The Sarah Jane English Newsletter:  72nd Edition
July 16, 2005


TOP PICKS OF THE MONTH (prices vary store to store) $Best Buy

 
SPLURGE WINE OF THE MONTH: SPRING MOUNTAIN 2001 Elivette, Napa Valley $90--indulge with this delight!
WINERY OF THE  MONTH: SPRING MOUNTAIN VINEYARD--SPRING MOUNTAIN VINEYARD National Sales Manager Holly Anderson shared these superb wines with my regular wine tasters in June.  Spring Mountain, made famous in the 1980s television series Falcon Crest, represents four separate parcels that were acquired--each featuring a vineyard and a winery. They were Spring Mountain Vineyards (Miravalle) 257 acres, Chateau Chevalier 120 acres, Streblow Vineyards (Alba) 33 acres, and Draper Vineyards (La Perla) 435 acres.
President Tom Ferrell tells me that the 845-acre estate is on the eastern slopes and lower half of Spring Mountain.  It extends from 400 feet above sea level to about 1450 feet at the top of the property. "There are about 110 different vineyard blocks scattered over the estate totaling 226 acres," he says.  "Each has a different elevation, soil, and exposure to the elements and each block produces something unique. This great diversity of steep hillside plantings is the source of our consistent, powerful, and distinctive red wines.  These wine properties were first developed in the late 19th Century and, though boundaries and names changed in the intervening years, much of what was done a century earlier remains evident today."   The Spring Mountain District AVA is distinguished as the coolest and wettest region on some of the steepest and oldest soils in the Napa Valley.  These factors have a big influence on the wines.   The appellation gets its name from the many springs that come to the surface over the eastern slopes of this  part of the Mayacamas mountain range. Through the middle of the appellation and running year 'round is York Creek.  While there is variation from location to location, as in all wine districts, red wines from the Spring Mountain appellation can be characterized by deep color, a lot of soft tannins, lower acidity, higher pH, and fat, rich flavors in the finish.   White wines planted on the warmer exposures of the appellation can also be fat and rich, though if planted in the cooler soils and northern exposures, the result is a lean and crisp flavor.   Influencing these characteristics are the soils and topography of the appellation.  The vineyard is planted in densities of 4,000 vines per acre and trained to the ancient gobelet form, a vertical trellising method invented in an earlier millennium by the Romans.   Jerome Draper bought La Perla in the 1940s.  The Drapers sold their grapes to several Napa Valley wineries.  Mr. Draper loved the vineyard and was a great steward of the property.  The senior Mr. Draper passed away in 1984 and the property went to his two children.   La Perla was planted entirely on AXR rootstock and ultimately in the mid-1980s a mutation in this insect population began to kill vines with AXR roots.  This fact and other mounting costs caused the Drapers to sell the property.  Back in 1970, Tom Ferrell, just out of U. C. Davis and 25 years old, made wine at Inglenook. La Perla Vineyard was an important source of grapes for his wines.  Ferrell became friends with Mr. Draper and in 1972, they made a small quantity of wine from the vineyard in the tunnels of the old winery--the first wine to be made in the old cellar since Prohibition.  Twenty years later, in a moment he never expected, Ferrell found himself making an offer to buy the Draper Vineyard. The sale was eventually completed in 1996.  Spring Mountain Vineyard acquired Chevalier in 1993.  Restoration and replanting culminated in 1998, renewing the entire property--planted mostly to Cabernet Sauvignon. After the restoration, Spring Mountain Vineyard stored a portion of their large 1997 vintage of red wine in the old cellar. Grapes from the vineyard are being used for the Spring Mountain Vineyard wines.  Miravalle was the site of television series.  Finally, in 1996, the hillside property that was originally planted in vines by Tiburcio’s friends, the Beringer's, was acquired. That same year, the new Spring Mountain Vineyard introduced into the trade its first vintage from the new estate. Finally, in 1996, the hillside property was acquired and that same year, the new Spring Mountain Vineyard introduced into the trade its first vintage from the new estate.  All the wines are truly treasures.  (Please see wine notes below)

NEWS
TEXAS GOVERNOR OPENS STATE TO DIRECT-to-consumer WINE SHIPPING: Governor Rick Perry signed SB 877 in May 2005, a bill authored by State Senator Frank Madla (D-San Antonio), which opens Texas by declaring the entire state "wet" for wine shipments. In late 2003, the Texas ABC declared that the state was "open" for direct shipments but ruled that all wineries must comply with existing wet/dry rules. This compliance requirement, since it could not be delineated based on zip codes or other standard geographic boundaries, had stymied the efforts of wineries to ship to Texas consumers. SB 877 solves this problem by declaring the entire state "wet" for wine shipments.   Additionally,  the U.S. Supreme Court ruled today that discriminatory bans on interstate, direct-to-consumer wine shipments in New York and Michigan are unconstitutional, paving the way for the third and tenth largest wine consuming states to join 27 other states that allow for direct shipping of wine to consumers.  "This is a major victory in the 20-year battle to end discrimination against America’s small, family wineries that want to provide consumers with access to the wines of their choice," said Robert P. Koch, President and CEO of Wine Institute, the trade association of California wineries. "The states of New York and Michigan can now choose to enjoy increased tax revenues from a more diverse and orderly wine market by adopting legislation similar to that which currently benefits consumers in the majority of states."   New York and Michigan both have laws that allow in-state wineries to ship directly to adult consumers within their borders but prohibit out-of-state wineries from shipping to those same consumers. Today’s ruling is a major defeat for the nation’s wholesaler associations which have waged a misguided battle defending these and other discriminatory laws that have protected their distribution stronghold for decades and stifled consumer choice.
