thamesrivergreenery

Special Election Edition - 2008 - Champagne & Pizza

thamesrivergreenery — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 11:41:28 GMT

Greetings from all of us in New London,
Great turnout for Halloween - thank you.

And a quick note to the three girls that came as "French Maids" - we found the feather duster - but Dave wants to keep it.

The wine tasting on Friday night includes a very special forty dollar gem, the full list is just below our news.

Your comments from the survey continue to guide us. Thanks for taking the time to make suggestions, we are working to implement all of the great ideas. We hope to see you all this week.

Call 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3

Champagne & Pizza

This is not a typo - It is a special night. And we plan on proving a very important point: "That the only thing we have to fear...is - oops - no, that's not it. We plan on proving that the only thing you need to drink a bottle of Champagne...Is a bottle of Champagne.

It was an identical, staff only, tasting two years ago that inspired this special evening.

We will will taste through the remarkable Champagne of Marc Hebrart, Pierre Gimmonnet, Pierre Peters, Aubry Fils , Vilmart and A. Margaine, including Tete de Cuvee and Special Club Champagnes. All grower producer Champagne, Real artisanal wine, produced in tiny quantities and with exceptional quality.

Without a doubt - these are some of the finest boutique Champagnes in the world. You will not find them anywhere else in Connecticut. When the night is done - you will know the truth about Champagne.

Monday November 17 - 6 p.m. - $50
Please call early to reserve - 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3.

Sarah has something special for

The Monday Tasting 11.3.08

Occassionaly employees need "personal time."
Dave mumbled something about Vegas, French Maids, and a feather duster just after the Halloween party last Friday night. That's the last we saw of him.

Fortunately the newest member of the wine store staff - the lovely Sarah - has stepped up and wants to share. (How do we find these people?)

Casaia Rosso Toscano $14
Sarah: "I'm new; a couple months into my rapid wine education. Jim texted me to come over to the store to sample some wines and I walked out with the Casaia Rosso Toscano, a lovely, plush Sangiovese-Cabernet Sauvignon blend by Seiterre in Tuscany.

I went home to where I am still living out of boxes, and filled the only wine glass I own. The first thing to hit me was full, ripe cherries, falling off the trees. My apartment seemed bigger. I could feel hints of the salt in the dry air from the vinyard's proximity to the Tyrrhenian Sea. The 50 percent Sangiovese lends to the provacative tartness of the wine.

Please join me this Monday to enjoy this warm, full bodied bottle. Tuscany, Connecticut? Why not."
Order Now

The Friday Tasting - Please Join Us
Friday November 7 - 6 - 9 p.m. - No Charge

1 - Tramin Pinot Grigio 2007 $15

Made from 100% Pinot Grigio from southern Alto adige. After a gentle pressing, the must is clarified by natural sedimentation and fermented. Refined five months in stainless steel tanks, this is a very typical Italian-styled Pinot Grigio.

Bright yellow in color with coppery reflections and clear fruit aromas of pear, citrus, honeysuckle, tropical fruits and light spices. Firm, velvety and rich on the palate, with well integrated acidity.

A very round and satisfying wine. Recommended with fish antipasti, risotto with asparagus, omelettes and pasta.

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2 - Sola Fred Montsant 2005 $10

In the zone of the Montsant appellation, the soils are mainly Chalky, with some zones of clay and slate, all with high minerality and low fertility.

The region is mountainous, located at the boundary between the Mediterranean and the continental climates, with a dry summer and winter and a moist spring and fall.Montsant is also a land of old vine Grenache and Carignan planted just after phylloxera.

Vines with very low yields on which the bunches mature evenly and reach optimum concentration at the moment of harvest.
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3 - Domaine La Manarine Cotes du Rhone 2005 $15

Domaine La Manarine comprises 9.5 hectares of vineyards situated on what is known as the "Le Plan de Dieu". For generations, this specific terroir has been recognized as unique.

Recent research has identified the particular character of the underlying soil: a deep layer consisting of more than 60% hard limestone "galets" (large smooth pebbles).

The climate is typically Mediterranean: relatively hot and dry with an average rainfall of between 600 and 800 mm per year. The rains usually come in the form of thunderstorms in late August which provide the vines with the water necessary to finish the maturation process (which tends to shut down under stressful drought conditions).

Grenache Noir is the main grape variety of the region. It performs particularly well on this type of soil and gives wines with more elegance and aroma than is otherwise common, creating in this case one of the finest Cotes du Rhone we have ever seen.
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4 - Kathryn Kennedy Lateral 2005 $40

"This Lateral is inspired by the famous wines of the St. Emilion district of Bordeaux. The blending of Cabernet Franc and Merlot is the cornerstone of this model. Another key to Lateral's consistent quality is the use of multiple vineyards from more than one region.

Select growers from the cooler coastal valleys are chosen with primary consideration for the flavor their grapes can add. Winemakers Marty Mathis and Chris Condos have been carefully assembling the Lateral blend for over 10 vintages.

Soft and juicy entry, gentle and lively texture. Mild tannins supported by ideal acid balance. gorgous flavors of bright red fruits lead to echos of licorace, tree bark and earthy tar notes. Not at all a monster wine, nor a high in alcohol style, this 2005 Lateral get very high marks for it's dead on "right bank" character.

A killer value for a true top flight Bordeaux blend that has become known for it's friendly easy to like personality.
Order Now

Thanks very much for your support and all of the comments and suggestions.
We appreciate it.

This Thursday is the last Cruise Ship arrival for the season. If you have been waiting to see one of these ships glide into port - this is it. It would be hard to find a better place to watch than the deck at Brie & Bleu - come on down.

Also, thanks again for all of the comments about City News. We will be posting a schedule of special guests and events as early as next week. We hope to make it a regular stop for literary, lifestyle & cultural interests. And, as always, all suggestions are welcome.

Remember, all comments are completely anonymous and you can add them HERE
We look forward to hearing from you.

Please join us. It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.

AAA.

CITY NEWS - Meet America's Expert on The Arctic & Global Warming

thamesrivergreenery — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 21:02:40 GMT

CITY NEWS PRESENTS:
The big announcement for this week is our first guest at City News. We hope to have a regular schedule of presentations and special guests for you to enjoy.

Our first guest happens to be a New London resident. He also happens to be America's Expert on The Arctic & It's Environment. Dr. Scott Borgerson.

He is featured in the current issue of Atlantic Magazine

and just last week was a featured speaker at BioMarine the first World Forum to bring together business, science, government, civil society and media to advance ocean sustainability. It took place from 20 to 24 October, 2008 in Toulon and Marseille, France.

New London is just LOADED with interesting people - isn't it?

So please join us and Meet America's Expert on The Arctic & Environment

A City News Special Event
Monday November 3 - 12:00 noon - 2:00 p.m.

Located next to Thames River Greenery, just one block from the train station at 70 State Street. 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 6 8 1 7

Wine Tasting - 8.22.08 - No Charge - Join Us

thamesrivergreenery — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 15:50:55 GMT

Greetings from all of us in New London,

The list of wines for the Friday tasting is just below

these items of interest.

The crazy summer continues here in New London. This week we saw wine dinners, parties, sing-a-long's and free-for-all's. By the way, our apologies to Mario Batali, we had no idea that the Lasagne Bolognese would turn into a "problem" - we will make it up to you. (If you are looking for the extra pair of orange crocks, they are in the cellar - right where you left them.)

Hey - The new issue of Nutmeg Magazine is out and the guest columnist for wine this month is our very own Jim Morrison. The complimentary magazine is available everywhere including all of our stores - grab a copy the next time you are in the store.

Take a look at the handsome visage on this wine professional.
Would you buy a nice chardonnay from this man?

And remember, New London is happening, live music, art galleries, plays, restaurants, movies, and much more. Start your evening with us, and then rediscover New London.

Most people think of us as a fine wine shop, and we like to think of ourselves the same way. But here is a surprising fact - We Stock 35 Single Malts, 26 Brands of Vodka, 23 Bourbon and Ryes, and 18 Rums.

Sure, you know we stock Dujac, Barthod, Arnoux, Paolo Bea, Chateau D'Yquem, Gaja, Shafer Hillside Select, Chateau Valandraud, and Domaine Ott - in Magnums, but don't forget we have an incredible selection of spirits too. Take a peek the next time you stop by.

* * *

City News Is Coming Soon
Just one block from the train station - right next door to Thames River Greenery

* * *

Brie & Bleu News:

The new summer menu at Brie & Bleu has just what you need to rekindle a great night out.

We have added things like Short Ribs and Roasted Chicken to our regular bistro style menu.

Add to that our signature potato and cheese dishes and a great wine and beer list - and even the biggest appetite will be satisfied.

Rediscover a great night out - right here in New London.

Dave's Fave
The Monday Tasting

Click on the photo to order it now

Berkshire Brewing Co. Oktoberfest Lager 2008 $4 Bomber

In October we will have carried Berkshire Brewing beers for one year, but we're calling it "close enough" because their Oktoberfest brew just came out!

All Berkshire products are made by dedicated dudes who actually have forgone the idea of "going big" because they are committed to the quality and control that being a smallish company affords.

BBC is actually Massachusetts' largest microbrew (jumbo shrimp?), and as President Chris Lalli says, "We're just one step away from being the smallest 'regular' brewer." Things are looking up! We've even started pouring BBC beers exclusively at our eatery Brie & Bleu.

Please join me Monday to have a sip of their spicy new seasonal! DA

Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday August 22 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge

Can't Make It To The Tasting? - click on the photos

1 - Naia Verdejo 2007 $14

The grapes for this wine come from 98.8 acres of vineyards, of which 94 acres are 26 years old and 4.8 acres are ungrafted 90-year-old Verdejo vines. All the vineyards are located in the town of La Seca, which is considered by the locals to be the "grand cru" village of Rueda.

Since the Middle Ages Verdejo has been the traditional varietal on the left bank of the Duero River. This is the fourth release of this stainless-steel fermented wine.

With Bright grapefruit citrus and pronounced herbaceousness the wine is reminiscent of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc only much less expensive and to my way of thinking, much better.

2 - Chateau Villerambert Julien Minervois Rose 2007 $14

The vineyard of Chateau Villerambert-Julien, created in 1852 by the Julien family, extends over 59 hectares of hills, all classified as AOC Minervois, between Carcassonne and Narbonne, on the edge of precipitous garrigues.

Its completely unique terroir, composed of veins of schist and crushed pink marble, and is fully exposed to the south.

The greatest care is given to cultivation methods, high density of planting, severe pruning, conscientious training of vines, and the use of organic fertilizer all contribute to the quality of the wine.

The rose comes from a subtle fermentation of the exsanguinated juice from the most aromatic casks of Syrah, Mouverde, Carignan and Granache. The red has been one of our favorites for years, we are very excited to offer the rose while it and the summer are here. Check out their very cool website HERE

3 & 4 - Several years ago there was a movie about one guy getting married and one guy getting divorced and their road trip through wine country. With the utterance of one line, "If they order Merlot I'm leaving" the entire varietal was relegated to the decidedly unhip list.

While I appreciate the character's passion, I always felt it was a little unfair, and worse unwise to dismiss an entire varietal. The horrors of over-produced wine-dreck notwithstanding, we are after all talking about the grape that brought us Ch. Petrus and runs through the great wines of Bolgerhi.
So this week we offer a small reminder that it is ok to drink Merlot.

