Join us for a wine tasting event on Saturday, January 27th from 4 to 5:30 pm featuring Root: 1 Wines of Chile.

Chile is the oldest New World winegrowing region, surpassing Australia and California by two centuries. Chilean winemaking began in the 1500s with the arrival of Spanish missionaries who brought with them vine cuttings of the País grape, which is still grown today.  The industry strikes a fine balance between the traditions of winemaking, upholding the classic, established varieties and techniques while embracing the industry’s new methods, technologies and advancements. Today winemaking in Chile is a notable blend of new-generation and seasoned winemakers plying their trade in state-of-the-art wineries, developing an array of outstanding Chilean wines, and, more importantly, outstanding values.  Accordingly, we have brought in the new releases from Root: 1 Wines which marry quality and value for our every day needs.  Toso Brut sparkling wine from Argentina will open the tasting event and set our palate.

Featured Wines:  

Toso Brut Sparkling Chardonnay, Mendoza, Argentina                          
List price 1400; Our price 11.99
This sparkling wine is bright and clear with a touch of pale yellow. The aroma displays a bouquet of perfectly balanced yeasts with the Chardonnay used for this basic wine. Over time, this evolves and gains complexity in the bottle. The aroma is complemented by the flavor and has a gentle, soft, fresh taste.

2016 Root: 1 Sauvignon Blanc, Casablanca Valley                                  
List price 12.00; Our price 9.99
The wine opens with a bright citrus bouquet and juicy tropical aromas.  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, followed by an elegant finish.  Pair this one with fresh ceviche, grilled shrimp or pork loin.  It is delightful with a fresh salad of mixed greens, sliced fruit, maybe pear, and goat cheese.

2012 Root: 1 Pinot Noir, Casablanca Valley                                              
List price 12.00; Our price 9.99
Look for rich aromas of wild strawberries, raspberries and a hint of cherry. Soft spice notes and vanilla add complexity.  It is medium-bodied and bright, with fresh acidity combining with ripe fruit flavors and smooth tannins for a well-rounded palate and a lengthy finish.  Serve this Pinot Noir with grilled fish, steamed mussels or fresh crab. Pairs well with traditional pasta dishes with lots of garlic, as well as roasted eggplant, barbequed chicken and spring vegetable risotto.

 2014 Root: 1 Heritage Red, Maipo Valley                                                  
List price 1200; Our price 9.99
There are aromas of cherries, blueberries, blackberries, black pepper and delicate notes of cassis, toffee and dark chocolate.  The palate opens with abundant fruit-filled flavors including cherries and black fruits. Its silky tannins and good structure create a perfectly-balanced framework for this full-bodied wine with its elegant finish of chocolate covered fruits. Does this give you ideas for pairings?

2015 Root: 1 Carménère, Colchagua Valley                                              
List price 12.00; Our price 9.99
Enjoy ripe aromas of blackberries and warm spice. The wine is full-bodied and fruit-forward with plum, cherry and a hint of smoke. Smooth tannins and good structure create perfect balance and a powerful finish with notes of vanilla.Try with hearty chili, pork stew or barbecue ribs. Serve with roasted eggplant Parmesan or vegetarian lasagna, or pair it with rich cheeses like Camembert or Brie.

2015 Root: 1 Cabernet Sauvignon, Maipo Valley                                      
List price 12.00; Our price 9.99
Aromas of ripe berries, cassis, plum and dark cherry are followed by light toast notes. It has juicy red berry and mocha flavors with a full-bodied structure, balanced by smooth tannins and a lengthy finish.  The Cab pairs well with grilled steak or hearty meat-sauce pasta. The ripe full-bodied flavors also complement roasted vegetables and spicy soups. Also try it as a delightful match to chocolate desserts!

$10.00 per customer
$5.00 will be credited towards purchase of wines being tasted
Home of: www.WineAndSpiritGifts.com
611 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Suite #22, Palm Springs, 92264, 760-327-7701, 800-925-0030

Join us Saturday, 10/14/2017, from 4 to 5:30 pm for our wine tasting event featuring Chilean Value Wines.

The Conquistadors never sailed anywhere without root stock to plant and grow wine grapes; and so it was in the mid 16th century that the Chilean wine industry took “root”.  Vineyard planting expanded throughout the country over the next 200 years resulting in wine exports increasing rapidly in the 1780’s and competing in the international market with European wines. By 1831, a total of more than 19 million vines were planted in Chile. In the mid 1800’s, the arrival of Bordeaux varieties brought Chile into the modern era of winemaking. The vines easily adapted to the climate in Chile and it is probable that the vines are the only existing clones of European grapes prior to the Phylloxera epidemic that exists in the world.  Chile is the only producer of wine on a large scale that has never had an outbreak of Phylloxera. In the mid-1880s, Chilean wines were exported and marketed successfully in European markets. The quality of the wines was recognized at fairs and competitions, culminating in 1889 when a wine won the “Grand Prix” in Paris.  The industry traversed its ups and downs and upon the return to democracy in 1990, the Chilean wine industry began a slow but steady recovery. Between 1990 and 1993 an additional 25,000 acres of various wine grapes were planted in conjunction with large investments in new technologies for wine production, with a focus on the growth of the international markets.

Featured Wines:

2017 Nuevo Mundo Sauvignon Blanc, Maipo Valley                                
List price 12.00; our price 9.99
The wine shows youthful and aromatic scents of flowers, hay and melon on the nose. On the palate, bright, crisp flavors of ruby red grapefruit and citrus give way to a subtle herbal expression. The Company has made the transition from traditional to organic agriculture and its wines are all certified organic.  The wine pairs well with most sea foods, especially when treated with lime or lemon citrus.
 
