Desert Wines and Spirits

Saturday, November 19, 2011
4 to 5:30 pm

$10.00 per person
$5.00 is credited toward 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

The important thing to remember in pairing wines to a turkey dinner is that you are attempting to complement not just the meat of a turkey, but all the side dishes as well. Most any white wine would serve well with turkey, of itself. However, consider what is being added to the mix on the plate: stuffing, gravy and cranberry preparations are strong flavors that would overwhelm most whites. Marshmallow sweet potatoes would most likely undo your Chardonnay, unless the oak in the wine gave off splinters. Salads with a vinegar base would send your guests to the fridge for a beer. Anticipating the level of suffering you and your wine would endure with an unbalanced pairing, I offer the following possibilities as a starting point:

2009 Mill Creek Vineyards Gewurtztraminer, Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma Co.

List price 17.50; our price 15.95

The Kreck family released their first wines in 1974 and has since been producing this excellent varietal. Typically one will recognize lychee fruit, underscored by vanilla and an ever so slight hint of mango in the nose. Continued lychee as well as apricot, honeysuckle and hints of brioche are plentiful throughout the even keeled palate. The finish is lengthy and persistent with white pepper and cloves making up a final, pleasing bite of spice; they’re joined by some mineral notes as well. It brings to mind a subtle hint of sweetness but it’s really a dry wine, and quite a lovely one at that. The finish and the balance are both impressive elements. Besides turkey, try this wine with spicy stir fried dishes.

2009 Goulaine Vouvray, Loire Valley, France

List price 15.95; our price 14.99

Originally from France’s Loire Valley, Chenin Blanc has spread around the globe and is used for virtually all styles of white wine, from crisp and lean to rich, round full table wines, sparkling wines, and some of the most decadent dessert wines made. Classic descriptors for the flavors of Chenin Blanc include peach, honey, marzipan grapefruit, and quince, often exhibiting more tropical fruit notes that recall pineapple and guava. This one is forward and easygoing, showing delicate flavors of apple and orange peel, accented by a touch of chalky minerality and finishing with a light sweet floral fruit character.

2008 Maculan “Costadolio” Rosé, Veneto, Italy

List price 11.00; our price 7.99

The Veneto is smaller than Italy’s other main wine producing regions, Piedmont, Tuscany, Lombardy, Puglia and Sicily, yet it still manages to generate more wine than any of these big names. The area is particularly known for its Valpolicella, Amarone and Soave, but lovely wines such as this rosé are plentiful, as well. Light pink in color with bright violet notes, Costadolio offers a very fruity bouquet with notes of peach, plums, and nice hints of apple. It is medium bodied with crisp acidity; refreshing, delicate and full flavored. This pricing is a close-out of the vintage and is a great value buy.

2009 Joseph Drouhin Beaujolais-Villages, France

List price 12.00; our price 9.99

Beaujolais is a prosperous wine region cultivating almost 55,000 acres, more than the three departments of Burgundy combined, and produces an average of 13 million cases annually. It is comprised of 12 appellations and is divided into Haut- and Bas-Beaujolais. It is in Haut-Beaujolais that you will find the Beaujolais-Villages appellation and the 10 Beaujolais Crus. From a great year such as 2009, you should make every effort to try the major Crus which usually are priced in the 20-30 dollar range. The nose of this bottling is both refined and intense, with notes of violet, redcurrant and strawberry, combining with a floral nuance and a touch of herbs. This is a straightforward, lively wine that offers tangy red fruit flavors and a touch of bitterness to keep it interesting. It finishes soft and dry, with a slight hint of herbs.

2009 Roux Pere & Fils Moulin a Vent, Beaujolais, France

List price 15.00; our price 13.50

While most Beaujolais is consumed young, that from Moulin-a-Vent is oaked and aged for a couple years before being released. And it can be aged for 20+ years. Well-aged Moulin-a-Vent can be said to take on characteristics similar to aged Pinot Noir. The added wood aging lends more spice to the Gamay wine yet allows the lovely fruit to shine through and compliment your lovely turkey dinner.

