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Cellar Inventory 2-8-12

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Big Dog Cabernets

The first two wines that we have to offer hail from Sbragia Family Vineyards.  For those that don’t know him, Veteran Winemaker, Ed Sbragia is larger than life and made his name producing high quality wines at Beringer Vineyards.  Ed, his son Adam, and the rest of the gang are now turning out some amazing wines and definitely ones not to be missed.

 2007 Sbragia Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Wall Vineyard $66.50

The first of the Sbragia offerings is the 2007 Wall Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon from Mt. Veeder.  This wine shows generous aromas and flavors of ripe cherry, plum, cola and cocoa powder.  This bottling is beautifully balanced and with lush, velvety tannins.  Robert Parker called this wine “brilliant” and scored it 96/100.  Winery price – $75; Imbibe price – $66.50

2007 Sbragia Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Ranch del Oso Vineyard $66.50

The second Sbragia offering comes from Howell Mountain, the Rancho Del Oso Vineyard, a special location owned by Imbibe friend and long time supporter, Betty O’Shaughnessy.  This bottling shows a intriguing co-existence of power and grace.  Loaded with chocolate and fig, this wine offers up subtle notes of maraschino and clove.  This is easily one of my new favorite wines. Parker rated this a 94/100; to me this is no question a 98+.  Winery price is $75; the Imbibe price – $66.50

2007 Merus Cabernet Sauvignon $139.99

Next up, I’d like to introduce the 2007 Merus Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine was first released in 1998 when the property was owned by Erika Gottl and Mark Herold.  To this day many say that this1998 bottling was the wine of the vintage.  The 2007 vintage was produced under the guidance of owner Bill Foley and winemaker Paul Hobbs.  In the glass, the wine shows inky purple hues and offers an extraordinary bouquet of blueberry liquor, graphite and spice.  95/100 WA. $139.99

2007 Pahlmeyer Red $99.99

Last up, I am happy to announce the return of the Pahlmeyer Red.  This is a quintessential California Bordeaux blend and the 2007 vintage is one of the best that I’ve tasted.  This bottling showcases a mélange of smoked meat, blueberry, coffee and cassis while retaining a beautiful structure and acidity.  Buy by the case; this in one that you do not want to miss.  96+100 WA. Imbibe price – $99.99

These wines are offered on a very limited, first come basis.  Call today to place an order before they all disappear.  And don’t forget, for those lovebirds out there, Imbibe will be open until 9 p.m. tonight, so feel free to stop by and share a bottles of bubbles with someone special.  

- David

Related posts:

1. Caymus Vineyards 2007 Cabs at Imbibe Wine & Spirits
2. Napa Trip 2010
3. Morlet Wines at Imbibe – Limited Quantity Release

 Hello to all those who Imbibe, 

I received a call today from my good friend in the industry who was kind enough to offer me the wines of Luc Morlet.  Robert Parker calls Luc Morlet “one of the Valleys most talented wine producers.”  Luc was previously the winemaker for Peter Michael Winery and now works as a consultant with the new winemaker, his brother, Nicolas Morlet.  I have met with and tasted the wines of Luc Morlet and I can assure you, I have never tasted finer California wines, period.  This is the first time these wines have been offered to Imbibe and as such they are all very limited releases.

Imbibe current is offering includes:

 2008 Morlet Family Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Mon Chevalier (95/100 WA)  $155.00

“Composed of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon and tiny amounts of Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Merlot and Malbec from the Morley estate vineyard, the 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Mon Chevalier may be the finest wine I have ever tasted from Knight’s Valley. Aromas of white chocolate, spring flowers, licorice, charcoal and black currants make for a provocative as well as intense aromatic display. With a voluptuous texture, tremendous opulence, sensational purity and depth, this 2008 is slightly more evolved than the two Oakville offerings. Brilliant winemaking and meticulous attention to detail in the vineyard and winery have resulted in a prodigious effort. Drink it over the next 15-20 years.