LINDEMANS DEBUTS CONVENIENT "MINIS" BOTTLES: Single-serve 187 ml bottles, the first from the popular Australian wine brand Lindemans, has  created a way for U.S. consumers to enjoy  premium wines in a smaller size bottle.   The Minis contain the same high quality Lindemans Bin Series wine as a standard size bottle, but in a convenient "one-glass" size.     The 187 ml bottles, about one-fourth the size of a standard 750 ml wine bottle, contain approximately six ounces of wine - perfect for wine  drinkers who don't want to open an entire bottle to just enjoy one glass.   Sold individually and in four-packs, the Minis are available in the Bin 65 Chardonnay, Bin 40 Merlot, Bin 50 Shiraz, and Bin 45 Cabernet Sauvignon  varietals.  They are attractively packaged in small glass bottles with a twist-off closure and can be enjoyed straight from the bottle or in a glass.   Some suggested scenarios for the Minis include:  tossing them into the cooler next to the beer at  picnics or barbecues; offering dinner party guests a personal option, or enjoying right after work when it's time to relax; and perfect size for that single glass of wine with dinner.   Lindemans Minis are available nationally and retail for between $7.99 to  $8.99 per four-pack and $1.99 to $2.25 individually (varies by state).  Lindemans is one of the best selling Australian wine brands in the United States.  Its Bin 65 Chardonnay has received Wine Spectator's "Best Value" award a record fourteen times.
PENFOLDS NAMES BEST RESTAURANTS IN THE WORLD IN 2005: Penfolds of Australia proudly sponsored the 50 Best Restaurants in the World Awards from Restaurant Magazine based in the United Kingdom and chosen by leading restaurant professionals.  Additionally, Penfolds wines are internationally acclaimed by experts - chefs, restaurateurs and lovers of fine wines around the world.  Winners included a truly international list: fourteen British restaurants, ten French, ten from USA with  further representation from Spain, Australia, Asia and Africa.  The Fat Duck in Bray, England, topped the list chosen by 600 chefs, food critics and restaurateurs, who considered culinary excellence, service and the overall dining experience.   Yountville's French Laundry was a repeat, ranking third this year.  Chef Thomas Keller's New York restaurant, Per Se, was seventh and named "Highest New Entry."  Other US restaurants in the Top 50 included Jean-Georges Vongerichten's Jean Georges in ninth place, and Chicago's Charlie Trotter's in fourteenth.  As the overall winner, Chef Heston Blumenthal of the Fat Duck proudly received a magnum of Penfolds Grange 1995 at the awards ceremony held in London.   Penfolds, sponsor of the annual list,  also celebrated the fact that many of the winning restaurants from the United States, the UK and Australia include Penfolds on their wine lists - a clear case of the best choosing the best.     The full list is on www.Penfolds.com.  Penfolds is delighted to congratulate the winners of the following awards:
Penfolds Best Restaurant in The Middle East & Africa: Le Quartier Francais, South Africa
Penfolds Best Restaurant in America:  The French Laundry, California
Penfolds Best Restaurant in Asia: Felix, Hong Kong
Penfolds Best Restaurant in Australasia: Tetsuya's, Sydney
Penfolds Best Restaurant in Europe:  The Fat Duck, Bray   THE 50 BEST RESTAURANTS IN THE WORLD 2005:  1. The Fat Duck - Best Restaurant in World &  Europe Bray, Berks, England 2.  