​Saturday, June 11, 2016
4:00 to 5:30 pm

$10.00 per customer
$5.00 will be credited towards purchase of wines below

Home of: www.WineAndSpiritGifts.com
611 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Suite #22, Palm Springs, 92264
760-327-7701, 800-925-0030
facebook.com/DesertWinesAndSpirits

Sauvignon Blanc is a very versatile wine and a good alternative to Chardonnay. The latter wine displays an apply character while the former can range from grass to grapefruit, depending on climate. Grown in a cool climate, SB displays crisp acid and vegetal notes, but in a warm climate the flavor profile can go to grapefruit and even some tropical fruit flavors. In the case of New Zealand you have to throw in gooseberries, too. We will finish the tasting with a world class Sauvignon Blanc from France: Sauternes of Bordeaux.

2014 Root 1 Sauvignon Blanc, Casablanca Valley, Chile

LIST PRICE 12.00; OUR PRICE 9.99
The wine starts with a bright citrus bouquet and juicy tropical aromas. In the mouth, lime, grapefruit, pineapple and pear flavors are vibrant and fresh. Smooth mineral notes and a hint of herbs create complexity for this crisp and delightful wine. Try pairing with cerviche, grilled shrimp or pork loin. Also match with a fresh salad, grilled vegetables, or roasted lemon chicken.

2014 Domaine de la Coche Sauvignon, Vin de Pays, France

LIST PRICE 17.00; OUR PRICE 14.99
Aromatic, fruity, subtle aromas of citrus, lemon and exotic fruits mix with light flinty and earthy character. In the mouth there are light notes of white flowers, lemon, and minerals. It’s structured body and long persistence goes well with fish terrine, seafood, shellfish, smoked fish and with goat cheeses.

2014 Trinchero Sauvignon Blanc, Mary’s Vineyard, Napa Valley

LIST PRICE 20.00; OUR PRICE 17.00
The distinct terroir of this vineyard north of Calistoga produces Sauvignon Blanc with intensity and structure, and ripe, exotic flavors coupled with crisp, palate cleansing acidity. This wine will evolve after a few years to a creamier state.

2013 Charles Smith Sauvignon Blanc Super Substance, Washington

LIST PRICE 24.00; OUR PRICE 20.99
Super Substance Sauvignon Blanc is made in the “Loire style” (Sancerre and Pouilly Fume), with bright pineapple citrus notes. Try with oysters and shell-on prawns, fresh crab or simply grilled fish.

2015 Nobilo Icon Sauvignon Blanc,Marlborough, New Zealand

LIST PRICE 20.00; OUR PRICE 17.99
This is a rich, complex, full bodied wine with a striking bouquet of passion fruit & gooseberries. Opulent tropical fruit flavors are complemented by herbal and mineral characters leading to a persistent finish. This wine will pair well with pan-seared fish, and especially with fresh asparagus.

2001 Chateau de Rayne Vigneau Sauternes, Bordeaux, France

LIST PRICE 45.00; OUR PRICE 39.99
​This desert wine is aging to a golden hue with, perfume aromas, sweet, lush, pineapple flavors with a creamy, thick texture. It has an intense, full style and received an average 90 points from Wine Spectator: “Fresh and lively, with honey, pineapple and apple character. Medium, full-bodied. Medium sweetness & a medium finish.”

​Saturday, September 5, 2015
4:00 to 5:30 pm

$10.00 per customer
$5.00 will be credited towards purchase of wines below

Home of: www.WineAndSpiritGifts.com
611 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Suite #22, Palm Springs, 92264
760-327-7701, 800-925-0030
facebook.com/DesertWinesAndSpirits

If you know the wines of the Rhone district of France, then you are acquainted with Syrah, though as one of the grapes blended into the wines of Côtes Rotie, Hermitage, and Chateauneuf-du-Pape. Elsewhere around the world, the grape is treated as a separate varietal and bottled as such. Australia likes to do it both ways producing Shiraz and Shiraz blends, examples of which are included here along with those of other countries.

2012 Buenas Ondas Syrah, Argentina

LIST PRICE 12.00; OUR PRICE 9.99
This organic wine opens with a wonderful nose of red fruits, especially raspberry which is typical of Syrah. On the palate it exhibits violet flowers, with vanilla notes and chocolate, and offers some complexity. It has a full entry with round tannins and a long finish of vanilla, chocolate and red fruits. Pair with BBQ and spicy dishes.

2013 Pircas Negras Shiraz, Argentina

LIST PRICE 14.00; OUR PRICE 10.99
This Shiraz is features a complex bouquet of spices and floral violet aromas complemented by background hints of raspberries and blackberries. It is 100% Shiraz varietal of certified organic production. Pairing suggestions: Braised beef or duck with wild rice.

