Desert Wines and Spirits

Saturday, December 17, 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

Founded in 2002, Ramazzotti Winery is a small family owned and operated winery located in beautiful Sonoma County’s hidden gem, Geyserville. Joe and Norma Ramazzotti’s experience growing grapes and managing vineyards in Dry Creek and Alexander Valley has resulted in a winery of handcrafted, small lot artisan wines which include their signature blends comprised of Sangiovese from Tuscany, along with the grapes of Bordeaux and, of course, the famous “field blends” from grapes planted by Italian immigrants over a century ago. The Ramazzotti family has recently purchased the small Bandiera Winery of Cloverdale in the northern part of Sonoma. The Merlot is a good way to begin our tasting event.

2009 Bandiera Winery Merlot, Cloverdale, CA

List price 11.95; our price 9.99

This wonderful blend of North Coast Merlot grapes has a warm, earthy aroma, with hints of vanilla. Ramazzotti Wines’ second label of Bandiera is offering the first vintage of this wine with its’ 2009 vintage. This Merlot is a dark, rich wine that can be enjoyed now, but will only get better with age, up to 10 years.

2008 Ramazzotti Sangiovese, Estate, Dry Creek Valley

List price 19.00; our price 16.50

This 100% Sangiovese was planted in 1985 and added to in 1996 on a steep hillside on the Ramazzotti Home Ranch, which is located on Walling Road in the Dry Creek Appellation. This wonderful grape offers a smooth, velvety taste that complements any meal, but is particularly tasty with hearty meat and soup dishes.

2008 Ramazzotti “Raffinto” Red Wine, Sonoma County

List price 30.00; our price 27.99

The Raffinto, which means “refined” in Italian, is a Super Tuscan blend of 60% Sangiovese, together with 16% Cabernet, 12% Merlot, 7% Syrah and 5% Cabernet Franc. This blend was fermented in French and American Oak for a period of 24 months. It has a wonderfully complex taste with hints of black cherries. This consistent award winner is a wine that will definitely withstand the test of time.

2007 Ramazzotti “Regale” Red Wine, Alexander Valley

List price 30.00; our price 27.99

The Regale, which means “gift” or “regal” in Italian, is a blend of 40% Cabernet, 30% Merlot, 18% Syrah, and 12% Cabernet Franc, all grown in the Alexander Valley. These were fermented separately and then blended after 14 months in half American and half French Oak. This wine is a wonderfully complex blend with a hint of violets. It is a beautiful wine, ready to drink immediately, but will improve and develop with age.

2007 Ramazzotti “Ricordo” Zinfandel, Dry Creek Valley

List price 30.00; our price 27.99

The Ricordo, which means “remembrance” in Italian, is 75% Zinfandel, 15% Petit Sirah, 5%Alicante, 2% Syrah, 2% Carignane and 1% Chasselas Dore. This wonderful blend from Dry Creek was fermented all together in stainless steel, and then was transferred to French & American Oak barrels, 10% new and 90% used, for 14 months. It is reminiscent of the hearty, “old-fashioned” Italian-style red table wine, with a smooth blend of many complimentary flavors.

Saturday, November 26, 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

This Saturday is our last opportunity to present to you some recent acquisitions that are geared to party use. If you plan to do some entertaining this December, these wines should prove budget worthy while being quite tasty as well. On the 3rd of December we will be hosting our always popular, annual Opolo event. The 10th of December will feature Lisa Wherry pouring the Champagnes of France and sparklers of California. Our last event of the year, the 17th, (Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve fall on Saturdays) will be devoted to wines of J Lohr. We are ending the year on a high note.

2009 OneHope Chardonnay, California

List price 11.95; our price 9.99

One Hope is a line of wines produced by Robert Mondavi, Jr. to aid various charities. Fifty percent of the profits from Chardonnay sales will go to the fight against breast cancer. Grapes for the wine were sourced from Napa, Sonoma and the Central Coast. The bouquet reminds one of fresh apple blossoms along with honeysuckle. The crisp pear and apple flavors keep the wine vibrant as they play alongside the balanced oak and bright acidity. Use with seafood and poultry.

2009 William Hill Chardonnay, Central Coast

List price 12.00; our price 9.99

Winemaker, Ralf Holdenried studied winemaking and viticulture at Germany’s prestigious University of Geisenheim and worked at several wineries in the Reinhessen and Nahe, before studying fermentation science, viticulture and enology at the University of California at Davis. Ralf joined William Hill Estate in 2007, after working as the winemaking director for Louis M. Martini’s small lot wine program, Cellar 254. If you like this fresh and bright apple-like Chardonnay you might consider stepping up to its big brother, the Napa bottling ($18.99), and I do mean big!

