$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 Saturday we will be taking a wine tour of California as well as exploring the important varietals grown in the state. The tour begins in Lake County, drops down to Napa, leaps to the central coast, then zigzags between the Carneros District, Santa Clara Valley and Mendocino County. Here is an opportunity to fine tune your already acute senses (having attended our sessions previously) and stimulate your intellectual curiously as well…and drink wine.

2008 Brassfield Estate Winery Pinot Grigio, Lake County

List price 13.00; Our price 9.99

Interestingly, this wine was aged sur lie for 8 months with batonage (lees stirring) every 1-2 weeks to create additional body and viscosity in the resulting wine. It is alive and zesty, with vibrant tropical aromas of mango and passion fruit pairing with more subtle hints of coconut, ginger, fennel and start jasmine. Ripe peach and pineapple further enhance the delicious flavor profile on a perfectly balanced framework of acidity and minerality. The wine finishes with a supple and elegant mouth-feel. It won a Silver Medal at this year’s San Francisco Int’l Wine Competition.

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. It is light-bodied and refreshing, with peach, nectarine, grass and herbal notes that finish with a crisp, citrusy edge.

2009 Saddlerock Chardonnay, Central Coast

List price 9.99; Our price 7.99

The Semmler family owns the Saddlerock Ranch positioned at the crest of the Santa Monica Mountains, but the grapes for this bottling are from the Central Coast. The just-released wine shows hints of green apple, citrus and pear fused with floral notes of lemon blossom. The aromatics transcend on to the palette with delicate acidity and a smooth finish.

2006 Buena Vista Pinot Noir Carneros District

List price 22.00; Our price 19.95

The 2006 Pinot Noir Carneros has aromas of bright Bing cherry, fresh ground nutmeg and earthy wild mushroom. In the mouth the wine shows intense bright blackberry and plum fruit with undertones of sweet mocha and clove. Winemaker Jeff Stewart believes the screw cap closure captures the pure Pinot Noir aromas and flavors and delivers the best quality in the glass. This is a wine of great depth with the long, supple finish considered a hallmark of Carneros Pinot Noir. It won a Double Gold Medal at the San Francisco Int’l Wine Competition.

2004 Martin Ranch Merlot, Santa Clara Valley

List price 19.50; Our price 14.99

Recently we tasted the 2005 from this property and are now jumping back a vintage. Terese and Dan Martin planted 17 acres in the southern tip of the Santa Cruz Mountains and enjoyed their first vintage in 1997. Distinctly displaying Santa Clara Valley terroir, this Merlot hints of plum and blackberry, with a velvety vanilla middle. It is a full bodied wine with a hint of chocolate showing in the finish.

2006 Seabiscuit Ranch Superfecta Meritage, Mendocino County

List price 23.00; Our price 19.95

The grapes for this wine were grown on the Ranch where the famous horse retired in northern California’s Redwood Valley. The blend for this bottling is 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Merlot, 4% Petit Verdot and 3% Cabernet Franc. The wine has deep purple color, concentrated ripe fruit aromas and flavors, with medium-to-robust body. It has rich fruit, soft tannins and a hint of oak. It is ideal for drinking now, yet will benefit from further bottle aging for many years.

$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 continuing our August inventory close-out events offering an opportunity to taste and buy some outstanding wines at an additional 25% discount from already discounted prices. In September, we begin the purchasing of wines and accessories that will be our offering throughout the holidays so clearance of stock on hand is mandatory at this time. These sale prices will be available only on the Saturday on which they are offered, along with some sampling of the wines for your enjoyment. The 25% off discounted pricing will continue for one more week so if you cannot make it this Saturday you will have one more opportunity to pick up some fine wines drastically reduced; not to mention sipping some elegant wines while contemplating your purchases. Please be aware some wines blow out quite early.

2007 Jean Pabiot Pouilly Fumé, Pouilly-Sur-Loire, France

Our price 24.75; Saturday only 18.55

Over a hundred years ago, Jean Pabiot’s grandfather purchased and began planting grapes to the land that today is being overseen by Jean’s grandson, the fifth generation to work this land. This Pouilly-Fumé is produced from 100% Sauvignon Blanc grapes from over 40 year old vines located near the village of Les Loges, on very pebbly limestone-clay terroir (at times up to 50% pebbles). The wine has brilliant, light golden color and a complex nose of minerals and smoke with notes of citrus fruit, vanilla and almond. It has an ample palate with an attractive silky texture and balance; a superb wine.

2006 Arrowood Chardonnay, Unfined, Sonoma Co.

Our price 19.99; Saturday only 14.99

Dick Arrowood, who was the original winemaker for Chateau St. Jean, has sold his winery but continues to consult there in order to insure consistency of style. The wine was barrel fermented and aged sur lies in French oak for 9 months. Secondary fermentation pushed the wine towards the tropical end of the spectrum yet maintaining the lightly toasty bouquet with touches of apple, peach, and baking spices. The palate is crisp and fresh with notable balanced acidity to keep the mouthfeel stimulating and lively.