3- Matanzas Creek Winery 2004 Merlot $27

Tasting notes: A potpourri of fresh herbs, including thyme and sage, marry with dark boysenberries and velvety cherries in the nose.

Distinctly spicy, the palate begins with clove and quince, followed by a long, smooth finish of blackberry and earth notes.

4 - Milbrandt Vineyards 2005 Merlot $24

Tasting notes: The 2005 Merlot is a smorgasbord of ripe blackberry, spice, tobacco, plum, cherry, and coffee. It is dense, lush and voluptuous.

With a small amount of Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot in the blend for additional structure, color and weight.

The wine finishes with a dash of oak, a hint of cassis and a dollop of cedar.

Please Call Us Anytime With Questions
8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3

We have a great team working with us, we consider ourselves very lucky. All of the folks that make it possible at the winestore, Brie & Bleu, Thames River Greenery and Beanery, and the soon to open City News, try their best to make it all work as planned. But we take our guidence from you. Your comments and suggestions, and your fantastic support are greatly appreciated - Thank You.

Please join us.
It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.

AAA.

Our Special Network - Wine Tasting - Please Join Us

thamesrivergreenery — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 17:15:40 GMT

Greetings from all of us in New London,
The list of wines for the Friday tasting is just below these words of interest.

We Have A Special Network Too.

***

We have a reliable network too - It's made up of you - our customers. All of you that continue to contribute suggestions and comments and support all of the ideas and special events that come from them during the year. Thank you.

***

NEWS & UPCOMING EVENTS

Movies In The Park - The Hygienic Art Park - Across From Our Store
This Wednesday night - July 23 @ 8 p.m. - NO CHARGE

1964 My Fair Lady - Starring Audrey Hepburn, Rex Harrison

Have dinner at Brie & Bleu or order up a beautiful picnic basket, and then stroll across the street to the park and watch the movie.

Or just grab your favorite blanket and a bottle of wine from our cellar for a great summer night.

NEW MOVIE EVERY WEDNESDAY.
Order your basket now.
860.437.2474

Coming up: July 30: 'Rebel Without A Cause' (1955).

···

Dave's Fave
The Monday Tasting

Click on the photo to order it now

Jean Manciat

Jean Manciat Macon Charnay 2006 $18

My sister Krista just sent me the menu from her friend Randy Goodman's new cafe, "Bar Avignon" in Portland Oregon. What a terrific wine list! Randy has been a high-profile sommelier in Portland for over a decade and it's inspiring to see the many places where our choices intersect: grower Champagne, wines from the Loire, Rioja, Barbaresco, Bourgogne...

Here's one wine featured at Bar Avignon which we've been enjoying all summer, a charming white Burgundy from Macon Charnay, bright Chardonnay with a long finish (and organic and biodynamic like all Jo Dressner imports). Cheers and success to Randy and Nancy at Bar Avignon - if you find yourself in Portland, stop in and say hi! Bar Avignon
DA.

Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday July 25 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge

Can't Make It To The Tasting? - Order it now - click on the photos

Jim Morrison works especially hard each and every week to make the Friday night line up interesting - here are his selections and comments for this week.

This Just In -
After a flurry of phone calls and e mails we were able to snag a few cases of Trapiche Tributo this week.

Rated 95 points by Robert Parker,
I'm going to take it one step further, it's the best Malbec ever produced in Argentina, the quintessential expression of old, high altitude Malbec vines.

Trapiche made this wine only once, as a homage to the man who worked the vineyard for so many years, Felipe Villafane. $50

1 - Chateau La Rame Bordeaux blanc 2007 $16

Situated 40 kilometers southeast of the city of Bordeaux, Chateau La Rame is among the oldest and most renowned properties in the Sainte Croix du Mont appellation.

The estate was purchased by Claude Armand, the father of the current owner Yves Armand. The 20 hectares of La Rame are set on a clay-limestone soil blessed with the exceptional substratum of a fossilized oyster bed dating from the Tertiary period.

The hillside vineyards face south and slope down toward the Garonne river. This cuvee is a dry Sauvignon blanc, aromatic and focused, well suited to accompany a plate of oysters, and thus complete the cycle of life.

2 - Torre Dei Beati Cerasuolo Rose $20
3 - Vigneto Cocciapazza Montepulciano $35

We opened a bottle of the Torre Dei Beati at last week's tasting after we sold out of the Belle Pente Rose
( if you didn't get a chance to try the Belle Pente rose, there are two more cases coming this week, a riot of Rhubarb, Black Pepper and Strawberries, yum!).

The wine was a surprise and a pleasure, vigorous and layered with pronounced fruit and structure. So we decided to open it again, with it's father the Cocciapazza Montepulciano.

The vineyard yields for these wines are kept extremely low and the selection process at harvest time is nothing short of rigorous: the 2000 vintage (their first) was completed after six passes through the vineyard, in order to only harvest the most perfectly ripened grapes. The grapes are then subjected to the sorting table, tended to by four people, two preside, and who pick out any berries that look anything less than perfect.

During the winemaking process the production is further limited in the interest of quality. A drawing off of some of the must during maceration occurs to increase the red wine's concentration. The drawn off juice or exsanguination is not wasted, but used to make one of the most attractive rosés you've ever tasted.

4 - Cascina Ballarin Tre Ciabot Barolo 2000. $35

Cascina Ballarin was founded in1928 and is a small but prestigous producer with a total anual production of about 30,000 bottles.

The winery has holdings in the communes of La Morra, Monforte d'Alba and Novello, blending wine from all three to create Tre Ciabot.

The 2000 vintage in Barolo was exceptional, and this shows the character of that great vintage and the results of several years of bottle maturation.

The wine has ideal Barolo flavors of roasted red cherries, and blackberry fruit beneath a bouquet of lavender, violets and licorice.

An ideal pairing for our Slow roasted short ribs or Duck Breast salad at Brie and Bleu.

Please Call Us Anytime With Questions -

8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3

Thanks so much for all of your support and the regular stream of comments and suggestions - We could not do it with out you.

Please Join us in New London.
It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.

AAA.

Wine Tasting - Please Join us - No Charge

thamesrivergreenery — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 14:27:50 GMT

Greetings from all of us in New London,
The list of wines for the Friday tasting is just below these words of interest.

** New London In The News**
***

If you missed it - the Boston Globe mentioned us in their recent story about New London. There are additional photos of our stores in the photo gallery that goes with the story. Check It Out HERE: Boston Globe

The Big City papers are discovering what we have known all along - New London is the place to be.

NEWS & UPCOMING EVENTS

Movies In The Park - The Hygienic Art Park - Across From Our Store
This Wednesday night - July 16 @ 8 p.m. - NO CHARGE

Wednesday night - July 16 @ 8 p.m - 1962 The Manchurian Candidate - Starring Frank Sinatra, Janet Leigh, Lawrence Harvey.

Have dinner at Brie & Bleu or order up a beautiful picnic basket, and then stroll across the street to the park and watch the movie.

Or just grab your favorite blanket and a bottle of wine from our cellar for a great summer night.

NEW MOVIE EVERY WEDNESDAY.
Order your basket now.
860.437.2474

···

Dave's Fave
The Monday Tasting

Click on the photo to order it now

The movie on Wednesday 8pm Hygienic Art Park is
"The Manchurian Candidate" 1962 with Frank Sinatra.

The perfect movie companion:
Berkshire Brewing 22oz Bombers $4

Sailfest is over, the streets are strewn with the ash of a quarter-million dollars of fireworks, the flotsam of one million fried-doughs, and the skewers of one billion kabobs - Whooey!

Let's get back to basics and kick it with some great local product - I've poured Berkshire Brewing beers before, and the stuff has just caught on here in New London.

Chris and Gary's fresh, unfiltered, unpasteurized brews from Deerfield, Massachusetts now occupy a whole quadrant of our 1957 Peerless fridge. So I'm very proud to announce that Berkshire Brewing is now the number one selling beer brand in our store!!!

To celebrate I'm pouring a Berkshire spectrum on Monday: original Berkshire Ale, Steel Rail Pale Ale, summery Heffeweizen, Shabadoo Black & Tan, and Coffeehouse Porter. Please stop in after work!

Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday July 18 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge

Can't Make It To The Tasting? - Order it now - click on the photos

This Just In -
Valdicava Brunello 1999 $145, Very hard to come by and only a few bottles in stock. This is what Robert Parker's wine Advocate had to say on the subject

"The 1999 Brunello di Montalcino is the best regular bottling the house has yet released, a full, blackish ruby-garnet with a lovely tarry, mineral, plummy nose endowed with intriguing notes of leather, solid, dense, and long on the palate with complex flavors of plums, tobacco, and underbrush on its sweet, voluptuous finish. Drink: 2005-2016. Score: 93

1 - Esperance Vin de pays des Landes 2007 $12

This little number from Gascony is 100% Colombard, which is fairly unusual, but true to wines of this region it is fresh and light, with floral notes and low alcohol, making it another perfect summer wine for a picnic at Harkness or Lobster rolls at Captain Scott's.

The wine received a Gold Medal at the Concours General Agricole in Paris this year. As I was reminded by Importer Fred Seggerman , "Not everyone gets a Gold Medal in Paris, You Know! "

2 - Belle Pente Cuvee Contraire rose 2006 $23.

Belle Pente (bell-pont) means beautiful slope, describing the hillside vineyards in Willamette Valley Oregon where this wine is produced.

The Cuvee Contraire is a proprietary blend of Pinot Noir and Gamay Noir that are fermented separately and blended just prior to bottling. Only 109 cases produced, that's like 5 barrels.

3 -Barahonda HC Heradad Candela Monastrell 2006 $26

Barahonda vineyards are composed of limestone and chalk topsoil with clay and gravel subsoil, containing only 1/2% of organic matter. They are deep and well drained and the beneficial water retaining clay subsoil is essential for the health of vine in such an arid climate.

Due to poor fertility, yields are naturally low - 4lbs. (2 kg) per vine, producing smaller berries with higher skin to juice ratio. Both limestone and chalk have a high pH content, decreasing acidity mitigated by these older vine root systems that penetrate deeply into the lower pH subsoil hence the wines have a balanced acidity.

These are some of the oldest Monastrell vines in all of Spain. The winery produced only 1500 cases of this wine in 2006, all with estate fruit, making this a great example of artisanal old vine Monastrell at a very reasonable price.

4 - Trapiche Vina Fausto Orellana Malbec 2005 $50

From the great Trapiche Single Vineyard Malbec Project. Each year Trapiche makes dozens of single vineyard wines, each representing a specific vineyard and expressing a specific terroir. After what must be round after round of brutal tasting and hairsplitting, they choose and release the three finest Malbecs in the world.

The goal of Trapiche and Daniel Pi the wine maker, is to take Malbec to it's logical extreme of quality and varietal expression. The wine more closely resembles Classified Bordeaux (after all Malbec is a Bordeaux Grape), than it does your average Malbec. All the grapes for this wine were harvested from a single vineyard, tended by, you guessed it Fausto Orellano. His vineyard sit at 990 meters in the flats just below the Andes. Constant sun, tempered by cool mountain winds have created a wine of opaque color, massive fruit, and firm tannins.

Please Call Us Anytime With Questions - 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3

SailFest Weekend - Please Join Us

thamesrivergreenery — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 15:01:34 GMT

Greetings from all of us in New London,

** SailFest Weekend**

***

Last Saturday night was a good one. New London's Art Attack was a big success and everyone was strolling the streets, browsing the galleries and store fronts, and people watching at every stop. We have a great down town - please visit us.