2011 Georges Duboeuf Beaujolais Nouveau

List price 10.99; our price 9.69

By French law, Beaujolais Nouveau is a young red wine made from the Gamay grape and bottled at the end of harvest. The first Nouveau vintage was released in 1951, making this the 60th anniversary edition. Beaujolais Nouveau was originally the wine of the vineyard workers, consumed to celebrate the end of harvest and giving them a first taste of the new vintage. The wines are vinified by carbonic maceration, which leaves them light in body and almost entirely free of tannins. The flavor profile is typically candied cherries, red plums, licorice and even bubblegum.

2009 MSH Cellars Merlot, Napa

List price 11.95; our price 9.99

MSH is the secondary label of Source Napa and Gamble Family Vineyards. This Rutherford Merlot is about as chocolaty as a wine can get, with rich red plum fruit and even, soft tannins. It is a big wine that delivers considerable value. This is a Napa red pricing with which you can live very well.

2009 Riebeek Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon, South Africa

List price 12.00; our price 9.99

Riebeek Cellars was established in 1941 and is situated in Riebeek Kasteel at the foot of Bothma’s Kloof Pass. This medium-sized winery on the western coast of the Cape Province of South Africa sources its grapes from the fertile Riebeek Valley and the slopes of the mountain where the climate is very similar to the Mediterranean. The wine is made in a forward, non-complex style with a grapey core and a streak of roasted vanilla.

2009 OneHope Zinfandel

List price 12.95; our price 9.99

50% of the profits garnered from the sale of every bottle of the Robert Mondavi, Jr. made Zinfandel goes towards charities that support our Troops and their families. It is a juicy Zinfandel showing dark fruit flavors of plums and black cherries. There is the typical pepper and spice on the finish to add to the balance of the wine, and to our ultimate enjoyment.

Saturday, November 5, 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

Pietra Santa is a family-run estate producing artisanal wines and olive oils in California’s Central Coast. The site was planted to wine grapes in the 1850s by Frenchman Theophile Vache who chose the location because of the maritime climate and unique soils. It is located 25 miles from Monterey Bay in Hollister, in the Cienega Valley, and benefits from cool coastal breezes that allow for a long growing season. The estate is located on the San Andreas Fault which creates soils rich with granite and limestone that naturally lower yields and add distinctive flavors to the wines. The winery was named PIETRA SANTA, Italian for SACRED STONE, in honor of these exceptional soils. Joining us from the winery will be Kurt Kellner to pour the wines and to discuss them.

2010 Pietra Santa Pinot Grigio, Cienega Valley

List price 16.00; our price 12.99

The Pinot Grigio comes from grapes grown at the highest elevation of the estate. Morning fog followed by sun and afternoon shade make this an ideal location for growing this varietal. The grapes ripen slowly allowing them to develop balance between rich texture and heady aromas. The wine is stainless steel fermented and bottled young to preserve the crisp acidity and refreshing fruit flavors. It tastes of mangos and passion fruit with hints of citrus. It is crisp, refreshing and ideal for a picnic or as an apéritif. Consider pairing it with Oysters on the half-shell.

Pietra Santa “Sacred Stone”, Master’s Red Blend, Cask #06

List price 10.50; our price 9.99

This wine is ripe and juicy with expressive flavors of cherries and plums. It is dark and aromatic with crisp acidity, nice structure and a lush finish. The blend of Merlot, Sangiovese, Zinfandel, and Dolcetto is made to pair with a wide variety of foods, especially your favorite grilled cuisine. It was aged for 24 months in French and American oak.

2007 Pietra Santa Sangiovese, Cienega Valley

List price 16.00; our price 13.99

Winemaker Alessio Carli grew up in Tuscany, watching his father make Chianti and later honed his skills at the renowned Badia a Coltibuono. He gives the grapes twenty days of extended maceration and over two years of aging in seasoned French oak barrels for added depth and roundness. The wine tastes of cranberry and Bing cherry with undertones of anise. The depth, complexity and supple finish of this wine have made it an annual best seller and the perfect companion to Italian cuisine. Always a consumer favorite, this wine has been honored with many awards including “Best of Class” from the San Francisco Chronicle.

2007 Pietra Santa Merlot, Cienega Valley

List price 16.00; our price 12.99

The grapes for this wine are grown in an area on the estate that is particularly rocky. Soil conditions combined with the old age of the vines produce extremely low yields; approximately 2.5 tons per acre. The resulting wine has concentrated flavors of plum and ripe berries with hints of licorice laced into the lingering finish. This wine is well balanced and makes an ideal partner with a wide variety of foods: try it with smoked pork ribs or any of your favorite grilled meats.