2009 Joseph Drouhin Brouilly, Beaujolais, France

List price 20.00; our price 17.99

Beaujolais Cru is the northern most appellation of Beaujolais, close to the Mâconnais border. This region constitutes ten separate areas, of which Brouilly is the largest, located at the foothills of the Beaujolais Mountains and produces some of the best quality wines from the Beaujolais region. Unlike the early drinking style found throughout most of Beaujolais, these wines are made to be cellared. Their ageing potential can be anywhere from three to fifteen years (or more) depending on the style and sub-region of the wine. The nose of this wine shows aromas of violet, lilac, sometimes blackberry and cranberry. It has supple tannins and lively acidity. On the palate, the wine leaves a pleasant note of blackberries and spice.

Europa ChocoVine Dutch Chocolate Red Wine, Holland

List price 12.00; our price 9.99

We have put in a new supply of this “Baileys”-like product which is really quite good. At 14% alcohol, it is not as strong as Baileys’ 17%, but it is close. One does not taste wine, rather a creamy chocolate that is so very, well, Dutch. It is a good follow-up to a rich meal and is especially good in coffee. Try it in cocktails where a Baileys-type ingredient is called for. ChocoVine was honored with a 90 Point, Exceptional Value rating from the Beverage Testing Institute and is the #1 selling Chocolate Wine in America (yes, there are others).

Saturday, July 9, 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!

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

A cold bottle of something that sparkles with bubbles is often the perfect summer enhancement. Especially those lighter in alcohol, which is always a good idea if you are out in the hot sun and by the pool. We have chosen seven products that are fresh and crisp, and dry to slightly sweetened, with lovely fruity quality. The two at the end perform more as cocktails and are quite lovely. These are perfect summer libations and certainly within everyone’s budget.

Canella Prosecco Brut

List price 14.95; our price 12.99; today only 11.69

This wine’s ripe pear and peach notes are marked by a nutty richness. Most Proseccos do exhibit an almond nuttiness that helps the wine finish with a light almond bitterness. This is a great seafood wine up to and including fried calamari.

Verdi Sparkletini Italian Spumante

List price6.99; our price 5.99; today only 5.39

Sparkletini is an elegant, all-natural malt beverage made in Italy by the renowned Bosca family. Sparkletini is a delightfully sparkling Spumante with a light, refreshing taste that’s perfect whenever you feel like enjoying a fun, sophisticated drink. Serve chilled to enjoy its balanced, clean taste. The bottle is sealed with a re-sealable cork closure that preserves all the sparkle. There are subtle strawberry/pear hints in the mouth and a touch of sweetness, checked by an effervescence that is quite refreshing.

Verdi Sparkletini Italian Spumante Apple

List price 6.99; our price 5.99; today only 5.39

This version is an excellent beverage to be served on the rocks while lounging by the pool. One is mindful of biting into a crisp Granny Smith apple when sipping this delightful sparkler.

Verdi Sparkletini Italian Spumante Raspberry

List price 6.99; our price 5.99; today only 5.39

This one shows a very bright essence of raspberry in the nose. If you like Chambord liqueur, you are going to love this quaffing light-weight. Every sip begins with a heady raspberry perfume that carries through to the lovely long finish. A touch of citrus acidity balances nicely the fruity sweetness of the raspberry.

Verdi Sparkletini Italian Spumante Peach

List price 6.99; our price 5.99; today only 5.39

The white peach bouquet is aromatic and inviting. The fruit is very forward, yet reserved in its sweetness. This, it turns out, is the perfect antecedent to the Bellini Cocktail that follows.

Canella Bellini Cocktail di Venezia

List price 13.99; our price 12.95; today only 11.69

The story of Bellini begins in Venice, in the legendary setting of a world-famous artists’ café. One warm summer evening in 1948, its owner decided to mix the fruity white peaches, the grapy sparkle of Prosecco spumante, and a whisper of wild raspberries. He called it Bellini as a tribute to the arts and specifically the Venice-born Renaissance painter Giovanni Bellini. The original formula became two-thirds Prosecco sparkling wine from the hills north of Venice, one third white peach juice with fresh fruit pulp and a few drops of raspberry juice. Forty years after it was invented, Italy’s award-winning Prosecco grower, Canella, took up the difficult challenge of producing the famous Venetian cocktail to satisfy its numerous worldwide fans, yet maintain the freshness and delicacy of the original recipe.

