Desert Wines and Spirits

Saturday, May 21, 2011
4 to 5:30 pm

$10.00 per person
$5.00 is credited against purchase of the featured wines below

Today only receive an extra 10% discount,
while stock lasts.

Home of: ExecutiveGiftService.com
611 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Suite #1, Palm Springs, 92264
760-327-7701, 800-925-0030

Chile is well represented in the US with numerous brands offering several levels of mainstream varietals at good prices. The region has a long viticultural history dating to the 16th century when the Spanish conquistadors brought Vitis Vinifera vines with them as they colonized the region. In the mid-19th century, French wine varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot were introduced. In the early 1980s, a renaissance began with the introduction of stainless steel fermentation tanks and the use of oak barrels for aging. Wine exports grew very quickly as quality wine production increased. The number of wineries has grown from 12 in 1995 to over 90 in 2007. Chile is now the fifth largest exporter of wines in the world, and the ninth largest producer. Cabernet Sauvignon leads with 39.1% of total production. Sauvignon Blanc is next with 14.3%. Merlot, Chardonnay, and Carmenère follow with 13.3, 11.2 and 8.7% of total production.

2008 Toro de Piedra Chardonnay, Curico Valley

List price 14.95; our price 11.99; today only 10.79

On the nose it is very intense with hints of pineapple, lemon, almond flowers and vanilla. Opening on the palate it shows a crisp acidity and is rich, round and creamy with flavors of baked apple, pear and spice. The wine has a long lingering finish while maintaining its freshness with notes of white fruits and vanilla.

2008 Puerto Viejo Cabernet Sauvignon, Curico Valley

List price 9.95; our price 7.99; today only 7.19

This Cab dwells at the lighter end of the spectrum showing hints of coffee, toasted almonds, licorice and cherries. On the palate this wine is upfront with mature tannins and a velvety texture. It has a persistent and harmonious finish and should prove a good everyday non-contemplative wine.

2010 Santa Carolina Pinot Noir, Maule Valley

List price 10.00; our price 8.99; today only 8.09

Red ruby in color, the Reserva Pinot Noir has aromas of raspberries and white pepper with a soft hint of oak. On the palate, this medium bodied wine shows ripe fruit characters that are well balanced with the harmonious acid.

2009 Terra Andina Carmenère, Central Valley

List price 12.00; our price 9.99; today only 8.99

Jammy red and dark berries show well on the nose, with gentle spiciness building in the glass. The wine is creamy and fruity, with vivid raspberry and blueberry flavors. The tannins are very mild and the acid balance keeps the wine lively. This is a pretty amazing bargain and extremely easy to drink.

2008 Root 1 Carmenère, Colchagua Valley

List price 11.95; our price 9.99; today only 8.99

The wine shows dark berries and mocha on the nose, augmented by a subtle smoky quality and a touch of cracked pepper. Round and fleshy, it displays slightly loose-knit dark fruit flavors but with no rough edges. It finishes smooth, with a modest persistence

2007 Casa Silva Petit Verdot, Colchagua Valley

List price 19.95; our price 16.75; today only 14.99

Wine Spectator Magazine gave this wine a 90+ rating: “The Silva family emigrated from France in the 1920’s bringing their winemaking expertise along. Deep ruby with blue hues. On the nose, fruity, fresh, with notes of black fruits and cinnamon. On the palate, very powerful, velvety, full, with firm tannins and an excellent balance between structure and acidity. Long finish.”

Saturday, March 12, 2011
4 to 5:30 pm

$10.00 per person
$5.00 is credited against purchase of the featured wines below

Home of: ExecutiveGiftService.com
611 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Suite #1, Palm Springs, 92264
760-327-7701, 800-925-0030

Argentine wines continue to amaze as great buys abound. So many new bottlings have arrived recently that we are scheduling a second look in as many weeks. Unique packaging and a move to organic-designated grapes are becoming part of the norm. This is a great opportunity to sample and discuss the state of the industry as it pertains to Argentina and to your wallet as well.

2009 Matthew Cain Yellow + Blue Torrontés, Cafayate, Salta

List price 11.95; our price 9.99/Liter

Cafayate is the high, sunny valley in the Salta province of Northern Argentina where the Torrontés grape grows so very well. In this case you can taste it in a wine like Yellow + Blue, which Matthew Cain sources from organically farmed vineyards and vinifies it with natural yeasts. In keeping with its “green” pedigree, it’s packaged in Tetra Pak cartons, which are far lighter than glass bottles and take up less room. This is a big plus if wine bottles do not fit well in your fridge, or if you are to carry some wine in your back-pack. This is a dry Torrontés with spicy yellow fruit and floral blossom aromas leading to a dry, clean palate. It is a very well made, tasty wine with good bracing acid.