This is the big SailFest weekend folks. Friday - Sunday. Fun for the entire family and of course the amazing Grucci Fireworks on Saturday night.
Learn more about it HERE

NEWS & UPCOMING EVENTS

Movies In The Park - The Hygienic Art Park - Across From Our Store
Beginning this Wednesday night - July 9 @ 8 p.m. - NO CHARGE

Wednesday night - July 9 @ 8 p.m - The Blob - Starring Steve McQueen.
Have dinner at Brie & Bleu then stroll across the street to the park and watch the movie. Or just grab your favorite blanket and a bottle of wine from our cellar and picnic in the park - NEW MOVIE EVERY WEDNESDAY.

Don't Take Our Word For It
We say it all of the time - "We drink our red wine too warm and our white wine too cold." If you missed it - The New York Times validates us: The Chiling Truth - HERE

···

BRIE & BLEU WILL CLOSE AT 5 P.M. ON SATURDAY JULY 12.
We close the deck every year for fireworks night.

···

Dave's Fave
The Monday Tasting

Click on the photo to order it now

La-Vis Dipinti Pinot Noir 2006 - $14

Important Update from the Pinot Noirs Under-20-Buck Newsdesk:
La-Vis Pinot Noir is here, and strutting around the store - it's delicious! From Trentino in Northern Italy, La-Vis is grown on the high slopes of the Valle dell'Adige. This is a particularly delicate Pinot, owing to the mountain soil and cool breezes of the valley. Quite light, with the characteristic berry flavors, plus a bit of wild pine spiciness like... I dunno, a Tyrolean mountain forest?
Come on in Monday and try a drop of this elegant newbie!

** SailFest Weekend**
Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday July 11 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge

Can't Make It To The Tasting? - Order it now - click on the photos

Just In Stock - The Dominus 2005 has arrived and winemakerf Christian Moueix feels that it's their best effort since 2001. Wine critic Robert Parker agrees and gave the wine 96pts. While supplies last.

1 - Weingut Groiss 2007 Gruner Veltliner $12

In an effort to replace the sold out big green bottles of Hofer Gruner Veltliner, we stumbled upon another wine in a big green bottle we like even better. Groiss is a young and modern winery situated in the wine district of Wagram in Austria.

They practice "intergrated production and natural management" and judging from the photos the place is run by fashion models.

With sunny south facing slopes of Loess soil, the vineyards are perfect for producing lush and lively Gruner Veltliner. Another great affordable summer wine.

2 - Jonathan Edwards Connecticut Chardonnay 2007 $23

Located nine miles from the coast, the vineyard site provides the vines with the moderate coastal climate of the Long Island Sound, which extends the fall season for optimal grape maturation. Being perched on the South side of a hill allows for full sun exposure for the grapes and excellent airflow to dry off the vines after summertime showers.
Additionally, an extensive drainage system known as "tiling" has been installed throughout the vineyards. Every vineyard row now has a drainage tile to allow excess water to drain down and out of the vineyard, allowing warmer soils in the spring, increased aeration in the soil, and prevention of excess moisture in the winter. With their estate releases Jonathan Edwards winery is defining Connecticut wine and terroir. Very limited.

3 - Columna Rose 2007 $11

From the province of Salamanca, near the Portuguese boarder.

The wine is made from 100% Juan Garcia, a native Spanish grape that enjoys the high altitude and dry climate of this region.

Like most Spanish roses, the wine is full bodied and spicy.
And like most Spanish roses, it's very affordable and food flexible.

Juan Garcia (no relation to the grape)

4 - Las Rocas Vinas Viejas Garnacha 2005 $18

The talented Jean-Marc Lafage (of Domaine Lafage in France's Roussillon) is responsible for the majority of the bottlings imported by European Cellars including the Las Rocas cuvees.

Working in concert with Eric Solomon, Jean-Marc has helped to convince the directors of the coop to bottle some of the extremely old-vine material separately and has helped enormously with attaining proper maturity levels, extraction, and balance.

The wine hails from Calatayud, which benefits from a continental climate with vast temperature differences between night and day. Harvests are much later than in other parts of Aragon (the region in which Calatayud lies) and the acidity/maturity/alcohol ratios tend to be more balanced.

As most of the vineyards lie on what was (thousands of years ago) an old river basin, the soil is comprised of brown limestone and loam over slate and gypsum.

Please Call Us Anytime With Questions -

8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3

Thank you one and all for the comments and suggestions and of course for your wonderful support - it's a great summer.

Please Join us in New London.
It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.

AAA.

Summer Favorites, New London 2.0, Wine Tasting

thamesrivergreenery — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 11:23:08 GMT

Greetings from all of us in New London,
We have a choice selection of wines for this Friday night - including something special from California. The list is just below our news and information.

It was a great week here in The District - Boat shows, bike races, submarine launches - There are all kinds of things happening in New London.

New London 2.0 - it's time to rediscover The Whaling City.

NEWS & UPCOMING EVENTS

Brie & Bleu
Something Special Every Week
Best Wine List in Connecticut

Reservations: 8 6 0 - 4 3 7 - 2 4 7 4

···

July 4:
The Royal Caribbean Explorer of the Seas Cruise Ship
Come see the largest cruise ship ever to visit New London! 'Meet and greet' tourists from around the world.

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July 5: ART ATTACK!
Seven Galleries, Ten Storefronts, and Hundreds of Artists team-up for ART ATTACK! with food, music, exhibitions, circus performers, the Mystic Paper Beasts, street art and more, 6:00 - 10:00 pm, Including Hygienic Art, MUSE, Golden Street Gallery, Studio 33, ALVA Gallery, Yah-Ta-Hey, 140 Below and the TSETSE Gallery with music by the Cosmic Jibaros at the Hygienic Art Park. FREE! Info: 860-437-6293

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July 6: Vintage Baseball
The Thames Base Ball Club, New London's Vintage team, plays Waterbury Connors under the 1861 rules of the National Association of Base-Ball Players. Vintage Attire optional, 1:00 pm, Fort Trumbull State Park. More Info Here

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July 12: Sailfest
The biggest, baddest show of the year! 10,000 calories, fireworks, and much more at New London's 31st annual Sailfest with spectacular spectaculars and much, much more! LEARN MORE HERE

July 12: Hygienic Art Gallery's Bizarre/Bizarre
Annual outdoor Art Festival returns as part of New London's Sailfest, Hygienic Art Park, Bank Street, Info: 860-443-8001 - MORE INFORMATION

Dave's Fave
Special Monday Tasting

Click on the photo to order it now

Dashwood Pinot Noir 2006 $15

We're always keeping an eye out for good Pinots under $20, which, it turns out, can be few and far between... We're picky about them, being big Burgundy snobs and whatnot, but when we find them you'll actually get wines which display Pinot Noir's elegant wildberry tones. At the moment we've got three - Mandolin from California, Latour's Valmoissine from France, and now this little number from the Marlborough growing region in New Zealand.

Bright acidity and great brambly raspberry notes make it a little zingier than the other two at this price. I liked it, I picked it, now Jim says it's my job to sell it. I'll open a bottle Monday afternoon and let it sell itself, please stop in after work!

Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday June 27 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge

Can't Make It To The Tasting? - Order it now - click on the photos

A couple quick notes on stock. Summer is the time for light, crisp, inexpensive white wine. Whether it's a barbeque in the back yard or a Lobster roll at Captain Scott's, there's nothing better than a cold, refreshing glass of white wine on a hot summer day.

Unfortunately, It seems that every year we sell out of our favorite whites long before the summer is over, and this year will be no exception. Two of our favorite white wines are running low and I thought it best to let you know before the staff drinks it all themselves. We received the last four cases of the Hofer Gruner Veltliner for this vintage.

The Hofer is the White wine in the big 1 liter bottle with the crown or soda bottle cap. We also received the last three cases of the Clos du Tue-Boeuf Cheverny, also known as the Flying Cow Wine because the wine inexplicably has an image of a winged cow on it. If you have had these wines, you know how wonderful and affordable they are, $12 and $16 respectively.

If you were hoping to be drinking them under an August sun, now is the time to stock up, they will not last long on our shelves.

1 - Domaine du Tariquet Vin de Pays des Cotes de Gascogne 2006 $9

Made from the same grapes used to produced Cognac, Ugni Balnc and Colombard.

Superbly intense for a dry fruity white, its bouquet reveals floral and citrus aromas with nice touches of tropical fruit. Light and well-balanced, this wine is a thirst-quenching pleasure. Always have a bottle in the fridge door, just in case.

2 - Zeni Pinot Grigio Ramato 2005 $12

A Pinot Grigio Rose?! How is possible?
Pinot Grigio may most often be white wine, but the grapes used to produce it are actually copper colored.

The juice for this wine sees a brief period of skin contact, maceration, after the crush. That contact allows the juice to extract a small amount of color, tannins and phynols.

The result is a Pinot Grigio with much more character than your average P.G.. The bouquet in particular is enriched with floral notes like orange flower blossom. Like great Pinot grigio, only more so.

3 - Catherine & Pierre Breton Bourgueil
"Les Galichets" (The Gravel) 2004 $21

Cabernet Franc from the village of Bourgueil where the local term for Cab Franc is Breton, coincidence? I think not. The Breton's practice Biodynamic farming, and the vines from the Galichet vineyard are 50 years old and sit on native rootstock.

Remarkably juicy, textured, versatile with food, and immensely age worthy, the Cabernet Franc wines of Bourgueil, Chinon, Saumur and St-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil are both a traditional staple and a rediscovered rage on the Paris bistro/wine bar scene.

4 - XY Zinfandel 2005 $32

Only 394 cases of this wine were produced for the 2005 vintage, from vines that are at least 50 years old in the Alexander valley in sunny California.

The wine is elegant and plush, with ripe Raspberry, Boysenberry and Bing Cherry flavors. Aged in French oak barrels to create a creamy texture, with vanilla, creme-brulee notes.

Not just another Fat Zinfandel, a Zinfandel of opulent and bright fruit, illustrating the best that California has to offer.

Please Call Us Anytime With Questions -

8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3

As always we appreciate your support. It's been a great week - lots of parties, and laughs, familiar faces and lots of new visitors, thank you for making it so much fun.

Please join us. It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend. We hope to see you this week.

AAA.

Wine Tasting 6.20.08 - No Charge

thamesrivergreenery — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 11:58:15 GMT

Greetings from all of us in New London,
We have a sweet selection of wines for this Friday night - including something special from South Africa. The list is just below our news and information.

Hey - for those of you that still think that nothing goes on in New London - take a look at all of the upcoming events and openings. Some of them are Big Deal national events.

New London, it's not just for sailors anymore.

NEWS & UPCOMING EVENTS

Brie & Bleu
Something Special Every Week

Reservations: 8 6 0 - 4 3 7 - 2 4 7 4

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NATIONAL EVENT:
The Wal-Mart FLW Striper Series
Saturday June 21st - New London City Pier
Big Kick-Off Party & Boat Show & Music Friday June 20 5-9 p.m.

New London City Pier in New London, Conn., June 21 for an $85,000 catch-and-release striped bass tournament that will award the winning team as much as $30,000. Join the excitement, see the action - Learn More Here

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Whaling City Cyclone Bike Race - Sunday, June 22nd 2008, from 8am to 4pm
500 licensed competitive cyclists with friends & families will come to the area for a day of racing on a closed circuit of roads on Fort Trumbull. $7,000 in Prizes.