2008 Pietra Santa “Sassolino” Red Blend, Cienega Valley

List price 16.00; our price 13.99

This estate-produced “Super Tuscan” blend is made from 86% Sangiovese and 14% Merlot. The name Sassolino means “little stone” in honor of the terroir of the estate. The wine has robust fruit and tastes of black cherry with hints of chocolate and oak, finished with soft tannins. The balanced acidity of this wine makes it ideal for pairing with a wide variety of food. Try it with your favorite Italian dishes.

2007 Pietra Santa Zinfandel, Central Coast

List price 16.00; our price 13.99

The Zinfandel is produced from a selection of fruit including fifty-year old vines from a neighboring vineyard and a treasured block from the estate planted in 1905. The blend also includes grapes grown in the southern end of Paso Robles adding intense berry flavors to the finished wine. After fermentation, the wine undergoes extended maceration prior to aging for more than a year in American oak barrels. This bold and earthy Zinfandel tastes of ripe cherries and plums with complements of toasty oak. The wine is well balanced with a persistent finish of black pepper and sage. A small amount of Dolcetto, 7%, was blended in with the Zinfandel.

Saturday, October 29, 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

We enjoy before each Halloween bringing out the wines from Vampire Vineyards simply because they are fun wines and appropriate to dinners and parties at this time of the year. Vampire Vineyards started up over 20 years ago when Michael Machat, a Los Angeles attorney started the company and sold his first 500 bottles to rock star, Alice Cooper. In the early 1990’s after the fall of the Berlin Wall, Machat decided to get the blood of the vine straight from its native soil in Transylvania. Romania is currently the eleventh largest wine producing nation in the world, and during the cold war, provided wine to the entire Soviet Bloc. The winery planted its own rootstock at the beginning of this century in the mountainous region of Paso Robles, California, where the ocean fog frequently rolls in off the coast providing the perfect cover to the hidden vineyards. After eight years, Vampires’ rootstock has yielded wonderful clusters of grapes that produce very nice wines, smooth and well rounded, with forward fresh fruit, then aged in both French and American oak barrels. Sip the Blood of the Vine along with us and enjoy!

2010 Vampire Vineyards Pinot Grigio, California

List price 10.50; our price 9.50

Fresh lime fruit notes dominate the nose, leading into an easy-drinking lively wine full of youthful, refreshing acidity typical for this variety as well as exhibiting some mineral notes. It is definitely made in the California style and is well suited to a wide range of food styles, especially light pasta dishes with white sauces and for shellfish or fresh seafood recipes.

2007 Vampire Vineyards Chardonnay, California

List price 10.50; our price 9.50

In the Central Coast cool coastal breezes allow fresh acidity to remain intact in the fruit, and the long, extended growing season provides full flavor development in the grapes. Hand-picked at peak ripeness, this Chardonnay was barrel fermented in French oak, aged on the yeast lees for one year, and then bottled with minimal handling to ensure that subtle flavors remain intact. Crisp and refreshing, this is an ideal accompaniment to grilled seafood or poultry, and also complements mildly flavored cheeses. The wine’s rich texture, the result of regular stirring of the lees, further provides a big mouthfeel.

2010 Vampire Vineyards Pinot Noir, California

List price 10.50 our price 9.50

Some forest notes and wild strawberry aromas persist on the nose. Elegant soft fruit flavors are finely integrated into the structure of the wine, as is the oak, adding a subtle complexity to the flavor and providing a nice mid-palate and soft finish. This is a light smooth wine, easy to drink at any time of the year and exhibiting typical character of a young Pinot Noir. This is one to try with Venison and game dishes, and is equally well adapted to pasta dishes featuring basil and tomato sauces. It can be enjoyed as an apéritif or as an after dinner wine with chocolate or blue cheeses.

2009 Vampire Vineyards Merlot, North Coast

List price 10.50; our price 9.50

This wine is smooth and medium-bodied with a fresh, black cherry aroma, and hints of herbal spices. The oak aging has created subtle shadings of vanilla and toast. It is approachable now and has a long, finish. It pairs well with a wide range of foods, especially chicken, beef, lamb, game, and pasta with tomato-based sauces.

2010 Vampire Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon, North Coast

List price 10.50; our price 9.50

The Cab is sourced from several small-berry clones of this traditional Bordeaux varietal, grown in the North Coast. Classic, small-lot fermentations, followed by aging with oak, gives expression to the nice varietal flavors in this wine. It displays ripe flavor character and a lovely aroma. Try with grilled steaks and chops, or with rich red pasta dishes.