2009 Matthew Cain Yellow + Blue Malbec, San Juan

List price 11.95; our price 9.99/Liter

Argentina’s San Juan Province is the country’s second largest wine-producing region, located approximately 2,000 feet above sea level near the Chilean border. The Tetra Pak packaging is interesting in that a case of wine in glass weighs 40 pounds and holds 9 liters of wine, whereas a case of Yellow+Blue weighs 26 pounds and holds 12 liters of wine. This earth-friendly, un-oaked Malbec is made from organically grown grapes, as well, and is hand-harvested and fermented with indigenous yeasts. It is medium bodied and dry, with medium acidity, light tannins, moderate intensity, and showing blackberry, plum, and raspberry fruits.

2009 Bodega Elena de Mendoza Red Blend, Mendoza

List price 9.95; our price 8.50

Bodega Elena de Mendoza is named after the family matriarch Elena Napoli, whose parents emigrated from Italy to the heart of Argentina’s wine country in the nineteenth century. The rich, smooth flavors of this wine are an interesting combination of Malbec, Syrah and Bonarda. With dried cherry characteristics, this plush, dark blend is ideal when served alongside barbecued meats.

2008 Filus Malbec Reserve, Mendoza

List price 18.00; our price 14.99

Contrary to other Argentine wineries, Filus Wines was conceived as a New World wine exporter from the beginning in 1997 and its products are made to meet new generation drinker preferences. Both the wine and packaging designing processes relay on targeting Australian and Californian wine drinkers, who are willing to taste new wines from exotic origins. This elegant Malbec is deep ruby red with violet tones and has an intense and bright bouquet with ripe fruit flavors of plums, red currants and raspberries. Ageing in French oak for 12 months enhances and adds complexity to the deep fruit character. The wine received a GOLD MEDAL at the Argentina Wine Awards in 2010.

2009 Bodega Colomé Amalaya Malbec, Valle Calchaqui, Salta

List price 20.00; our price 17.99

Bodega Colomé is owned by Donald Hess, the Swiss entrepreneur who founded Hess Collection wines. The wine is sourced from the highest known altitude Malbec vineyards, averaging 7,500 to 8,000 feet. Founded in 1831, Bodega Colomé is one of the oldest working wineries in Argentina. Amalaya is bright ruby colored and dense with a very fruity nose of red cherries, raspberries and spices. It has a fresh palate, and finishes with soft and round tannins. This vintage remains unrated, but the 2007 Amalaya received 91 points in the Wine Spectator.

FresitaSparkling Wine with Strawberry Infusion

List price 19.00; our price16.95

Well, the wine actually is made in Chile, but the strawberries, at least, are from Argentina. Fresita (“strawberries” in Spanish) is a unique product made from premium Chilean sparkling wine infused with hand picked strawberries from Patagonia and the Andes Mountains. Fresita is naturally produced and has no added sugar from 100% natural strawberry pulp. Enjoy it as an apéritif or dessert wine, for special occasions or to simply to unwind with friends.

Saturday, February 26, 2011
4 to 5:30 pm

$10.00 per person
$5.00 is credited against purchase of the featured wines below

Home of: ExecutiveGiftService.com
611 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Suite #1, Palm Springs, 92264
760-327-7701, 800-925-0030

Practically all wine in a bottle is a blend of some sort, unless it comes from a single barrel. Even a Cabernet Sauvignon from one vintage at one winery is a blend of the barrels within the cuvée. The winemaker must decide which barrels will recreate the “house style” and reject those that detract. The latter go either into a second label or get sold off; or if specific barrels are on the superlative side, they may become a “reserve”. This is a gamble because it is bound to take something away from the main offering. In the case of wines bottled as “blends” the winemaker gets to strut his stuff. This is where the “art” of winemaking comes to the fore. It is truly exciting to have various varietals to mix together in an effort to create a blend that is better than the sum of its parts.

Rex-Goliath Free Range Red, California

List price 7.99; our price 5.99

The deep purple hue is quite inviting. . It has a rich aroma of pepper and blackberry. The flavor begins slightly sweet and tasting of berries, graduating to a mélange of spice with a lingering finish. It’s shows good weight on the palate for a wine at this price. The wine exhibits a velvet finish due to the soft tannins and understated acidity.

2007 Magnificent Wine Co. House Red Wine, Columbia Val, WA

List price 10.00; our price 8.99

Inviting blueberry, leather and cedar notes tempt you as they swirl in the glass. Juicy cherry, cassis and cola flavors marry on the palate leading to soft, rounded tannins on the finish. Wine Spectator gave this wine an 89 point rating: “On the lighter side, showing lovely red berry and sweet red pepper flavors that settle gently onto a bed of silky tannins. Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Merlot, Malbec, Zinfandel, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2014.”