2012 Hardys Nottage Hill Shiraz, SE Australia

LIST PRICE 12.99; OUR PRICE 10.99
The Nottage Hill Shiraz is a rich, full-bodied wine with varietal flavors of blackcurrant, chocolate and spice, complemented by fine oak and a long full-delivery finish. The Critics Challenge Wine Competition awarded the 2012 Critics Gold and the San Francisco International Wine Competition awarded the 2012 vintage Silver.

2011 Penfolds Bin 8 Cabernet/Shiraz, South Australia

LIST PRICE 22.00; OUR PRICE 19.99
There is real Cabernet character here with cedar notes but also a slightly fleshier more exuberant feel on the palate from the Shiraz component. They work together very well in this stunning little wine which received 92 points from James Suckling, and 90 points from Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate. The Shiraz comes across typically Australian style: flamboyant and chocolaty, the Cabernet adds leafy notes. There’s a little dark olive and plenty of dark fruit flavors on the palate, along with good depth and ripeness. It is succulent and rich, quite silky and even, showing plums and spice, deep red and purple fruit flavors, and some oak on the finish.

2011 MontGras Antu Ninguen Syrah, Chile

LIST PRICE 20.00; OUR PRICE 9.99
The MontGras is quite spicy, with notes of black and white pepper mingling with leather, clove and ripe black fruit, all supported by oak. It is full-bodied, harmonious and expressive. Intense fruit, along with mellow tannins and a structured mid-palate, lead to a long finish. Great price for this award winning wine! (While supply lasts)

2012 Michael David Sixth Sense Syrah, Lodi, US

LIST PRICE 16.99; OUR PRICE 14.99
​91-point rating from Wine Enthusiast: “Editors’ Choice. Richness (of both flavor and texture) marks this deeply colored, full-bodied Syrah. Aromas of ripe blackberry and licorice coupled with flavors of clove and blackberry jam make it luscious yet not overly big. It has the firm tannins and good balance for aging through 2019.”

​Saturday, August 1, 2015; 4:00 to 5:30 pm

$10.00 per customer
$5.00 will be credited towards purchase of wines below

Home of: www.WineAndSpiritGifts.com
611 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Suite #22, Palm Springs, 92264
760-327-7701, 800-925-0030
facebook.com/DesertWinesAndSpirits

Chile has climate conditions that are ideal for the growing of quality wine grapes. Hot summers, coastal cooling breezes, and moderate rainfall, mirror the perfect conditions we enjoy in the northern hemisphere. The northernmost region is the Valle de Elqui, where Pisco is also distilled. In the center of Chile lies the Valle del Maipo, very close to Santiago. Valle de Curicó, to the south, is Chile’s largest producing zone of Sauvignon Blanc. Further to the south, is the Valle del Maule, Chile’s largest wine region. Newer vineyards here are planted with noble varieties to produce unique and complex red wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Carmenérè. These are the areas we are visiting this Saturday. Quantities are limited.

2014 La Playa Sauvignon Blanc, Valle de Curicó

LIST PRICE 8.00; OUR PRICE 6.99
Look for aromas of peach, passion fruit, orange blossom, and lemongrass. The wine has a soft, dry light-to-medium body and a smooth, medium length, peach, mango, yellow watermelon, and lemon finish. Opulent tropical aroma and flavors round out to a silky finish.

2013 Cono Sur Savignon Blanc, Valle Central

LIST PRICE 10.00; OUR PRICE 8.99
This fresh Sauvignon Blanc has citric aromas, along with green apple and herbal notes. The apple and grapefruit notes finish with a pleasant minerality. With a juicy, fresh and balanced palate, it’s the perfect wine for pairing with seafood, chicken, spices, cheeses and vegetables.

2012 Mayu Pedro Ximenez, Valle de Elqui

LIST PRICE 14.00; OUR PRICE 12.75
Pedro Ximenez is the grape of Southern Spain that is used to make the great cream sherry dessert wines. In Chile, Mayu uses it to produce a stylish white wine that offers appealing floral and fruit aromas, with flavors balanced by fresh acidity, minerality and a long finish. It can be served with a range of foods, especially shellfish and other seafood.

2013 Calina Cabernet Sauvignon, Reserva, Valle del Maule

LIST PRICE 12.00; OUR PRICE 9.99
This wine gives you a good idea of the expression of the Maule terroir. Dark red in color, it features ripe blackberries, cedar, spice, vanilla and cola in the nose. A lush mid palate is backed up by firm tannins and a long finish. The blend is 92% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc, 2% Merlot and 1% Petit Verdot.

