$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 Central Coast is a vast wine grape growing area with a multitude of differentiated soils and weather patterns. It spans from Santa Barbara County in the south to the San Francisco Bay Area in the north, and includes portions of six counties. Each appellation within the area produces grapes unique to specific varietals, which in turn translates to the opportunity to make really good wine. Assuming the wine production is in the hands of a capable wine maker, some terrific stuff issues from the area. It wasn’t always that way. The planting of varietals wrong to an area was wide spread and the resulting wines were fiendishly bad. The worst had to be Cabernet that tasted like bell peppers. Some growers were fortunate, such as in the evolving Zin scene in Paso Robles. The discovery of Pinot Noir excellence in the right locales was pure serendipity. I cannot imagine a grape varietal that is not grown currently in the Central Coast and well grown at that. Let’s check it out:

2009 Edna Valley Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc, “Paragon”, Edna Valley

List price 13.50; our price 11.99

This wine is appealing for its ripe, juicy pear, nectarine and tangerine flavors, with excellent balancing acidity, all pulled together on a crisp, clean frame. It is delightfully crisp with notes of citrus and grapefruit. This wine is perfect for most occasions and is especially refreshing to sip with oysters on the half shell.

2010 William Hill Chardonnay, Central Coast

List price 12.00; our price 9.99

Of the 100,000 acres planted to wine grapes in the Central Coast, Chardonnay accounts for more than half of the total. This fresh and bright apple-like Chardonnay is wonderfully refreshing and is suited for use with lighter foods such as shellfish and sole, chicken and pork.

2009 Paraiso Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands

List price 22.00; our price 19.99

This is a well-priced Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir, with lots of bright red raspberry, cherry and strawberry fruit, accented by cinnamon spice and refreshing acidity. According to Wine Spectator Magazine: “Appealing for its easy-drinking allure, with ripe plum, raspberry, wild berry and spice flavors. Medium- to full-bodied, showing off a racy earthiness on the finish, which gives this a nice touch. Drink now through 2016.”

2006 Kenneth Volk Tempranillo, John Smith Vineyard, San Benito

List price 24.00; our price 19.99

Tempranillo is the principal grape variety of Spain’s quintessential red wine, Rioja. The fruit from this bottling came from the John Smith Vineyard near the town of Hollister in San Benito County. Traditional wine-making techniques of open top fermentation and aging in French oak helped to craft this delicious wine.

2007 Four Vines Zinfandel, Old Vine Cuvée, Paso Robles

List price 12.00; our price 9.99

The winery enjoys a great wealth of Zinfandel that has the ability to put together a fantastic multi-appellation Zin Blend. On the nose the wine has layers of berry fruit and anise aromas with hints of spice. On the palate, blackberry and spicy plum fruit with a rich mouth feel trail to a velvety toasted oak finish.

2007 Smith & Hook Cabernet Sauvignon, Soledad

List price 22.00; our price 18.99

Smith and Hook Winery released its first vintage of Cabernet Sauvignon to high acclaim in 1980. Notes of black cherry, cassis and raspberry are followed by nuances of pepper and cocoa. This wine is lush and textured, with gripping tannins, well-developed acidity and a lingering finish.

$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

Our wine tasting events in January will be limited to the first Saturday and the last Saturday, as in between, we will be on vacation. This Saturday we will be pouring some interesting wines that have arrived here recently from south of the equator. I enjoy the crisp whites from South Africa and for reds Argentina and Chile cannot be beat. Join us for a great way to kick off the New Year or, at least, a great way to kick off Saturday night.

2010 Fleur du Cap Sauvignon Blanc, Stellenbosch, South Africa

List price 9.99; our price 7.99

The wine is brilliantly clear and lime green in color with golden highlights. On the nose it teems with herbaceousness and ample green pepper ending with whiffs of rich melon and guava. This medium bodied wine has a crisp acidity which complements the tropical fruit flavors perfectly on the palate. It is the ideal accompaniment to seafood, steamed vegetables and poultry dishes.