Foppiano Lot 96 Red Wine, California

List price 11.95; our price 9.99

The name “Lot 96″ was chosen to reflect Foppiano’s original roots, dating back to 1896. Over a hundred years later the winery is still family owned and operated. The blend in this bottling is: 28% Sangiovese, 19% Petite Sirah, 17% Zinfandel, 14% Carignane, 10% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 3% Cabernet Franc. Lot 96, Bin 002 has a bright bouquet full of red fruit aromas; raspberry jam and red currants. Added notes of cherry blossoms develop with trailing scents of cedar, vanilla bean and toasty oak. The palate follows nose with more jammy raspberry flavors. This wine is easy and accessible with nice fruit to acid balance.

2008 Three Rivers Winery River’s Red, Columbia Valley, WA

List price 14.95; our price 11.99

This blend comes from several vineyards including Three Rivers’ estate vineyard. It is comprised primarily of Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec, with Merlot, Tempranillo, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot rounding out the vibrant and complex profile. Unmistakable notes of juicy red plum, bramble berries, cranberries and sweet baking spices comprise the bouquet. Flavors of ripe berry, cherry and plum are balanced by soft, supple tannins and a generous, yet approachable mouth feel.

2007 Estancia Meritage, Paso Robles

List price 20.00; our price 16.99

The blend here is 61% Cabernet Sauvignon, 27% Merlot and 12% Petit Verdot. The color of this big and bold wine is deep crimson. It displays aromas of vibrant blackberries and cherries, with nuances of anise and sage, chocolate and sweet oak. Flavors of black cherries and currants are framed by dusty tannins providing an elegant and lingering finish.

2006 Daou Vineyards Celestus, Paso Robles

List price 39.95; our price 29.99

This is a blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Syrah and 5% Petit Verdot aged in French oak barrels for 16 months. The nose exudes raspberry, red plums, dark cherry, sandalwood, anise, lavender and roses. It is dry with a strong tannin backbone and hints of plum, anise, and rose petal and is multi layered with a long finish that is very complex. Anthony Dias Blue gave this wine a 92 point rating: “Supple and nervy with juicy plum and cassis fruit with sweet oak and racy acidity; long and balanced with smooth finesse.”

Saturday, February 12, 2011
4 to 5:30 pm

$5.00 per person
Home of: ExecutiveGiftService.com
611 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Suite #1, Palm Springs, 92264
760-327-7701, 800-925-0030

This line of wine has been around only since 2004 and was originally part of Gallo’s Rancho Zabaco production. As Gallo was upgrading the Rancho Zabaco line (the Monte Rosso Vineyard Zin is around $35.00) it was decided to break away the low price level varietals and allow them to stand on their own. These are nicely made wines and constitute excellent value. Even the bottles are of heavier glass than many expensive wines and all but the Sauvignon Blanc are cork finished. Personally, I’d prefer all of these were screw capped, but I know how much “ceremony” is derived from the opening of a dinner wine. In any event, these are your quintessential barbeque or pizza wines.

Next week we will be joined by Mike Grgich for a tasting of his wines and for a bottle signing.

2009 Dancing Bull Sauvignon Blanc

List price 9.99; our price 7.99

The wine is crisp and clean with bright grapefruit tanginess balanced by tropical fruit and a hint of cut grass herbaceousness usually found in New Zealand wine. The nose is packed with aromas of green apple, lime, kiwi, with subtle notes of fresh cut grass. The mouth is very lively, with crisp acidity and focused grapefruit and lime freshness balanced by tropical flavors of guava and mango. Very nice.

2008 Dancing Bull Chardonnay

List price 9.99; our price 7.99

The winemaking goal was to make a dry Chardonnay that was both refreshingly crisp and balanced. This was accomplished through the use of Monterey County fruit that provided the natural, cool climate fruit flavors and nice acidity. Partial malolactic fermentation was employed to soften a portion of the green fruit flavors and create a smooth creaminess. The addition of Sauvignon Blanc and a touch of Viognier added some tropical flavors and a lovely fragrant nose. It displays primary flavors of citrus, tropical fruits, and apple typical of medium bodied Monterey County Chardonnay but these characters are then complimented by secondary flavors of pear, peach, melon and floral notes. Very subtle barrel influences of creamy, toasty and vanilla oak characters are also present from the partial fermentation of a very small portion of the wine in oak.

2007 Dancing Bull Merlot

List price 9.99; our price 7.99

Here’s more proof that you can have a big, lush, ripe wine without an over-the-top alcohol level. At 13.5% alcohol, this is a wine you can stick with during dinner. Merlot lovers will be right at home with the ripe flavors of dark fruit, blackberry and black cherry, with a bit of spice and a lush velvety finish. The ripe fruit is balanced by subtle hints of vanilla and milk chocolate.

2009 Dancing Bull Zinfandel

List price 9.99; our price 7.99

This wine showcases a soft mouthfeel, which makes this wine both approachable and versatile with plenty of ripe dark fruit flavors of blackberry and black cherry, complemented by bright red fruit flavors of raspberry and strawberry. Spicy notes of black pepper and vanilla add layers which allow the fruit to be the star. It pairs well with heavier sauced dishes such as braised pork ribs or pasta with a rich, tomato based sauce.