Canella Mimosa Blood Orange

List price 13.99; our price 12.95; today only 11.69

Blood Orange Mimosa is a wine cocktail made from grape wine and the juice and pulp of the celebrated, crimson-fleshed Sicilian blood oranges. The finest cultivars are orchestrated to achieve the best combination of flavors, fragrance and color: the darkest-hued, Moro; Tarocco, the tastiest and sweetest; and the tender Sanguinello. The ensemble is light, fruity, refreshing and flavorsome.

Saturday, May 14, 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

The wines of Germany, especially the Rieslings, are quite versatile year round and are an excellent choice for summer sipping. Some German wines are dry as with the Silvaner in our tasting while the Rieslings go from dry to quite sweet. An advantage to having off-dry to sweet wines during the summer months is that they can be served over ice. In fact, club soda can be used to liven them up, but just ice is best. The wines from boutique wineries such as von Hövel, Mönchhof and Bert Simon, however, are absolutely beautiful by themselves. So, if you are drinking cocktails with any degree of sweetness to them, do consider the Rieslings instead. They serve up very well and are quite refreshing.

2009 Hans Wirsching Silvaner, Franken

List price 18.00; our price 15.99

Mr. Heinrich Wirsching is the current owner and is in charge of the estate. He carries on 350 years of family wine making tradition. His goal is to produce “the best wines that nature will permit”. This includes pruning to yield only the best grapes, using predominantly organic fertilizer and very late, often high risk harvesting. It is a refreshing wine with notes of lemon and pear along with great minerality.

2007 Karl Heinz Liebfraumilch, Rheinhessen

List price 8.50; our price 5.99

Liebfraumilch is still one of the world’s best selling wines. Karl Heinz produces a high quality Liebfraumilch with grapes grown in some of Germany’s top vineyards of the Rheinhessen. This is a fine, light-bodied (at only 9.5% alcohol) white wine, fruit scented and imminently quaffable.

2007 Karl Heinz Zellerschwartze Katz, Mosel

List price 9.50; our price 6.99

The black cat from the town of Zell is a famous icon in German wines. Its light green apple flavors with a slight bit of sugar sweetness are tempered by a lingering bitter apple seed flavor. It is fairly light bodied (9.5% alcohol) and very quaffable. This is your basic easy-going picnic or barbecue wine. Serve chilled or on the rocks.

2007 von Hövel Riesling, Saar

List price 18.00; our price 14.99

This Saar Riesling displays a delicate, racy style, offering light lemon, apple and peach notes, with a white pepper accent. It borders on being tart, and leads to a mouthwatering finish with hints of lime and wet stone. Only 8% alcohol, though the residual sugar that appears in the form of sweetness is beautifully balanced with its acids, expressing itself in the form of a refreshing burst of citrus. It received 90pts from Wine Enthusiast and was awarded the “Editors Choice”.

2007 Mönchhof Riesling, Spätlese, Mosel

List price 22.00; our price 18.99

90 points Wine Spectator: “Juicy and bursting with peach and tangerine flavors. This almost seems easy and open until the fine structure adds some spine on the finish. A light-weight style, with finesse. Drink now through 2022.” (12/08) According to Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate: “once again represents excellent value and an archetype of Mosel Spätlese. With Erdener Treppchen-like suggestions of orange sherbet, nectarine, sweet lime, and sassafras this saturates the nose and palate with fruit and spice, finishing with an exuberance that helps keep its considerable sweetness from seeming at all out of place. Enjoy it over the coming 3-4 years.”

2002 Bert Simon Riesling Auslese, Serrig Herrenberg, Saar

List price 20.00; our price 17.95

Auslese (selected harvest) is a German language wine term for a late harvest wine and is a riper category than Spätlese in the Prädikatswein category of the Austrian and German wine classification. The grapes are picked from selected very ripe bunches in the autumn (late November-early December), and have to be hand picked. This 2002 Riesling is an off-dry wine that’s almost sweet enough to be a dessert wine, offering concentrated lime and white flowers on the palate, with some mineral and petroleum jelly on the finish. At only 8% alcohol, it is rich and full in the mouth, and very well balanced.