2011 Nuevo Mundo Carmenérè, Valle del Maipo

LIST PRICE 17.50; OUR PRICE 14.95
The De Martino family produces this wonderful Carmenérè from organically grown grapes and fully certified Carbon Neutral Products. As one of Chile’s premium wine producers, they are leaders and pioneers in organic and sustainable farming. This wine shows expansive red fruits and spice that go long in the mouth. It is well balanced with oak and acid. Serve it with cheeses and meats.

2012 Mayu Carmenérè-Syrah, Valle de Elqui

LIST PRICE 18.00; OUR PRICE 15.50
​The Incas gave the name Mayu to the river of stars in the Milky Way. Made in a style similar to old world Italian, this is a very fruit driven wine that is juicy, not jammy, with a nice dark color and a perfect balance of body, soft tannins and oak character. Look for ripe blackberry and plum fruits with a touch of vanilla and spice. Pair with grilled meats and Mediterranean dishes.

​Saturday, February 28, 2015
4:00 to 5:30 pm

$10.00 per customer
$5.00 will be credited towards purchase of wines below

Home of: www.WineAndSpiritGifts.com
611 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Suite #22, Palm Springs, 92264
760-327-7701, 800-925-0030
facebook.com/DesertWinesAndSpirits

Spanish reds, and whites for that matter, represent great value considering the degree of quality at what one has to say are amazing prices. Just to set the palate, we will start with a soft and gentle sparkling wine from the Southeast of Spain (near Valencia). The reds represent 3 great wine producing regions of Spain.

Bodegas Iranzo Tarantas Sparkling White, Urtiel-Requena

LIST PRICE 12.00; OUR PRICE 9.99
The great merits of sparkling wines are the ability to cleanse the palate and to match up against a wide variety of foods. In this version there is a citric tartness that proves to be a great foil for seafood and even fried foods. Since 1994, Bodegas Iranzo has produced wine exclusively from organically grown grapes; it is one of the first bodegas in Spain to be certified organic by the EU and to receive USDA National Organic Program certification. Our supply on hand is limited.

2008 Bodegas Ladrero Senorio Di Valdesneros Roble,
Castile and León

LIST PRICE 14.00; OUR PRICE 10.99
This 100% Tempranillo was aged for 6 months in American and French oak, then bottled and allowed to rest. The short time spent in wood, which makes the wine a “roble”, allows for red and black fruit to dominate the nose. Carrying through to the palate, the wine shows a long, round and velvety character.

2012 Las Rocas Red Blend, “El Renegado”, Calatayud

LIST PRICE 13.00; OUR PRICE 10.99
Founded in 1962 as a growers’ co-operative, Bodegas San Alejandro (BSA) is located in the tiny town of Miedes, about 55 miles north of Madrid in the province of Zaragoza. This Las Rocas expression is primarily Garnacha, with Tempranillo and Syrah. The nose is rich and multilayered, with lots of dark fruit scents, blackberries, dark plums, meshed with a hint of licorice, earth, some floral character, and a bit of peppercorn. Black fruits dominate on the palate but are balanced with good acidity.

2012 Las Rocas Garnacha, Calatayud

LIST PRICE 13.00; OUR PRICE 10.99
Yet another lovely wine from the co-operative, this Grenache has a spicy and rich cranberry bouquet. Dark cherry flavors are highlighted by excellent structure and depth; all supported by elegant oak. The wine is round and full in the mouth, with supple tannins and a fruit-filled finish.

2010 Marqués de Cáceres Crianza, Rioja

LIST PRICE15.00; OUR PRICE 12.99
Fresh notes of red berries on the nose are enriched by an addition of vanilla and sweet spice. The wine is clean and lively in the mouth with ripe tannins that add to the balanced structure. It is fleshy in the mouth with delicious flavors: a perfect accompaniment to Mediterranean cuisine. The blend is 85% Tempranillo and15% between Garnacha and Graciano.

2009 Marqués de Cáceres Reserva, Rioja

LIST PRICE 24.00; OUR PRICE 19.99
​The dark colored 2009 Reserva reveals slightly more depth and richness along with sweet red and black currant, herb, licorice and toast notes in the nose. Already drinking well, this fully mature 2009 is best consumed over the next 2–3 years.