2008 Dancing Bull Cabernet Sauvignon

List price 9.99; our price 7.99

Sourced primarily from the Central Coast and Sonoma County, the fruit for this Cab is sourced from both warm and cool climate regions to produce a Cabernet Sauvignon with layers of fruit flavors, primarily of black cherries, black currant and blackberry. The Central Coast fruit benefits from warm days and the marine layer fog that cools the grapes in the evenings to create ripe, forward fruit flavors and the distinctive, Cabernet dark red color. The cooler climate of Sonoma County and the coastal regions adds structure, firm tannins and a bit of spice. A very small percentage of the wine was barrel aged, contributing the chocolate and vanilla undertones with just a hint of herbal spice.

ChocoVine Dutch Chocolate Wine

List price 12.00; our price 9.99

This chocolate cream wine product is actually quite good. Think Baileys, but with a 14% alcohol instead of 17%. It is made in Holland by Team Products, a division of Dekuyper, one of the oldest cordial manufacturers in the world. Try it.

Saturday, January 29, 2011
4 to 5:30 pm

$5.00 per person
Home of: ExecutiveGiftService.com
611 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Suite #1, Palm Springs, 92264
760-327-7701, 800-925-0030

The Leese-Fitch Adobe is a historical landmark built in 1836 in the town of Sonoma’s Plaza. It was named after Jacob Leese and Henry Fitch who were brothers-in-law to General Mariano Vallejo, the founder of the town of Sonoma. This label is from the Other Guys portfolio of Don Sebastiani and Sons which in 2005 was named American Winery of the Year by Wine Enthusiast Magazine. Don and the boys have built up this operation to a total case production of over 2 million cases a year. We selected this line because it represents excellent value at the price.

2008 Leese-Fitch Chardonnay

List price 12.00; our price 9.99

This bleached straw colored wine has aromas of fresh squeezed Meyer lemons, lime zest, and minerals. The palate exudes mouthwatering crisp green apple, grapefruit, and lemongrass, finishing with rich acidity, integrated French oak, and a touch of spearmint. The 2008 harvest in Clarksburg produced great acid driven Chardonnays. The Chardonnay was assembled from three vineyard blocks; one in Northern Clarksburg for intense apple nuances, and two vineyards right off the delta. One of the vineyards on the delta using a trellis system called sprawl, grows an old Wente Chardonnay clone. This clone develops great lemon nuances with a creamy mid-palate. Part of the allure of this wine comes from blending in some Chenin Blanc from Clarksburg to preserve a mineral nature and rich acidity. Some Chardonnay from Paso Robles, and Monterey, along with a dab of Viognier from Paso, created a lovely bistro-style Chardonnay with good character and brilliant acidity.

2008 Leese-Fitch Pinot Noir

List price 12.00; our price 9.99

The wine displays ripe cherry and strawberry notes overlaying a complex mix of jasmine, clove, cinnamon and earthy spice notes. On the palate, the wine expresses fleshy Bing cherry flavors and textures framed by rich toffee and cola flavors, backed by sweet vanilla and toasted oak. The wine finishes with rose petal and candied violets with the sweet finish of dried cranberries, cherry vanilla and wild strawberry. This wine is 100% Monterey County Pinot Noir which was aged on oak for 9 months before gentle racking and fining. It presents nice oak flavors without being overly oaked, allowing the true Pinot Noir flavors to stand forward. This is a wine that pairs well with grilled flank steak or sautéed Salmon.

2009 Leese-Fitch Merlot

List price 12.00; our price 9.99

This crimson colored Merlot is offers dark chocolate aromas which are underscored by ripe huckleberry with a hint of cassis. On the palate the wine is concentrated with deep, dark fruit such as black cherry, boysenberry and blackberry pie notes. It finishes with white pepper spice and French oak vanilla notes.

2008 Leese-Fitch Zinfandel

List price 12.00; our price 9.99

With a brilliant ruby color, this Zinfandel blend has intriguing aromas of wild raspberry, smoky cedar, strawberry jam, clove spice, and white pepper. You can tell there is input from an old vineyard in the Amador Foothills. There is a noticeable brambly spice with dark currants, candied cranberry, wild strawberry, dark caramel, cinnamon roll, and savory rhubarb. The finish lingers with toasted marshmallow, plum sauce, tamarind, and black cherry. This is great grilling wine. The smoky oak notes of this Zin would pair wonderfully with the caramelized flavors in glazed ribs, chicken, or pork.

2009 Leese-Fitch Cabernet Sauvignon

List price 12.00; our price 9.99

Deep ruby in color, this cab has aromas of roasted peppers, black cherries, savory dill, and toasted cedar. The palate is full of blackberry fruit, cherry reduction, orange marmalade, marjoram, and dark brown sugar. This blend has very good weight with layers of fruit balanced with mid-palate structure. The wine finishes with nuances of dark chocolate, dried cranberry, vanilla bean, and molasses with toasty French and American oak nuances.