Saturday, March 19, 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

This is a fine opportunity to discover (or rediscover) the amazing world of Port and Madeira. Even if you are not a fan of dessert wines, you can surely appreciate the chance to sample and learn about the various styles offered. W & J Graham’s was founded in Oporto, Portugal’s second city, in 1820 by the two brothers William and John Graham. In 1890, Graham’s became one of the first Port companies to invest in Upper Douro vineyards with the acquisition of the famous property; Quinta dos Malvedos, recognized as one of the Douro Valley’s finest ‘river Quintas’. Today, Graham’s is owned by the Symington Family whose ancestry in the Port trade spans a period of over 350 years, through 13 generations to the present generation of Symingtons, who are owners and managers of Graham’s and the family’s other Port companies. The Blandys owned and managed their wine company nearly 2 centuries from 1811 to 2003. The Symington Family now promotes these Madeira wines world-wide.

Graham’s Porto “Six Grapes”

List price 22.00; our price 19.99

This is a big-hearted wine, sourced from the same vineyards (essentially Quinta dos Malvedos and Quinta das Lages) that contribute to Graham’s famed Vintage Ports in ‘declared’ years. As such, it closely resembles Graham’s Vintage Port style: full-bodied, with rich opulent black fruit on the palate and fragrant brambly aromas. Think of it as the ‘everyday Port for the Vintage Port drinker.’ Six Grapes is bottled relatively young (between 3 and 4 years) in order to retain the freshness and vigor comparable to a young Vintage Port. It has a seductive rich perfume of ripe plums and cherries. On the palate, it is complex, with a good structure and a long lingering finish.

2005 Graham’s Porto Late Bottled Vintage

List price 22.00; our price 19.99

The wines for this blend are selected from the finest production of a very good year, but unlike a ‘declared’ Vintage Port – which is bottled in its second year, ‘LBV’ matures for an average of 5 years in seasoned oak casks prior to bottling (hence the term, ‘Late Bottled’). This wood-ageing encourages the wine’s development and it is therefore ready to drink sooner than Vintage Port. As with the latter, Late Bottled Vintage Ports are sourced primarily from the Malvedos vineyard. The 2005 has a bouquet of great complexity, combining vibrant youthful aromas of jammy red fruits such as raspberries with hints of peppery spice. On the palate it is rich and full-bodied, with concentrated flavors of wild berries and nuances of black chocolate balanced by well structured tannins, leading to a long, firm finish.

Graham’s Port 10-year-old Tawny

List price 31.00; our price 27.99

The deep amber color is certainly “tawny”. The complex nutty aromas of orange peel and marzipan combine with hints of honey and figs. It is flavorful with rich fruitcake spiciness and hints of walnuts, beautifully mellowed, which lead to an elegant, long finish.

Blandy’s Malmsey Madeira 5-year

List price 23.99; our price 21.75

Blandy’s 5 year old Malmsey, produced from the Malvasia grape, was aged in American oak casks in the traditional ‘Canteiro’ system. This comprises of the gentle heating of the wine in the lofts of the lodges in Funchal. Over the years the wine is transferred from the top floors to the middle floors and eventually to the ground floor where it is cooler. Afterwards, the wine underwent racking and fining before the blend was assembled and bottled. The wine is dark, golden brown with the characteristic Madeira bouquet of raisins, toffee and nuts. It is sweet with a rich, full bodied, honeyed and complex finish and beautifully balanced acidity.

Blandy’s Rainwater Madeira

List price 16.95; our price 14.99

This wonderful wine combines soft fruit with a dry nutty quality. Serve lightly chilled as an apéritif. Madeira has a long history of use in cuisine where its fine bouquet adds a subtle yet recognizable nuance to sauces.