One of northern California’s most talented wine producers is Frenchman Luc Morlet, who is also a consultant at Peter Michael Winery where his brother is firmly in charge. All of his Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays from the Sonoma Coast and Russian River as well as his Syrahs from Bennett Valley will be reviewed in the February, 2011 issue. His extraordinary Cabernet Sauvignon portfolio include two offerings from Oakville (which emerge from the Beckstoffer To-Kalon Vineyard) and one from Knight’s Valley. The stunning 2008s are as good if not better than the Morlet 2007s. The 2009s appear to be among the most promising wines of the vintage which will be much more irregular than the 2007s or even the 2008s in Napa” – R.P.

 2008 Morlet Family Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Coeur de Vallee (98/100 WA)  $175.00

“The inky/purple-tinged 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Coeur de Vallee is a 250-case blend of 76% Cabernet Sauvignon and 24% Cabernet Franc. It offers up complex notes of unsmoked high class cigar tobacco, creme de cassis, subtle barbecue smoke, licorice and pen ink. Full-bodied with outstanding texture, purity and length, this awesome Cabernet Sauvignon can be enjoyed over the next 25-30 years.

One of northern California’s most talented wine producers is Frenchman Luc Morlet, who is also a consultant at Peter Michael Winery where his brother is firmly in charge. All of his Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays from the Sonoma Coast and Russian River as well as his Syrahs from Bennett Valley will be reviewed in the February, 2011 issue. His extraordinary Cabernet Sauvignon portfolio include two offerings from Oakville (which emerge from the Beckstoffer To-Kalon Vineyard) and one from Knight’s Valley. The stunning 2008s are as good if not better than the Morlet 2007s. The 2009s appear to be among the most promising wines of the vintage which will be much more irregular than the 2007s or even the 2008s in Napa.” – R.P.

 2008 Morlet Family Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Passionnement (98/100 WA)  $225.00

“The exquisite 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Passionnement, my favorite of this trio, is a 250-case cuvee of 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. It boasts an opaque purple color along with an extraordinary perfume of graphite, blueberries, blackberries, flowers and cassis intermixed with hints of white chocolate and toast. The wine possesses terrific concentration, full-bodied power and a stunning, multidimensional mouthfeel and finish. This exceptional wine should drink well for 30+ years.

One of northern California’s most talented wine producers is Frenchman Luc Morlet, who is also a consultant at Peter Michael Winery where his brother is firmly in charge. All of his Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays from the Sonoma Coast and Russian River as well as his Syrahs from Bennett Valley will be reviewed in the February, 2011 issue. His extraordinary Cabernet Sauvignon portfolio include two offerings from Oakville (which emerge from the Beckstoffer To-Kalon Vineyard) and one from Knight’s Valley. The stunning 2008s are as good if not better than the Morlet 2007s. The 2009s appear to be among the most promising wines of the vintage which will be much more irregular than the 2007s or even the 2008s in Napa.” – R.P.

 2008 Morlet Family Vineyards La Proportion Doree (93/100WA)  $59.00

(Sauvignon Blanc/ Semillon Blend)

“Readers should not miss the 2008 La Proportion Doree, a 660-case blend of 68% Semillon, 30% Sauvignon Blanc, and 2% Muscadelle. It is a superb example of what can be done with French savoir-faire and California grapes. Glorious aromas of honeyed caramelized figs, honeysuckle, melons, and orange blossoms are followed by a medium to full-bodied white with beautiful acidity, length, and richness. A tour de force in dry white winemaking, it should drink nicely for 3-4 years.

This is a brilliant portfolio of wines from Frenchman Luc Morlet. Production for these cuvees ranges from a low of 75 cases for several of the Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs, to a high of 660 cases for the Semillon/Sauvignon Blanc/Muscadelle blend called La Proportion Doree. Only indigenous yeasts are used in the fermentations as well as 100% French oak barrels, there is no fining or filtration, and all the wines are made with a hand-crafted zeal for high quality. The 2007 and 2008 Chardonnays would make a tremendous comparative tasting to decide which vintage turned out better. In most cases, 2007 gets the nod, but at this estate, it’s pretty much a dead heat. I suspect the only way to secure any of the Morlet Family Vineyards’ wines is to get on their mailing list.” – R.P.