El Bulli - Chef's Choice Montjoi, Spain 3. The French Laundry - Best in America Yountville, California, USA  4. Tetsuya's - Best in Australasia Sydney, Australia 5. Gordon Ramsay London, England 6. Pierre Gagnaire Paris, France 7. Per Se - Highest New Entry New York, USA 8. Tom Aikens London, England  9. Jean Gorges New York, USA  10. St John London, England  11. Michel Bras Laguiole, France  12. Le Louis XV Monte Carlo, Monaco  13. Chez Panisse - Highest Climber Berkeley, California, USA  14. Charlie Trotter Chicago, USA  15. Gramercy Tavern New York, USA  16. Guy Savoy Paris, France  17. Restaurant Alain Ducasse Paris, France  18. The Gallery at Sketch London, England  19. The Waterside Inn Bray, Berks, England  20. Nobu London, England  21. Restaurante Arzak San Sebastian, Spain  22. El Raco de Can Fabes San Celoni, Spain  23. Checcino dal 1887 Rome, Italy 24. Le Meurice Paris, France  25. L'Hotel de Ville Crissier, Switzerland  26. L'Arpege Paris, France  27. Angela Hartnett at The Connaught London, England  28. Le Manoir Aux Quat' Saisons London, England  29. Le Cinq Paris, France  30. Hakkasan London, England  31. Cal Pep - Outstanding Value Barcelona, Spain  32. Masa New York, USA  33. Flower Drum Melbourne, Australia  34. WD50 New York, USA  35. Le Quartier Francais - Penfolds Best in Middle East & Africa  Franschhoek, South Africa 36.  Spice Market New York, USA.  37. Auberge de l'Il Illhaeusern-Alsace, France.  38. Manresa California, USA  39. Restaurant Dieter Muller Bergisch Gladbach, Germany   40. La Maison Troisgros Roanne, France.  41. The Wolseley London, England.  42. Rockpool Sydney, Australia.  43. Yauatcha London, England.  44. The Ivy London, England.  45. Gambero Rosso San Vincenzo, Italy.  46. The Cliff St James, Barbados.  47. Le Gavroche London, England. 48. Enoteca Pinchiorri - Editor's Choice Florence, Italy.  49. Felix - Penfolds Best in Asia The Peninsula, Hong Kong.  50. La Tupina Bordeaux, France.
RHONE RANGERS STAMPEDE SEATTLE for SYRAH  SHOWDOWN: The Rhone Rangers announced the 2nd Annual Northwest Grand Tasting to benefit FareStart.  Wineries from California, Washington, Oregon and Idaho are attending the event in Seattle on August 6, 2005 at McCaw Hall, home of the Pacific Northwest Ballet and the Seattle Opera.  Over 70 Syrahs and other Rhone wines will be collectively featured at the tasting. Tickets are on sale now with Ticketmaster.  Two Washington  grape growers, Dick Boushey of Boushey Vineyards and Joe Hattrup, Elephant Mountain Vineyards, praise developments with Rhone varietals.  Both are expanding their vineyards to include more Rhone varietals, specifically cinsault and counoise and are watching the growth area of viognier, which has seen a surge in sales.  www.rhonerangers.org   SYRAH/SHIRAZ DOMINATES RED WINE SALES GROWTH at RETAIL: According to ACNielsen, which tracks retail sales, Syrah/Shiraz (two names for the same wine) has averaged 13% total retail wine sales growth since September 2004.  Overall sales increased over 62 percent since September 2003.   Syrah/Shiraz has a flavor profile that makes it attractive to consumers--plenty of fruit flavor and soft tannins. 
BENNETT LANE WINERY hires Rob Hunter as consultant:  The 6,000-case Calistoga winery, Bennett Lane, has brought Rob Hunter on board as Consulting Winemaker.  With more than 20 years of Napa winemaking, Hunter most recently served as Vice President and Director of Winemaking for Sterling Vineyards.  At Bennett Lane, Hunter will work with the winery team to produce the  signature Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, and Maximus, a "red feasting wine"-a whimsical blend of Cabernet, Merlot and Syrah.   BENNETT LANE WINERY was founded by Randy and Lisa Lynch in 2003.   Bennett Lane's off-the-beaten track location and tasting room offer visitors to Napa a "secret gem" and a way to learn about some of Napa's fine wines in a friendly setting.  They produce four wines: Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon ($45), a 50-case Reserve Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon ($85), Maximus ($28), "a red feasting wine" and a Napa Valley Chardonnay ($28).   Owners Randy and Lisa Lynch are the first California vintners to sponsor a NASCAR team, which carries the winery's logo as it tours the Western United States.   Bennett Lane Winery, two miles north of Calistoga at 3340 Highway 128, is open daily from 10:00am to 5:30pm.  No appointment is necessary for a tasting ($7) and a free picnic area.  Tours should be made in advance at www.bennettlane.com or by call 707.942.6684. 