2017 Tierra Del Fuego Sauvignon Blanc, Central Valley                         
List price 12.00; our price 9.99
The wine shows typical herbal tones expected of Sauvignon Blanc, but drifts toward grapefruit elements as well as a bit of tropical character as well.  It is clean and fresh with good acid balance.  The bottle design is rather impressive, too.
 
2016 Tierra Del Fuego Chardonnay, Central Valley                                  
List price 12.00; our price 9.99
This Chardonnay drifts towards tropical aromas including pineapples and apples with a touch of vanilla to make it interesting.  The fruity bouquet continues through to the palate and pleases with an enjoyable balance of fruit and acidity.
 
2015 Tierra Del Fuego Merlot, Central Valley                                            
List price 12.00; our price 9.99
The Merlot has a delicacy about it and displays herbal notes along the lines of tea.  There are berries and plums in the offering that are supported by good balancing acid.  As with the Chardonnay, there is an element of vanilla as well as spice and pepper to make it contemplative.
 
2015 Tierra Del Fuego Cabernet Sauvignon, Central Valley                    
List price 12.00; our price 9.99
Rather than Cassis, the Cab moves more towards blackberries and an echo of the plum-like character of the Merlot (possibly some was added to the blend).  Not blended for power, this Cab shows itself with a sense of elegance then proceeds towards a finish of coffee, mocha and vanilla.  It is oaked very nicely.
 
2015 PKNT Carmenere Reserve, Curico Valley                                        
List price 12.00; our price 9.99     In the nose it has red cherries and plums with a touch of toasty oak. There are hints of chocolate and berries. The round tannins are soft but well structured. It’s an ideal match for red meats or pasta with red sauce or with rich cheeses and spicy foods.

$10.00 per customer
$5.00 will be credited towards purchase of wines being tasted
Home of: www.WineAndSpiritGifts.com
611 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Suite #22, Palm Springs, 92264, 760-327-7701, 800-925-0030

Join us Saturday, 9/23/2017, from 4 to 5:30 pm for our wine tasting event featuring Wines to Welcome the Equinox

The pounding hot days of summer are behind us and it is clear we are having a change of seasons, corresponding to the autumnal equinox.  The lighter fare of summer now evolves through deeper flavored wines and before long we will be featuring heavier and richer wines that reflect winter cuisines.  This Saturday we will taste a sampler of wines that are bold but not heavy, deeper in flavor than the typical summer tittle.

Featured Wines:

Gruet Blanc de Blancs Methode Champenoise, New Mexico                  
List price 19.00; Our price 15.99
This is a lovely fruity wine with an aggressive mousse and plenty of immediate charm and toasty aromas. The rich and toasty character of the Blanc de Noirs is balanced and superb. Aged for two-year minimum, the palate is developed and shows rich complex flavors. The berry aromas and the creamy texture set the tone and create a sense of finesse.  It received 90 points from Wine & Spirits Magazine: “This affordable non-vintage sparkler has a lively mousse and a pale poached-salmon hue. Its ripe pear aromas suggest a rich wine, but that richness is enveloped by a firm, rosy phenolic grip.”
 
2013 Cartlidge & Browne Chardonnay, North Coast                                
List price 15.00; Our price 10.99
With aromas of tropical fruit and pear, the palate is softened by a creamy quality enhanced by the spicy oak. Cartlidge and Brown carefully source grapes from vineyards throughout the state to craft their smooth pleasurable wines. It pairs nicely with white meat dishes.
 
2016 Los Vascos Rosé, Colchagua, Chile                                                 
List price 12.00; Our price 9.99  
The nose is packed with aromas of strawberries, raspberries, cherries and pomegranates. The palate is fresh, balanced and persistent. This wine is an excellent choice for an apéritif or to pair with moderately spicy dishes such as gazpacho, pizza or paella.
 
2013 Laurier Pinot Noir, Carneros                                                              
List price 15.00; Our price 12.99
This enduring classic delivers elegance and finesse with every sip.  Flavors are varied and include black cherry, plum, cedar and a hint of cinnamon. Tannins dance lightly on the palate to create a long and pleasing finish. Great to sip by itself, it is also easy to drink with grilled pork chops, French onion soup, pasta dishes, and grilled salmon.  Plum, black cherry, cedar, and a hint of cinnamon charm the palate. The finish is soft and protracted with silky tannins and spicy flavors.
 
2012 Terrabianca “Scassino” Chianti Classico, Tuscany                       
List price 21.50; Our price 19.99
The vineyard’s name comes from ‘scasso’, stony soil, which makes this terrain difficult to cultivate but fabulous in terms of fruit and concentration. It is an appealing, delightful, well balanced red with lively notes of raspberry and blueberry, and excellent structure.  Chianti goes well with so many dishes, especially pasta.
 
2012 Ahnfeldt “Provocative” Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa            
List price 29.00; Our price 24.95
The bouquet shows cherry and chocolate, as well as caramel and cinnamon in the background. There are also hints of currant and sandalwood. The entry is smooth and balanced with medium body and flavors echoing the bouquet. The evolution is seamless with fine-grain tannins and ample acidity. The finish is very pleasing with a good length and balance.  This is a fine accompaniment to most meat dishes.

$10.00 per customer
$5.00 will be credited towards purchase of wines being tasted
Home of: www.WineAndSpiritGifts.com
611 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Suite #22, Palm Springs, 92264, 760-327-7701, 800-925-0030

​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
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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.