The Whaling City Cyclone races will take place on a 1 km course closed to traffic on Fort Trumbull in New London. The circuit will include 6 turns per lap and great viewing with the waterfront and Bank Street as a back drop. The race distances will range from 10 miles to 50 miles. See The Course HERE

Bill Humphreys, BikeGuy LLC. 5 Devitt Loop Old Lyme, CT 06371. Bikeguys@sbcglobal.net www.bikeguy.biz 860 227-8280

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Grand Opening of The TSETSE Gallery
located at the historical Crocker House,190 State St., New London CT
Saturday, June 21th 2008 Starting at 3PM. Ribbon Cutting at 4:30 pm.

Although new to Connecticut ,The TSETSE Gallery with headquarters in RI has been in operation since 1995. 'Building Community Through Art' is at the pinnacle of their goals and serves as the mission of The TSETSE Gallery.

If you would like to know more about the Gallery or how you can be involved before the opening, feel free to call Founder and President, Therese M. Lavallee at their corporate office: 401.453.3337

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Dave's Fave
Special Monday Tasting

Click on the photo to order it now

Berkshire Brewing Hefeweizen Ale 22oz Bomber $4

Last week's Chiaretto Rose was so lovely and surprising and yummy I felt like the cleverest guy in the world bringing $12 pink wine to a dinner party of enthusiasts... so I just wanted to re-trumpet the glories of last week's find!

But it's a new week of Tropical heat in Conecticut. Summer's here and the time is right for dancing in the beer! Let's open the citrusy, very German-inspired wheat seasonal offering from our favorite cool cats in Deerfield, Mass. -- Berkshire Brewing. Tried and true, come on down and have a sip after work!

Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday June 20 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge

Can't Make It To The Tasting? - Order it now - click on the photos

1 - Bedell First Crush white 2007 $15
From the North Forth of Long Island. This is the debut vintage of the First Crush White. It is produced of 82% Chardonnay and 18% Viognier, entirely in stainless steel-free from oak aging. The nose is primary and full of bright, green apple-y aromas. as well as a floral, lightly spicy, and fresh citrus notes. The wine tastes of fresh citrus and melon fruit, white peach, lychee and orchid flowers.

2 - Rose des Tourelles Bordeaux Rose 2007 $21

From the vineyard of Chateau Pichon-Longueville Baron, a second growth classified estate in Pauillac. The wine is the exsanguination, or bleeding off of juice during the production of their estate wine. Comprised of equal parts Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. This is Second Growth Rose.

3 - Michel Torino Tannat 2005 $17

Tannat is the new Black. All of the Michel Torino wines are hand-harvested in the estate's own vineyards. Additionally, Andrés Höy, Torino's production manager, practices sustainable, environmentally- friendly farming by minimizing the use of fertilizers and chemicals in the vineyard.

The unique Cafayete climate manifests itself in the elegant, focused profile of Michel Torino's wines. These are wines with an indelible sense of place, wines which complement food rather than overpower, wines which are true to their origin. The wine has intense aromas of minerals, cloves and white chocolate, with vanilla notes. On the palate, there is a full fruit with Italian "amaro" chocolate flavors with a long finish.

4 - Rust en Vrede Estate 2003 $45
Specializing in the production of red wine only, Rust en Vrede has established itself as one of South Africa 's premium red wine estates. Full-bodied and complex, Rust en Vrede wines reflect the uniqueness of the Stellenbosch terroir.

Rust en Vrede is proud to be part of a remarkable three hundred years old wine tradition and continues to persue the excellence synonymous with wines produced by Stellenbosch's private estates. Acclaimed as one of the top 100 wines of the world four years in a row.

Please Call Us Anytime With Questions -

8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3

It has been a great week - even a suprise visit from the owner of Toad Hollow Vineyards.

There has been a lot of feedback about the dinner specials at Brie & Bleu - thank you so much for your support - we have much more planned for you.

We love to hear from you, and we appreciate all of your comments.

Please join us. It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend. We hope to see you this week.

AAA.

Wine Tasting Please Join Us 6.13.08

thamesrivergreenery — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 17:26:43 GMT

Greetings from all of us in New London,
We have a fine selection of wines for this Friday night, the list is just below our news and information.

Fathers Day is justt around the corner. We have lots of ways to say I Love You Dad. Father's Day - Sunday June 15. Order early for timely deliveries.
8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 6 8 1 7 call anytime or ORDER HERE

NEWS & UPCOMING EVENTS

Braised Short Ribs This Week at Brie & Bleu
Grass fed, free range beef from Painted Hill Farms in Oregon.
Painted Hill Farms

Brie & Bleu Dinner Special

Friday & Saturday - June 13 - 14

Reservations: 8 6 0 - 4 3 7 - 2 4 7 4

Once again the press is full of news about the benefits of drinking wine - if you missed the New York Times story, here is a link that will make you look ten years younger: Ageless Beauty

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ALVA Gallery is reopening as an outlet for art and fashion with the intention of presenting New York style at New London prices. The gallery promotes unique and interesting fashions to wear and to display. There are cases of jewelry from far and near as well as uniquely designed clothing, handbags and other accessories. In addition we are presenting decorative pieces in blown glass and ceramic and a whole new range of affordable artists. ALVA Gallery aims to be a creative emporium for men and women. ALVA will be open Tuesday through Saturday from 10am to 6pm.

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POSH is a Home & Body Boutique with "something for everyone." The shop will have handbags, accessories, spa items, children's toys and accessories and home décor. POSH plans to open July 1. The store is located at The Crocker House 184 State Street in New London.

Dave's Fave
Special Monday Tasting

Click on the photo to order it now

Provenza Garda Classico Chiaretto 2006 $12

If you come to our wine tastings, you may no longer shudder with horror when faced with a sample of pink wine... One of our little projects is exposing people to really GOOD rose, the old-fashioned kind, not that bubble-gum box-wine stuff. Rose is cheap, fun, and perfect for warmer weather - this is a new one for us, from beautiful Lake Garda in Northern Italy, at the foot of the Alps. Made from Groppello, Marzemino, Sangiovese and Barbera grapes, the winemaker lets the juice sit on the crushed skins just overnight, leaving a beautiful light-watermelon color. Chilled, it is known for pronounced strawberry notes and a long finish - I wouldn't know because I haven't even tasted it yet, but I'm really curious about this authentic specialty... We'll call it "Dave's Hunch" this week, please join me!

Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday June 13 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge

Can't Make It To The Tasting? - Order it now - click on the photos

1 - Fournier Sauvignon Blanc 2006 $11
The Fournier family are amongst the largest vineyard owners in the appellations of Sancerre, Pouilly Fume and Menetou Salon in the Loire Valley France. This little number is made from declassified fruit from those prestigious vineyards. Light, crisp and with only 12% alcohol, the perfect accompaniment to seafood and soft cheese.

2 - Domaine Houchart Cotes de Provence rose 2007 $11

Owned by the Quiot family from Chateauneuf-du-Pape, the 200 acre estate lies at the foot of Mont Sainte Victoire near Aixen-Provence. This is a blend of Grenache, Syrah, Cinsault, Cabernet, and Mourvedre. Salmon-pink in color, with elegant flavors of red berries, the wine something like Domaine Ott on a budget.

3 - Wynns Coonawarra Estate Cabernet/Shiraz/Merlot 2004 $12

The This wine is blended to capture all the elegant fruit character Coonawarra has to offer in a wine that drinks best when relatively young. Cabernet provides the flavour, length and structure, with shiraz imparting a spicy complexity and richness. Merlot adds softness.It is a finely structured and supple wine showing ripe plum and spicy fruit flavours combined with soft, understated oak.

4 - Montevertine 2003 $46
A great Montevertine is situated in the heart of the Chianti district about halfway between Florence and Siena and lying specifically about 3 kilometers distance from the village of Radda in Chianti. The Montevertine estate was first developed in the 11th century and was purchased by Sergio Manetti in 1967. The first vintage of Montevertine produced and bottled under the supervision of Signor Manetti was 1971. By 1981, due to Signor Manetti's devotion to the Sangiovese grape, Montevertine left the Chianti Classico consortium, forgoing the Chianti Classico denomination in order to compose wines almost entirely of Sangiovese.

The Montevertine estate is now in the hands of Martino Manetti, son of Sergio, who remains dedicated to the style and philosophy of his father. There are approximately 10 hectares of vineyards at Montevertine planted almost exclusively to the Sangiovese grape. Small amounts of Colorino and Canaiolo are planted to supplement the Sangiovese. Some Malvasia is planted as well. Wine production at Montevertine is essentially devoted to three wines. The Pian del Ciampolo, composed of Sangiovese with a tiny amount of Canaiolo blended in, is the basic red wine of the estate. It sees 18 months of aging in large barrels and is the most precocious of the wines. The Montevertine is the standard bearer of the estate. It is aged 24 months in large barrel and is based on at least 90% Sangiovese with some Colorino added.

Please Call Us Anytime With Questions - 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3

Thanks very much for your support, we appreciate it.

We hope to see you this week.

Please join us. It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.

AAA.

Wine Tasting Please Join Us 5.23.08

thamesrivergreenery — Mon, 19 May 2008 13:58:27 GMT

Greetings from all of us in New London,
We have a fine selection of wines for this Friday night, the list is just below our news and information.

We have to thank Billy Costa and the good folks at The T.V. Diner for featuring us on their show. If you missed the segment about us take a look HERE

A quick note for many of our friends at Pfizer. We have received several comments about their ability to receive the weekly email with "@pfizer" email addresses. The method we use to send the email in its new version is sometimes refused by the Pfizer email security filters. It has to do with the graphics and from the source that it is sent from. So, if you have friends at Pfizer you can let them know that we are aware of the problem and that adding us to their "address book" may help the mail to get through. If anyone happens to know the webmaster for Pfizer - we would love too work with them to fix the problem.

We have a great season planned for you - please join us.

NEWS & UPCOMING EVENTS

Meet Three-time Tour de France Winner &
Former World Champion Cyclist Greg Lemond

Thursday, May 22nd 2008, 11:00 am
Ft. Trumbull State Park
ALL THE DETAILS HERE

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Hygienic Galleries - May 31 - June 28 "Moments, Matter and Cosmic Order"
More Information

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Comming Soon

Dave's Fave
Special Monday Tasting

Click on the photo to order it now

Brooklyn Brewery Brooklyner-Schneider Hopfen-Weisse 750ml $12

I'm pouring a beer again Monday folks - this one is so outrageously good, and in such short supply that I surely am going to regret ever letting on it's even here... our friend Garrett Oliver at Brooklyn Brewing has established a very cool connection with Schneider Brewery in Bavaria ("Schneider Weisse"), and this Weissbock (wheat beer) is the latest fruit of their efforts.

This special release is brewed in Brooklyn by Oliver and Schneider Master Brewer Hans-Peter Drexler using American hops and German yeast, re-fermented in bottle. When I and several friends cracked one of these, it was all "Wow!!" and "Oh my God!" peppered with colorful expletives - we invite you to come in Monday, try it, and have an outburst of your own!

Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday May 23 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge

Can't Make It To The Tasting? - Order it now - click on the photos

1 - Michel Torino Torrontes 2006 $16

The vineyards of Michel Torino are located in The Cafayate valley, 5500 feet above sea level. The high altitude ensures dry sunny days and cool nights, creating a Torrontes of tremendous aromatics.