FALL CREEK VINEYARDS TOASTS16thANNUAL GRAPE STOMP:  Co-owner Susan Auler reports that the grape stomp comes but once a year.  With delightful anticipation, Fall Creek Vineyards announces its annual Grape Stomp and Harvest Festival, Saturday, August 20th and Saturday, August 27th, 11:00am – 5:00pm.  Don't miss it that last two Saturdays in August.   To stomp, experience crushing the grapes with  your  own  "bare" feet  in an old oak barrel.  Winery tours and tastings of Fall Creek Vineyards award winning wines, along with live, local music talents are complimentary of the day’s celebration.  With pleasure, renown Cookbook author and Chef Rebecca Rather of Rather Sweet Bakery and Café in Fredericksburg, and talented Chef/Instructor Marc Dunham of The Texas Culinary Academy, Austin,  will entice and satisfy your palate with a two-course cooking demonstration and tasting lunch, 11:30am and 1:30pm each Saturday, paired with Fall Creek wines at the inclusive price of $19.95 per person. A Food and Wine Pairing class to accommodate a late afternoon nibble will be offered by the Texas Culinary Academy at 3:30pm, $10 per person. Reservations may be made at 325/379-5361. Please specify seating preference of 11:30 am or 1:30 pm for demonstration luncheons. The Texas Culinary Academy student chefs will tempt kids and adults alike with their delectable offerings for sale of foods for munching and lunching on the vineyard patio. Proceeds from classes and food service will benefit the Fall Creek Vineyards Scholarship at The Texas Culinary Academy.   And that’s not all… Kids and families, come one, come all! Ice Carvings, one each Saturday, are always a thrilling experience. Boat excursions on the Vanishing Texas River Cruise will take you from the shoreline of Fall Creek Vineyards on beautiful Lake Buchanan to view the magnificent Fall Creek Falls (lake level and weather permitting) at $10.00 per person. Plus, hop into the castle bounce or enjoy an artistic face painting treasure by artist, Janey Rives.   Groups of 20 or more are encouraged to contact the Vineyard for information on group tours and special offers.   Fall Creek Vineyards is located on the northwest shores of beautiful Lake Buchanan, 2.2 miles north of Tow, Texas, in the Texas Hill Country. The Winery and Gift Shop are open everyday all year long, with the exception of Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas, New Years Day and Easter for free tours and tastings: Monday – Friday 11am – 4 pm; Saturday, 11 am – 5pm; and Sunday, 12noon – 4 pm. Let Fall Creek Vineyards be your destination for any special event: a private event of your own or one hosted by the winery. Event plans and/or reservations may be made at 325/379-5361. Visit our website at www.fcv.com for additional information.
WINE INSTITUTE reported that California wineries shipped a record 428 million gallons of wine to the U.S. in 2004, a three per cent increase over 2003.  The estimated retail value is $15 billion.  Shipments to all markets, at home and abroad, reached 522 million gallons in 2004 for a six percent increase.  Wine demand remains strong, with California wine sales rising steadily and gaining in popularity among American adults. Over the long term, total U.S. consumption has grown 63 percent since 1991 (excluding wine coolers). Sales will continue to expand as wine increasingly becomes a more significant part of the cultural landscape.  Other marketplace developments are the availability of extreme-value wines across the country. The category, retailing for $1.99 in California and $2.99 in other states for a 750 ml bottle, captured consumer attention.  Made possible from the excess inventories of  large harvests several years ago, extreme-value wines made up 12 percent of California table wine shipments to the California home market. 
Another factor fueling the competition is that foreign producers view the U.S. as the most attractive export market in the world. These producers have maintained their shipments to the U.S., and the abundant grape harvests in several of these wine-producing countries are keeping these sellers motivated. 
Consumer interest in more-expensive premium wines fueled sales growth in 2004. California wines $7 and over for a 750 ml. accounted for 32 percent of the volume, yet 64 percent of the revenues. New brands, new packaging, an improved U.S. economy and a favorable dollar exchange rate helped this segment thrive. Sales of everyday wines priced up to $7 were flat, representing 68 percent of the cases and 36 percent of the revenues.    Wine sales in the U.S. from all production sources—California, other states and foreign producers—grew four percent to 668 million gallons in 2004. The estimated retail value of wine shipments to the U.S. is $23.2 billion. Of the total, table wine amounted to 590.5 million gallons; dessert wine was 47.5 million gallons; champagne and sparkling wine, 30 million gallons. California wines account for a 64 percent share of the U.S. wine market or about two of every three bottles sold in the U.S. 
U.S. wine exports, 95% from California, surged 28% in 2004 to $794 million. Volume increased 29% to 119 million gallons (450 million liters.)
CANYON DE CHELLY NATIONAL MONUMENT THEME PARK: When blue-eyed Indians attack the train and the Calvary comes to the rescue, passengers know that reality has been suspended.  From Memorial Day to Labor Day, these realistic views of Native American culture are available at theme parks to create a deeper, more profound memory.   The Navajo Reservation in northeast Arizona at Canyon de Chelly features soaring rock walls, Anasazi ruins and historic sites.  Canyon-wall drawings depict 700 years of history. 
    Today, some 80 families still live in the canyon where they farm and raise animals. Visitors can see the working farms and the traditional
Navajo houses - six- or eight-sided hogans with the doors facing east to greet the sun every morning.
       The "rides" are limited to six-wheel drives, horses and hikers' feet.  Thunderbird Lodge offers popular group tours of Canyon de Chelly in six-wheel drive army touring vehicles operated by knowledgeable Navajo guides who provide interpretive information about the Canyon's geology and history.