Saturday, October 12, 2013
4:00 to 5:30 pm

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

Home of: www.WineAndSpiritGifts.com
611 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Suite #1, Palm Springs, 92264
760-327-7701, 800-925-0030
facebook.com/DesertWinesAndSpirits

This Saturday we are taking a virtual tour of wine countries that lie south of the equator. You will be welcomed with a sparkler from Argentina and proceed with two whites from New Zealand and South Africa, then finish with three reds from Argentina, Chile and Australia. All of the wines selected are differing varietals, just to make it interesting. The many micro-climates tend to mirror those of the northern latitudes, yet the styles vary considerably, as you will experience.

Pascual Toso Brut Sparkling Wine, Argentina

LIST PRICE 11.00; OUR PRICE 9.99
The yeasts used for this 100% Chardonnay sparkler integrate perfectly well with the varietal properties of the base wine, providing a delicate harmony. Pleasant, fresh and velvety in the mouth, this drinks so very easily. It is ideal for parties, especially backyard BBQs that feature Argentine style grilled meat!

2012 Babich Sauvignon Blanc, Black Label, Marlborough, New Zealand

LIST PRICE 12.99; OUR PRICE 10.99
Family owned and operated Babich Wines was founded in 1916 by Croatian immigrant Josip Babich. This wine was developed to complement food and, while displaying the pungent and crisp characteristics that set Marlborough sourced fruit apart, shows great depth and complexity on the palate. The bouquet overflows with ripe gooseberry and red current aromas. The palate is big with an explosive array of fruit salad and red currants, which follow through from the nose and join with zesty lemon & lime – all complemented by elegant mineral notes. It is dry and crisp, yet generous and beautifully textured, and proceeds to a great length.

2010 De Zoete Inval Chardonnay, Paarl, South Africa

LIST PRICE 12.00; OUR PRICE 9.99
De Zoete Inval, which means “a sweet falling” is a family winery located at the base of the Paarl valley on the banks of the Berg River in southern Paarl. The winery produces an easy to drink Chardonnay that features citrus and melon fruit. It is subtly oaked for added complexity and pairs well with light to medium flavored seafood dishes.

2011 Kaiken Cabernet Sauvignon, Reserva, Mendoza, Argentina

LIST PRICE 11.50; OUR PRICE 9.99
On the nose, this wine features good complexity where the Cabernet spiciness blends perfectly with mature fruit allowing plum and cherry aromas to stand out. Its oak ageing contributes by adding complexity to the wine. In the mouth it’s a full wine of subtle tannins. It has a long finish, where fruit flavors dominate and blend well with the sweet notes provided by the oak ageing.

2009 Montes Alpha Merlot, Colchagua Valley, Chile

LIST PRICE 22.00; OUR PRICE 19.99
On the nose this Merlot presents aromas of red berries, especially of strawberries and cherries, accompanied by interesting violet notes. All this is perfectly blended with the coffee, tobacco and vanilla flavors, the result of its twelve months of oak aging. On the palate it’s a full-bodied wine, rich yet fresh and very soft-textured, with delicious plummy fruit flavors, dark berry fruit, chocolate notes and soft, elegant tannins. It has wine excellent finesse with a long, smooth and pleasant finish.

2010 d’Arenberg Shiraz, “The Footbolt”, McLaren Vale, Australia

LIST PRICE 19.95; OUR PRICE 17.99
​Wine & Spirits Magazine gives this wine a 91-point rating: “Chester Osborn named this flagship shiraz after the racehorse his great grandfather sold to buy the vineyards that established d’Arenberg—now ranging over 1,200 acres of vines in McLaren Vale. The wine is meaty, along with plenty of cracked black peppercorn spice and violet florals. Completely wrapped in tannins, this is austere and savory, needing time to mellow. It is an intense young Shiraz and a great buy.”

Saturday, March 16, 2013
4:00 to 5:30 pm

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

Home of: www.WineAndSpiritGifts.com
611 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Suite #1, Palm Springs, 92264
760-327-7701, 800-925-0030
facebook.com/DesertWinesAndSpirits

Montes is located in the Colchagua area of the Rapel Valley, super prime grape growing land. It was founded in 1987 and became one of the first wineries to exploit the hillsides to make premium Chilean wine. It was also the first winery to cultivate Syrah in Colchagua. The design of the winery is built around the gravity transfer system that is becoming increasingly popular. The newly fermented wine is not pumped but simply flows down to the next level where it enters barrels. The entry-level wines are a perfect introduction to Chilean wine and at very good prices, while the premium bottles offer wines that should repay dividends with additional time in the cellar. Next event: Seghesio Winery on April 13.