The wine has a nose similar to Viognier, nutmeg, allspice, coriander, but the finish is light and crisp like a Sauvignon Blanc. The combination makes for a wine well suited to Thai food and seafood, cheese and jamon.

2 - Frederic Magnien Bourgogne Rose 2007 $16

Frédéric Magnien has established himself as a bona-fide star of the Cote de Nuits. Although he owns no vineyards, Frédéric is a fifth-generation Morey-St.-Denis winemaker who takes great pride and commitment in selecting the growers with whom he works and the vineyards from which he sources fruit.
He works only with growers who follow his stringent guidelines about pruning, green-harvesting and deciding when to harvest, all of which leads to low-yielding, quality fruit. In some instances, Frédéric himself undertakes the vineyard work. Careful sorting of the grapes in both the vineyards and in the meticulously clean cellar further ensures the final high level of quality fruit. This is undoubtedly the only rosé in the world containing grapes from Clos Vougeot, Bonnes Mares, and Chambertin (and even a little Chambertin-Clos de Beze)!

3 - Mandolin Pinot Noir 2007 $15
Mandolin, a small winery with large ambitions, is generating considerable attention for its stylish wines. Developed by Brent Shortridge and Philip Zorn, Mandolin has the luxury of drawing on top vineyard sources in some of California's best growing regions, yielding balanced wines with bright fruit and a long finish. In fact, it is this characteristic that led to the name of the winery - the mandolin instrument, heralded for its brilliant tone and great carrying power, was the inspiration.

The Mandolin winemaking style leans toward emphasizing balance and expressive fruit flavors, rather than sweetness or excessive oak, and the result is a very accessible, flavorful wine that appeals to experienced wine drinkers and neophytes alike. The broad appeal of Mandolin wines is credited to their full middle palate, which maximizes the fruit character of the wines.

4 - Il Forteto Brunello di Montalcino 2001 $45

From the New York Times "Brunello is noteworthy for being one of the few wines that by Italian law must be 100 percent sangiovese. Now, Italian newspapers are reporting that a number of leading Tuscan producers have been indicted for adding merlot, cabernet sauvignon or petit verdot to their wines. Among the producers cited are such top Tuscan names as Antinori, Frescobaldi and Argiano. Each has denied the accusations.

I have no idea whether these particular producers are guilty of compromising their brunellos, but anybody who is surprised by the idea of wine fraud in Montalcino might also be shocked to learn about steroids in baseball and gambling in Casablanca" It's times like these when it's good to buy wine from your friends. We buy Forteto Brunello from a man we have known for years. He travels to Montalcino, he walks the vineyards, he knows the winemakers. He specializes in small producers looking to make and sell great wine, not big houses jockeying for market share and Parker scores. This is real Brunello, 100% Sangiovese Grosso , from a great vintage.

Please Call Us Anytime With Questions - 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3

Wow - what a week! Receptions, graduations, weddings, parties of all shapes and sizes - thank you for the tremendous show of support.

We hope to see you this week.

Please join us. It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.

AAA.

Wine Tasting Please Join Us - 5.9.08

thamesrivergreenery — Mon, 05 May 2008 13:42:40 GMT

ThamesRiver.com
Visit Our Stores Here
Thames River Greenery - Thames River Wine & Spirits - Brie & Bleu - City News - Import

Greetings from all of us in New London,
Mother's Day is just around the corner on the 11th, don't forget to order early - we have lots of ways to say "I love you mom" - Mother's Day

We have a beautiful line up for Friday night - including a very famous name from California. And speaking of famous names - we have a special guest in the cellar this week - Roger Hoadley will be on hand to answer your questions and regale us with stories of the wine trade. Mr. Hoadley is on loan to us from Slocum & Sons, one of Connecticut's largest distributors of fine wine.

Many of you know that we have dispatched our Jim Morrison to Argentina this week. He has worked hard to earn this trip and he will be drinking wine tirelessly on our behalf. That's the kind of dedication that is hard to find now a days. So let's raise our glasses to Jim this week and imagine that he is doing the Tango in Buenos Aires - while we enjoy the wines for this week.
The list is just below a few items of interest.

NEWS & UPCOMING EVENTS

Papmered Poultry
Duck Confit on wilted arugila

Brie & Bleu Dinner Special
Friday & Saturday - May 9 - 10
Reservations: 8 6 0 - 4 3 7 - 2 4 7 4

Crispy Roast Duck Confit with Lyonnaise Potatoes & Wilted Arugila - $14.95
This French classic can't be beat! We have the meatiest, most succulent duck legs available from D'Artagnan. Crispy on the outside, rich in flavor & juicy on the inside.

The Perfect Wine: Paired with Louis Latour Valmossine Pinot Noir. This clear, light-ruby wine from the hills of Var in Provence is a Burgundian-style red made in the style of the ancient "Vin Vermeil," Fresh with bright flavors, light-bodied but crisp red fruit and earthy notes that follow the nose. There's a wisp of tannins along with clean fruit in the finish - Just $6 a glass, $18 a bottle.

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Thursday May 8 - Maasdam Arrives
The Cruise Ship season begins with the arrival of Holland America's Maasdam.
We never get tired of watching these majestic liners ease into New London's harbor. A perfect spot for watching is the deck at Brie & Bleu. Have dinner, a glass of wine and watch the departure.

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Food Stroll - Wednesday, May 14, 2008, 5:30-8:30 PM
Spring will officially kick off in The District at New London Main Street's annual Spring Food Stroll. More Info Here

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Dave's Fave
Special Monday Tasting

Click on the label to order it now

Tenuta Vitanza Chianti Colli Senesi 2005 $16
CIAO, VITANZA!!! "Charm, Love and Passion," is their motto... Let's go to Italy - Bellissima! Every day I descend our cellar steps and give a nod to the CHARM of the big mags of Vitanza Brunello de Montalcino 2001 at the top of the Italian rack, smoldering, getting more delicious every day, secure in the knowledge that every grape crushed in those bottles actually came from Montalcino! (Yeah, I went there) I'll pick up one of those big boys my next big supper! Hey, wait - there, with the pink label - Vitanza Rosso de Montalcino! I LOVE that wine and the price is quite within my stratosphere indeed! But now along comes Vitanza Chianti, as if the small family operation at Vitanza knew cheap musicians in Connecticut have a PASSION for elegant, smoky Sangiovese! Just try to find a comparable Chianti at this price, with such a noble lineage. You've got to try it!

Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday May 9 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge

Can't Make It To The Tasting? - Order it now - click on the photos

1 - Macrostie Chardonnay Carneros 2006 $24
Fruit from the high hills of Carneros go into this lovely, balanced wine - 2006 was a winemaker's dream with a very long, cool growing season. Aged in French oak, on the lees for six months. This wine is made by fanatics, if there is a better example of this type of chardonnay from Carneros - we would like to know about it. Beautiful lemony scents and a creamy custard & butter finish. This is a medium weight Chardonnay and a modern Californian benchmark.

2 - Sierra Cantabria Rioja Crianza 2003 $17

Classic: the Sierra Cantabria vineyards are set in an ancient village in Northern Spain, the upper reaches of Rioja. Very low yield, old vines digging deep in stony, red soil (as if on Mars): Tempranillo grapes, 14 months in oak, smoky and voluptuous - a shining, affordable pearl from Rioja!

Noted wine expert Robert Parker had this to say about the 2001: "I have served friends the brilliant 2001 Crianza (98% Tempranillo and 2% Graciano) just to prove what great wine can be purchased even with a weak dollar. It is a complex, elegant, deep ruby/purple-tinged offering boasting a sweet nose of lead pencil shavings, white chocolate, blackberries, and cherries. Medium-bodied with supple tannin as well as admirable structure, definition, and ripeness, it can be enjoyed now and over the next 5-8 years." Rated 91 points.

3 - Cline Cashmere 2005 $15
Cline initially created this blend as an auction lot for the Hospice du Rhone charity that's held in Paso Robles California each year. Cashmere is a very flavorful, smooth wine offering big cherry, raspberry and chocolate notes with hints of cracked black pepper and plum. A portion of the proceeds from every bottle sold will be donated by Cline Cellars to the National Breast Cancer Foundation.

Our own Dave Anderson has this to add:
"All of our friends keep requesting this wine - okay okay, you can have it!!! From Cline, out in little Oakley, California, just between Napa and the Bay Area, these hippie-freaks make big, gorgeous, velvety Rhone-varietal reds, which you, our valued wine-freak-friends know means: Syrah, Grenache and Mourvedre - but mostly Mourvedre here, oddly enough! Rhone via California - big, lush and ripe - not quite like rocky old France. Cline made this wine for a cancer research benefit and couldn't stop! Proceeds continue to fund the cause."

4 - Duckhorn Merlot 2005 $56
A great fan of Merlot since traveling to St. Emillon and Pomerol, Dan Duckhorn felt that this elegant varietal was under appreciated in North America. "I liked the softness, the seductiveness, the color," says Dan, "the fact that it went with a lot of different foods; it wasn't so bold, didn't need to age so long, and it had this velvety texture to it. It seemed to me to be a wonderful wine to just enjoy. I became enchanted with Merlot."

From its modest inaugural vintage of 800 cases of Cabernet Sauvignon and 800 cases of Merlot in 1978, to its addition of Sauvignon Blanc in 1982, Duckhorn Vineyards has crafted a tradition of quality and excellence that continues today.

Dave Anderson: "While Jim's in Argentina, we will take the time to explore the wine of a mysterious, distant land: a place called "Napa" in the State of "California" where they apparently keep making wine - red and white wine just for your pleasure!

This particular treat is one of my (Dave's) favorite wines from this alien locale, actually, if my crusty memory serves, right where I used to go to dinner at the vineyard in St. Helena while we watched UNLV basketball games and Buster Douglas beat up Mike Tyson... Oh boy, one sip takes me back to the cusp of 1990! This is Merlot with a Capital Napa - one of the finest examples from the USA, one of California's best at any price, the star of our Friday night show: "THE DUCK!"

Please Call Us Anytime With Questions -

8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3

As always, thank you for making this the best party in Connecticut - week after week. With your continued support we are making changes and adding programs and events, and putting together a great season. We are listening.

We hope to see you this week.

Please join us. It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.

AAA.

No Additives, Abita Restoration Pale Ale, Clos de Vaulicheres Bourgogne, Chateau de Flaugergues, Valcombe Cotes du Ventoux, Ca' Bianca

thamesrivergreenery — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 11:58:16 GMT

ThamesRiver.com
Visit All Stores Here
Thames River Greenery - Thames River Wine & Spirits - Brie & Bleu - City News - Import

Greetings from all of us in New London,
The big news this week are the menu changes at Brie & Bleu. Based on the numerous requests to add "better" ingredients and to offer something truly unique from any other restaurants in the area - we are raising the bar. Take a look at the specials for this week and make your reservations early - the deck fills up quickly.

The tasting for Friday night is all set - Our own Jim Morrison has chosen the wine and his words carefully - check them out. It's all just below the news & items of interest.

And remember, if you can't make it to the store but would like to grab a bottle or two of the featured wines - click on the pictures and order them now. We will hold them for you at the store or deliver them to your front door, it's as easy as one, two three.

NEWS & UPCOMING EVENTS

No Additives Whatsoever.
That's Your Job.