Also for sale are two vodkas from the same company:

Vampyre Red Vodka, England

List price 23.00; our price 19.95

This wickedly smooth elixir is the first red vodka in the United States. Triple distilled in England by one of the world’s leading distillers of vodka and gin.

Blavod Black Vodka, England

List price 27.00; our price 24.00

Blavod Black Vodka gets its unique color from Black Catechu – the resin of the heartwood of the Acacia catechu, a tree indigenous to India and Burma. For centuries, Black Catechu has been used for a natural dye as well as an ingredient in herbal medicines. The amount used to give Blavod its trademark color remains true to vodka’s foundation of being both odorless and tasteless and clean on the palate. Once opened, it keeps well in the refrigerator.

Saturday, September 24, 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

We haven’t toured the Sonoma County wine trail for some months now, so the least we can do is taste our way in abstentia throughout the county. From the beginning of the Alexander Valley in the north end of the county to the Carneros District at the very south end, the grapes of Sonoma produce bright, fruity, well balanced wines of power. The myriad microclimates existing in this county allow growers to produce the best possible grapes for the finest wines. This is why Sonoma County has proven a haven for wineries. In the 1920’s there were 256 wineries in the county, but after Prohibition fewer than 50 had survived. We have returned to about the same number as nearly a hundred years ago.

2009 Murphy-Goode Sauvignon Blanc, “The Fumé”, Healdsburg

List price 12.00; our price 9.99

This vintage was predominately fermented in stainless steel to retain the citrus and tropical fruit aromatics while the balance was barrel fermented in French and American oak to increase the mouthfeel and develop flavors of white peach and honeydew melon. Part of the blend is a clone of Sauvignon Blanc called Sauvignon Musque to add a hint of orange blossom and tangerine and, for the first time, some estate Semillon was added. The Semillon adds wonderful floral notes and nice texture. The wine was given a 90-point rating by Parker.

2007 Benziger Chardonnay, Sangiacomo Vineyard, Carneros

List price 19.95; our price 15.99

The Sangiacomo Vineyard produces Chardonnays that are rich and luscious with a lovely mouth feel. In this vintage, there are bright tropical flavors of pineapple, pear, and peach with a slight hint of vanilla from oak barrel aging. This vineyard is certified sustainable by Stellar Certification Services. The Wine Spectator writes: “Intense and vibrant, with spicy citrus, mineral and flinty green apple flavors that are pure, focused and juicy, ending with a cleansing finish. The wine received a Gold Medal at the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.

2010 Toad Hollow Rosé of Pinot Noir, “Eye of the Toad”, Sonoma

List price 12.00; our price 9.99

The wine show good body and weight for a Rosé of Pinot Noir. The beautiful pink wine has a nose of rose petals and violets. There is nothing quite like a fully vinified Pinot Noir at its lightest and most delicate character to sip on a warm sunny day (in which we abound). Spice and pepper bring out the wonderful wild strawberry flavors. This wine would be great with sushi and wasabi or spicy Thai food; or with most anything else for that matter.

2007 Dancing Bull Merlot, Healdsburg

List price 9.99; our price 7.99

The straightforward 2007 Merlot exhibits some herbaceous notes. Nevertheless, it is a classic Merlot revealing hints of cocoa, ripe berry fruit and a green olive/herbal character. As the wine opens it shows ripe flavors of dark fruit, blackberry and black cherry, with a bit of spice and a velvety finish that really soothes one’s savage nature.

2009 Seghesio Zinfandel, Sonoma County (New Release)

List price 22.50; our price 20.99

I really like this winery’s ability to consistently produce high quality Zinfandel, and so many versions of it, too. Hopefully, over the next few months we can schedule a tasting event devoted to the winery’s entire line-up. This wine combines sites that have produced Zinfandel for over a century with newer sites that utilize proprietary clones and the most advanced viticultural practices. Wild berry patch aromas and scents of freshly baked bread mix with raspberries, blackberries and Zin’s briary spiciness, while the grape’s ever-present acidity enhances the finish and fine, dusty tannins add complexity, mouthfeel and structure. Layered nuances of flavor with cracked pepper, tilled soil and a hint of creamy oak round up the finish. Divine! 90 points from Wine Spectator. 90 points and a Top Value from Robert Parker.

2008 Kenwood Cabernet Sauvignon, Jack London (New Release)

List price 25.00; our price 19.99

Complex aromas of cassis, black tea, mint and olive combine with well-structured tannins that provide an excellent mouthfeel and a lingering finish. The intense and elegant flavors of the 2008 Jack London Cabernet Sauvignon complement a variety of hearty entrees, including steak, lamb and roasted meats.