2010 Fleur du Cap Chardonnay, Stellenbosch, S. Africa

List price 9.99; our price 7.99

This wine was aged in wood on the lees for only 4 months in order to maintain its fresh crispness. On the nose it displays citrus fruit and melon with a hint of vanilla oak in the background. On the palate it is dry but rounded and packed with apricot and citrus fruit, supported by lovely nut and vanilla oak. It works well with seafood and poultry whether grilled or served in a white creamy sauce.

2010 Apaltagua Pinot Noir Reserva, Curico, Chile

List price 14.00; our price 11.99

The grapes come from Apaltagua’s own vineyard in Tricao in the Curico Valley. This Pinot emphasizes aromas of cherries and raspberries well combined with soft notes of oak. In the mouth it has smooth and elegant tannins that finish soft and delicate for a sophisticated finish. It serves well with Salmon and white meats, especially in red sauces.

2009 Apaltagua Malbec Reserva, Curico, Chile

List price 14.00; our price 11.99

Grown on low ridges at the foot of the coastal mountain range in Maule Valley, this well structured Malbec stands out as a robust and velvety wine with red fruit flavors, such as cherries mingled with plums, truffles and a touch of pepper. It is perfect for grilled red meats and roasts.

2010 Apaltagua Cabernet Sauvignon Reserva, Curico, Chile

List price 14.00; our price 11.99

This Cabernet Sauvignon, from an excellent vintage, and has a nose of berries with hints of tobacco and dark chocolate. The bouquet is a precursor of what is to be experienced in the mouth, coupled with a ripe stone fruit character. This wine received minimal handling before bottling to preserve its unique body and flavors. This is a nice wine for prime rib with a sane amount of horseradish.

2007 Kaiken “Ultra” Cabernet Sauvignon, Mendoza, Argentina

List price 18.95; our price 14.99

After coating your glass with an opaque purple color, the wine displays an expressive nose of cedar, spice box, black currant and blackberry. Full-bodied on the palate, it has spicy flavors along with good structure, and depth. Eighty percent of this wine was aged in French oak for 12 months which gives it a sophisticated character and a delightfully long after-taste. It received a 90-point rating from Wine Enthusiast Magazine. This is your wine for a steak dinner.

$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.

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.

Today only receive an extra 10% discount

$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

What could be more versatile than a wine that is perfectly charming to sip on its own, well chilled, or that will accompany a wide range of foods including fish, fowl, white meats and a plethora of veggie meals. Almost any red grape will produce a good rosé—as you will experience from the wines below. There are three methods for making a rosé: simply mixing red and white wines, stopping the fermentation of red grapes early and, my favorite, the saignée method whereby the rosé is “bled” from the red wine fermenter at exactly the perfect time. This latter method has an added benefit in allowing for a greater concentration in the make-up of the finished red wine. Ultimately though, who cares? What really matters is the wonderful dry fruity beverage that is easy to drink and makes you feel good.

Mionetto Rosato del Veneto, Valdobbiadene, Italy

List price 12.99; our price 9.99; today only 8.99

This lightly sparkling rosé is made from the rosado grapes of the Veneto: Corvina, Molinara and Rondinella, the three main red grapes of Valpolicella and Amarone. It is a soft sparkler produced in the Prosecco style with a low alcohol, in this case, 10.5%. It has been a while since we served up this wine and the time is right for a revisit.

Cordorniu Pinot Noir Cava, Brut, Spain

List price 14.99; our price 13.50; today only 11.99

This is a marvelous sparkling wine. It never ceases to satisfy. Cordorniu makes several sparklers, but the Reserve White (Raventos) and the Pinot Noir Brut are exceptional, and are a high value consideration. The pale pink colored wine is refreshingly crisp and elegant with plenty of fresh raspberries and black currants.

2009 Bodega Norton Rosado Malbec, Mendoza, Argentina

List price 9.95; our price 8.99; today only 7.99

This winery at the foothills of the Andes produces some of the best red wine of Argentina. Surely it follows that its rosés’ should be of the finest as well. We served this recently with other Argentine wines and wanted to see how well it holds up against other rosés. Besides, I wasn’t here for that event. There is ample red fruit within this dry delivery, but will it hold up to the California rosés to follow?