Blandy’s Sercial Madeira 5-year

List price 23.99; our price 21.75

Best served chilled as an aperitif, this dry Madeira has soft fruit with a hint of nuttiness and a clean, crisp finish.
Wine Enthusiast awarded it 91-points: “In a recent series of entry-level Madeiras, this was a standout, offering excellent complexity and richness at a reasonable price.”

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 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, 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 16, 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

The array of wines being poured this Saturday should cover any social situation imaginable. The selection from Napa and Sonoma Counties covers the gamut from whites, through reds and includes a desert wine. All are absolutely delicious. These newly arrived wines were acquired by us by reason of their inherent value. (We continue to protect your purchase dollars.) Please note that the event ends at 6pm and it is quite impossible to accommodate arrivals in the few minutes prior to 6pm. Further, we cannot justify opening fresh bottles in these last few minutes. It is best to arrive no later than 5:30 to enjoy a leisurely tasting experience, and to socialize as well.

2008 Raymond Sauvignon Blanc Reserve, Napa Valley

List price 14.50; our price 11.99

Raymond’s winemakers used a long, cool fermentation process followed by cellaring completely in stainless steel prior to bottling. This produces a wine with crisp acidity and captures the flinty, citrus aroma and flavor characteristics of this versatile variety. A small amount of Semillon was added to the final blend as a compliment to the citrus of the Sauvignon Blanc and to provide added richness to the wine.

2006 Iron Horse Chardonnay, Russian River Valley, Sonoma

List price 22.00; our price 19.99

This wine is made from all Russian River estate fruit, specifically from the Green Valley. It has a pretty light golden color, and shows aromas of pear and banana. There is a rich luscious mouth feel with some minerality and exotic fruit flavors. It is rich and creamy while being balanced with minerality and acid. Look for a hint of lychee. The finish shows great balance of oak and fruit. Both Wine Enthusiast Magazine and Wine and Spirits Magazine awarded this wine a 91-point rating.

2007 Laurier Merlot, Alexander Valley, Sonoma

List price 12.00; our price 9.99

With its deep ruby color, tannins that complete a nice lasting finish to the palate, and hints of herbs, plums, vanilla, and raspberry, this Merlot is certainly not lacking complexity and could be mistaken for a Cabernet. The nice aroma of cherries is definitely not forgotten either. With that said, it is certainly permissible to consume it now; however, given a couple more years, this Merlot may approach its full potential. This wine has already picked up three Gold Medals at wine competitions.

2008 Bogle Vineyards Petite Sirah, Sonoma

List price 11.00; our price 8.99

Thirty-two years after it was first produced by the Bogle family in 1978, Petite Sirah is today considered Bogle’s “heritage” varietal. Full-bodied on the entry, aromas of black plum jam and toasty oak set the stage for what is to come. Vibrant boysenberries and luscious fruit are framed by serious tannins, while wisps of leather and vanilla add complexity. A final touch of acidity finishes the wine with a precisely balanced mouthfeel.

2005 Luke Donald Collection Meritage, Napa Valley

List price 36.00; our price 25.00

Handcrafted in a traditional European style, the Luke Donald marries a rich blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (44%), Merlot (43%), Cabernet Franc (12%) and Petit Verdot (1%). The wine has its origins in a longstanding friendship between top-ranked pro golfer, Luke Donald, and fine wine professional, Bill Terlato, of the family-owned Terlato Wine Group. Luke Donald Claret displays structured tannins, intertwined with vibrant flavors of black berries and subtle spice notes, producing a wine ripe with flavor and supple in mouthfeel.

2007 Kendall-Jackson Muscat Canelli, Sonoma

List price 15.00; our price 12.99

The grapes for this wine actually were grown in Lake County which tends to produce a mandarin orange/kumquat flavor profile. This wine, too, displays a delightful mélange of citrus flavors such as tangerine and mandarin orange that combine on the palate with notes of peach blossom, spices and pear. It is richly layered and balanced throughout. This wine has a delightful off-dry, long and lingering finish. Try this one on the rocks.