Brie & Bleu Dinner Special
Friday & Saturday - May 2nd - 3rd
Reservations: 8 6 0 - 4 3 7 - 2 4 7 4

Beginning this week we will strive to offer the best, naturally grown ingredients that are available. Your dinner will not roll off the back of a big silver truck that is double parked along Bank Street - delivering the same homogenized products to every restaurant and gin mill in town.

Just like our wine, we will source the products with care and we will not serve something we have not tried ourselves. This is the evolution of the revolution that we started almost 5 years ago.

Roast Chicken with Lyonnaise Potatoes & Wilted Greens - $14.95
D'Artagnan Free Range Organic Chicken are uniquely bred by Amish and Mennonite Farmers in Lancaster Pennsylvania under supervision of NOFA, the Natural Organic Farmers Association. The birds are raised in an open cooped, naturally lighted environment on a diet of freshly milled grain and spring water; free of pesticides, herbicides, growth stimulants and antibiotics.

The Perfect Wine:Paired with Jean Manciat Macon Charnay White Burgundy. The wine is farmed Biodynamically, the highest standard of Organic and sustainable farming. $8 a glass, $20 a bottle.

···

Thanks very much to Kenton Robinson of The Day for including us in Sunday's story "Perfect Ten." It's about the best lunches in New London - and he singles out our own Don Weerakoddy who works with us every day at The Greenery - with the biggest smile you have ever seen. Check out the story HERE

···

"Cult" Pinot Noir Dinner - Wednesday April 30 - 6 p.m.
Open Seating Plan - $75 plus tax & service.

Join us and enjoy the magic of Pinot Noir. The greatest names in Pinot Noir from France, Oregon, & California: Names that include: Belle Ponte, Calera, and Drouhin.

A night that will feature some of the most elusive and sought after names in the wine business. The seasonal menu will feature salmon - Details about the menu and the wine list will be posted here and on the Calendar of events page - H E R E

Dave's Fave
Special Monday Tasting

Click on the photo to order it now

Abita Restoration Pale Ale 2008 $8
For a tidy package of 6 12-ounce bottles

I'm pouring some beer this Monday - this one has gotten a little bit of local hype recently, unavailable for the winter, Abita Restoration Ale from Louisiana is back in stock. What first struck me about it is the balance - it's a rich, golden ale with snappy citrusy hoppiness, but doesn't go overboard in any direction. Created after Katrina, a dollar from each 6-pack goes directly towards hurricane relief, an effort that has raised over a half-million dollars so far. But regardless of charity, this beer stands on it's own merits and is a joy to sip in the warm weather. I'm proud to call it a favorite - please stop in for a taste Monday!

···

Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday May 2 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge

Can't Make It To The Tasting? - Click Photos & Get It Now!

Chateau Clos de Vaulicheres Bourgogne 2006 $16
This wine comes to us from our friend Fred Seggerman, the elder statesman of wine. At 84 years old, Fred has over 50 years of experience in the wine business in Connecticut. He is a valued resource for quality wine, historical perspective, and gossip. He can tell you which famous California wine maker is adding Syrah to his Pinot Noir, and what the Mafia does not want you to know about olive oil. Most importantly, he has a very astute palate, and an appreciation for classically styled wines. We were able to buy only five cases of this very good quality Bourgogne blanc from him this week. Very typical Burgundy, of atypical value, green apple and lime zest, nestled in a viscous Chardonnay texture, with no discernible oak. And only 12.5% alcohol! So if you've given up on Chardonnay because you're tired of oaky, buttery, hot California wine, try this and rediscover this noble variety.

Chateau de Flaugergues Cuvee Sommeliere blanc 2004 $15
Another Fred Seggerman gem, this time from the very stoney and sunny vineyards of Ch Flaugergues in the Languedoc. The soil is comprised of Galet Roules, or round stones, similar to the Southern Rhone. Where In the southern Rhone the vines are cooled by the Mistral wind, in the Languedoc, the vines are cooled by a gentle Mediterranean breeze. It comes as no surprise then that with similar soil and climate, Ch Flaugergues makes it's flagship white from the great white varietals found in Ch Neuf du Pape, Granache Blanc, Rousanne and Viognier and inexplicably Rolle also known as Vermentino. Go figure. The result is a highly floral, medium dry wine loaded with exotic fruit, brimming with aromatics. And again, the relatively low alcohol at 12.5% makes for a wine of subtlety and deft expression. Hats off to Fred Seggerman, oracle, sage, bon vivant and wine professional.

Chateau Valcombe Cotes du Ventoux 2004 $14
Located on the lower slopes of Mont Ventoux in Provence, Valcombe is the second property of Domaine Monpertuis. They brought us their beautiful Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Traditional and the much beloved Cuvee Counoise, and now this lively and spicey Cotes du Ventoux. The vineyard is planted to Syrah, Carignan, Grenache, and Cinsault with an average vine age of 60 years.

The old vines, rocky brown limestone soil, and elevation of 1000 feet, create a unique microclimate where the vines eek out their existence producing very small amounts of very good fruit. The wine is medium bodied with notes of black and red cherries and a touch of spice from the Grenache, and game from the Carignan.

I use this wine for one of my favorite meals, hamburgers . But not just any hamburgers. I take ground beef from Four Mile River Farm in Old Lyme and mix in some finely chopped garlic and onion. I make a nice big hamburger and fry it at a high heat in a cast iron frying pan. When the burger is done, I pull it off and dump out the excess fat. What's left in the pan is blackened beef and caramelized garlic and onion. I add a half cup of Valcomb and add a half cup of sliced baby portobella mushrooms and cook down the wine and mushrooms. I reduce it down until the mushrooms are all soft and the wine is all thick and it all smells really yummy. Then I pour it over the burger and drink the wine. And that is good eating. The gaminess of the Carignan in the wine works perfectly with the gaminess of the grass fed beef, and the spiciness of the Grenache is a great counter point to the fat of the meat and the cheese (I always make cheese burgers). For maximum effect I suggest Sunday at dusk and listening to jazz while you cook, but classical while you eat. Enjoy.

Ca' Bianca Barbera D' Asti Superiore 2004 $34
In February we did a wine dinner with Casimiro Maule of Ca' Bianca and Nino Negri. You could call Casimiro the greatest winemaker in Italy and you would have a basis for doing so. Beyond being voted winemaker of the year by the Gambero Rosso in 2007, he has also amazingly achieved ten consecutive Tre Bicchieri (three glasses, their highest award) for his 5 Stella from Nino Negri. The man himself is quite impressive, with the bearing of an aristocrat, he is nonetheless soft spoken, shy and humble. Yet everything he says has immense gravity, coming as it does from a man who has 37 harvests behind him. He has put the Valtellina in Lombardy on the map, and is a giant in Piedmonte. Of all the wines we tried that night, it was his Barolo and Barbera that impressed me most. They are perhaps the finest examples of their kind that you will ever see. The Barbera, where do I start? If you like full bodied, robust , dry red wine, know this, I have never had a Napa Cabernet of ANY price that I think is as good as this wine. The wine has penetrating flavor of incredible persistence. But this is not some overripe, muscle bound fruit bomb. His wines display the integration and balance of a mature winemaker at the top of his game. The wine is stunning in it's complexity and elegance, beautifully woven, it manages to express the lush fruit of Asti while revealing, not obscuring the Terroir of Piedmonte.

Come drink great wine with us - JM

Please Call Us Anytime With Questions - 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3

There is a lot going on here in New London. We are closing in on the renovation of the former news store next to Thames River Greenery - We have uncovered amazing original details that were simply hidden behind 60 years of paint and sheet rock. We are excited to bring you City News in the coming weeks.

We are sending Jim Morrison to Argentina to strengthen our relationships with the vineyards and winemakers that have provided us with impossibly hard to find wine and special guests for our events.

We are working on the Exchange Building - that's the large vacant building adjacent to the winestore - and it will include a dramatic function space that will allow private parties and events in the same atmosphere that our wine cellar is famous for.

And we continue to use our "Secret Weapon" - We are listening.
Based on your requests we are adding menu ideas, event and guest ideas, and shop on line ideas. We love your input, and we can't say enough about your support. Thank you for making this the best party in Connecticut - week after week.

Please join us. It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.

AAA.

Party Like The Pope, Les Deux Tours, Za Za Garnacha, Michel Rolland, Clos de Los Siete, Cuvelier Los Andes

thamesrivergreenery — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 14:52:19 GMT

ThamesRiver.com
Visit All Stores Here
Thames River Greenery - Thames River Wine & Spirits - Brie & Bleu - City News - Import

Greetings from all of us in New London,
There is a lot of information in this weeks update. If you would like to skip to our list of wines for Friday night, they are just below the news & items of interest.

Many of our regular customers and friends know that over the past couple of years we have been fortunate to spend some time with Lidia Bastianich, Joe Bastianich, and Mario Batali. So we were excited to learn that they had been choosen to prepare the two dinners in New York for The Pope during his visit. Because of our afilliation with the Bastianich family of wines we made The Call.
We are able to offer you the same selection. Available by the bottle or in a Divine Collection. Some choices are very limited - first come, first served.
Read more about it here Wall Street Journal

Party Like The Pope

Here are the wines that will be served, all from Italy,
with some comments from Joseph Bastianich.
To Order Now - Click On The Picture.

Bastianich Tocai Friulano 2006
(Colli Orientali del Friuli), $15

Made from the most prolific indigenous white grape in Friuli. If you think of Tocai Friulano as a fun, simple quaffer, this would change your mind. This has serious earthiness that gives it significant weight in a nicely rustic sense. In fact, this is a white wine that we would decant because we found that its core of fruit showed better with air and warmth. It would be good with grilled fish, but, because of its weight, might be better with veal.

Bastianich Vespa Bianco 2006
(Venezia Giulia), $30

The winery's flagship white, a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Picolit. It's pleasant and floral, easy to drink, with a bit of Sauvignon Blanc crispness and Chardonnay mouthfeel and a hint of honey. Good with sardines.

La Mozza Aragone 2005
(Maremma Toscana), $35

La Mozza Vineyard's premier wine. It's made from a fascinating blend of Mediterranean and Rhône varietals including Sangiovese, Alicante, Syrah and Carignan. Mr. Bastianich said the region is "very hot and arid" and these grapes make a "very powerful wine, kissed by the Tuscan heat without being jammy and too extracted. The Rhône varietals give it a liveliness." We found that this had blackberries, cherries and warming alcohol on the nose and were prepared for a wine of some heft -- but were pleased and surprised when we sipped it to find a soft, velvety wine that was lovely. There are hints of lilacs and some roasted earth, but mostly it tastes like fresh, ripe-from-the-sun grapes, made more by God than man -- perfect for the pope.

Bastianich Calabrone 2003
(Venezia Giulia), $75

The Bastianich estate's reserve red. It is only made in great vintages, Mr. Bastianich told us. It is a blend of Merlot, Refosco, Pignolo and Cabernet Franc. Some of the grapes undergo appassimento, or drying, which increases the intensity of their flavors. "It's kind of a real extreme expression of what a cold-weather wine can be like when it's great," he said. Sometimes the red wines in this region can be "vegetal and stemmy," he added, "but these wines are more like tar resin, fresh tobacco and cedar and have woodsy flavors that are super-appealing." In the glass, the wine looks brand new, with lively purple highlights, and smells raisiny. It reminded us of Amarone -- intense and raisiny -- but the trick of this wine is that it has plenty of flavor without an excess of power.