2009 Pedroncelli Dry Rosé of Zinfandel, Dry Creek Valley

List price 9.99; our price 7.99; today only 6.99

We don’t see a lot of Zinfandel rosé, and after tasting this value packed bottle, I can’t imagine why. Pedroncelli draws grapes from the Dry Creek area near Geyserville in Sonoma County; some of the best Zin grapes in California. The wine is refreshingly crisp and elegant with plenty of fresh raspberries and black currants to delight the palate.

2008 Terra d’Oro Rosé, Shenandoah Valley, Amador Co.

List price 12.00; our price 9.99; today only 8.99

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.

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

List price 12.00; our price 9.99; today only 8.99

The wine has good body and weight for a Rosé of Pinot Noir. It displays a nose of rose petals and violets. Whether in sun or no-sun, this is a truly dry, uncomplicated statement of Pinot Noir at its lightest and most delicate. Spice and pepper bring out the wonderful wild strawberry flavors. It goes great with sushi and wasabi or spicy Thai food.

$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.”

$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

STOP #1: RAYMOND BURR VINEYARDS. We have returned from Sonoma County where visits were made to friends at wineries and B&B’s. Our trunk was filled with wine from small producers that generally are not seen in Southern California. One of my favorites is Raymond Burr Vineyards on West Dry Creek Road, near Healdsburg. We owned a restaurant in Cloverdale during the eighties which was frequented by Raymond Burr and his good friend Robert Benevides. They loved our continental cuisine and extensive wine selection and spent many an evening with Zola, who hosted and was manager of our restaurant, Zola’s. Originally, their wines were produced at Pedroncelli Winery with1990 being their first vintage. After 18 months in French and American oak cooperage, the wine was bottled in November, 1992, and released in 1995. The vineyards are planted primarily to Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Chardonnay. In addition, four Portuguese varietals are planted there because Bob and Raymond loved Port. The small rustic tasting room is a shrine to the Perry Mason character Raymond made famous and to the Ironsides role, as well. Raymond Burr didn’t want the vineyards named for him, but Bob felt this was a fitting memorial to his friend. The winemaker for these wines is the very talented Phyllis Zouzounis who spent years at Dry Creek Vineyards and Mazzocco Vineyards. She has her own brand, as well, and we will be pouring her Deux Amis Winery bottlings next week. Other Sonoma wines to be served, aptly supplement our selection.

2009 White Oak Sauvignon Blanc, Russian River Valley

List price 14.99; our price 9.99

If you like Sauvignon Blanc, you should pay apt attention to this offering. Taste it and see if you agree that it is a fantastic buy at this price—not to be seen anywhere on the internet. Your experience begins with aromas of lichee, pear and orange zest with a hint of minerality. The flavors of this divine wine are lemon, Kiwi fruit, pear and Fuji apple. A hint of grapefruit and grassiness complete the wine. It finishes long with an enjoyable balance of acidity and fruit flavors.

2008 Raymond Burr Chardonnay, Dry Creek Valley

List price 28.00; our price 22.00

The bouquet opens with a green apple scents along with a bright floral character. Add an attractive baked apple aroma with a note of toasted oak and before you even taste you sense why this wine won a GOLD MEDAL at the Orange County Wine Competition. The first tasting sensation is a full body with a creamy mouth feel. After the voluptuous entry, an easy dryness spreads across the palate, beginning at the rear and moving forward with a bright acidity and soft white spiced-minerals. Flowers, minerals and spice coat the mouth while holding flavors for a long time. It is well balanced, has a long finish and a pleasant after-taste. Only 416 cases were produced. It was totally barrel fermented, then put through ML.