Saturday, January 8, 2011
4 to 5:30 pm

$5.00 per person
Home of: ExecutiveGiftService.com
611 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Suite #1, Palm Springs, 92264
760-327-7701, 800-925-0030

Congratulations to all who have survived the past year as well as the holidays and are now emerging from the aftermath. It is time to get back on track with our weekly wine regimen as the bottles keep arriving and the wine keeps flowing. Fortunately, ours is an intellectual pursuit in an effort to better understand grape growing, wine making and sensory perception; and not just be looking for a buzz. The next Saturday, the 15th, we will host the Kenneth Volk Vineyards and winery representative, Mike Brown. The following Saturday, the 22nd, we will be joined by Deborah Ellis of Fess Parker Winery. Please engrave these dates into your memory or at least scratch them onto your calendar. These are great wineries deserving of our rapt attention.

2007 Domaines Schlumberger Pinot Blanc, Alcace, France

List price 14.95; our price 12.99

Schlumberger makes this wine with equal proportions of two grape varieties : Pinot Blanc and Pinot Auxerrois. It is a dry wine combining the freshness of one with the aromatic qualities of the other. It is quite close to Chardonnay and is well-balanced, dry and fresh on the palate, with very attractive, fine fruit. This Alsatian wine is known for its suppleness, its emphatic fruitiness and its ability to easily go with a large range of dishes.

2008 White Oak Sauvignon Blanc, Russian River Valley

List price 14.95; our price 9.99

Bill Myers moved from Los Angeles to the Alexander Valley in the 1970s and began making wine; he quickly became recognized for producing wonderful Chardonnay, Zinfandel and what was to become White Oak’s flagship wine: Sauvignon Blanc. It has typical grassy herbaceousness but performs more in the grapefruit genre. Even in the finish there is a slight expression of grapefruit bitterness. This is a very good food wine with a fresh, crisp finish.

2009 Pedroncelli Chardonnay, Dry Creek Valley

List price 12.00; our price 9.99

When we hosted the Pedroncelli Winery a few months back, we did not include the Chardonnay, a shameful omission we will correct here and now. While the refreshing citrus, melon and tropical fruit aromas and flavors predominate, the blend of the stainless steel fermented and barrel fermented cuveees adds both fruit-forward qualities and complexity. The wine finishes clean, crisp and light.

2008 Puerto Viejo Cabernet Sauvignon, Chile

List price 9.00; our price 7.99

This wine remained on its lees for six months in stainless steel vats with micro-oxygenation and with French oak staves; 15 percent of the wine was aged eight months in French and American oak barrels. It is a well-done, affordable Cabernet with all the qualities with a black-fruit bouquet, and showing ripeness, depth and solid tannins in the mouth. The flavor profile of cola, blackberry and chocolate works just fine, and the finish is long and hints at bitter chocolate and cedar.

2007 Boutari Xinomavro, Naoussa Greece

List price 18.00; our price 15.99

Boutari Naoussa was the first Grecian bottled wine available in Greece (1879) and is the benchmark among Greece’s premium red wines. It has won many awards over the last 50 years both in Greece and internationally. It is also the #1 selling premium red wine from Greece worldwide. It has typically a rich bouquet of ripe red fruit, blackberry and plum, together with sun-dried tomato and the aromas derived from ageing: cinnamon and wood. It has a rich body, good balance and structure, with soft tannins in its finish.

2007 Estancia Meritage Reserve, Paso Robles

List price 20.00; our price 16.99

he blend in this Meritage is 61% Cabernet Sauvignon, 27% Merlot and 12% Petit Verdot. It is a deep violet wine with crimson edges. The bouquet shows ripe black cherries, licorice, mountain herbs, mocha and fine integrated oak. It is thick, deep and explosive. Chocolate dipped black fruit is enveloped in rich sweet oak. The firm, structured, ripe tannins accompany a long, fruit driven finish.

Saturday, November 13, 2010
4 to 6 pm

$5.00 per person
Home of: ExecutiveGiftService.com
611 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Suite #1, Palm Springs, 92264
760-327-7701, 800-925-0030

At the turn of the 20th century, Rosemount, based in Hunter Valley and South Australia, was the second best selling Australian wine brand in the US. It was established in 1969 by Bob Oatley and was Australia’s largest family owned winery until its March 2001 merger with Southcorp Wines. After four decades of making Rosemount Winery the huge success it now enjoys, Bob Oatley and his family are again playing a key role in setting a new direction for Australian wine. Never one to rest on his laurels, in 2006 and at the age of nearly 80, Bob decided it was time to redefine perceptions about the essence of Australian wine. The hallmarks are appealing texture, moderate alcohol, bright natural acidity and purity of varietal flavor. But one thing never changes, i.e. Bob Oatley’s requirement that the wine always tastes “like you want some more.”