2006 Napa Ridge Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve, Napa Valley

Our price 9.99; Saturday only 7.50

In April 2000, Beringer Vineyards sold its Napa Ridge brand for $42 million to Bronco Wine Company, who then built a huge bottling plant in southern Napa County. The Napa Ridge brand is produced here with Napa grown grapes and primarily using used French oak barrels to age the wine. Winemaker Stashak regards the use of aged barrels mostly a plus. “It’s better to use used barrels to avoid over-oaking. There’s a tendency for winemakers in California to over oak, producing wines that are hard to drink and difficult to match with food”. This wine has a rich concentrated character with black cherry and plum elements at its center. Hints of vanilla along with herbaceous juniper and mint finish the profile.

2007 Gran Sasso Primitivo, Puglia, Italy

Our price 9.99; Saturday only 7.50

Italian Primitivo is thought to be related to American Zinfandel of California after being cut from root stock in Croatia. In Italy it is harvested early to preserve acidity and keep a lower alcohol content. This wine has aromas of star anise with bright cherry and cranberry fruit. On the palate the wine displays a mouthful of rich chocolate combined with a weighty (almost thick) ripeness. While many Italian Primitivo’s exhibit an earthiness that represents terroir, this one is fruit driven.

2005 Jacuzzi Family Vineyards Primitivo, North Coast, California

Our price 12.99; Saturday only 9.75

Primitivo has certain characteristics that make it unique from other clones of Zinfandel. Mainly it has small berries on a fairly large, loose cluster, is less susceptible to rot than other clones and ripens more uniformly than other Zin clones.
Primitivo is grown primarily in Puglia, Italy. This Primitivo comes from a hillside vineyard in Lake County situated in the North Coast appellation. The vineyards are located in rolling hills and the grapes are planted in well drained soil. The nurturing heat ripens this vineyard just right so that the grape retains its great acidity and flavor for which this varietal is best known. This Primitivo is ruby red, has concentrated strawberry and cranberry flavors and a rich velvety mouth feel.

2006 Daou Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon, Celestus, Paso Robles

Our price 29.99; Saturday only 22.50

Daniel and Georges Daou left their native France to attend UCSD, where they graduated with degrees in electrical and computer engineering. After college, the enterprising brothers formed DAOU Systems, where they developed intranet technologies for hospitals. Highly successful, they turned to their interest in wine which is developing very nicely. The Celestus is a blend of 80% Cabernet, 15% Syrah and 5% Petit Verdot. It was aged in French oak barrels for 16 months. The nose exudes raspberry, red plums, dark cherry, sandalwood, anise, lavender and roses. It is dry with a strong tannin backbone and hints of plum, anise and rose petal. It is multi layered and complex with a long 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

We are continuing our August inventory close-out events offering an opportunity to taste and buy some outstanding wines at an additional 25% discount from already discounted prices. In September, we begin the purchasing of wines and accessories that will be our offering throughout the holidays so clearance of stock on hand is mandatory at this time. These sale prices will be available only on the Saturday on which they are offered, along with some sampling of the wines for your enjoyment. The 25% off discounted pricing will continue for one more week so if you cannot make it this Saturday you will have one more opportunity to pick up some fine wines drastically reduced; not to mention sipping some elegant wines while contemplating your purchases. Please be aware some wines blow out quite early.

2008 Domaine Laurier Chardonnay, Reserve, Sonoma Co.

Our price 6.99; Saturday only 5.25

This is a refreshing and easy drinking Chardonnay showing the true fruit of the varietal. With a bouquet of flowers, fruit and vanilla and a taste of caramelized apple and pear, this Chardonnay will prove a no-brainer when it comes to great bargains. It pairs well with creamy pastas, grilled fish, cheese and poultry.

2007 Wisteria Cellars Chardonnay, California

Our price 8.99; Saturday only 6.75

Wisteria Winery is in the up-and-coming Lodi wine region. Situated between the San Francisco Bay area and the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, Lodi boasts a classic Mediterranean climate, with warm, dry, sunny days and cool, clear evenings. As temperatures rise in the central valley during the day, cool maritime breezes are pulled directly across the Lodi region creating a distinctive climate that has made this an ideal location for growing premium wine grapes. The wine shows the apple fruit that is the hallmark of Chardonnay and has the correct level of acidity which ensures proper balance.