Saturday, September 18, 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

Opolo owners Rick Quinn and Dave Nichols have been vineyard neighbors in Paso Robles since 1997 and enjoyed their first commercial crush in 1999 upon forging their new partnership. The first crush produced Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sangiovese, Zinfandel, and Muscat Canelli. The other varietals followed and now serve to prove Paso Robles to be a fine production area for most of California’s wine grapes. In turn they serve to prove that Opolo shares command of the potential high quality level of the wines made in this area. So, what does the name Opolo mean? It comes from Quinn’s Yugoslavian heritage, and refers to the name of a blended rosé-style wine found on the Dalmatian Coast. Oddly, that is the one type of wine not produced at Opolo. Joining us for this event will be Cary Thrasher of Opolo Vineyards.

2008 Opolo Vineyards Viognier, Central Coast

List price 23.50; Our price 20.99

Great concentration of tropical fruit leads on the palate. The wine shows apricot, Crenshaw melon, pineapple, papaya, and a viscous intensity that lingers for a rich long finish. All of this concentrated fruit is accented with a touch of exotic spiciness that highlights the richness of the wine and leaves a clean and refreshing impression on the palate. A very big-bodied wine with loads of forward fruit makes this Viognier particularly good with smoked and grilled items. Its tropical tones are also an excellent accompaniment to Indian and Thai Curry and most Asian foods and spices. Try it with full flavored foods and ripe cheeses, or serve it as an apéritif.

2006 Opolo Vineyards Grand Rouge, Paso Robles

List price 19.00; Our price 15.99

This blend of Counoise (60%), Grenache (20%), and Petite Sirah (20%) displays hints of strawberry and mocha on the nose. It turns increasingly complex in the mouth showing layers of blueberry, plum and blackberry with hints of nutmeg and spice on the finish. Its lighter style makes it a perfect summer red.

2006 Opolo Vineyards Sangiovese, Paso Robles

List price 22.50; Our price 15.99

Sangiovese, the noble grape of Tuscany, has found a new home at Opolo vineyards. This is a full-bodied wine featuring forward fruit characteristics of raspberry and black cherry. Barrel aging on 100% American oak lend this wine soft tannins and subtle oak nuances.

2007 Opolo Vineyards Zinfandel, Summit Creek, Paso Robles

List price 18.00; Our price 16.99

Named for the creek that runs through Opolo’s west-side vineyard in the Santa Lucia Mountains, the Summit Creek Zin offers intense fruit, including ripe black cherry, raspberry and a touch of pepper and spice. In the mouth, this well-balanced wine offers a delightful aftertaste that keeps on giving. It is medium bodied, framed with soft tannins and modest acidity. This approachable wine is ready to enjoy today, yet will likely improve with an additional year or two of cellaring.

2006 Opolo Vineyards Petit Sirah, Paso Robles

List price 22.50; Our price 19.99

Impressively extracted, this inky, intense wine is sure to please the Opolo “bigger is better” crowd. Aromas of chocolate, blackberries, graham crackers with a touch of cinnamon inspire visions of what’s to follow. The palate is greeted by gobs and gobs of dark, jammy fruit unfolding in waves of chocolate, spice, toasty oak and vanilla. The long lingering finish is soft and round but don’t let this gargantuan wine fool you, it has plenty of dry tannins to satisfy the big red wine drinker and collector in you. Pair with blackened grilled meats, or triple cream cheeses.

2008 Opolo Vineyards Muscat Canelli, Paso Robles

List price 14.00; Our price 11.99

Always seductive, this Muscat Canelli treats the taster with aromas and flavors of melons and peaches, and offers a floral, perfume-like bouquet. You may even pick out the lychee nut and accompanying minerality in the wine. Generally served chilled, this delightful wine is slightly sweet.

Saturday, June 19, 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

One of my favorite Sonoma County wineries is that of the Pedroncelli family which has, decade after decade, delivered solid every-day wines with commendable value.  In 1927, John Pedroncelli, Sr. purchased a vineyard and a small winery in Sonoma County’s Dry Creek Valley, and sold grapes to home winemakers throughout the prohibition years.  Afterward, the family business continued to grow in wine production, and in 1963 sons John, Jr. and Jim Pedroncelli bought out their father.  The third generation came on board during the 90’s and today the fourth generation is being educated in the wine making business.  Pedroncelli practices sustainable winegrowing focusing on reducing water use, building healthy soil, and protecting the vineyard environment.  Most importantly, the family believes in quality wines at reasonable prices.Joining us on Saturday will be the winery’s Southern California Sales Manager, Mark Abraham.