    During tours, visitors learn about Anasazi ruins, pictographs, petroglyphs and the sites of confrontations between the Navajo and the
Spanish, Mexican and American governments.        The Anasazi - "Ancient Ones" - lived in the canyon for more than a thousand years. Their homes were engineered using timbers and adobe-style bricks. Most of the homes were built into the canyon walls and faced south to take advantage of the winter sun. Some contained multiple levels that housed as many as 30 to 40 families. The most impressive structures are large cliff dwellings, built between 1100 and 1300, in the Pueblo period. The Anasazi left the area around 1300. The reason for their disappearance is debated with the most popular theory being a prolonged drought forced them out.    The Navajo, related culturally and linguistically to the various Apache Indians in the Southwest, moved from northern New Mexico into the area around 1700. The Navajos fought with the Pueblo Indian villages and Spanish settlements along the Rio Grande Valley. As a result, the Spanish, Mexican and American governments conducted their own battles with the Navajo. As a Navajo stronghold, Canyon de Chelly figured prominently.
KENDALL-JACKSON reports changes: Jess Jackson announced a new direction for Kendall-Jackson Vintner's Reserve wines.  Still committed to family farming and affordable luxury wine, the 2004 K-J Vintner's Reserve Chardonnay label will add "Jackson Estates Grown."  This means that all chardonnay grapes were grown or controlled by K-J--increasing grape quality.   This boost in quality raises the price but delivers greater value.   The Vintner's Reserve Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon will move to a tri-appellation label identification--Napa, Sonoma and Mendocino.   It is difficult and expensive to grow grapes on mountains, a real test of patience and determination.  Jess tells me that a key ingredient in producing these exceptional wines is the institution of sustainable farming practices, combined with hard work by the vineyard crews and winemakers.
FLADGATE  PARTNERSHIP has declared 2003 a vintage for all four of its Port houses: Taylor Fladgate, Fonseca, Croft and Delaforce.
KENDALL-JACKSON 9th Annual Heirloom Tomato Festival, September 10, 2005. at the K-J Wine Center, see www.kj.com
 

 
NEW RELEASES (quotes are winemakers' comments)
SPRING MOUNTAIN VINEYARD National Sales Manager Holly Anderson shared these superb wines with my regular wine tasters in June.  Spring Mountain, made famous in the 1980s television series Falcon Crest, represents four separate parcels that were acquired--each featuring a vineyard and a winery--Miravalle 257 acres, Chateau Chevalier 120 acres, Streblow Vineyards  33 acres, and Draper Vineyards (La Perla) 435 acres.  President Tom Ferrell says the 845-acre estate on the lower half, eastern slopes of Spring Mountain extends from 400 feet above sea level up to 1450 feet.  "There are about 110 different vineyard blocks scattered over the estate totaling 226 acres," he says.  "Each has a different elevation, soil, and exposure to the elements and each block produces something unique.  These diverse, steep hillside plantings are the source of our consistent, powerful, and distinctive red wines and were first developed in the late 19th Century.  Though boundaries and names have changed, much of what was done a century earlier remains evident today."   The Spring Mountain District AVA is the coolest and wettest region on some of the steepest and oldest soils in the Napa Valley.  These factors have an enormous influence on the wines.   The appellation is named for the many springs that surface over the eastern slopes of the Mayacamas mountain range. Through the middle of the appellation runs York Creek.  While variations occur from location to location, Spring Mountain appellation red wines can be characterized by deep color, a lot of soft tannins, lower acidity, higher pH, and fat, rich flavors in the finish.   White wines can also be fat and rich in warmer sections, though in the cooler soils and northern exposures, they're lean and crisp.   Soils and topography of the appellation influence these characteristics. 