2007 Pine Ridge Chardonnay, Dijon Clones, Carneros

Our price 25.00; Saturday only 18.75

Pine Ridge was one of the first wineries to pair French Dijon clones with Carneros soils, which, in combination with a system of controlled stress, yields intense fruit flavors from smaller berries. The 2007 is bursting with rich tropical and stone fruit aromas of peach, white nectarine and grapefruit interlaced with hints of orange blossom, toasted vanilla and lemon cream. On the palate, juicy citrus, peach and pear fruit perfectly offsets the creamy, silky texture, and accents of toasted brioche, vanilla and lemon curd remaining over the extended finish. It can be held up to 5 years.

2005 La Capilla Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles

Our price 9.99; Saturday only 7.50

This 100% Cabernet Sauvignon wine comes from an excellent vineyard located at an elevation of 1,700 feet. The yields were low (approximately 3 tons per acre) and the berries produced were concentrated. Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon is a dense, full bodied wine and is inky purple-colored built for aging. This wine displays aromas and flavors of cedar, black currants, blueberry and mint. It exhibits a jammy mouth feel with tannins that are silky and well integrated with oak.

2005 Martin Ranch Merlot, Santa Clara Valley

Our price 14.99; Saturday only 11.25

Distinctly displaying Santa Clara Valley terroir, this Merlot shows hints of smoky blackberry and velvety vanilla, and then suggests coffee and chocolate notes before finishing with soft tannins. It was aged 21 months in 50% new and 50% neutral French, Hungarian and American oak. You can enjoy this substantial Merlot with pork, lamb, steak or on its own. Drink now and for the next few years.

2005 Kiamie Wine Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles

Our price 19.99; Saturday only 14.99

Steve Glossner was the winemaker at landmark Paso Robles winery Justin for a number of years. That time included the period during which they received some of their greatest accolades for the proprietary blend Isosceles. This blend of 75% Cab and 25% Cab Franc shows dark plum pudding and gingerbread spice. Dark berry fruit, nutmeg, black pepper and toasty notes define this wine’s mid-palate. The finish has berry and pepper notes with underlying mocha that comes out more prominently as the wine opens up. It does possess firm acidity and medium tannins suggesting you could lay it down for about 5 years. If you like your Cabernet big, bold and full of appealing fruit, snap this one up. GOLD Medal L.A. International Wine & Spirits Competition.

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

Your reward for remaining in the desert through the month of August is an opportunity to taste and buy some outstanding wines at an additional 25% discount from already discounted prices. In September, we begin the purchasing of wines and accessories that will be our offering throughout the holidays. Needless to say, some product clearance has to take place to accommodate additional inventory. Lucky you! These sale prices will be available only on the Saturday on which they are offered, along with some sampling of the wines for your enjoyment. Last week our sale began with California wines which gratifyingly sold out much of the stock offered that day. Do, by all means, join us as this Saturday we feature imported wines.

Kangarilla Road Viognier, Australia

Our price 9.99; Saturday only 7.50

This Viognier from McLaren Vale is true to the variety while remaining dry. It displays an aromatic citrus blossom with hints of light orange peel, together with nuances of light citrus and apricot. The palate is mouth filling with lively zesty citrus flavors combined with subtle honeysuckle. This is a dry style displaying tight acidity, great length of flavor together with integrated mid palate texture coming from the light use of oak.

Sauvion Vouvray, Loire, France

Our price 9.99; Saturday only 7.50

Together with Muscadet, Vouvray is the most popular Loire wine in the USA. It is the perfect introduction to the Loire wines: easy to drink, fresh, soft, and “velvety”. It is grown in Touraine among the hundreds of romantic châteaux. Made from Chenin Blanc, this Vouvray is medium dry, complex, soft and round with honey and acacia on the nose.

Ca’ Del Doge Montepulciano D’Abruzzo, Italy

Our price 7.99; Saturday only 5.99

Montepulciano d’Abruzzo is a type of red wine made from the Montepulciano wine grape in the Abruzzo region of east-central Italy. Up to 10% Sangiovese is permitted to be added to the blend. This is a fruity, dry wine with soft tannins, and as such is often consumed young.

The Goats Do Roam Wine Co. “The Goatfather”, South Africa

Our price 7.99; Saturday only 5.99

Fairview Winery of Paarl makes a series of similar playful wines that primarily are blends. This one is a blend of Barbara, Mourvèdre, Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, Primitivo and Nebbiolo. It is medium-bodied with bright, red fruit tones that feature hints of violets, earth and plum with just a whisper of tannin.

La Carraia Fobiano, Umbria, Italy

Our price 15.99; Saturday only 11.99

This dark, intense and powerful wine should be decanted for about an hour before drinking (or use your Vinturi). It is ripe with nice secondary aromas and flavors of cherry, blackberry and currant fruit on the nose and palate, and with notes of herbs on the nose. It is somewhat dry on the palate, with juicy acidity and fine dry tannins. Overall, it is a full bodied lovely wine that drinks well with food but is a little austere without.