2008 W. H. Smith Wines Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

List price 26.00; our price 23.75

Friend and winemaker Helen Turley inspired in Bill & Joan Smith (owners of historic La Jota Vineyards) the desire to try his hand at Pinot Noir. In 1992, under a new W. H. Smith Wines label, the Smiths released their first vintage of Sonoma County Pinot Noir. The goal was to produce Pinot Noirs that are classically styled with intense flavors, supple texture, and moderate alcohol. The 2008 is comprised of Swan, Pommard and La Tâche clones from 4 Sonoma Coast vineyards. The nose is fragrant, delicate and spicy, and suggests rose petals and Bing cherries. The wine shows concentration, bright acidity and that heavenly Pinot Noir silkiness. The strawberry and delicate cherry fruit flavors are medium-bodied, ending with a subtle finesse.

2008 Raymond Burr Cabernet Franc, Dry Creek Valley

List price 38.00; our price 29.95

Like the gold medal winning 2007, the 2008 shows blackberry and chocolate in the nose with a hint of licorice. It is earthy and spicy in the mouth, has medium tannins and projects its lovely fruit to a dry, long finish. Phyllis Zouzounis does an amazing job with this varietal which simply does not get the recognition it deserves.

2008 Raymond Burr Cabernet Sauvignon, Dry Creek Valley

List price 38.00; our price 29.95

The bouquet is redolent with rich fruit scents expanding to a beautiful nose of blackberry and classic cassis. A touch of black cherry, with nuances of chocolate and blueberry rise above the concentrated fruit playing off of a hint of earthy overtones from the Dry Creek Valley terroir that Phyllis explores so well. It shows good structure, nice tannins, and a long finish encapsulated within a velvety texture.

2007 Kendall-Jackson Muscat Canelli, Santa Rosa

List price 14.00; our price 11.99

While in Santa Rosa we dropped in on the K-J tasting room at the former Chateau de Baun. This is a beautiful facility and an opportunity to try many amazing small-batch K-J wines that are not distributed. The Muscat Canelli displays a delightful mélange of citrus flavors such as tangerine and mandarin orange on the palate with notes of peach blossom, spices and pear. It is richly layered and balanced throughout. It has a pleasant off-dry and lingering finish.

$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.

$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 estate vineyard surrounding the winery, Rodney’s Vineyard, is named in honor of Fess’s late son-in-law, and was the first vineyard developed. With a total of 118 acres planted, this vineyard provides the foundation of the Rhone wine program and has already produced several award winning Syrah and Viognier bottlings. The newest acquisition known as Fess Parker Ranch, Camp Four, is a 1,400 acre parcel of land purchased in the spring of 1999. The initial 250 acre planting was completed and produced its first crop in harvest 2003. It is located slightly southwest from the winery in the Santa Ynez Valley. The warmer climates and loam soils of this site show great potential for producing fully ripened, mature fruit. You have only to taste these wines to experience what I’m talking about. Joining us this Saturday is Deborah Ellis, western regional sales director for Fess Parker.

2009 Fess Parker Chardonnay, Santa Barbara County

List price 18.00; our price 15.95

Crisp, clean aromas of apple, pear and pineapple combine with yellow melon, white flowers and a touch of oak to create this refreshing Chardonnay. On the palate lush citrus flavors followed by distinct layers of apple, honey, pear and a hint of light cream & lemon couple with great texture and balance making it a wonderfully food friendly wine. This is a fine Santa Barbara Chardonnay, with a wonderful amount of tropical fruit, little evidence of wood, with crisp acids, and a nice, medium-body.

2009 Parker Station Pinot Noir

List price 14.00; our price 11.99

This second label from Fess Parker is produced from a mix of purchased fruit and selected lots from the estate. Geared for early drinking, it is fruit forward, with cherry, plum and strawberry flavors, overlain with clove and other spices, and just a hint of toasty oak. This medium bodied Pinot Noir is round, balanced and eminently drinkable.

2008 Fess Parker Pinot Noir, Santa Barbara

List price 19.00; our price 15.99

Captivating scents of black cherry, strawberry and raspberry mingle with a touch of nutmeg and clove. On the palate, the flavors of cranberry, dried sage, vanilla, clove and raspberry combine elegantly with a touch of oak. Here is your perfect red wine for salmon, duck or lamb seasoned with Mediterranean spices.