Bastianich Perlidia Plus Passito 2003
(Venezia Giulia), $75 (half-bottle)

A dessert wine made from super-ripe Tocai Friulano grapes that were partially dried to enhance their sweetness. Mr. Bastianich said only one barrel of this was made and was served in magnums to celebrate his mother's 60th birthday. "We put some in small bottles so that she can have one every year. It is not something we are going to make ever again." This is quite a remarkable wine. It tastes like rich, sweet earth, without too much sweetness and with abundant acidity.
First come, First Served.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Pinot Envy?
Let Us Help
Stop reading and wondering about the Pinot Noir
that celebrities and Hedge Fund managers drink at every meal.

"Cult" Pinot Noir Dinner - Wednesday April 30 - 6 p.m.
Open Seating Plan - $75 plus tax & service.

···
Buy popular request we are listing the Dinner Specials
at Brie & Bleu to help you plan your weekend.

Brie & Bleu Special for Saturday April 26th: In celebration of Spring,
Pasta Primavera $15 paired with Inama Soave Classico $6 a glass.
The deck will be open - reservations accepted - 860- 437 - 2474

Dave's Fave
Special Monday Tasting

Click on the photo to order it now

Domaines Barons de Rothschild
Aussieres Blanc 2006 $14

Hope you had a great weekend in the sunshine! A couple months ago I poured the Rouge from this particular winery - now that the sun has finally come out, I am pleased to present the lovely Chardonnay from the same estate! This ancient vineyard in the Languedoc was revitalized by Rothschild (as in, Chateau Lafite Rothschild) a decade ago, and now produces this crisp Chardonnay from just a few acres of vines. Light, yet substantial - "aromas of melon and lemon," with very delicate use of oak. Please, come have a chilled sip of wine and celebrate the end of Monday! We'll raise a glass even if the wind stirs up and it's hailing sideways...

Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday April 25 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge

Can't Make It To The Tasting? - Click Photos & Get It Now!

1 - Les Deux Tours Sauvignon Blanc. 2005 $17

The Loire Valley did not invent Sauvignon Blanc, but men like Baron de Ladoucette have come to define it with wines from Sancerre and Pouilly Fume. This is a humble little number with a Touraine appellation that nonetheless shares the same soil and meticulous wine making of the standard bearers of the La Doucette family. Stainless steel fermentation on fine lees creates a wine of body and richness, while preserving the racy acidity and floral notes that define Loire Sauvignon Blanc. This wine is a natural pair for goat cheese (the Loire's other great contribution to human society), or our Fondue at Brie and Bleu.

2 - Za Za Garnacha Rose 2007 $10
Campo de Borja in Spain has produced some of our best selling wines, such as Tres Picos and Don Ramon. Za Za Rose comes from this same arid, sunny region in central Spain. Roses such as this dot the tables of Madrid and Logorno during the long mid-day meal. Served with cured ham, sausage, mushrooms and other tappas, rose is perfect for big food on a hot day. Full of intense strawberry, spice and floral aroma's this wine bears little resemblance to either the roses of France, or the stuff you drank on prom night. More red than pink, it is cold wine for the red wine drinker.

Michel Rolland is the most controversial figure in all of the wine world. Many people want him horse whipped and jailed, while others see him as an answer to all their problems and pay him very well for his advice. What can you make of a winemaker from Bordeaux who says things like " wine is dead" or "I can make great wine anywhere" or most importantly "Micro oxygenate!" ?

The tenents of his winemaking philosophy fly in the face of conventional wisdom. To Rolland, terroir is irrelevant and the approach to wine making, weather it be Pomerol or Mendoza is always the same, ripeness,extraction and micro-oxygenation. In Rolland's defense, he is making some of the most lush, approachable wines in the world. And what others might refer to as a hegemony of aesthetics, others see as a democraticization of wine.

The only problem is that his very successful approach, with the high Parker scores, and hundreds of millions of dollars that follow, supplant the indigenous, historical winemaking wherever he goes. When you are taking about Bordeaux, you are either discussing one of the pillars of world culture, or simply another product to bring to market. Where you fall in that debate makes Rolland's ubiquitousness, consulting for over 100 wineries, either a panacea or a plague. I think that probably Rolland should be horsewhipped, but not jailed. Instead he should merely be exiled to Argentina where he can make wine in peace without interference from things like tradition and historical typicity and character.

In Argentina he is a man free from the shackles of his ancestry and he can swim like an otter in a sea possibility. In Argentina the arid climate and constant sun allow the Bordeaux varietals to flourish, reaching proportions formerly unknown. In Argentina vineyards can achieve levels of ripeness impossible in Bordeaux. Rolland's approach of maximum extraction expresses the fruit as Bordeaux never could. His method of mirco-oxygenation, whereby oxygen is injected into the wine during fermentation, creates a wine of opulence and roundness of texture well suited to the Bordeaux varietals planted in Argentina.

We are going to look at two such wines.

3 - Clos de Los Siete 2006 $18 92 pts Parker.
A blend of Malbec, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. Rolland takes the finished wine from seven vineyards and creates this cuvee. From the back label " A new star is born: with seven points and symbolising ambition and conviction"

4 - Cuvelier Los Andes 2005 $24
One of the seven wineries contributing wine to Clos de Los Siete. The Cuvelier family are the proprietors of both Chateau Leoville-Poyferre and Chateau Le Crock. Many French wine families such as the Rothschilds and the Marnier-Lapostolles have established wineries in Argentina and Chile over the past few decades. The wine is largely Malbec, that Bordeaux varietal uniquely well suited to Argentina, with Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Merlot, Petit Verdot in supporting roles. Love him or hate him, if you are in the wine business, you have to deal with him. Jim Morrison

Please Call Us Anytime With Questions - 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3

Thanks very much for your support we appreciate it.

We continue to use our "secret weapon" - We are listening.
Based on your requests we are adding menu ideas, event and guest ideas, and shop on line ideas. It's going to be a fantastic season.

We hope to see you this week. Please join us. It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.

AAA.

Wine Tasting Please Join Us 4.18.08 - No Charge

thamesrivergreenery — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 13:46:02 GMT

Greetings from all of us in New London. A great line up for Friday night awaits you, including a big name from France. You will find our list and interesting details from our "Rush Chairman" Jim Morrison, just below a few items of news & information.

O V E R W O R K E D ?

1 - Are you among the unsung heroes that toil endlessly to make the boss look good? Or maybe you are lucky enough to have the support of these hard working elf's. Get out your calendars and mark down Wednesday April 23. That my friends is Administrative Professionals Day.
We have a lot of ways to say "Thank You." In every combination you might imagine. Order early for timely deliveries.

2 - Passover is just around the corner. We have listened specifically to your requests regarding Kosher Wine. The two wines featured here are the big favorites. We have a nice selection that is universally considered to be the best available in Connecticut. In stock, and ready for pickup or delivery.

Save 10% & free delivery when ordering a case or more.

Baron Herzog Barkan Cellars

1 - Baron Herzog Special Reserve Chardonnay - $30
2 - Baron Herzog Sparkling - $12
3 - Barkan Cellars Cabernet - $12
4 - Barkan Cellars Merlot - $12

If you have additional questions about Passover selections
just give us a call - 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3

3 - "Cult" Pinot Noir Dinner - Wednesday April 30 - 6 p.m. Open Seating Plan - $75 plus tax & service.
The magic of Pinot Noir & weather permitting the deck will be open. We will host a night that will feature some of the most elusive and sought after names in the wine business. The details of the seasonal menu and the wine list will be posted here and of the Calendar of events page - H E R E

4 - If you missed it in Sunday's Day newspaper - we uncovered a relic from the 1920's - and there was a nice picture of it in the Region Section PICTURE HERE
Thanks to The Day for noticing our discovery.

Dave's Fave
Special Monday Tasting

Click on the photo to order it now

Clos La Coutale Cahors 2005 $16

This is another "don't forget about me" wine which has been roosting in the cellar for about six months... Cahors is situated East of Bordeaux in Southwestern France, only one red wine comes out of this small village, primarily made from Auxerois, the Malbec grape which is used sparingly in Bordeaux. Cahors wines tend toward dark plumminess with spice and tobacco. French Malbec with 20% Merlot - dark and complex with only 12.5% alcohol (definitely a different animal than Argentinian Malbec). A Kermit Lynch selection, right up my alley and under twenty bucks!

Quick beer note: We now stock seven styles in bombers fresh from Berkshire Brewing: Steel Rail Pale Ale, Lost Sailor India Pale Ale, Coffeehouse Porter, Gold Spike Ale, Maibock Lager, Shabadoo Black & Tan, and limited edition Raspberry Barleywine-Ale!!

Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday April 18 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge

Can't Make It To The Tasting? - Click Photos & Get It Now!

1 - Vincent Dureuil-Janthial Rully 1er Cru " Montpalais" 2006 - $40
Last year I drank all of this myself. Every time I asked myself what I wanted to drink, the answer always came back Dureuil-Janthial Rully 1er Cru. The wine was like Grand Cru Champagne without the bubbles, concentrated fruit with searing acidity wrapped in chalky Burgundian minerality. And then it was gone. I've been hounding our sales rep for a year now and the new vintage is finally here. But how will it taste? 2006 was a tough year in Burgundy, with many producers losing 80% of their crop to hail. Only the best wine makers, with steady hands, and strict sorting, made wine worth discussing. The following are excerpts from an e-mail in response to my inquiry from Clake Boehling the French Portfolio Manager from Michael Skurnik Wine Importers ;

"I cannot express to you how UTTERLY PHENOMENAL Vincent Dureuil's 2006s are. We tasted the full lineup in France , and I have to say that it was the most convincing case for Vincent's greatness I have ever encountered. As much as you may have heard me crow about it already, you need to understand that these wines really do SHAME so many wines from the Cote d'Or.

The 06 Rully Blanc "Montpalais" comes on like a great upper-slope Meursault, with sweet herbal butter notes on the nose and a really precise and absurdly mineral palate. I'm serious when I say it tastes like a Roulot, and if you know me, that is incredibly high praise indeed. And I think that Dureuil makes the best Aligote on earth, no question.

Also, you're almost never (save for perhaps Dominique Lafon!) find a winemaker as adept at making both colors of Burgundy as Vincent. I can say with peace of mind that your real Burg lovers will be very, very sorry to miss out on these wines, even more so given their pricing in the unstable economy."

2 - Crios Rose of Malbec $12
A very big Rosé, done in the tradition of big Argentine wines. The wine maker Susana Balbo bleeds the Rosé off as she makes her old vine Malbec. And as you might imagine, the Rosé mirrors the Malbec, bone dry with lots of fruit and exotic spices. The wine is so big and dry, that it's closer to a light bodied red than any other Rosé I know. Remember, only mad dogs and Englishmen drink red wine in the noonday sun, and summer will come, and you will need a good, dry Rosé to serve at your backyard barbeque.

3 - Thierry Puzelat PN $22
This wine comes to us from our friend Joe Dressner, and like all Dressner wines, it is not only organic, but biodynamic. It is also, like all Dressner wines, very poorly labeled. There is no appellation, grape variety, or year of production. There is a picture of something on the label but I'm not sure what it is. The bottle merely says P N . As you might imagine all of this obfuscation only whets my appetite, especially since I'm well acquainted with the palate of Mr. Joe Dressner. The wine maker here has clearly abandoned all reason in making this wine, it is unusual and strange, in fact it frightens me a little bit. As you drink, a wave of high toned floral notes, lilies, violets, lilac, envelope your entire head. Concentrated raspberry, and a touch of spice, penetrate your tongue, all the while hard rock minerality dances against your cheeks. And then there it is, like a gentle breeze at your back, the smell of a monkey, down by the river, cleaning himself on a hot wet rock.