Domecq Viña 25 Cream Sherry, Jerez, Spain

Our price 9.99; Saturday only 7.50

Most Sherries are made from the Palomino Fino grape; that is, until you get to the Cream Sherries. Here, the Pedro Ximénez Grape reigns supreme. It is a rich, aromatic wine, dark mahogany in color with a beautiful amber rim. Made from sun-dried Pedro Ximénez grapes, its voluptuous nose strikes an aromatic balance between raisins and nutty tones. On the palate, Viña 25 is dense, mellow, velvety and generous with a lingering finish. Solera aging softens the sweetness of this Sherry, making it a perfect match for creamy blue cheeses. It is also delicious with coffee, or ice cream, or both.

Saturday, July 31, 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

Aside from rosés, I can think of no better category of wine that would serve the desert dweller more enjoyably. The Prosecco grape is grown primarily in the Veneto area of Italy that is northwest of Venice, near the Alps. Many good Pinot Grigios come from this area also. The wine produced from this grape is light, lightly sparkling, refreshing and versatile. It pairs well with many dishes such as seafood with light pasta sauces and is terrific by itself as an apéritif. It should be drunk quite chilled and, given the intense heat of our summers, served over ice poolside. Prosecco is made using the Charmat method rather than the Champagne method. The wine goes through secondary fermentation in pressurized tanks rather than in individual bottles. The shorter tank fermentation is preferable because it preserves the freshness and flavor of the grapes. The flavor profile is citrus, melon, lemon, honey and almonds (usually in the finish).

Zonin Prosecco

List price 10.00; our price 8.99

This is a very tasty sparkling wine, though without being overly carbonated. The fruit is soft and pear-like and there are just enough sweet elements to remove the acidic edge one gets from Champagne. Besides making an excellent Bellini cocktail, it mixes well with liqueurs such as cream de cassis to form a Kir.

Mionetto Prosecco “IL”

List price 12.99; our price 9.99

The aroma is fruity, reminiscent of pear and citrus with a slightly floral bouquet. The wine is fresh and crisp with apparent apple and peach flavors and contains an alcohol level of only 10.5 percent. This gentle-sparkling wine has garnered a “Best of Tasting” award from the Wall Street Journal and a “Best Buy” recommendation from Wine Enthusiast Magazine.

Villa Sandi Prosecco

List price 14.00; our price 10.99

Villa Sandi is an exquisite Palladian-style villa dating back to 1622, located at the foot of the Marca Trevigiana hills, in the Veneto region and represents the combination of art and agriculture which has characterized the Venetian landscape for centuries. This Prosecco is an ideal accompaniment for a variety of cuisines and courses. Whether served as an apèritif, or at the end of a meal, or any course in between, the natural acidity and fresh taste lightly compliments, but never over-powers, a meal. This elegant sparkler achieves a nice balance between sweet, fruit flavors and lively crispness. Look for peach, pear, jasmine, grapefruit and stone that characterize the fruit with a bit of almond bitterness at the finish.

Lamarca Prosecco

List price 15.00; our price 12.99

This sparkling wine is a pale, golden straw in color. Bubbles are full textured and persistent. On the nose the wine brings fresh citrus with hints of honey and white flowers. The flavor is fresh and clean, with ripe citrus, lemon, green apple, and touches of grapefruit, minerality, and some toast. The finish is light, refreshing, and crisp.

Mionetto Prosecco, Organically Grown Grapes

List price 18.00 our price 14.99

This Organic category Prosecco is made with certified organically-grown grapes. In the vineyard, the grapes are grown without synthetic chemicals and fertilizers. In the cellar, the wine is vinified separately to ensure purity. Reducing the carbon footprint of this wine even further, recycled materials were used for the bottle, label and shipping box. This delightful Prosecco is bright yellow in color. Its perfume of delicate elderflowers leads to an explosion of golden apples on the palate. It weighs in at a mere 11 % alcohol.

Mionetto Prosecco Sergio

List price 24.00; our price 17.99

The blend in this sparkling wine is 70% Prosecco di Valdobbiadene DOC and the other 30% is a blend of Verdiso, Bianchetta and Chardonnay. It honors the traditions of the Veneto winemaking region and the long history of the Mionetto family. Contemporary master vintner Sergio Mionetto produces this wine based on a formula handed down by Francesco Mionetto, who founded the winery. A touch of two old grape varieties, unique to the region, are blended with the area’s finest Prosecco grapes; along with a bit of Chardonnay to add body. The result is a superbly dry, slightly fruity wine with just a hint of acidic crispness. Wine Enthusiast gave the wine a 92 point-rating.