2010 Montes Alpha Chardonnay, Special Cuvée, Casablanca Valley

LIST PRICE 22.00; OUR PRICE 19.99
Like many in South America, Montes is decreasing the amount of oak in the wines while lifting the malolactic: 40% of the wine undergoes secondary ‘malolactic fermentation’ to enhance buttery flavors. A monthly stirring of the wine (batonage) enhances flavor and aroma complexity. On the nose the wine is powerful, showcasing the wonderful character of its premium cool-climate Casablanca grapes. Banana, pineapple, yellow melon and tropical fruits become evident on the mouth, accompanied by a fine acidity and well integrated French oak that adds a touch of elegance to this ripe and rich wine without covering its flavors.

2009 Montes Alpha Merlot

LIST PRICE 22.00; OUR PRICE 19.99
This wine has an outstanding nose of red berries, black cherry and black pepper, with hints of tobacco. These elements come through on the palate, revealing a full-bodied wine. The mid-palate is round and velvety, with an added touch of vanilla and toast, followed by a long and smooth finish. The styling is very elegant.

2011 Montes Cabernet Sauvignon, Classic Series

LIST PRICE 12.00; OUR PRICE 9.99
This Cabernet is blended with 15% Merlot and offers a black currant, vanilla and violet bouquet. The palate is medium-bodied with succulent tannin, crisp raspberry and dark cherry fruit, zesty acidity and lovely focus on the finish. At this price, it would be hard to find a better Cabernet. It received a 90-point rating from Parker’s Wine Advocate.

2011 Montes Twins

LIST PRICE 14.95; OUR PRICE 12.99
The wine is young, yet there is considerable power in this wine. The perfect harmony between the aromas of red fruits from Cabernet Sauvignon and the hint of plums from Malbec makes this wine very elegant and attractive. Sweet, fresh and firm tannins from Cabernet Sauvignon combine very nicely with the velvety and smooth body from Malbec.

2010 Montes Alpha Malbec

LIST PRICE 22.00; OUR PRICE 19.99
The blend in this wine is 90% Malbec and10% Cabernet Sauvignon. This wonderful blend received a 92-point rating from The Wine advocate: “The 2010 Montes Alpha Malbec is the debut offering in the Alpha range and the fruit is sourced from both the original vineyards in Colchagua and their coastal vineyards. The nose is clean and pure with scents of raspberry, cedar, tobacco and clay-like aromas. It is understated and attractive. The palate is medium-bodied with fine grainy tannins, crisp acidity and fine delineation. There is something Old World about this Malbec, but it has that elusive quality of personality and there is great vibrancy and tension on the finish. This forms a commendable debut.”

2010 Montes Alpha Syrah

LIST PRICE 22.00; OUR PRICE 19.99
​This wine has enchanting floral aromas accompanied by tobacco and leathery notes. It is powerful and full bodied on the palate, with soft and mature tannins and a very long and elegant finish. The blend includes 90% Syrah, 7% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3% Viognier. The Wine Advocate gives it 90 Points: It has a reticent nose that unfurls to reveal copious blueberry and cassis fruit laced with vanilla. The palate is full-bodied with a layer of creamy oak smeared over the spicy black fruit on the entry, though it shows good weight towards the powerful finish. Drink 2013-2020.”

Saturday, February 9, 2013
4:00 to 5:30 pm

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

Home of: http://ww.WineAndSpiritGifts.com
611 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Suite #1, Palm Springs, 92264
760-327-7701, 800-925-0030
facebook.com/DesertWinesAndSpirits

Argentina and Chile continue to amaze with the quality level offered for the price asked. Many new arrivals from the southern hemisphere are on our racks now and are begging to be experienced. This is what we will attend to this Saturday. The offering will consist of Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon and Carmenère.

2012 Astica Malbec, Cuyo, Argentina

LIST PRICE 9.99; OUR PRICE 6.99
This Malbec, Argentina’s signature red grape, is made from completely handpicked fruit from the Cuyo Region. It opens with aromas of violets and raspberries, which carries into the full, round palate with lots of sweet fruit. It definitely has a red fruit core with floral violet nuances about the edges.

2012 Elsa Bianchi Malbec, Mendoza, Argentina

LIST PRICE 11.50; OUR PRICE 9.99
The Elsa Malbec comes from Valentin Bianchi’s Doña Elsa estate in the cool reaches of San Rafael, Mendoza. With just a kiss of French oak, the rich fruit dominates this easy-drinking red, which has easy to deal with tannins. The flavor profile consists of ripe plums and violets, with a hint of vanilla. The 2011 release garnered 90 points from Robert Parker and a ‘Best Buy’ designation from Wine Enthusiast, and the new release of this consistently delicious and affordable single vineyard Malbec doesn’t skip a beat!