4 - Chateau de Pez Bordeaux 2005 $52
As much as I rail against Bordeaux prices (Cheval Blanc $1250 a bottle this year in Ct.), I have to admit to really being impressed with the wine recently. Maybe it was that 1982 Ch Marbuzet last month (thanks Hank!) or that 1981 Leoville Las Cases last week (thanks Hans!). Bottles of wine like that are filled with so much romanticism it is easy to get carried away. Despite what the wine press may say, there are few places on earth that produce wine with a demonstrated ability to not simply withstand time, but to improve and evolve with age. Bordeaux is also the only region on earth that can produce such great wine in such vast quantities. Napa can't get the quality, (or not that quality, ageability ) and Burgundy or Barolo could never get the volume. What we are left with then is the Cult of Bordeaux, and that's fine by me. I drank the kool aide, now I'm ready to drink more wine. The 2005 vintage is all it's cracked up to be. A combination of classicism and approachability, structure and generous fruit. Such a good year in fact that even a humble "Cru Bourgeois" like the de Pez is a dramatic wine that will take your breath away while it fills your mouth with fruit and gravel and hints at what is to come ten, twenty years from now.

Thanks very much for your support we appreciate it.
We value all of your comments and suggestions - we are listening.

In the coming weeks you can look forward to more special guests, new menu items, and one of a kind events all based on your input.

We hope to see you this week. Please join us. It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.

AAA.

Wine Tasting Please Join Us

thamesrivergreenery — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 15:39:32 GMT

ThamesRiver.com
Visit All Stores Here: www.thamesriver.com
Thames River Greenery - Thames River Wine & Spirits - Brie & Bleu - City News - Import

Greetings From All Of Us In New London

We try to breathe new life into the familiar, our unique approach and offerings are the perfect mix of contemporary and classic, and destined to leave a lasting impression. Why shop at a warehouse or local "packy" when you can be groovy?

Our Master of Ceremonies Jim Morrison, and our team at the wine store have a beautiful evening planned for you this Friday. I hope you can join us. The list of wine for the weekly tasting is just below the news & information.

NEWS & UPCOMING EVENTS

1 - Thanks to Rick Koster of the Day Newspaper - for mentioning that we bring in as much Restoration Ale from New Orleans' Albita Brewing Company, as we can. Restoration Ale was conceptualized just after Hurricane Katrina as part charity brew/part offering to the Powers-That-Be that the Abita Brewery was spared by the storm. As such, the company donates $1 for every six-pack sold to the Louisiana Disaster Recovery Foundation. Full Story Here

2 - The Garde Arts Center and The Connecticut Lyric Opera have teamed up to bring us: Die Fledermaus. This is a full staging of Johann Strauss' uproarious comic operetta, Die Fledermaus, on Friday, April 18th at 8 pm, an event sponsored by The New London County Medical Association. Start your evening at our tasting, grab a bite at Brie & Bleu and then take a stroll up to The Garde to round out your evening. Folks, this is a Big City evening out, right here in New London. More Information Here

3 - 2008 Hygienic Art - Annual Juried Exhibition
Opening Reception Saturday, April 26, 7-10 pm
This year's guest juror is Jeffery Andersen, executive director of the Florence Griswold Museum and a noted expert in American Impressionism and the Lyme Art Colony. Alternatively, the Hygienic Art Gallery is known as a Contemporary Art Gallery. The resulting fusion of the two artistic genres in a juried exhibition is likely to produce an outstanding and unique exhibition. More Information Here:

4 - Wednesday April 9 - 6 p.m. Take Her To Paris
Vintage French Wine Dinner

The biggest names in Burgundy & Bordeaux Featuring flights of 2005 White Burgundy and Bordeaux. "Open Seating" format.

The wines of Christian Moreau, Oliver Leflaive, Chateau De Pez, and Tourelles de Longueville will make this a night of indulgence not to be missed. The value of the wine alone, if you could find them, makes this a show-stopper.

MENU:
Crab and Asparagus Salad Served with
Oliver Leflaive Puligny Montrachet 2005 - $50

Duck Confit Served with
Domaine Bouchard Monthelie 1er cru 2005 - $42

Grass Fed Beef Medallions with roasted wild mushrooms and Truffle potato puree Served with Chateau de Pez 2005 - $52 and Les Tourelles de Longueville 2005 - $54

Cheese Plate Served with
Domaine D'Ambinos Coteaux du Layon Beaulieu 1976 - $68

5 - Wednesday April 16 - 6 p.m. Cult Wine Dinner Series

Those of you that have attended our "Cult Wine Dinner Series" in the past know that they are, with out a doubt, over the top. Seating is very limited because the availability of the wine is painfully scarce. We are one of the very few shops in the United States that receives an allocation of these wines. Join us for a dinner that will give you bragging rights, truly a night to remember.

MENU:
Lump Crab Appitizer.
Grilled Filet Mignon with herb roasted mushrooms.
Mashed Potatoes with fresh grated horse radish.
Black Chocolate tart with fresh fruit puré.
Illy Espresso.

WINE:
Pares Balta Sauvignon Blanc - $11
Juan Gill - Tempranillo - $16
Clio - rated 95 points - Robert Parker - $50
El Nido - rated 98 points Robert Parker - $130

Each year the names "Clio" and "El Nido" sit at the top of the "Best Of" lists. They are very difficult to find and always scored by the big reviewers and magazine's high in the '90s. The 2005 vintage is no exception.

Robert Parker: "Clio 95 points, El Nido 98 points."

The winemaker himself said "these are the best grapes I've tasted in ten years."
$125 plus tax and service.
Please reserve early - 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3

We are available for private dining events, wine classes, private wine tasting parties, full blown wine dinners, cooking demonstration dinners, you name it.
Jim Morrison, Chef Daryl Goldstein, and our entire staff are ready to service the perfect special event for your friends, family, or office.

For more information just give us a call: 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3
Dave's Fave
Special Monday Tasting

Root:1 Sauvignon Blanc 2007 $12
Click on the photo to order it now

This is a brilliant little Sauvignon Blanc, from Root:1, sister wine of the very popular Cabernet. 2007 (remember they're six months ahead of the curve down in Chile, so yes, '07) had a very cool, long ripening season -- the wine is made with slow fermentation, then sits on the lees for two more months. The result is a balanced, structured Sauvignon Blanc with cool citrus and tropical fruit essences... But forget all that, this is simply a brazen attempt by me to defy the gray and wet gloom of Southeastern Connecticut in April: I am going to start drinking white wine early this season, I'm going to sit right down on the deck with a chilled bottle of this, an arugula salad and a big hunk of seared sea bass - even if it's SLEETING!
Wine Tasting Please Join Us
Friday April 11 - 6-9 p.m. - No Charge

Click Photos For Ordering Information

Attitude Sauvignon Blanc by Pascal Jolivet 2006 $19.
Pascal is an extremely soft spoken man who takes a seriously "non-interventionalist" approach to winemaking. When I asked him how he made is wine, he was somewhat taken aback. "I do not make the the wine, the wine makes itself". In fact the French do not have a word for winemaker, and this I had forgotten. They instead use the term proprietaire recoltant, which simply means grower, as in grape grower. No one has ever made good wine from bad grapes, and every winemaker will tell you that most winemaking occurs in the vineyard. Interestingly, there is no equivalent in English for terroir, that confluence of factors whereby the source of the wine is imprinted upon it. And I suppose that was his point, instead of making wine, he farms fruit as naturally as possible an allows the land of the Loire Valley to speak for itself through the wine. His winery is even gravity fed, so that the wine never passes through pumps, but has a gentle journey from press to barrel to bottle to glass. The result is Sauvignon Blanc that more closely resembles Sancerre than New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc or God forbid Fume Blanc. Crisp and focused with classic citrus and chalky minerality. Perfect for seafood or our Fondue at Brie and Bleu. Perhaps the Sauvignon Blanc of the season.

Arcadian Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir 2005 $34
Joe Davis is one of the two great Pinot Noir winemakers of California. His 2001 Sleepy Hollow Pinot Noir occupies a place in the Pantheon of my heart right next to Josh Jensen's 1997 Mills Pinot Noir. Both men were deeply influenced by Burgundy and it shows in their winemaking as they take ripe California fruit and create Grand Cru. Joe traces his interest in winemaking to a bottle of 1978 Dujac that inspired him to make the greatest Pinot Noir possible. Growing in the cool Santa Lucia Highlands, Arcadian's fruit slow ripens in the sun to achieve a ripeness of sugars and tannins in the skins and even seeds. The fruit is repeatedly foot tread for a cool, slow fermentation that maintains the complexity and delicacy of true Pinot Noir. The wines receive all new French oak, but the barrels are pre-seasoned for up to three years before they are filled. The barrel imparts no oakiness that would interfere with the fruit, instead the barrel allows the wine to coalesce into one of the finest, expressive, intricate Pinot Noirs I have ever had.

Venta La Ossa 2004 $16
100% Tempranillo from La Mancha in central Spain, this wine however is nothing like Rioja. The old vines and very hot climate of La Mancha have created a very big, rich version of Tempranillo. The wine more closely resembles the wines of Toro and Zamora like Numanthia and Cenit than even the most modern Riojas. As with all the wines imported by Jorge Ordonez, the combination of ancient vineyards, extended maceration and prolonged aging in new American Oak barrels, has created a powerhouse of Spanish fruit and exotic spices. As recently as six months ago this wine was being sold in the state of Connecticut for $25, to make room for the new vintage the distributor has discounted the wine allowing us to sell it for $16 a bottle, $9 a bottle below list. It will run out, enjoy it while you can.

Domaine Du Tunnel Cornas 2005 $50
Cornas gets very little respect, always in the shadow of the much more famous Cote-Rotie and Hermitage. Yet I've had Cornas that stood up to and even exceeded Cote-Rotie and even Hermitage La Chapelle. How is it that nobody notices Cornas? Part of it has to do with the cult of personality that surrounds Cote-Rotie and Hermitage wine makers, names like Guigal and Jaboulet. And the Famous vineyards, La Mouline, La Turque, La Landonne and the aforementioned La Chapelle. Little Cornas with only 235 acres produces less than 20,000 cases total, and despite the stunning quality, has never developed the reputation of other Northern Rhone appellations. So what is it? Syrah, Syrah for the ages. From 100 year old vines, aged 14 months in Barrique, the wine is described as crisp and lively, vibrant and chewy, concentrated with a very persistent finish and a great tannic structure. The wine is very young, and drinking it now is akin to what my friend Armando refers to as "infanticide", yet I can't resist previewing this monster. People are forever asking me about wines that can age twenty or thirty years, this is it folks, we'll be trying one Friday. It will be somewhat unapproachable and tight, but let's see if we can't coax it out of it's bottle and get it to express itself to us. A few hours in a decanter with low light and soft music should do it.

Please Call Us Anytime With Questions - 8 6 0 - 4 4 3 - 9 4 6 3
Thanks very much for your support we appreciate it.
We value all of your comments and suggestions - we are listening.

In the coming weeks you can look forward to more special guests, new menu items, and one of a kind events all based on your input.

We hope to see you this week. Please join us. It's fun, informal, and a great way to start your weekend.

AAA.

Thames River Greenery | 70 State Street | New London | CT | 06320