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MONTICELLO VINEYARDS Corley Family Wines: Stephen Corley visited Austin and we tasted his elegant family wines together at the Four Seasons Cafe.   Stephan showed off  four new wines available in the upcoming months, including two new varieties!   Stephen  tells me that he's calling the wine event "Fabulous, Noble and Fun, Wow, and Stunning!"  FABULOUS for the Inaugural release of Cabernet Franc, "our  Monticello Vineyards 2003 Estate Grown Cabernet Franc ($34); NOBLE for the Syrah and FUN for  Monticello Vineyards 2004 Rosé of Syrah ($18); WOW for  Monticello Vineyards2003 Estate Grown Chardonnay, Oak Knoll District of Napa Valley $26; and STUNNING for our Monticello Vineyards Corley Family 2002 Proprietary Red Wine ($50).   Fabulous - Cabernet Franc has been the predominant varietal in all but one of our highly acclaimed CorleyProprietary Red Wines and we consider it extremely important to the success of that wine.  We made our inaugural release 100% Cabernet Franc because we believe this varietal stands alone as a serious, fabulous wine.   It has been exciting from the day we picked it, and although we've grown cabernet franc for a decade, this is the first vintage we have bottled on its own.  Syrah is Noble - We are extremely proud of the syrah that we are growing and we look forward to releasing such a noble wine soon enough.  In the meantime we have produced a Monticello Vineyards 2004  Rosé of Syrah--an easy drinker to enjoy out of an ice chest while the grill warms-up.   Its refreshing crisp acidity and bright fruit flavors pair well with a fruit salad.   Monticello Corley Reserve 2003 Estate Grown Chardonnay (Oak Knoll District of Napa Valley)  WOW! is a rich style that's another classic.  The grapes are the finest from the vintage and their rich ripe complex character allow us to utilize higher levels of malo-lactic fermentation and new oak while still maintaining a balanced wine.   Extremely limited production.  This wine is WOW!    Stunning - Our MONTICELLO Vineyards 2002 CORLEY Proprietarty Red Wine is a great representative of the stellar 2002 Vintage, in which these ‘Bordeaux’ varietals are showing an amazing depth of quality in aromatics, flavors and texture.  The vintage, in general – and certainly this wine, is tending toward early enjoyment and graceful aging!  Our Vintage 2002 has intertwined characteristics of the previous three vintages.  This is a stunning wine in the tradition of Chateau Ausone and Chevel Blanc.  As was the case with 2001, Merlot is the predominant varietal followed closely by Cabernet Franc and then Cabernet Sauvignon makes up the balance.  Please check our website for updates, news, and reviews.  Our Corley Proprietary Red Wine is a rich and opulent blend of the deep, dark, concentrated flavors of Cabernet Sauvignon with the body and spiciness of Cabernet Franc plus the fruit and suppleness of Merlot.  With sensuous aromas of ripe red berry and black fruits, this supple wine has a generous, velvety texture on the palate, where layers of berry and black fruit flavors build atop compelling cocoa, anise, and sweet vanillin oak flavors.  The finish is elegant, richly textured, long and lingering.  Our Corley Proprietary Red Wine is a contemporary wine. Although collectable for long cellaring, this wine distinguishes itself by showing softer fruit and texture earlier in the wine's life.  We trust that you will enjoy it from the moment the wine is released as well as in the years to follow. www.CorleyFamilyNapaValley.com
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DOG HOUSE WINES have joined the market, says George Rose, public relations director at Kendall-Jackson: "DOG HOUSE provides social and physic benefits because 50 cents per bottle goes to non-profit Guide Dogs for the Blind organization.   The new premium "fruit-forward" varieties, tagged "Max’s Merlot," "Checkers’ Cabernet" and "Charlie’s Chardonnay," ($9) use 100% California grape varieties and state-of-the-art barrel fermentation to raise the standard of the popular animal-themed wine label trend, while helping to partner specially trained guide dogs with people who are blind.
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KING ESTATE 2002 Domaine Pinot Noir, Oregon $50: "Shimmering ruby red with aromas of blueberry, plum, cherry, pomegranate, dried rose petals, cedar, nutmeg and cocoa with a vibrant mouthfeel, raspberry, plum and blueberry flavors, nice barrel tones showing tabac and nutty flavors, rounded mouthfeel with velvety texture, rich and full with hint of mushroom and spice."
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GLORIA FERRER has grown hand-crafter sparkling wines since 1984 and still wines more recently, especially after considering trial plots of 17 Pinot Noir clones.  Bob Iantosca has made these beautiful wines for two decades.
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J. LOHR 2003 Old Vines Zinfandel, Paso Robles $15: "The wine is a dark, vibrant magenta with aromas of raspberry, red currants, licorice and coconut and flavors of brambly fruit with an excellent weight, ripe tannins and texture, making it perfect to pair with grilled meats and pastas with zesty red sauces."
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GEYSER PEAK was named “Best U.S. Wine Producer” at The International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC), the premier competition of its kind in the world.  Announced on October 28, 2004, at the City of London Guild Hall, the awards are among the most rigorously judged and prestigious in wine.  The “Best U.S. Wine Producer” title commends the achievements of those companies or individuals who “set the standards of excellence for the rest of the industry to follow and [who] influence the quality, variety, value, and educational information available to the wine and spirit consumer.
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BRONCO WINE COMPANY has a number of new releases.
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J. DAVIES 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon, Diamond Mountain, Napa Valley $65: Named in honor of Hugh's father Jack L. Davies, this is a wine informed by 40 years of intimate knowledge of a place and a passion to create a delicious red wine.  Hugh and Jamie Davies introduced the second vintage of J. Davies Cabernet Sauvignon from the family estate: Hugh has crafted a Cabernet Sauvignon that is the expression of the historic Diamond Mountain vineyards he has explored from early childhood.  He and his viticultural and winemaking team have combined experience with this land to make this special Napa Valley wine.  "Rich, dense berry fruit jumps out of the glass. Reminiscent of blackberry, boysenberry and black cherry, these delicious fruitful aromas are lifted by hints of anise and clove - the sweet spice characteristic of ripe Diamond Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon. The intense juicy flavors that follow are balanced with resolved tannins and light touches of vanillin and toasted oak.  Unfiltered and unfined, its palate is smooth, velvety, and complete," says Winemaker Hugh Davies.