Saturday, September 17, 2011
4 to 5:30 pm

Enjoy these prices by attending today. Limited stock.

$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

It is most satisfying when one finds solid value wines one can use for everyday drinking purposes, or for entertaining as well. There is a great number of under $10.00 Cabs, Merlots, Pinot Noirs and blends, but the vast majority is enough to make a connoisseur cry. So we cheer the occasional solidly made wine that represents good value and satisfies our higher instincts. Check out these fine choices on Saturday and pick out your favorite for discriminate sipping without the negative impact on your finances.

2007 BearBoat Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley

List price 9.99; today’s price 8.99

Russian River’s cool climate produces Pinot Noirs that show Bing cherry and strawberry fruit buttressed by solid acidity. BearBoat adds a splash of Gamay into the barrels to add an aromatic lift to what is already a lovely scented wine. The fine tannins add great texture and length to the lithe and fresh wine. There are hints of warm toast and cassis in the nose while the mouth experiences fresh strawberries and raspberries with delicate suggestions of black licorice enhancing the lingering finish.

2007 Domaine Laurier Merlot, Sonoma County

List price 11.00; today’s price 8.99

The wine shows an attractive nose of cherry fruit, along with floral and slightly smoky notes. The palate enjoys strong fruit flavors of black cherry and blackberry with lingering hints of vanilla and mocha in the smooth finish.
2010 California State Fair Wine Competition – GOLD MEDAL – 95 Points Best of Class Sonoma Appellations
2010 Los Angeles International Wine Competition – GOLD MEDAL

2007 Magnificent Wine Co. House Wine, Columbia Valley

List price 10.00; today’s price 8.99

The blend in this interesting wine is Cabernet Sauvignon (32%), Syrah (31%), Merlot (30%), Malbec (3%), Zinfandel (2%), Cabernet Franc (1%) and Petit Verdot (1%). It received an 89-point rating from Wine Spectator: “On the lighter side, showing lovely red berry and sweet red pepper flavors that settle gently onto a bed of silky tannins. Drink now through 2014.”

Fess Parker Winery Frontier Red, Lot 102, Los Olivos

List price 11.99; today’s price 8.99

According to Robert Parker: “One of California’s finest values is Fess Parker’s non-vintage Frontier Red. A kitchen sink blend of mostly Rhone Ranger varietals, it is a dead-ringer for a California-styled Cotes du Rhone. Notes of pepper, black cherries, spice box, roasted herbs, and smoke are present in this lush, medium-bodied, richly fruity offering. Meant to be drunk upon release, it is an ideal choice for shrewd consumers looking for a delicious red that works with an assortment of culinary dishes.” The grapes used are Syrah, Grenache, Petite Sirah, Mourvèdre, Cinsault and Carignane.

2006 Mankas Hills Vineyard, Suisun Valley

List price 13.00; today’s price 8.99

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.

2007 Mankas Hills Vineyard, Suisun Valley

List price 13.00; today’s price 8.99

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.

Saturday, September 10, 2011
4 to 5:30 pm

Enjoy an additional 10% discount by attending today.

$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

Show up this Saturday to sample the new vintages from Root: 1 Winery of Chile and enjoy an additional10% discount on all the wines being poured for your tasting enjoyment. Saturday’s selection of reds including the Montes Winery and the Casa Silva are from the warmer Colchagua Valley, the whites are from the cooler Casablanca Valley (think Carneros in California). Chilean and Argentinean wines continue to pave the way for good value wines, that is, low priced wines that are a pleasure to drink. In other words, quality need not be sacrificed in the protection of your expendable income. All this has mad Chile the fifth largest exporter of wine in the world and the ninth largest producer. Hopefully, our summer heat spell will have broken by Saturday, so there will be no excuses for not attending.

2010 Root: 1 Sauvignon Blanc, Casablanca Valley

List price 10.99; our price 9.99; today only 8.99

The aromas are a concentration of tropical fruit and lemon-lime notes. The wine has good acidity with fresh lime and grapefruit, balanced by a soft minerality on the palate. Look for green apple freshness and some grassy herbaceousness. It is bright and crisp with rich fruit expression, and an elegant finish. Works well with a range of lighter styled dishes.

2008 Root: 1 Chardonnay, Casablanca Valley

List price 10.99; our price 9.99; today only 8.99

The cool coastal vineyards of the Casablanca Valley deliver bright, citrus flavors and characteristic Casablanca acidity while the granite soil imparts hints of minerality and complexity to the final blend. This is an expressive and balanced Chardonnay with melon, honey and toasted hazelnut flavors. Use as an apéritif or with light pasta, grilled seafood, chicken or salad dishes.