Today, Bob’s winemaking home is Mudgee, 261 km north-west of Sydney, a region of sunshine, ancient red-brown earth and a rich winemaking history. His wines are produced from a diverse set of family-owned vineyards spread throughout the Mudgee region as well as grapes grown for the family from vineyards as far away as Margaret River and Pemberton, Western Australia. Joining us this Saturday is Ian Dealhoy, the Southern California sales manager for the winery.

2009 Robert Oatley Pinot Grigio, South Australia

List price 15.00; our price 10.99

The Adelaide Hills, in South Australia, is the ideal region in which to grow the Pinot Grigio grape. The vineyard looks out on steep slopes that promote free air movement, encouraging cool breezes during the growing season. The aim is to capture the delicate pear, apple and spice notes of the variety. Some parcels are fermented with the clusters to promote palate weight. The wine’s natural partridge-eye hue has been retained in a wine that is crisp and fresh with the pure flavor and minerality of Pinot Grigio. 90 point rating by Wine and spirits Magazine

2009 Robert Oatley Sauvignon Blanc, Pemberton

List price 15.00; our price 10.99

The Pemberton wine region in Western Australia, almost 2,000 miles from Mudgee, provides the perfect growing conditions for Sauvignon Blanc. The elevated cool, maritime climate of this region maintains the core freshness and zesty aromatics of the variety. Separate parcels were harvested at various maturity stages to produce a mix of interesting flavors. The early harvest captures the crisp zesty core of the wine while a slightly later harvest builds an element of tropical fruit flavors. The use of selected aromatic yeasts and cool fermentation temperatures has produced a vibrant and refreshing wine. 90 point rating by Tasting Panel Magazine

2008 Robert Oatley Chardonnay, Mudgee

List price 15.00; our price 10.99

Mudgee is located 162 miles northwest of Sydney in New South Wales, a region that was planted to some of Australia’s earliest Chardonnay vines and which has a long history with this versatile variety. It is situated at over 1,500 feet with ancient red clay loam soils of volcanic origin. The aim here was to capture the lemon-lime citrus flavors and subtly support this with thoughtful use of high quality, tight grain French oak barrels for fermentation and maturation.

2009 Robert Oatley Rosé of Sangiovese, Mudgee

List price 15.00; our price 10.99

The Oatley family estates are home to the first plantings of Sangiovese and Barbera in Australia. The wine is produced by the ‘saignée’ method of making rosé, where the wine is drained off the skins after only a short period of contact. This creates a very pink rather than red wine. It has been deliberately made at the drier end of the rosé spectrum.

2009 Robert Oatley Tempranillo, Victoria

List price 16.00; today only 11.99

The King Valley, situated in North East Victoria has a long tradition of growing Mediterranean grape varieties and is home to Australia’s first plantings of Tempranillo. The region sits in the foothills of the Alpine National Park and as such enjoys cold winters and warm summers moderated by the nearby mountains. The grapes were harvested in the cool of the morning and fermented at moderate temperatures in order to retain the distinctive cherry and spice aromas. The fermenting must was gently and routinely pumped over with particular attention to maintaining a soft tannin profile. The wine was then pressed and run into selected tight grain French oak barrels for malolactic fermentation and maturation prior to blending and bottling.

2007 Robert Oatley Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot, Mudgee.

List price 16.00; our price 11.99

Individual parcels of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot were harvested and fermented cool and gently extracted to retain fruit expression and soft tannins. The wines were then pressed off skins and run into French oak to undergo malolactic fermentation and maturation for 12 months. Individual barrel selections were then blended together.

Saturday, October 30, 2010
4 to 6 pm

$5.00 per person

Home of: ExecutiveGiftService.com
611 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Suite #1, Palm Springs, 92264
760-327-7701, 800-925-0030

We are entering that period of the year wherein entertaining and partying will be shifting into high gear. Most functions are supplied with wines under the ten dollar mark which is a price barrier we maintain in our focus. Repeatedly we return to this level of economy in search of the value products that return more than the price would indicate. To make it interesting, we have chosen one wine from each of six different countries. Drop in this Saturday, taste some nice inexpensive wines and take mental notes on where best to spend your valuable assets.

2008 Matetic Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc, Chile

List price 10.95; our price 8.99

Chile produces some excellent Sauvignon Blancs and this one from Matetic is a full bodied wine with fine character. The new Matetic Vineyards winery is a state-of-the-art winemaking facility, constructed so as to compliment organic agricultural practices and the natural landscape of the Rosario Valley. This winery, which has a 300-thousand liter capacity, relies on a gravitational-flow design that optimizes management of the grapes brought in from the nearby vineyards. The wine is lively, with clean, zesty flavors of tropical fruit and minerals.