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

Winemaker Christian Tietje founded Four Vines in his garage-with a love of big reds and a desire to make “killer Zins” from old vine Zinfandel grapes of Napa, Sonoma, Amador and Paso Robles. Each of his wines reflects the unique flavors, structure and character imparted by terroir, a reflection of the soil, air, water and surroundings in which the grapes were grown, while also showing the bold, fruit-forward, food-friendly style that would become Christian’s trademark. He moved to Paso Robles to build a winery and planted Tempranillo, Syrah and Mourvedre, to add to his stable of varietals. His stylish reds showcase the best of terroir-based winemaking, while retaining an eclectic approach. These are giant red wines with considerable attitude, intriguing blends and unique marketing geared toward Gen X, Gen Y and those Boomers who think they can keep up. Representing the winery will be Phil Molnar, who will pour and discuss this trove of treasure.

2008 Four Vines Naked Chardonnay

List price 11.50; our price 9.99

Naked Chardonnay was the first no-oak chard introduced in California, inspired by Christian’s love of food and past work as an aspiring chef. Fermented in 100% stainless steel this is crisp, concentrated Chardonnay with all its natural acid. “Naked” exhibits apple, white peach, and pear, finishing long with hints of citrus and mineral.

2007 Four Vines Zinfandel, Old Vine

List price 11.50; our price 9.99

The winery enjoys a great wealth of Zinfandel that and 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 Four Vines Zinfandel, Maverick, Amador

List price 22.00; our price 18.50

Bigness abounds from these dry-farmed, head pruned, old vine vineyards in the Shenandoah Valley. This Sierra Foothill Valley is renowned for its old vine Zin vineyards which produce a wine that is chewy and spicy, rich with blackberry fruit and a hint of velvet vanilla oak. Blended with a touch of Syrah from the Bailey Vineyard, this is a “jam bomb”.

2008 Four Vines Anarchy, Paso Robles

List price 33.50; our price 29.99

Christian’s desire here was to create an unconventional Rhone Blend. The blend is based on Syrah for that velvet mouthfeel and rich fruit, old vine Zin for spice and that brambly backbone, and Mourvedre providing some anise and making the whole blend resonate. There may not be much of the Rhone here, but then who cares?

2008 Four Vines Heretic, Paso Robles

List price 33.50; our price 29.99

There is nothing quite like old vine Petite Sirah: to project big, rich layers of black fruit and spice to heretic levels. You will feel levitated to a sense of unreality from the sweet boysenberry notes that waft from your glass before your first taste, to the rich berry cobbler flavors, carrying you to its distinct ripe blueberry and cardamom finish. Try not to appear disoriented.

2005 Four Vines Zinfandel Port, Paso Robles

List price 25.00; our price 21.99

The grapes for this wine are left on the vine to achieve maximum ripeness. The fermentation process proceeds slowly until it achieves a level of 10 Brix. At this point, 2 year Oak Aged Brandy is added to stop the fermentation, just as it is done in Portugal. The elixir is aged in small French oak barrels for 20 months. The rich, velvety raspberry fruit and spice journey along your sensual excitations to a silky caramel finish. Try it with chocolate and be deliriously decadent.

Saturday, July 17, 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 Lodi appellation is producing some excellent wines at very competitive pricing.  Some of the oldest vineyards in the state are located there and for good reason: the grapes love growing in that rich farmland area.  Although some good white wine grapes are grown there, the emphasis is on red wine and the values that ensue.  Enter Van Ruiten Vineyards.  Shortly after World War II, young Dutch immigrant, John Van Ruiten settled in the Lodi area.  He bought his first farm property and planted Zinfandel.  Five decades later, the Van Ruitens farm over 800 acres of wine grapes, with the winery added just prior to the 2000 harvest.  Although other fine reds are made here, this area is home to some of California’s best wine-especially Old Vine Zinfandels, and in Lodi, Zinfandel is King.  Representing the winery on Saturday will be George Gee, who is always a pleasure to serve as host here.

2008 Van Ruiten Petite Sirah

List price 18.00; our price 15.75

Make an effort to discover the distinct characteristics of this varietal; dark hues, exotic aromas of allspice, plums, and green tea, with flavors of black cherries and ripe plums.  Exhibiting generous tannins and a lengthy finish, this Petite Sirah fruit bomb should benefit from several years of aging.

2007 Van Ruiten Carignane, Ancient Vines

List price 18.00; our price 15.75

Carignane was the most widely planted red varietal in France.  It also is grown in Italy, Spain, Algeria and Israel.  It once was the most planted variety in the new world. Today, only a few of the ancient Carignane vineyards remain in California. Traditionally, Carignane has been used as a blending grape because of its excellent yields, great acidity, and firm tannins.  Van Ruiten Family is one of a few wineries to vinify the varietal on its own.  This wine hails from a 99 year old head trained vineyard.  Only 100 cases were produced from this four acre vineyard.  Its dark ruby color opens to aromas of plum, raspberry, and spice.  The old vine elicits a taste of Lodi terroir; dark blackberry and cherry fruit flavor with a long smooth tannin finish.