2009 Pedroncelli Sauvignon Blanc, East Side Vineyards

List price 10.99; our price 9.99

This is a very aromatic wine with citrus and herbaceous notes.  It is crisp, and offers many layers of flavor on the palate.  Honeydew, melon, grapefruit and tart apple flavors linger with a balanced acidity that adds a refreshing quality.

2008 Pedroncelli Dry Rosé of Zinfandel, Dry Creek Valley

List price 8.99; our price 7.99

This ruby-red colored wine shows aromas of just-picked strawberries.  Red raspberry, currant and plum flavors are highlighted in this crisp, enjoyable wine.  This potpourri of fruit, with time, will take on a jammy element but don’t wait too long as rosés are made to be consumed early.  Enjoy this wine with burgers, roast chicken or grilled salmon…or just sip it on a hot summer day or night.  What a great beverage!  Wine Spectator Magazine gave it an 88 point rating.

2008 Pedroncelli Zinfandel, Mother Clone

List price 13.50; our price 11.99

Pedroncelli’s historic Zinfandel vineyards are located on the hillsides surrounding the winery, on the ranch originally purchased by John Pedroncelli, Sr. in 1927 though planted to Zinfandel since 1904.  This wine with its 5% blend of Petite Sirah received a GOOD VALUE designation and an 88 point rating from Connoisseurs Guide:“It may not be much for refinement, and it could even be called a bit unruly, but this rough-cut Zin counts good fruit as an asset and makes up in richness for what it might lack in manners.  It shows classic varietal themes of ripe berries and briar, and its fundamental fruit hangs on convincingly even as its grippy tannins and a bit of heat come on at the end.”

2006 Pedroncelli Zinfandel, Pedroni-Bushnell Vineyard

List price 16.50; our price 14.99

This Zinfandel has a very fragrant nose of raspberry and black pepper followed by spicy, jammy concentrated fruit flavors.  Structured, rounded and full in the mouth, this wine has a long, lingering finish laced with slight toasted oak undertones.  It received a Gold Medal from the Taster’s Guild Int’l Wine Comp. and Silver Medals from the following competitions: San Diego Wine Comp; Orange County Fair; CA State Fair, Indy International Wine Comp.

2007 Pedroncelli Cabernet Sauvignon, Three Vineyards

List price 15.00; our price 13.50

Three of Pedroncelli’s estate vineyards provided the fruit for this wine.  The blend is comprised of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc, from vineyards sites situated on the Dry Creek Valley bench.  The wine received a Gold Medal from the Beverage Testing Institute and placed in the  Top 10 Red Wines $20 and under:  Wine Enthusiast Magazine awarded the wine 91 Points and the Editor’s Choice: “A pure, very clean and utterly delicious Cabernet that’s perfect for drinking now.  Shows real accomplishment in the ripeness of the blackberry, cherry, black currant and cocoa flavors, and in how well-balanced they are with tannins and oak.  Just captivating, at a wonderful price.”

2004 Pedroncelli Vintage Port, Four Grapes, Dry Creek Valley

List price 18.00; our price 14.99

The grapes for this dessert wine came from a four acre vineyard was established in 1995. Pedroncelli planted the following Port varietals of an acre each: Tinta Madeira, Tinta Cao, Touriga Nacional, and Souzao.  The wine is deep purple in color, showing ripe berries, caramel and toffee aromas leading to a flavorful dessert wine with warm spice, raspberry and cream soda highlights.  It is a very complex and rich dessert wine.  Here are some amazing accolades:Sweepstakes:  North of the Gate Wine CompetitionDouble Gold Medal and Best of Class: California State FairGold Medal:  Indy International Wine CompetitionGold Medal: Orange County FairGold Medal, 90 Points, Exceptional: Beverage Testing Institute