Related posts:

1. The Return of the Big Dog Cabs
2. New Arrival Wines at Imbibe
3. Napa Trip 2010

Hello to all those who Imbibe,

  Well, the Fair is over, the weather has cooled off, I just got back from 3 days in Napa Valley and would love to share it with you.

  Before I delve into the story of our journey, let me start with a vintage report for 2010. The harvest is 3-4 week behind and there is great concern in Napa Valley that the fruit will not ripen before the vines shut down or the rains come in. That being said, the few producers who had access to irrigation and dropped fruit early in the year will have an opportunity to make some outstanding wines. Now many of the producers will tell you they dropped fruit early enough, but I can tell you that not everybody was able. 2010 will be a vintage to try before you buy which will make our tasting wine bar even more advantageous in the years to come.

  On to the trip.  Our first appointment was with Ancien Vineyards. I have known founder and winemaker, Ken Bernards, for over a dozen years and have always thought of his wines to be some of the most outstanding hand-crafted Pinot Noir and Chardonnay in all of America. This is one of those out-of-sight-out-of-mind wineries, but I’m here to tell you, they are back on my radar and definitely worth a try. Look for the Santa Rita Hills Fiddlestix Vineyard, Mink Vineyard and Sonoma Mountain Red Dog Vineyards at Imbibe starting around $40.

  Our next stop took us to the vineyards of Revana. Long time friend, Tom Garrett is the General Manager and also assists with the winemaking at Revana. Tom showed us around and let us taste the 2007 Cabernet that just scored 97 points by Wine Spectator. With a wine this amazing and with such small production, it’s no question why we will only be getting a few cases. We also had a chance to taste the 2007 Revana Pinot Noir, a wonderful showing from Willamette Valley in Orgeon at $49.99.  During the tour, we learned that Dr. Revana had recently purchased some grape vineyards in the Mendoza region of Argentina. Keep an eye out for when his Argentine lineup reaches the market.

  Next stop on the trip was O’Shaughnessy Vineyards, where we meet with owner, Betty O’Shaughnessy and had a chance to taste her new releases, the 2007 Cabernet from Howell Mountain and 2007 Mt. Veeder Cabernet. I thought it would be difficult to top their 2006 vintage, which by my book were both 95 pointers, but both offerings out of the 2007 vintage were outstanding. Stop into the store soon to find out why the Howell Mountain scored 95/100 WA ($69) and the Mt. Veeder scored 95-98/100WA ($89).  We have both wines at Imbibe, but they are limited and will sell out quickly. You can taste these amazing wines and meet Betty along with the owners of Robert Craig, Fontanella and Yates at Imbibe’s Mt. Veeder Winemaker dinner coming up on the October 20^th.  This is a once in a lifetime event being hosted at the Bakersfield Country Club.  Seating is limited and the price is only $69 per person.  Tickets are almost sold out, so call Imbibe today and make a reservation.

   To finish our trip properly, we had an opportunity to taste Detert, the finest Cabernet Franc in America, alongside Tom Garrett’s Cabernet Sauvignon from family-owned vineyards dating back to 1949. This property is believed to hold the oldest Cabernet Franc vineyard in Napa Valley. This vineyard is highly coveted because it only produces 2.5 tons of grapes per acre and the majority of the fruit goes to Mondavi wines for their Reserve program. This is easily the finest Cab Franc in the Valley and the Cabernet Sauvignon is just as outstanding. Both wines are very limited and you can find them at Imbibe for the unreal price of $75. To prove the point as to how amazing that price is, consider this.  The Detert Vineyard is surrounded on three sides by the To Kalon Vineyard, which many consider the finest Cabernet Vineyard in Napa Valley. Wines of this quality and pedigree sell for well over $125 a bottle.  Stop in soon before these great values disappear.

   I look forward to seeing you all at the Winemaker dinner next week, and around the wine bar in the weeks to come.

Until next time,

David

Related posts:

1. Premiere Napa Valley Wine Tasting | Dave’s Travels
2. The Return of the Big Dog Cabs
3. New Arrival Wines at Imbibe

With kids back in school and the promise of a beautiful fall right around the corner, we at Imbibe like to take time to focus on the moments that life gives us.  And with these moments, what better time to enjoy some great wine at amazing prices.