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EBERLE  2002 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles, $26: " An intense nose of currant carries into the wine mingling with richly, layered flavors of dark, black berries with hints of toasted oak and a finessed finish of firm tannins. A vintage to cellar and enjoy for many years to come!"  Awards follow;  BEST OF CLASS/South-Central Coast Appellation    California State Fair, 2005
DOUBLE GOLD MEDAL   California State Fair, 2005
DOUBLE GOLD MEDAL   San Francisco Int’l Wine Comp., 2005
CHAIRMAN’S AWARD     Riverside International Wine Comp., 2005
GOLD MEDAL                 Riverside International Wine Comp., 2005
GOLD MEDAL                 West Coast Wine Competition, 2005
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OROGENY 2003 Pinot Noir, Sonoma County-Green Valley $30: "Winemaker Dan Goldfield is proud of this wine and he should be.  It is simply luscious and love.  He says this wine is the "archetypal for Pinot noir from the Green Valley area of the Russian River.  Crystalline aromas of candied blackberries, raspberries and cherries, woven with floral overtones . . . and focused on the palate with fruit, soft substantial tannins, bright acidity and balanced with Asian spices, silkiness and great concentration."
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Hall 2004 Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley $20: "Aromas and flavors of pink grapefruit, lemons, honeydew melon, rich palate with texture and weight, showing long, lush fruit flavors of pear and melon, focused acidity, good backbone for a refreshing finish." Pair with grilled halibut, sautéed shrimp and shellfish."
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JARVIS

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McPHERSON CELLARS owner Kim McPherson came by winemaking quite naturally.  His father, Dr. Clinton "Doc" McPherson, now a retired university professor of chemistry, is known as the father of the modern Texas wine industry.  Doc founded Llano Estacado Winery in Lubbock, Texas, in 1975, the first post-Prohibition winery bonded in Texas.  After graduation from Texas Tech, Kim studied winemaking at U.C. Davis and then worked in Napa Valley.  In 1979 Kim returned to Lubbock as winemaker for his father at Llano Estacado.  Kim left Llano in 1985 to pursue other wine opportunities.  In 1990 he was named winemaker at Cap*Rock Winery in Lubbock.  As a personal tribute to his father, Kim created McPherson Cellars in 2000.  These premium varietals are produced from grapes grown in Doc's own Sagmor Vineyard, at the foothills of the Guadalupe Mountains.
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Several properties from GALLO OF SONOMA have been released.
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RICHARD PARTRIDGE WINES 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $55: "The wine is a sincere reflection of Napa's finest vineyards.  Very complex wih great structure and alluring aromas of layers of rich blackberry and smooth layers that linger on the finish."  
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KULETO 2003 Estate Zinfandel, Napa $30: "Three clones represent the blend of this wine.  A relatively cool summer allowed acids to accumulate and created berries loaded with flavor, to give flavors of ripe plums, huckleberries and black pepper.  It's a warm and smooth wine with coasting tannins, tremendous strength and structure."    
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Jeff Bundschu says,"Tracing the threads of a seven-generation history woven on and around Rhinefarm, one can't shake the sense that there's a bit of something akin to magic at work here: one might call it soul." (please see below)
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CHATEAU ST. JEAN 2002 Chardonnay, Belle Terre Vineyard, Alexander Valley $22: "Aromas and flavors of cantaloupe melon, nectarines and peaches, medium body, ripe pears and toasted oak, well balanced, hints of vanilla and yellow stone fruits linger."
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DASHE CELLARS: In 1996,  Michael and Anne Dashe founded Dashe Cellars, focusing on exceptional single vineyard wines.  Dashe Cellars blends Anne's classic French winemaking training with the experience Michael has gained at such noted American wineries as Ridge Vineyards, Far Niente and Schramsberg Wine Cellars.  Together, the Dashe's strive to create authentic, vineyard-focused wines that capture the charm and personality of top, independent vineyards throughout Sonoma County and beyond.   With complementary degrees in enology from the University of Bordeaux, and the University of California at Davis, they knew that their combined backgrounds could result in something special.   For the wine label, they chose a playful image featuring a monkey riding on the back of a fish, a metaphor for two unique creatures traveling together on a journey.  Known for its exceptional single vineyard zinfandels, Dashe Cellars also produces excellent cabernet sauvignon and merlot.  As head winemaker, Michael applies traditional techniques including small lot fermentation, the use of indigenous yeasts, and little or no fining or filtration.  In addition, Dashe Cellars utilizes 12 distinct small family coopers, with an emphasis on older French oak for its barrel program.  During blending, Michael and Anne work side-by-side, sharing their experience and insights to achieve Dashe Cellars' sophisticated and engaging synthesis of French and American winemaking.   In early 2005, Dashe Cellars moved to its new winery location just off historic Jack London Square in downtown Oakland.  There, Dashe Cellars shares a 16,000 square foot state-of-the-art winemaking facility with JC Cellars.  With current production at roughly 8,500 cases, and no plans to grow beyond 10,000, Dashe Cellars remains committed to a hands-on, artisan's approach to winemaking.   In addition to the Oakland property, Dashe Cellars shares a tasting room at the Family Wineries Tasting Room-Dry Creek, near Healdsburg.