2009 Chateau de Campuget Rosé, Rhone, France

List price 11.95; our price 9.99

This is a blend of 70% Syrah and 30% Grenache Noir. It comes from the Costières di Nimes, near the awesome French Riviera town (and close to Monaco) boasting not only one of the most well preserved Roman coliseums, but also lots of world class beaches on the beautiful French coast. It used to be considered part of the Languedoc region, but now is part of the Rhone. The wine shows lots of strawberries and stone quality, with intriguing grapefruit notes. It is juicy, yet dry.

2008 Di Majo Norante Sangiovese, Molise, Italy

List price 12.00; our price 9.99

This Sangiovese exhibits a fresh bouquet of violets, berries, spices and leather. It is deliciously smooth, plush and juicy on the palate with loads of ripe fruit. This tremendous value was given a 90-point rating by The Wine Advocate: “The 2008 Sangiovese Terre degli Osci is an incredibly delicious, full-bodied wine with gorgeous clarity and definition. Made in a bold, fruit-driven style, the wine offers terrific depth and a long, polished finish. This harmonious red is a knockout!”

2005 Castaño Solanera, Yecla, Spain

List price 14.95; our price 9.99

The name comes from “Finca La Solana” – sun-washed property in Spanish. This is a blend from 40+ year old vines of the varieties: Monastrell (65%), Cabernet Sauvignon (20%) and Garnacha Tintorera (15%). It enjoys a 90 point-rating from Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar: “Saturated purple. Smoky raspberry and cherry on the nose, with a sexy mocha quality adding complexity. Fleshy, round dark fruit liqueur flavors caress rather than pummel the palate. Gentle tannins arrive late to add structure but this is all about silky, juicy fruit.” Robert Parker chimed in with a 91-point rating.

2007 Vino Valpredo “Squeezebox Red”, Sonoma County

List price 14.95; our price 9.99

This is a blend of Zinfandel (49%), Cabernet Sauvignon (35%) and Syrah (16%). Fruit for this selection was sourced at several vineyards sites throughout Sonoma County. Vino Valpredo Wine Company who produced and bottled this offering is an offshoot of Dry Creek Valley’s Fritz Winery who has long been a producer of fine Zinfandels. Aromas of dark berry fruit with spice notes fill out the expressive and vibrant nose of this blend. Some fig notes lead the palate along with a combination of fresh and dried fruit character. Cranberry, cherry and plum are prominent. Sour cherry, blackberry and black pepper emerge in the finish, balanced by excellent acidity. The lasting flavors linger well after the last sip.

Achaia Clauss Muscat de Patras, Greece

List price 12.00; today only 9.99

We will try whenever possible to introduce you to some of the world’s finest dessert wines as we advance towards the winter months. This sweet white dessert wine is produced in the Patras Appellation of Controlled Origin on the Peloponnesus. It is vinified from the White Muscat grapes grown in the Patras defined zone. Its rich amber color, full-body and well-balanced soft flavor make it one of the best deals in dessert wines to be found anywhere.

Saturday, October 23, 2010
4 to 6 pm

$5.00 per person
Home of: ExecutiveGiftService.com
611 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Suite #1, Palm Springs, 92264
760-327-7701, 800-925-0030

Mankas Hills Vineyards is located in the upper Suisun Valley, just a few miles east of the southern slopes of Napa Valley. In 1982 it obtained appellation status as an American Viticultural Area, just after Napa Valley. The area enjoys a unique blend of generous daytime sun and cool afternoon breezes out of the nearby San Pablo and Grizzly Bays. Fog hardly ever penetrates into Suisun Valley due to the protection from the Pacific Ocean by the George Range. Representing the winery will be Annette Weis who will happily answer your questions while pouring her delicious wines.

2007 Mankas Crest Dry Rosé, Suisun Valley

List price 9.95; our price 7.99

Barrel fermented with very short oak exposure this crisp, fruity and invigorating wine is made to be enjoyed on its own by the pool or with a light lunch. It has a silky and refreshing texture, and displays scents of melon, berry, vanilla and eucalyptus. Flavors of watermelon, blueberries and cassis linger in the mouth for a long fruity finish.

2007 Mankas Hills Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon

List price 14.50; our price 9.99

This newly released wine displays a deep ruby red color with well developed fragrance and a very elegant balance of aromas and flavors. Aromas of cherry and plums harmonize with caramel, green olive and vanilla scents. A broad profile of black and red fruit flavors blends well with elegantly smooth yet lively tannins. Black pepper tones lead to an enjoyable, gently astringent finish. The distinct texture and finish partner remarkably well with food without overpowering its taste.
It has won a Gold Medal at the 2010 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.

2006 Mankas Hills Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon

List price 14.50; our price 9.99

The 2006 Mankas displays unique character and balance. A wide fruit profile harmonizes with elegantly round tannins. Notes of raspberries, black cherries and blueberries blend well with soft vanilla, eucalyptus, and black pepper tones creating an enjoyable balance of aromas and flavors. It won a Silver Medal at the 2009 Pacific Rim Wine Competition and a Bronze Medal at the 2009 San Francisco International Wine Competition.