2011 Pascual Toso Malbec, Mendoza, Argentina

LIST PRICE 12.00; OUR PRICE 10.99
Robert Parkers gives this wine 89 points: “The 2011 Malbec comes from Barrancas in the Maipu District of Mendoza from vines located at 700 meters above sea level. It is fermented in stainless steel and thereafter 40% of the wine is aged in new American oak casks. It has a pure natural nose that expresses the essence of Malbec: lifted raspberry leaf and wild strawberry scents with traces of dried rose petal. It is medium-bodied with supple, fine tannins and great purity. It glides across the mouth with those raspberry and strawberry notes continuing, joined by a taut citric edge and a slight leafiness towards the composed finish. This is pure class for a fabulous price. Drink now.”

2011 Montes Twins Malbec/Cabernet, Colchagua Valley, Chile

LIST PRICE 14.95; OUR PRICE 12.99
This young wine displays considerable power. There is perfect harmony between the aromas of red fruits from Cabernet Sauvignon and the hint of plums from Malbec making this wine very elegant and attractive. Sweet, fresh and firm tannins from Cabernet Sauvignon combine very nicely with the velvety and smooth body from Malbec. It is quite seductive.

2008 Famiglia Bianchi Cabernet Sauvignon, Mendoza, Argentina

LIST PRICE 20.00; OUR PRICE 17.99
A classic Cabernet Sauvignon that can compete with the best from around the world, this wine has a deep red/purple color and an enjoyable, complex nose that is reminiscent of berries, spice, cedar, chocolate and much more. This essence carries through to the palate, delivering rich, full texture and berry-spicy-cedar flavors. It is a well-balanced wine with a lingering, pleasing finish. The blend is 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Merlot and 4% Petite Verdot. It received 90 points from Parker’s Wine Advocate.

2009 Carmen Carmenère, Gran Reserva, Colchagua, Chile

LIST PRICE 17.50; OUR PRICE 14.50
​This amazing Carmenère begins with aromas of dark fruit, plum and lots of spice plus a little vanilla and smoke. The wine tastes of smoky fruit (primarily blackberry) and dense spice featuring prominent tannins and lots of oak. The wine is medium-full bodied and finishes with smoky, cedar box notes.

Saturday, July 7, 2012

4:00 to 5:30 pm

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

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

For most of the 20th century, Cabernet remained the world’s most widely planted premium red wine grape until it was surpassed by Merlot in the 1990s. As a variety, it has been around only since the 17th century. Scientists have concluded that this is the product of a chance crossing between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc probably in the Bordeaux region. It is grown in most of the world’s viticultural areas mostly due to the hardiness of the thick skinned grape and its resilient vines. Of course, there is Cabernet and there is…other Cabernet. It can be made in the fruity rosé style that will begin our tasting event, yet in many manifestations up to and including magnificently majestic.

2011 Mulderbosch Cabernet Sauvignon Rosé, South Africa
LIST PRICE 11.00; OUR PRICE 9.99
To achieve the desired color on the free run juice, the grapes were cold-macerated. After settling in tank, the juice was racked and inoculated with yeast cultures for fermentation. After fermentation the wine underwent lees contact, a light fining and filtration before bottling. The wine shows a lovely, bright and clear pomegranate color and has complex layers of strawberry, cherry, roses and fresh peaches on the nose. It has a nice, spicy and slightly peppery taste on the palate and is well balanced with a fresh long aftertaste.

2008 Flinders Run Shiraz Cabernet “Little Flinders”, Australia
LIST PRICE 16.00; OUR PRICE 9.99
This very nice wine received 89 points from Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar “A complex bouquet displays scents of raspberry, kirsch, blood orange and dried flowers. Juicy and incisive, offering lively red and dark berry flavors and good spicy cut. The blood orange note repeats on the finish, which is very precise and quite persistent. It received another 89 points from Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate: “this is a blend of 60% Shiraz and 40% Cabernet Sauvignon aged in oak for 18 months. Purple in color, this full-bodied wine has an excellent nose of spice box, violets, black cherry, and blueberry. Dense and surprisingly rich for its modest price, it is not complicated but offers plenty of enjoyment. This wine is unfined, unfiltered and uncentrifuged, so it is best to decant from the sediment or pour carefully.

2009 Ghost Pines Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma, Napa & Lake Co.
LIST PRICE 20.00; OUR PRICE 16.99
Lake County (12%) contributed ripe fruit and a generous mouthfeel and viscosity to the overall blend. Sonoma County vineyards (48%) supplied jammy dark fruits, and Napa County vineyards (40%) established the foundation for structure and density to support Sonoma County’s fruit forward characteristics. The wine displays aromas and flavors of plums and blackberries, with layered notes of mocha, toasted pound cake and roasted nuts. It has good complexity and an aging potential up to 3 years for maximum enjoyment.