2009 Root: 1 Carmenère, Colchagua Valley

List price 10.99; our price 9.99; today only 8.99

The Root:1 wines are made from grapes grown on their original, ungrafted rootstock, which is pretty normal in Chile but quite rare elsewhere, especially in Europe, which was devastated in the late 1800’s by the root louse, phylloxera. Chile and Argentina do not suffer from this nasty critter. The wine shows dark berries and mocha on the nose, augmented by a subtle smoky quality and a touch of cracked pepper. It is round and fleshy, displaying some dark fruit flavors though no rough edges; in fact it finishes smooth.

2009 Root: 1 Cabernet Sauvignon, Colchagua Valley

List price 10.99; our price 9.99; today only 8.99

This rich blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Syrah shows intense aromas of red fruits and cassis. Soft notes of plum and blackberry are followed by a hint of vanilla. Abundant flavors of ripe cherries and plums up front are supported by balanced acidity, soft tannins and good structure. It is full-bodied with a long and concentrated finish accented by fruit and vanilla notes. Perfect with grilled steak, spicy pork or chicken dishes, and savory garlic or pepper flavors. Pair this wine with ripe cheeses, or even with dark chocolate or rich, creamy desserts.

2009 Montes Cabernet/Carmenère, Colchagua Valley

List price 15.99; our price 13.50; today only 11.99

This blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Carménerè opens with butterscotch, subtle spice, and integrated vanilla notes. It is an opaque, glass-coating wine exhibiting black fruits, spice and leather. Parker gives it 90 points.

2007 Casa Silva Petit Verdot, Gran Reserva, Colchagua Val.

List price 19.95; our price 16.75; today only 14.99

At the International Wine & Spirit Competition in London in 2000 the Silva family was voted “Best South American Producer”. The family, now in its 4th and 5th generations, picked up a 90 point rating from Parker’s Wine Advocate for this wine. The grape comes from Bordeaux where it is used to add structure to the great Chateau wines. It tastes of blackberry and currant with cinnamon overtones. The balance of tannins and acidity in its structure rises to a long finish

Saturday, August 20, 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

There truly are some very nice wines available in the $10.00 range and even under that price. There is, as well, an inordinate amount of awful offal. Fortunately, we do manage to steer clear of the bottlings that are an insult to the palate. That is not to say that you may find a wine you don’t like at one of our events, but typically that becomes a matter of taste. Some people do not drink white wines and others cannot abide reds. The same with sweet versus dry or with White Zinfandel opposed to the real thing, etc. The purpose of tasting events, where-ever, is to acquaint oneself with a new release or to compare it to yet another. It really is a challenge to learn something about the vast array of wines ever awaiting our pleasure, especially in the affordable range.

Starborough Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, New Zealand

List price 11.99; our price 9.99

The Marlborough wine growing region, located off the Northern tip of the Southern island, first planted grapevines in 1973 and now more than two thirds of New Zealand’s Sauvignon Blanc vines are grown here. This bottling displays citrus and ripe tropical fruit with some herbal notes. The wine shows flavors of passion fruit, guava and kiwi over a citrus background, the emphasis being toward grapefruit.

Terra d’Oro Rosé, Shenandoah Valley, Amador Co.

List price 12.00; our price 9.99

Terra d’Oro Rosé is made mostly of Nebbiolo, the native red grape of Italy’s Piedmont region with 10% Syrah, blended in to deepen the color and focus the strawberry character. The nose entices the senses with strawberry, pink grapefruit, and melon scents. In the mouth, strawberries dominate, leading to a refreshing, just off-dry finish. A joyous sipper that fares well tableside or poolside, this rosé is both a perfect companion to summer weather and to any other time of the year, for that matter.

Pedroncelli Sangiovese, Alto Vineyards, Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma

List price 12.00; our price 9.99

It is no secret that this family winery is a favorite of ours. Their wines are fairly priced, usually a bargain, and should you drop in to visit, there is no fee for the pours; reminds me of the good old days. We here are never too far away, time-wise, from a Pedroncelli pour (last week it was the Rosé). This wine shows ripe berry, black plum, and warm spice aromas. It is full flavored and balanced, with cherry, berry, and black pepper spice on the palate. It picked up a Gold Medal at the Indy International Wine Competition.

Domaine Laurier Merlot Sonoma County

List price 9.99; our price 8.99

This Merlot delivers complexity and pleasure on many levels. The aroma of black cherries and chocolate is very prevalent and the taste continues with a refreshing hint of chocolate mint. The finish is sturdy with rich, pleasing tannins and a spicy, vanilla note. Beef Wellington, rack of lamb, and stuffed pork loin are just a few of the many dishes that are worthy of such a refined and delicious wine. LA Int’l Wine Competition 94 rating with a GOLD MEDAL and BEST OF CLASS.