2004 Contado Mankas Cabernet Sauvignon

List price 18.00; our price 13.99

Aromas of vanilla and oak, along with black cherry, wild berries and eucalyptus, rise from the glass as this wine is poured. Flavors of black cherry continue in the mouth along with cassis, plum, and a subtle smoky note. As the wine opens up the black cherry notes build over time. The soft, yet complex texture and long fruit finish show the grace and power of the fruit from the Mankas vineyard. This wine won a Silver Medal at the 2006 L.A. County Fair Wine Competition; a Bronze Medal at the 2006 San Francisco Wine Competition, and, interestingly, the next year it climbed up to a Silver Medal at the 2007 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition indicating improvement with the extra year of age.

2005 Contado Mankas Cabernet Sauvignon

List price 18.00; our price 13.99

Pronounced flavors of blackberry tannins and spicy aromas of bell peppers, eucalyptus and cinnamon combine with accents of plum, cassis and wild berries for a long lingering finish. The silky, yet complex texture and long fruit finish exemplify the grace and the power of the grapes from the vineyards. It received a Silver Medal at the 2008 Riverside International Wine Competition and a Silver Medal at the 2009 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.

2006 Contado Mankas Cabernet Sauvignon

List price 18.00; our price 13.99

A deep ruby color accompanies rich aromas of vanilla, eucalyptus and oak with notes of caramel, nougat, and mocha. Rich flavors of black cherry, wild berry and fig characterize the enjoyable and smooth mouth-feel of this wine. The mid-palate offers spicy notes of clove with sweet peppers and cassis leading to a robust and long finish. This wine is a luscious, full bodied, well balanced accommodation to many dishes. It picked up a Bronze Medal at the 2009 L.A. County Fair Wine Competition, a Bronze Medal at the 2009 San Francisco International Wine Competition and, similarly to the case of the 2004, climbed to a Gold Medal at the 2010 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.

Saturday, October 2, 2010
4 to 6 pm

$5.00 per person

Home of: ExecutiveGiftService.com
611 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Suite #1, Palm Springs, 92264
760-327-7701, 800-925-0030

Classic Wines Company of California is an import and distribution arm owned by the Franzia family. It has a very large array of wines fitting into every price point from the very low to medium high. The idea is to provide retailers and restaurateurs a large mix of choices to fit most needs on a wine list or on a store shelf. Within these pricing brackets is quite an interesting mix of wines, reflecting the price with concomitant value. Usually, the more one spends, the higher the quality. This Saturday, Johanne Lefebvre will represent the company at our event to pour and discuss some of the wines from the inexpensive end of the spectrum. Party planners should find this event worth while.

2009 Motos Liberty Pinot Grigio, California

List price 9.95; our price 7.99

This is definitely a pear toned wine with some apple flavor and there is present a hint of honeysuckle. As the wine flows into the palate, pear and pineapple are predominant and it ends with a smooth refreshing finish. Enjoy with seafood (light & heavy), shellfish, pork, cheese and poultry.

2008 Mont Pellier Viognier, California

List price 6.00; our price 4.99

The Viognier grape comes from Condrieu in the Rhone Valley of France. It is a finicky grape that wants the right amount of heat and coolness to produce at its best. This high value bottling seems to have met the criteria. The lovely fruit and floral characteristics have helped this wine garner a Gold Medal at the Riverside International Wine Competition 2010.

2008 Congress Springs Chardonnay, Lodi

List price 9.95; our price 7.99

This lovely wine shows ripe tropical fruit, fine acidity, pineapple golden apple aromas and flavors are matched by light mineral notes together giving complexity and a delightfully refreshing quality. The citrus blossom and lemon drop character helped it win a Silver Medal at the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition 2010.

2006 Crane Lake Malbec, California

List price 3.50; our price 2.99

This is a fun easy-drinking wine with plenty of plum, black cherry and blackberry aromas and flavors. It is a good choice for large events or holiday parties. The soft tannins provide a smooth finish. Try it with a leg of lamb, sausage, duck, pasta in a red sauce, or grilled steak. It should hold for another year or so.

2009 Forest Glen Pinot Noir, California

List price 9.95; our price 7.99

This wine offers captivating black cherry and blackberry flavors enhanced by vanilla-spice. This elegant, silky-textured wine is remarkably versatile at the dining table. Its balanced acidity and bright fruit pair as successfully with rich fish such as salmon as with red meats, duck, or grilled vegetables. The flavors are deep enough to indicate blending with another varietal of the fruity type such as Syrah.

2008 Mont Pellier Syrah, California

List price 6.00; our price 4.99

Syrah combines a meaty core of ripe berry fruit with tones that range from herbal to peppery in a package that tends to be medium bodied with good acidity and softer tannins. It is smooth and tender, yet fine and serious. This easy-drinking wine is a real winner.