2004 Broman Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa
LIST PRICE 32.99; OUR PRICE 19.99
The blend consists of 40 per cent Cabernet Sauvignon from the gravelly Dr. Crane Vineyard in Saint Helena and 60 per cent Cabernet from the gently sloping Georges III vineyard in eastern Rutherford. This wine was aged in French oak for 30 months. It is nice now, with fully resolved tannins making the wine softly creamy in the mouth. The fruit is beginning to fall out, leaving a dry herbaceousness to the departing blackberries and cherries, which are fusing with the sweet vanillins of the oak. Shows real elegance of structure, but should be consumed in the near future. Great buy.

2008 Santa Carolina Cabernet Sauvignon, Reserva, Chile
LIST PRICE 20.00; OUR PRICE 18.50
​This Cab offers prominent cherry and blueberries aromas with soft hints of chocolate and toffee. On the palate, the wine is concentrated and perfectly balanced with soft, ripe and velvety tannins. Lovely flavors of dark fruits mix with notes of coffee, smoke and truffles. The final is long and lingering. It received 91 points from Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate.

2006 Tait Cabernet Sauvignon, Basket Pressed, Barossa Valley
LIST PRICE 32.95; OUR PRICE 25.00
Rating: Robert Parker: 90 Points: “The 2006 Basket Pressed Cabernet Sauvignon was aged for 15 months in 10% new French oak and the balance seasoned American oak. It is purple/black in color with an enticing bouquet of toast, scorched earth, black currant, and blackberry liqueur. On the palate, this behemoth is full-bodied (16.3% alcohol), layered, corpulent, and mouth-filling. It lacks complexity but not flavor and should drink well for another six years.”

Saturday, May 26, 2012

4:00 to 5:30 pm

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

Home of: www.WineAndSpiritGifts.com
611 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Suite #1, Palm Springs, 92264
760-327-7701, 800-925-0030
facebook.com/DesertWinesAndSpirits

We are following up last week’s selection of bargain California wines with an equally fine selection of imported wines that stretch the dollar and appease the appetite for cheerful tasty wines in the $10.00 range. We carefully choose all our wines with equal attention being paid to this category. Join us for a fun afternoon soirée dedicated to the pursuit of wine excellence, or just stop by and drink some wine.

2010 Mulderbosch Chenin Blanc, South Africa
List price 14.00; our price 11.99
Abundant citrus and tropical fruit aromas follow through on the lively palate of this alluring Chenin Blanc. It’s packed with luscious, mouthwatering flavors of pear, pineapple, lychee, lemon, and lime as well as delicate floral and spice nuances resulting from the light oak treatment. A touch of late harvest Chenin Blanc adds considerable richness and complexity. Serve with shell fish, crab and any of the white fish, as well as poultry dishes.

2010 Bodegas Castaño Macabeo/Chardonnay, Yecla, Spain
List price 11.00; our price 9.99
Chardonnay is a relative newcomer to Spanish viticulture, whereas Viura, also known as Macabeo, has been grown in Spain for centuries and has a long tradition in various white-wine blends and Cavas. The wine is clean and delicate on the nose with aromas of white and tropical fruit (apples and pineapple), but also smoked notes. In the mouth, it is silky, round, well structured and long. The blend here is 50% Macabeo and 50% Chardonnay with the latter seeing 50 days of aging on wood. Try this wine with darker fish or preparations in red sauce and the same with chicken.

2010 P.K.N.T. Carmenère, Silver Collection, Chile
List price 7.00; our price 5.99
This is a unique and cheerful Chilean wine that is almost black in color, showing hints of exotic spices and a long velvety finish. The blueberry-like fruit plays well against the spices and culminates with a hint of chocolate. This is the ideal wine to serve with Tex-Mex or spicy foods, or with burgers or other barbeque fare, as well.

2006 Domaine de la Saint Jeante Corbières, France
List price 9.50; our price 7.99
This is a very nice blend from Corbières in the Languedoc of 50 % old vine Carignane, 30 % Grenache and 20 % Mourvèdre. The hue is of a deep ruby. The nose is expressive, with smells of black fruits and spices. The mouth is medium bodied and dry, with tasty spices and with a good structure. It goes well with a good southwestern cassoulet.