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DRY CREEK  2003 Chardonnay, Russian River Valley $16: "An impressive, complex wine with finesse and depth of flavor; a mixture of richness, mineral, fig, anise, citrus and smoky notes." 
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BAROSSA VALLEY ESTATE Spires is captured by the unique landscape of vineyards, stone cottages and church spires, reflecting the profound influence of the first German settlers.  The Spires range was named in honor of their achievements and the landscape they foraged.  Both the Shiraz and the Chardonnay  feature rich, up-front Barossa varietal characters, completed by the use of oak--a rarity in wines of this price range.
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SIGNORELLO Vineyards proprietor Ray Signorello and I share a flaw--if you choose to call it that.  We both correct people who incorrectly pronounce the word Meritage--a made-up American work to classify American wines made in the Bordeaux style of blending.    As Ray notes, "I still try not to correct waiters when they mispronounce meritage with a French accent (mair-ree-tahge).  I try, but unsuccessfully.  I always end up explaining that it is a made-up American word for American wines that emulate the Bordeaux blended style."  Here!  Here!, my friend Ray.  Between the two of us--and no doubt others--we shall prevail!
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GUENOC 2001 Petite Sirah, North Coast $18: "This wine spends 15 months in French and American oak barrels, half new.  Very fruit-focused, it is juicy, luscious that has spice,  ripe blackberry and cassis flavors and a finish of black pepper.  Enjoy!"
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CASTELLO di GABBIANO labels feature a 12th-century cavalier, with winged helmet, standard and shield, protector of the estate from hostile invaders.  The symbol remains a testament, constant in Tuscan heritage. 
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CHATEAU MONTELENA WINERY 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $40: "Dark and rich, this is a classic Cabernet with aromas and flavors of currants, red and black fruits, black tea and licorice, warm cinnamon background, big, juice palate powered by fruit, the vintage's slightly high acid levels give the wine brightness, showcased in a medium weight style with good density and grip."
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GUNDLACH BUNDSCHU Wine Company: Bavarian-born Jacob Gundlach arrived in San Francisco November 10, 1850.  This quiet man of action proved his mettle (and wine-savvy), when the boat was shipwrecked by rescuing his shipmates, saved wine from the sinking ship.  Within a year, he had established the Bavaria Brewery.    Jacob next looked to winemaking: relatively unexplored in America at the time.  In 1857, he partnered with Emil Dresel to buy a 400-acre parcel in Sonoma, which they called Rhinefarm.  The next year, Jacob brought back European rootstock to plant Rhinefarm, and his  childhood-sweetheart bride Eva.  The first Rhinefarm Vintage was  in 1861, Jacob and Eva celebrated a baby daughter named Francisca.
    Charles Bundschu, from Mannheim, Germany, joined the company in 1868.  Emil Dresel died the next year, leaving his portion of the farm to his brother Julius, and J. Gundlach & Co.  is established.  Charles marries Francisca in 1875.  During these years, phylloxera becomes a major threat.  Julius and Jacob's successful experiments to develop a resistant rootstock spare Rhinefarm from total devastation, and revolutionize viticultural methods.
    The next 30 years see phenomenal growth and a fully stocked warehouse in San Francisco.  Upon Jacob's death in 1894, the company is reorganized under the name of Gundlach Bundschu Wine Company. 
    The San Francisco earthquake and fire in 1906 obliterated the company offices and wine vaults.  The younger family members keep the business alive - renamed Gundlach Bundschu Wine Company, Inc. - and their wines continue to meet with international success. 
    Prohibition destroyed the wine business in America.  Walter Bundschu planted pear trees on Rhinefarm and used this income to support the controlled demand for grape juice and sacramental wine.
    After Repeal, Walter died, leaving Rhinefarm to his son Towle and his bride Mary and Rhinefarm grapes were again in demand.  Towle's son Jim restored the family winery, forming Vineburg Wine Company.   The Gundlach Bundschu Winery as a family operation was a reality once more, under Jim's vision and the combined efforts of the Bundschu clan.  The winery was remodeled in 1973 and opened its doors to the public three years later.
     In accord with tradition, the focus is on making wine that family and friends can enjoy.  And four generations of Bundschus are omnipresent in all of the Rhinefarm operations today.  As Jim's son Jeff brings a managerial vitality to Rhinefarm very reminiscent to that of his great-great grandfather Charles Bundschu, it's hard to deny that there's some magic here.  You can definitely call it soul, passed down through the ages.

© 2005 Sarah Jane English

Sarah Jane: sarajane@onr.com

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