crisp with a touch of citrus. The flavors are bright and nuanced on the palate. There is a lot going on in this wine and it will match well with a wide variety of flavors from shellfish stew to cold roast beef. 1,200 cases produced.

He lines up the wines of Borgo Stajnbech... I'm immediately put off by the fact that I can't pronounce them.  He tells me not to worry about what the label says adding "just wait 'til you taste this juice!"  I can't help to notice that the labels read Pinot Grigio (oh yippee), Sauvignon Blanc (Friuli yes, but from Veneto?) and Malbec (I've learned that others in the wine world should leave this task to Argentina).

He then tells me that they retail for 25 bucks.  I tell him he's crazy if he thinks any wine shop can sell a $25 Sauvignon Blanc outside of New Zealand or California... crazier if he thinks a $25 Malbec will creep off the shelves while surrounded by a slew of value Mendoza counterparts... and crazier yet if he thinks a Pinot Grigio without the words "Santa Margarita" on the label can sell for the same price. 

Then I taste them - trust me on this.  Really!

Borgo Stajnbech 2008 Pinot Grigio
$21.24 (Regularly Priced at $24.99)

Made from 100% Pinot Grigio harvested between August and September. The grapes are crushed and fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks for 15-20 days. After fermentation, the wine is refined in tanks for four months before it is bottled and released on the market.

Pale yellow in color with greenish highlights, this is a wine to be enjoyed young when one can best appreciate its zesty fruitiness.  It's a fragrance reminiscent of acacia flowers, pears and Golden Delicious apples.

Pleasantly sharp taste, well balanced. Great accompaniment to ham, fresh cheeses, first courses, white meats and above all, fish.  A blockbuster!

Borgo Stajnbech 2007 Malbec
$21.24 (Regularly Priced at $24.99)

Beautiful purple color with perfumed aromas of ripe red fruits and roasted coffee beans. It is lush, full-bodied and penetrating on the palate with loads of chewy, currant jam flavors, bright acidity, and a touch of grip on the almost savory finish.

This wine really unfolds with some air so try not to slurp it down in a rush, and it shows why the Argentine people are in love with Malbec... they ought to taste this one! A sleek, polished style, with alluring mocha and raspberry ganache notes leading the way, backed by dark plum, hoisin sauce and graphite flavors that push through the finish.

This has serious weight, but stays focused and driven.  Pairs well with a wide range of foods including beef, sausages, spiced or grilled pork, veal, medium-strong cheeses, and meat-based pasta sauces.

A bright , mid-lemon color with green highlights. Aromas of lemon and passion fruit intermingled with creamy notes, fill the glass.

A medium-bodied dry white wine, with ripe passion fruit flavors and undertones of citrus fruit. Subtle, creamy, nutty nose combine with the fruit on the palate giving a richness that finishes with great length, a hint of spice and fresh acidity.

This wine is drinking well now but will also benefit from ageing in bottle for up to three years, where it will develop and increase in richness

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