2010 Barone Fini Merlot, Trentino, Italy
List price 10.00; our price 8.99
The Barone Fini family wine making history goes back six centuries and today is done in the most modern style. All of their wines are entirely grown and produced in the Trentino-Alto Adige region of Northern Italy and their hillside vineyards average 25 to 30 years of age. Following all the strict guidelines of the Italian DOC, grapes are all hand picked and sorted manually before fermentation. This Merlot shows flavors of rich, ripe cherries and plums enriched by the smooth, deep, well-structured background. It is a beautifully balanced wine with a long, velvety finish.

2010 Bodegas Castaño Monastrell, Yecla, Spain
List price 11.00; our price 9.99
​This cuvée from Castaño is made from 100% Monastrell (Mourvèdre) from 30 year old vines. It is released young and is meant to be an easy drinking, everyday wine. It has a bright, fresh raspberry bouquet with dense, textured, cherry flavors on the palate and is well structured with supple, integrated tannins. This wine is a great match to simple, bistro-style fare but has enough body to hold up to hearty dishes including beef, game, and strong cheeses.

Wednesday 28, 2012
5:00 to 7:00 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 special impromptu event on Wednesday has been scheduled to take advantage of the visit to our valley of Montes of Chile national sales manager, Ginevra Altomara, who will be pouring some of the great wines her company exports to the US. Montes U.S.A. is the American arm of Viña Montes, Chile, and producer of wines such as Purple Angel, M, and Folly, blockbuster wines which reside at the top of the deep list of value wines offered. In addition, Montes owns Argentina based Kaiken Wines, long a favorite of our tasting events here. As Brand Manager, Ginevra will educate, promote and represent all Montes brands in the United States. Drop by and meet this lovely lady who is very entertaining and vastly knowledgeable.

We will resume our regular schedule this Saturday with Old Vine Zinfandels from Lodi.

2011 MONTES SAUVIGNON BLANC, LIMITED SELECTION, LEYDA VALLEY
List price 14.99; our price 11.99
This 100% Sauvignon Blanc is unoaked in order to maintain the freshness and crispiness typical of the Sauvignon Blanc from Leyda Valley. It is a complex wine showing great structure and depth. At entry it is rich, fruity and crisp with tropical grapefruit flavors. At mid palate it shows tropical fruits, peaches, pineapples and citric accents. This is a powerful coastal climate Sauvignon Blanc with an impressive overall freshness and elegant minerality leading to a superb finish that lasts forever.

2009 MONTES ROSÉ OF SYRAH, “CHERUB”, COLCHAGUA VALLEY
List price 16.00; our price 13.99
This is a fresh, fruity wine with some spiciness and hints of red berries. The Cherub is seductive, elegant and dry. Both on the nose and palate, this Rosé has a distinct Syrah character with some spiciness and hints of strawberries and lively floral flavors, mainly roses as well as orange peel. With good fruit concentration it shows richness in texture across the palate that leads to a delightfully long finish.

2010 MONTES MALBEC, CLASSIC SERIES, COLCHAGUA VALLEY
List price 12.00; our price 10.99
This Malbec shows powerful but elegant flavors, with plumy and blackberry hints. A wonderful butterscotch and slight amount of spiciness is totally integrated by the subtle notes of vanilla that comes from the oak aging. It is a full-bodied wine, with ripe tannins and a voluptuous mid-palate leading to a long, very enjoyable, finish.

2009 MONTES CABERNET SAUVIGNON/CARMÉNERÈ, APALTA VINEYARD
List price 15.99; our price 13.50
The blend in this excellent wine is 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Carménerè, the result of much experimentation bringing forward the best of both varieties. Aged in American oak and with only one soft filtering, it provides great value. It has a very elegant aroma with notes of chocolate, cedar, coffee and also of vanilla and butterscotch. To the palate it is ample, soft and generous, with a long aftertaste. Wine Advocate gave it a 90 point rating: “Glass-coating opaque purple; balsamic, incense, leather, and black fruits, dense, over-delivers.”

2008 MONTES CARMÉNERÈ, MARCHIGUE VINEYARD, COLCHAGUA VALLEY
List price 22.00; our price 19.99
​This amazing wine is showing lovely black pepper aromas with hints of red berries, chocolate, plums and a bit of vanilla. In the mouth it is quite smooth, with rounded and soft tannins. The oak is beautifully integrated and balanced for a long enjoyable finish. Wine Advocate gave this wine a 91 point rating: “The 2008 Alpha Carménerè is a glass-coating opaque purple with a nose of damp earth, mineral, sage, thyme, cedar, and blueberry. Dense and full-bodied on the palate, it reveals layers of ripe fruit, lots of spice, and enough structure to evolve for 1-2 years. It will deliver prime drinking from 2012 to 2020.”