2006 Van Ruiten Cabernet Sauvignon

List price 14.00; our price 11.99

This wine won a gold medal with a 94-point rating at the 2008 California State Fair Wine Competition and the best of class, Lodi Appellation, as well.  The deep ruby-garnet hued wine shows ripe, spicy black fruit aromas with a mineral accent.  A firm entry leads a generous, full-bodied palate with ripe tannins and good depth.

2008 Van Ruiten Zinfandel, Glory Days

List price 12.00; our price 8.99

The wine has dark rich color and plenty of minerality, loads of bright, savory, raspberry and black currant fruit, with hints of pepper.  The Glory Days Zin is 87% Zinfandel, 6% Petite Sirah, 5% Carignane (99 year old vines) and 2% Tannat.  The nose is sweet cinnamon spice, red raspberry jam, clove and pepper.  It has jammy rich fruit upfront: tasty raspberry, blackberry, and cherry.  Sweet tannins and a good blueberry finish elevate this rich, deep, balanced Zinfandel.

2008 Van Ruiten Zinfandel, Old Vines

List price 18.00; our price 15.75

This Zinfandel fruit was hand selected from the first vineyard John Van Ruiten planted over 50 years ago and is among the families most prized grapes.  The wine is packed full of blackberry, cherry and blueberry jam with barrel flavors contributing aromas of coffee, cedar, and finishing with anise.  It was voted the Best Zinfandel in America at the 2009 Wall Street Journal Wine Competition.  It received a Double Gold and Best Zinfandel award at the 2009 Lodi International Wine Competition.  Also in 2009, it received gold medals at both the World Wine Championships and the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition. Quite impressive.

2006 Van Ruiten Zinfandel, “Sideways” Reserve

List price 30.00; our price 27.00

This Zin draws primarily from a wide selection of the oldest, most historic and lowest-bearing Zinfandel acreage.  It shows wonderful flavors of dusty raspberry, blackberry, currants and walnut with hints of coffee and chocolate molasses.  Some vanilla from the new French oak barrels compliments the explosive fruit flavors.  It won a gold medal at the 2008 World Wine Championships with a 92 point rating and was designated an “Exceptional” Cellar Selection.

Saturday, July 10, 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 were in Spain four years ago at the time of the world cup and are pleased to see the Spanish team in the finals.  This Saturday we will be pouring the types of wines that Spaniards drink at this time of year as we follow Spain to their destiny.  If you were there you would be drinking Cava, or Albariño, or rosés or medium bodied reds.  We just happen to have such a selection:

n.v. Paul Cheneau Brut Cava

List price 12.00; our price 9.99

Cava was first introduced in 1872 and, by the turn of the century, cava was the wine of choice among the chic patrons of Barcelona’s elegant art nouveau cafes and cava bars.  As a tribute to the fashionable ladies who made cava so popular, Paul Cheneau introduced the “Lady of Spain”.  This blend of Macabeo 45%, Xarello 40% and Parellada 15% has a formation of small bubbles which generate a gentle crown.  It is fine, delicate and very clean, with lightly toasted pastry notes.  Fresh and fruity, it is well structured, crispy, and balanced with a long aftertaste.

2008 Bodegas Martín Códax Burgáns Albariño, Rias Baixas

List price 13.95; our price 12.50

We stock this favorite Spanish white wine year round and vintage after vintage.  Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar rated this wine 89-points: “Light, bright yellow. Lively lemon and lime aromas are complemented by melon, pear and salty minerals. Juicy and focused, offering brisk citrus and orchard fruit flavors and a late note of smoky herbs. Gains sweetness with air and finishes with an appealing note of fresh pineapple.”

2008 El Coto de Rioja Rosé, Rioja

List price 12.95; our price 11.50

El Coto is one of the leading ‘bodegas’ in Spain.  It presently has some 6 million bottles of oak aged red wines enjoying additional aging in its cellars.   The blend in this rosé is Tempranillo 50% and Garnacha 50%.  The wine spent 48 hours macerating in contact with the skins, after which clarification and fermentation took place at a controlled temperature for 15 days in stainless steel vats.  The wine shows a full aroma of strawberry and raspberry flavors with hints of violet petals.  It is full, refreshing, quite dry and…tasty.

2008 ZaZa Rosé, Campo de Borja

List price 9.99; our price 8.99

The grapes for ZaZa were harvested by hand during the second week of October from selected old bush vine fruit.  The fruit was then crushed and destemmed.  Must remained in contact with skins for 24-48 hrs then free run juice was bled to stainless steel fermenters.  Once inoculated, the fermenting juice was transferred to new French and American barrels to complete fermentation.  After fermenting, the wine was transferred “sur lie” back to tank to be stirred with the lees for another 4-6 weeks to integrate flavors and build up mouthfeel, length and complexity.  86 points from Robert Parker:“Sexy dry Rosado from Spain with classic strawberry’s and cream aromas.  Crisp and fruity as an aperitif yet with enough acid and structure to pair with turkey dinner or the weekend picnic.