Domaine Laurier Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma County

List price 9.99; our price 8.99

This Cab opens with berry aromas and subtle hints of toast crescendo into a palate of fresh strawberries, boysenberries, and mocha, gracefully ending with a light, balanced astringency. The blend is: 76% Cabernet Sauvignon with the rest being mostly Petite Sirah and Tannat, with a splash of Malbec. At the Los Angeles International Wine Competition the wine scored a 93 rating and won a GOLD MEDAL and the BEST OF CLASS.

Plungerhead Zinfandel, Old Vine, Lodi

List price 14.99; our price 9.99

This lovely Lodi Zinfandel is sealed with the inventive new Zork enclosure (a cork that needs no corkscrew: just pull at the z, unwind, and pop the top). The Sebastiani Family, given their somewhat silly sense of humor, noticed that the Zork looked rather like, well, a plunger. So they simply couldn’t resist naming it after their loyal winery employee Eddie Plongerheid and coming up with the silly little graphic on the front label. OK…I’m buying it. The warm, often hot, climate of Lodi is particularly suited for producing good Zinfandel, a hearty grape that loves the sun and needs plenty of it to ripen to full-bodied, spiced plum perfection. DEEP DISCOUNTED PRICE, so don’t prevaricate on this one.

Saturday, July 30, 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

Having just returned from our trip to Napa Valley and, accordingly, having committed to purchases of many fine wines, we find it necessary to make room on our shelves prior to the shipments. We haven’t done an Australian tasting for a while, so this should be refreshing. These are big wines with an unabashedly ripe, juicy, rich profile. Probably not the best choices for summer days of incendiary heat, but our hard-core big-reds contingent will arrive salivating. The discounts are quite deep, so now would be the time to indulge yourselves from some of the Aussie largess.

2007 Andrew Peace Masterpeace Big Tail Blend, SE Australia

List price 6.95; our price 4.99

Like many wineries, the Andrew Peace company began as a vineyard in 1980, then in 1995, the decision to commit to developing a winery was made. This wine has delicious blackberry and ripe plum fruit, and is smooth and savory on the palate. A medium to full bodied red that is soft, smooth and full of ripe forest fruit flavors, this wine will go with pretty much any savory dish and is great for drinking on its own. The blend is 80% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Merlot.

2009 Andrew Peace Masterpeace Red Blend,SE Australia

List price 6.95; our price 4.99

This wine is brimming with juicy black and red berry fruit flavors with a hint of warm spice and vanilla. The result is a wine perfect for full flavored dishes or for those who like a big, bold red to enjoy on its own. The blend is 30% Shiraz, 28% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Grenache and 20% Mataro (Mourvedre).

2004 Mitolo Jester Shiraz, McLaren Vale

List price 19.99; our price 17.95

The nose shows concentrated blackberry, plum and chocolate aromas with a subtle touch of French oak. The palate displays masses of rich black fruits and dark chocolate that combine with the sweet velvety tannins. Ripe and full bodied this well rounded wine has good structure, intensity and concentration of fruit which lead into a long generous finish. Robert Parker gave it a 90-point rating.

2006 Yangarra Shiraz, Single Vineyard, McLaren Vale

List price 20.95; our price 17.99

This Shiraz walks the tightrope between finesse and concentration. It has a stylish perfume of raspberries and juniper. The vibrant aromas lead to a palate that is concentrated and seductively lush with black fruits, spicy dark chocolate, hints of vanilla bean and soft, grainy tannins.

2008 Molly Dooker, Two Left Feet, McLaren Vale

List price 24.95; our price 19.99

90 points from Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate: “The 2008 Two Left Feet is a blend of 68% Shiraz, 17% Merlot, and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon which also spent 11 months in 50% new French and American oak. A glass-staining opaque purple color, it emits an enticing aromatic array of sandalwood, Asian spices, incense, blueberry, and blackberry preserves. Dense, sweet, and layered on the palate, it is surprisingly light on its feet despite its size. Concentrated, lengthy, and full-flavored, this wine is all about pleasure. Enjoy it over the next 5-7 years.”