There is a belief out there that for wine to be good it has to cost a lot.  We like to base a wine on its merits not its price tag.  To prove our point, here is a list of ten wines all under $10 that please the palate and the wallet.  If you’re ever in the mood to test drive some of these wines, they are always rotating on the wine bar, so be sure to stop by.  Enjoy!

NV Vinho Verde $9.99

                This Portuguese wine has become a new staple in my house.  Whether we’re having fish, chicken or just a glass before dinner, this wine is perfect anytime.  Broadbent’s Vinho Verde does have the traditional slight green hue to the wine that the name implies.  Green apple is this wine’s middle name, with its bright acidity and lush fruitiness.  The fun of this wine comes in the form of a slight effervescence that enlivens the tongue and enhances its refreshing nature.  If you’re looking to try something new and delicious, Broadbent’s Vinho Verde is for you. ~Josh

2007 Ruston Sauvignon Blanc $9.91

                Loaded with lemon and lime, the wine delivers as much flavor as it does crisp acidity.  A subtle toasty quality almost gives the wine a sense of tart lemon cream pie, crust and all.  There is a nice creaminess to this wine that is not only refreshing but also very satisfying.  This is one of the new favorites this summer.  This wine has sold so well, we’re down to our last two cases so be sure to stop in and pick up a couple of bottles before they’re gone. ~Josh

2008 McManis Zinfandel $9.99

                I am a strong believer that there is a wine for everybody. And to that effect, ladies and gentlemen, let me introduce you to the McManis Zinfandel.  This is quite possibly one the most delicious, well-balanced Zinfandels that I have seen in a long time.  This wine has a smooth boldness that delivers deep, dark chocolate and black raspberries with great structure and acid to back it up.  One of my favorite characteristics of this wine is its subtle notes of grainy, raw honey.  Absolutely superb. This wine is an easy recommendation for me and a definite “go-to” for anyone who loves wine. ~Josh

2008 Hey Mambo Sultry Red $9.99

                A real crowd pleaser – this wine brings a lot of players to the game with a blend of Syrah, Barbera, Zinfandel, Petit Syrah, Malbec and the rare Alicante Bouchet. Full and fleshy with a deep ruby hue, Sultry Red carries a nose of black cherries, tobacco and sweet leather. The palate brings it these flavors too, along with dense juicy berries, peppercorns and firm tannins. This offering will get your attention as a great pairing with your gamey dishes such as meaty sausages or lamb ragu. ~Richard

2007 Trumpeter Chardonnay $7.99

                Due to its high quality and low price, this Argentinean Chardonnay has become a weeknight favorite for wine lovers.  Full pineapple and rich gala apple lead the way with just enough oak to help balance things out.  The subtle use of oak provides a nice baking spice background that lingers after the drink is gone.  This is the perfect Chardonnay for those that love Chardonnay and for those still testing it out.  Stop in today because this one always sells quickly. ~Josh

2008 Borsao Garnacha $7.99

This Spanish blend of 90% Old Vine Garnacha (Grenache) & 10% Tempranillo exhibits fresh aromas & flavors of cranberry, pomegranate & strawberry with a bright, rich finish. It’s an excellent value for your everyday red; in fact, it’s my ‘house red’. Enjoy! ~Deanna

NV Bodega San Antonio Sangria ‘Tradicional’ & ‘Blanca’ $8.99

The Sangria ‘Tradicional’ is a semi-sweet red wine with hints of orange, lemon and lime. The ‘Blanca’ is also sweet with tropical fruit flavors and  a touch of ginger spiciness. They are at their best when served chilled from a pitcher filled with ice & fresh sliced citrus fruits. Delicious & refreshing. ~Deanna

2009 J. Lohr Valdiguie $9.99

This wine, made from the Valdiguie grape, is THE wine for entry level red wine drinkers. It’s loaded with bright grape/berry/cherry aromas & flavors with a lip smackingly delicious finish. Light-bodied & Beaujolais-like in style it makes the perfect companion to grilled chicken with a light brushing of BBQ sauce. Yum-yum! ~Deanna