2005 Solanera Vinas Viejas, Yecla

List price 14.95; our price 9.99

Solanera is a blend of 65% Monastrell, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Tintorera from the warm climate region of Yecla. The bold rich flavors remind one of Cotes-du-Rhone or even Chateauneuf-du-Pape, as there is that same sort of deep tar like concentration, all counter-balanced by a fine, fresh, herbal character.  Fine cracked white pepper and meaty aromatics vie with smoky raspberry and cherry fruit.  It is bone dry, with a glycerin-like boysenberry fruit feel to it.  Gentle tannins arrive late to add structure but this is all about silky, juicy fruit.  91 points and listed as a “Spanish Wine Bargain Under $20″ by Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate; 90 points from Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar.

2007 Las Rocas de San Alejandro, Calatayud

List price 13.00; our price 10.99

This wine is sourced from vineyards ranging in age from 70 to 100 years.  It delivers alluring aromas of spices, minerals, cherry, and black raspberry.  Layered on the palate, it has superb depth, succulent flavors, and a pure, lengthy finish.  It is consistently one of the most pleasurable wines produced in Spain.  90 points from Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate.

Saturday, July 3, 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

Periodically we come back to Argentine wines for the simple reason the element of value looms favorably before us.  We are pouring some very nice whites and reds this Saturday that make uncorking the second bottle affordable.  Mendoza produces over 80% of Argentina’s wines at over 900 wineries throughout the region.  Although Malbec is the major red grape in production, there are other varietals doing well there.  Torrontés is the major white wine grape but again other whites are well received, too.  In the early 1990′s Argentina was exporting only 1% of its harvest, but not until the peso was devalued in 2001 did the export industry take flight.  Argentina’s wine industry has come a long way since then, and we are the better for that.

2009 Crios de Susana Balbo Torrontés, Salta

List price 15.00; our price 9.99

Sourced from 31-year-old vines in Cafayate (where the finest Torrontés grows), it displays a fragrant bouquet of spring flowers, honey, and tropical aromas.  Medium-bodied and dry on the palate, it has ample fruit backed by vibrant acidity leading to a lengthy finish.  Wine Advocate Review rated this wine 90 points: “Enticing aromas that are strikingly similar to Viognier, with hints of peach pit, white pear, flowers, and orange citrus fruit.  On the palate, it has beautiful structure and acidity similar to Sauvignon Blanc along with enticing fruit flavors that keep you coming back for another sip and plenty of body for a wine that shows such delicate aromas and flavors.  Fruity, floral and yet still quite dry, this wine has to be tasted to be believed.”

2008 Alamos Chardonnay, Mendoza

List price 9.99; our price 8.99

Founded by the Catena family in Argentina, Alamos produces terrific value wines year in, year out.  This Chard is no exception.  The wine has a truly fresh flavor profile, and would work as a perfect house white for Chardonnay drinkers, as well as a perfect bridge wine for those who prefer crisper, brighter, Chardonnay while their companions perhaps favor richer, oakier flavors.  It is full-bodied, with red apple and pear fruit filling the mouth, along with some bright yellow stone fruit and just a hint of toffee from brief oak aging adding some richness and texture.

2007 Bodega NQN Picada Blend, Neuquen, Patagonia

List price 10.99; our price 8.95

Argentina’s Bodegas NQN was founded with the notion of producing top-caliber red and white wines from their newly-producing vineyards in Patagonia.  This Cabernet, Merlot, Malbec and Pinot Noir blend is totally unique with a structure and finesse attributable to its unique grape composition.  It shows cherry/berry fruit with a hint of herbaceousness.

2005 Bodega NQN Malma Cabernet Sauvignon, Neuquen, Patagonia

List price 12.00; our price 9.99

Cabernet Sauvignon, like all the great grapes of Bordeaux, has been adopted by Argentinean winemakers, who are producing terrific, accessible, modern styled wines.  The Malma bottling is no exception; big cassis fruit and eucalyptus are the show-stealers here.

2008 Alamos Malbec, Mendoza

List price 9.99; our price 8.99

This wine has good richness, spice and complexity.  It shows subdued yet ripe aromas of blackberry, cassis and licorice, with complimenting suggestions of chocolate, herbs, and leather. It has a plumy fruit on entry, goes ripe and smooth in the middle, with a subtle hint of sweet oak in the finish.  Wine Spectator gave it a 90-point rating.