2006 Flinders Run Shiraz, South Australia

List price 29.50; our price 19.99

92 points Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar: “Inky ruby. Powerfully scented bouquet of dark berries, smoky minerals and fresh flowers; this is really fragrant. Spicy black raspberry and cassis flavors stain the palate and are enlivened by zesty minerality. A strong iron note carries into the impressively broad, long finish.” 92 points Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate: “The 2005 was a big success and the 2006 Shiraz is almost as good. Opaque purple-colored, it offers up a nose of toasty oak and blueberry compote that jumps from the glass. Full-bodied, corpulent, round, and layered, it delivers a big mouthful of blueberry fruit with notes of licorice and chocolate followed by a long, pure finish. Leave your thinking cap at home and enjoy this hedonistic effort for its fleshy, in your face style. Enjoy it over the next 6-8 years.” 91 points Wine Spectator: “Toasty, savory flavors dominate, offering charred meat, spice and bread crust aromas and flavors around a core of ripe blueberry, plum and cream, finishing with polish. Drink now through 2016.

Saturday, June 11, 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

Marin-based Cabernet Corporation is not your typical wine importer. The company has been privately owned by the Axelsen family since its inception in 1980. Among its ownership holdings are the LaPlaya Winery (in a joint venture partnership with two Chilean partners, the Sutil and Errazuriz families. of Chile) the Don Rodolfo Winery of Argentina, the Belasco de Baquedano Winery of Argentina and others. Soren Axelsen had lived in Chile in the ’50s and recalled the great wines he was drinking there even back then. In 1987, when the Chilean political climate opened up significantly, Soren went to Chile as one of its first foreign investors.

2010 Viña La Playa Sauvignon Blanc, Colchagua Valley, Chile

List price 7.99; our price 6.99; today only 6.29

Colchagua Valley is home to Viña La Playa Winery & Hotel. Besides visiting a world-class vineyard, one can enjoy the Four-Star accommodations, beautifully situated on the banks of the Tinguiririca River, near Lake Rapel. In the nose the wine shows floral aromas with lime citrus and a hint of honeydew melon. The lemon-lime citrus is at the front of the flavor experience with the typical grassiness following. It is bright and crisp, exhibiting some minerality and a lively acidity. The age of the vines is 18 years, and the grape yield is 6.5 tons per acre. The wine was aged for 3 months in stainless steel.

2010 Viña La Playa Chardonnay, Colchagua Valley, Chile

List price 7.99; our price 6.99; today only 6.29

For lovers of “unoaked” Chardonnay this is a perfectly marvelous deal. A fresh, fruit-oriented nose suggests pears and peaches, while on the palate it is bright and full, boasting candied citrus and pears. The grapes are from the same 18 year old vineyard as the Sauvignon Blanc and the grape yield is held to 6 tons per acre. Stainless steel for 3 months.

2009 Viña La Playa Merlot, Colchagua Valley, Chile

List price 7.99; our price 6.99; today only 6.29

The grapes for this wine were planted 19 years ago and are allowed a yield of 5 tons an acre. The wine spends 8 months in stainless steel tanks, followed by 1 month with French and American oak. The aroma begins with briary black berry fruits, then introduces some meaty character and proceeds to dried citrus rind. In the mouth it is fruity and round, with soft tannins and a long, savory finish. The short period of oaking accentuates the fruity character of the wine.

2009 Viña La Playa Cabernet, Colchagua Valley, Chile

List price 7.99; our price 6.99; today only 6.29

The 18 year old vines yield 4.5 tons per acre. The Cab has an attractive, deep ruby red color. On the nose it is expressive and complex, displaying notes of candy, raisins, toast and tobacco. On the palate, it is round and robust, with an excellent structure, and hinting at mocha coffee in the flavorful, long finish. There is no wood ageing which goes to show how well a wine can display mature tannins that are the result of contact with seeds and skins, and not wood.

2010 Viña Cornejo Costas “Don Rodolfo” Malbec, Salta, Argentina

List price 12.00; our price 8.99; today only 7.99

This winery and vineyard in the Cafayate Valley is at 5900 feet which is a seriously high altitude. The winery is about 200 years old, making it the oldest winery in the valley, yet is endowed with state of the art facilities. The age of the vineyard is 20 years and the grapes are harvested by hand at 5 tons per acre. The wine is very fruity on the nose, with hints of plums, peppers and spices. It shows good volume in the mouth, is well structured and has a well-balanced finish. It was aged for 8 months in stainless steel.

2009 Belasco de Baquedano Malbec, “Llama”, Mendoza, Argentina

List price 12.95; our price 10.99; today only 9.89

This Mendoza vineyard goes back nearly 100 years and is a true expression of Andean old vine Malbec. The “Llama” explodes with flavors of black berries, ripe plums and robust spices. It is an elegant wine showing good balance and structure and a long rewarding finish. It was aged 6 months in French oak. Parker’s Wine Advocate gave it a 90-point rating: “Purple color; spicy black fruit and floral aromas, supple, easygoing, with incipient complexity.”