NV Wolf Blass Brut Yellow Label $6.99

Delightful, refreshing Aussie sparkler with a nose of crisp, ripe apple. There is a touch of creamy yeastiness on the palate & the finish is light, crisp & mouth-watering. It’s my ‘Sunday go-to’ bottle of bubbly! ~Deanna

2009 Caposaldo Pinot Grigio $9.99

Classic Pinot Grigio with light citrus & white stone fruit aromas & flavors. It’s light-bodied, crisp & refreshing; an excellent accompaniment to appetizers, salads & light pasta dishes. ~Deanna 

Related posts:

1. New Arrival Wines at Imbibe
2. Wine Classes & New Wines at Imbibe
3. New Arrival Wines at Imbibe

Be sure to stop in soon and pick up a few bottles of these new wines at Imbibe.

2008 Caymus Special Select Cabernet Sauvignon $109.99 The 2008 Caymus Special Selection represents the finest wine lots of the vintage. Starting in 1975 this wine is one of the bench marks of Napa Cabernet. The wine rich deep ruby color reflects the depth this wine has to offer. Lush aromas of ripe black currant, black cherry and cedary oak add luxurious flavors of fully ripe cassis, wild red berry, mocha and light vanilla. The finish is velvety and seamless.

2007 Quintessa Proprietary Red $109 The 2007 looks to be one of Quintessa’s strongest efforts. Dark ruby/purple, with sweet black currant, cherry, and loamy soil notes intermixed with some subtle spice box and background oak, this wine is rich and medium to full-bodied, with round, silky tannins, and an attractive set of aromatics. Very accessible and drinkable now, it should age nicely for 15 or more years. 91pts/Robert Parker.

2008 Saldo Zinfandel $29.99 Well-built, yet rich and stylish, with spicy blackberry aromas and zesty, layered flavors of black cherry and licorice framed by toasty oak. Offers a long, satisfying finish. Drink now through 2015. 91pts./Spectator

Until next time, keep imbibing!

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2. New Liquors & Drink Recipes | New Arrival Wines at Imbibe
3. New Arrival Wines at Imbibe

Be sure to stop in soon and pick up a few bottles of these new wines at Imbibe.

2007 Vina Robles Red4

$13.99 Bright garnet with aromas of vibrant dark and red fruit with notes of blackberry and raspberry; hints of cinnamon and floral character. Savory, medium bodied; good structure with soft tannins. A wine with a pleasant approach.
Enjoy now through 2012

2009 Vina Robles White4

$13.99 Brilliant with a golden hue. Aromas of stone fruit, pineapple and tropical essence. Rich, medium bodied with a luscious mouth feel and a crisp, refreshing finish.

Until next time, keep imbibing!

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3. New Arrival Wines at Imbibe

Be sure to stop in soon and pick up a few bottles of this new wine at Imbibe.

 2006 Jonata ‘Todos’ Santa Ynez Valley Red Wine $49.99

“This remarkable Santa Ynez estate is under the same ownership as Napa Valley’s Screaming Eagle winery. While well-known Bordeaux consultant, Michel Rolland, and Screaming Eagle’s winemaker, Andy Erickson, play important roles at Jonata, the people most responsible for the quality of the wines are owners Charles Banks, Stan Kroenke, and winemaker Matt Dees. Formerly known as El Corazon de Jonata (39% Syrah, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Sangiovese, and the rest Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc, and Viognier) Todos is a 1,000-case cuvee. Profound, sexy aromas of smoked duck, soy, blackberries, pepper, and a hint of spring flowers are followed by an exotic, full-bodied, voluptuously textured wine bursting with complexity and richness. A subtle smoky, meaty component is present in the deep, dark blackberry flavors. Long, rich, and pure, this stunning 2006 should drink beautifully for 10-15+ years. The 2006s and a handful of 2007 barrel samples I tasted suggest this is one of California’s most exciting new wineries.” 95-97/RP

Until next time, keep imbibing!

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