|
|
|
|
Tulips, roses, grapes...
|
April 30th, 2009
|
|
|
|
|
Greetings!
It was great to see so many people outside last weekend. Even if you were working in the garden, you were able to enjoy a little bit of summer in April. This weekend we head into May and more Spring activities. If you happened to own a vineyard, what might you expect May to bring?
In March and perhaps April, depending on how far North your vineyard is located, budbreak occured and the vines started to grow. During May, flowering will occur in most vineyards in the US. Tiny grapes will appear, they will be polinated and start to develop. In order for the vines to flower, sixty degree temperatures are needed. This is usually not a problem in California, but for cooler climates, like some in Europe, this can be a nail biting time. Once budbreak occurs, until flowering is over, vineyard managers are on high alert and glued to weather forecasts. If a frost occurs during this time, it can be just devastating. Windy weather during flowering can also be a problem. The flowering dates are marked on the calendar every year. Why? Simple, traditionally harvest will occur in 100 days.
While all the vineyards are being closely watched this month, we offer a few wines that are just perfect for warmer weather. These are featured below. And as we offer more wines from new vintages, we continue to feature our 20% off close-out bin. Wines that we have 1 bottle left are added to the bin to make room for new and interesting wines.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Featured Wines of the Month - May
|
Domaine du Cote Tariquet 2006 $16.99 a bottle, $173.28 for a case, or $14.44 a bottle as part of a mixed case
In the southwest of France in Gascony the climate is mild providing an ideal environment for grapes to grow and develop a range of aromas. This is a pretty unique blend of Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc with a distinctive bouquet of fine intense floral notes, some minerality, and the underlying suggestion of ripe grapes. The freshness is evident with the first sip, as is the attractive intensity of flavors. It is absolutely delightful to drink in the warmer seasons. It goes to show what quality grapes and a winemaker's expert touch can produce. We had last year's vintage in the store too and everyone loved it, we couldn't let this one pass us by. Just try it, you'll love it!
|
Cantina del Taburno Falanghina 2008 $16.99 a bottle, $173.28 for a case, or $14.44 a bottle as part of a mixed case
Cantina del Taburno is in the Campagna region of Italy and the Wine Advocate said that their "top wines compete with the best being made anywhere." Taste this Falanghina and see what they have to offer. It is crisp and fruity, an absolutely delightful wine! The Falanghina grape can be tasted in perfect purity, with notes of almond blossom, lemon, and fresh nectarine. The almond notes are a signature of the Falanghina grape. Perfect for light meals, appetizers, and just by the glass, this is a wine that will appeal to everyone!
|
J Hofstatter Pinot Grigio 2007 $19.99 a bottle, $203.88 for a case, or $16.99 a bottle as part of a mixed case
For all of our Pinot Grigio lovers, we offer a delicious Pinot Grigio this month. J Hofstatter produces beautiful wines in the far northern part of Italy, Alto Adige. This elegant Pinot Grigio has a clear fruit aroma of pear, warmed with light spice. It is firm on the palate, velvety and full-flavored with well integrated acidity. A very round and satisfying wine. Definitely one of our favorite Pinot Grigios without a doubt!
|
Domaine la Monardiere Vacqueyras Rosé 2008 $17.99 a bottle, $183.48 for a case, or $15.29 a bottle as part of a mixed case
Vacqueyras is a small village in the Southern Rhone just a few miles north and east of Chateauneuf-du-Pape. Vacqueyras earned the right to label under its own name in 1990, where previously it bottled its wine as a Cote-du-Rhone village. Being given its own appellation is part of the French system's way of recognizing the quality of the wine produced in that area. This rosé is a delicious example of the beautiful rosés produced throughout southern France that have skyrocketed in popularity. Crisp, DRY, and filled with red fruits and a touch of spice this is guaranteed to please!
|
Huarpe Lancatay Malbec 2007 $9.99 a bottle, $101.88 for a case, or $8.49 a bottle as part of a mixed case
This is a perfect Malbec for all the outdoor entertaining around the grill that will be happening all summer. Perfect with all types of red meat from hamburgers to steaks. A deep violet red in color with aromas of red fruits and toasted nuts brought out from the aging. There is a roundness that is evident on the palate as is the ripe, juicy berry fruit. This Malbec cannot be beaten for this price, yes under $10! A perfect wine for your casual dinners in the warm weather.
|
|
|
Wines for Friday's Tasting:
Cantine del Taburno Falanghina 2008 $16.99 a bottle, $173.28 for a case, or $14.44 a bottle as part of a mixed case
One of our featured wines of May. For a detailed description see the column to the left.
J Hoffstatter Pinot Grigio 2007 $19.99 a bottle, $203.88 for a case, or $16.99 a bottle as part of a mixed case
One of our featured wines of May. For a detailed description see the column to the left.
Downing Family Fly by Night Zinfandel 2006 $27.99 a bottle, $285.48 for a case, or $23.79 a bottle as part of a mixed case From an organically farmed vineyard this unique Oakville zinfandel has developed a powerful structure that is sweet on the front palate and spicy on the back. Black currants, wild huckleberries, and a melting essence of dark chocolate emerge from this full-bodied wine that finishes with a note of vanilla and cracked pepper. This wine makes a great companion to almost any meal.
|
Wine Fridays:
The next Wine Fridays is Friday, May 8th!
We have a nice group of people involved. It's a fun evening, a night out and singles are welcome too! Hors d'oeurves are prepared by Food Company Catering and Special Events.
If you would like to join in the fun, email us at info@tewksburyfinewine.com or call 908-439-0007.
|
Our Wine Clubs:
The Boutique Series $50 a month plus s&h, complimentary local delivery
Grape Distinctions $75 - $100 a month plus s&h, complimentary local delivery
Cellar Collectibles $100 - $150 a month plus s&h, complimentary local delivery
To enroll or if you have questions about the clubs, email us at info@tewksburyfinewine.com or call 908-439-0007.
|
|
|
We'll open the wines for Friday's tasting around 4:00 and we will open a few over the weekend too. Looking forward to seeing you soon, and most importantly, thanks for your continued support!
Cheers! Andrea |
| Contact Information |
Andrea Maranca One Old Turnpike, PO Box 377, Oldwick, NJ 08858 T: 908.439.0007 F: 908.439.9997 www.tewksburyfinewine.com
|
|
|
|
|