2007 La Posta Malbec, Mendoza

List price 15.00; our price 9.99

Dark raspberry, bitter chocolate and spice aromas are lifted by a floral element.  It is densely packed and spicy, with a fine-grained texture and a juicy quality to the fruit.  The floral element carries through in the mouth, giving this wine a light touch.  The finish shows firm tannic support.  This is excellent value, considering the price we are offering. Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate and Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar both rated this wine 89 points.

Saturday, June 26, 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

When one thinks of reds from Northern Italy, the obvious districts are Tuscany, Piedmont and Veneto.  Chianti remains the major wine of Tuscany, though “super-Tuscan” blends using Cabernet, Syrah and Merlot grapes are extremely popular.  Of course, the main grape here will forever be the Sangiovese, and, for Brunello, the Sangiovese Grosso.  In Piedmont, the red grape required in Barolo and Bararesco is Nebbiolo, though Barbera gets a lot of play.  The Veneto gives us Valpolicella and Amarone from mostly the Corvina grape which is blended with Molinara and Rondinella. Finishing up our event will be the Muscat dessert wine from Chiarlo of Piedmont, whose Barbera will begin our line-up.

2006 Michele Chiarlo Barbera d’Asti, Piemonte

List price 15.00; our price 12.95

Although the Barbera vine is believed to have originated in the Monferrato area from a spontaneous cross of seeds from ancient vines, it is generally agreed that the area producing the best Barbera wines is that of Asti.  It accounts for 52 percent of the region’s acreage under vine, and nearly half the total annual production of red wine. Pure, ripe plum and strawberry fruit flavors underscored by a crisp acidic note and a hint of earth mark this charming, succulent wine, set in a supple texture supported by sweet, soft tannins.

2006 Masi Campofiorin Rosso Del Veronese

List price 16.00; our price 13.99

The Boscaini family has owned and operated the Masi Company for six generations. This Ripasso style wine is a form of Valpolicella Superiore that is fermented, and, at the end of November mixed with the addition of 30% of lightly dried Corvina grapes (previously crushed for Amarone).  This provokes an immediate second fermentation which lasts 15 days. The malolactic takes place as well.  This process enriches the wine in alcohol, in color and in tannins, as well as giving it new and more complex aromas and flavors.  The excellent structure shows quickly on the contrasting berry fruits and vanilla nose.  Rich, baked fruit flavors on the palate are supported by good acidity and balanced with soft, well integrated tannins. It has a long, velvety finish with hints of cocoa.  The blend is 80% Corvina and 20% Rondinella.

2007 Villa Nozzole Chianti Classico, Toscano

List price 21.00; our price 18.95

Ambrogio Folonari and his son Giovanni purchased the Nozzole estate in 1971. Situated north of the village of Greve in Chianti, the Nozzole estate now grows Cabernet, Merlot and Chardonnay as well as their highly esteemed Sangiovese.  Besides the two wonderful Chiantis, Giovanni produces excellent super Tuscans and a fine Chardonnay.  This blend of 95% Sangiovese and 5% Merlot along with 18 months of barrel aging combine to make Villa Nozzole a ripe “New World” fruit forward style of Chianti Classico.  It has a bouquet of ripened fruits, chocolate and vanilla notes. Showing similar flavors it is full bodied with soft tannins and a persistent finish.  It complements meat, poultry and cheeses.

2005 Nozzole Chianti Classico Riserva, Toscano

List price 24.00; our price 21.99

This Riserva shows crisp, ripe red berry and cherry fruit flavors and aromas sustained by a fresh, acidic note offset by classic Sangiovese notes of earth, mushrooms and leather,.  It is a plump, modern styled Chianti with a medium body, an elegant tannic backbone and a clean fruity finish.

2006 Masi Amarone Classico Costasera, Rosso Del Veronese

List price 57.95; our price 49.99

The blend is 70% Corvina, 25% Rondinella and 5% Molinara.  There is a strong bouquet of baked fruit, plums and cherries, which provide the fruit flavors on the palate, accompanied by attractive hints of coffee and cocoa.  An intriguing softness is the result of the excellent balance between supporting acidity and soft tannins.  Imposing structure and good alcoholic level gives this Amarone an attractively long finish.  Wine Spectator gives this wine a 91-point rating.

2009 Michele Chiarlo Nivole Moscato, Piemonte

List price 14.00; our price 11.99

The Moscato Bianco grape is an extremely ancient one, the origins of which are not precisely known.  Wines from this grape were first developed as still wines in the 17th century under the patronage of the House of Savoy, when refined methods of cultivating and vinifying this difficult variety were discovered.  The cool, steep Langhe hillsides of Asti and Cuneo, near the town of Canelli, remain the principal center of production for Moscato d’Asti (hence, the alternate name, Moscato di Canelli).  Exuberant aromas of tropical fruit and honeysuckle blossoms mark this fresh, lightly sparkling wine and carry into a palate of ripe melon and mango flavors finishing on a delicate sweet note underscored by bright acidity.