Fess Parker Frontier Red, Lot 102

List price 11.99; our price 9.99

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.”

2007 Fess Parker Big Easy

List price 29.95; our price 25.50

With The Big Easy the winery is paying homage to one of its favorite cities; the culinary mecca is a great supporter of Fess Parker wines. It is made from Camp Four fruit incorporating other varietals along with Syrah. The blend is 92% Syrah and 8% Grenache. Notes of blueberry, blackberry, smoked meat, and vanilla are found on the nose along with flavors of black cherry, blackberry compote, cinnamon, black pepper and vanilla on the palate. This is a meaty, well structured blend leading to a long lengthy finish with its dense chocolaty tannins. The finish is dry and its tannins are subtle.

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

Proprietor Ken Volk has been making Santa Barbara and Central Coast wines for more than a quarter century. Perhaps best known as the founder of Wild Horse Winery, Ken has earned a reputation for crafting world-class wines, particularly Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from the Santa Maria Valley. The vineyard and winery property was formerly the “original” Byron Winery (the present Byron Winery is located next door), established by Ken Byron Brown in 1981. In 1994 the winery was acquired by the Robert Mondavi Winery Corporation. Ken Volk purchased the building and land at the end of 2004, after over a year of negotiations. The sale included the winery and vineyard only – no brands, no wine, and no on-going business venture. The emerging success of this winery “fixer-upper” is all Ken Volk. On hand to pour the wines and discuss his product line will be Mike Brown, national sales manager for the winery.

2007 Kenneth Volk Chardonnay, Santa Maria

List price 19.95; our price 14.99

Whole cluster pressing and barrel fermentation helped to create this distinctive and rich Chardonnay. It has aromas of toasted oak, wet slate, along with fruit aromas of apple, pear, and mandarin. Fruit flavors continue on the palate with a rich mouth feel and balanced acidity. This wine won a Gold Medal at the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.

2007 Kenneth Volk Pinot Noir, Santa Barbara Co.

List price 22.00; our price 19.99

Although known for his Pinot Noirs primarily from the Santa Maria Valley, Volk sources the grapes for this wine from adjoining areas as well as from the Santa Maria Valley. Hopefully one day we can concentrate on his Pinot Noir line-up from this valley that is home to some of the best Pinot producing vineyards in the state: the defining Bien Nacido Vineyards, as well as the Santa Rita Hills to the south. The leafy aromatics and red fruit flavors of this wine are followed by firm tannins. This is the perfect wine to enjoy with duck comfit and with mushroom dishes. The ageing in French oak further adds to its complexity.

2008 Kenneth Volk Negrette, Caleri Vineyard, San Benito County

List price 19.00; our price 15.99

Negrette has its own distinct aroma and flavor profile. It shares some of the characteristics of both Syrah and Pinot Noir. This wine has aromas and flavors of bramble fruit and cherry with spicy, old vine gaminess. It is a deeply pigmented wine with relatively low tannin and a silky smooth texture.

2007 Kenneth Volk Mourvèdre, Enz Vineyard

List price 22.00; our price 19.99

The Enz Vineyard Mourvèdre is one of the oldest planting of that varietal in California. In its 86th growing season, these ancient head-trained vines produced a beautiful well balanced crop of small-berried clusters. Traditional winemaking techniques and aging in French oak helped to craft this delicious wine. Ripe fruit aromas and exotic spice are followed by flavors of blueberry, cherry and licorice.

2006 Kenneth Volk Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles

List price 22.00; our price 19.99

Paso Robles has a rich history of winemaking and grape growing beginning in 1797 when the first wine grapes were introduced to Paso Robles by the Franciscan missionaries at the historic Mission San Miguel Arcangel, where Father Junipero Serra planted more than a thousand vines. Though known primarily for its Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon remains the leading variety for the Paso Robles appellation, accounting for 38 percent of the region’s wine grape acreage. This brilliant, deep ruby red wine shows aromas of crushed cherries and a hint of chocolate playing against flavors of ripe fruit. It is balanced and restrained.