Argentina:  A Delicious Frontier
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There's Lots to Discover ... Malbec and More!
 January 22nd, 2010
Greetings!

Argentina continues to jump to the forefront of many wine discussions.  Although wine has been produced in Argentina for over 400 years, it has only recently become well-known in the US market.  The most famous vineyard area in Argentina is Mendoza.  Mendoza sits just to the east of the Andes Mountains.  These mountains play a critical role in the success of the grapes grown in the region.  Almost considered a desert, averaging only 8 inches of rainfall a year, Mendoza benefits from irrigation channels that were built to bring water from the melting snowpack of the Andes to the vineyards.  In Mendoza, the temperature swings from cool nights and mornings to hot afternoons, allowing the grapes to develop while the cool nights keep the acidity in balance.  These factors coupled with interest from winemakers around the world has attributed to their success.     

Malbec from Argentina continues to provide value and quality.  Today the success of Argentinian Malbec has opened the door for the introduction of other wines from Argentina.  Cabernet Sauvignon, Bordeaux style blends, and innovative blends including some varietals that aren't as well known are being embraced in our market.  For whites, the Argentinian Torrontes is being joined most notably by Chardonnay.  And we have several terrific Argentinian wines that will be open Friday night!
January Wines of the Month:
Luca Uco Valley Chardonnay  2007,
$36.99 a bottle, $377.28 for a case, or $31.44 a bottle as part of a mixed case

The Uco Valley is a sub-region of Mendoza.  From this area comes a delicious Chardonnay that can rival our beloved California Chardonnay.  The Wine Advocate awarded this wine 92 points and wrote, "The Chardonnay has arguably been one of the 3-4 best produced in Argentina for a number of years and the 2007 Chardonnay is no exception. It was 100% barrel-fermented, went through full malolactic fermentation, and was aged for 12 months in 50% new French oak on its lees. Light gold-colored, it has an outstanding bouquet of spiced apple and poached pear, with tropical fruits in the background. Medium to full-bodied, mineral and oak notes emerge on the palate accompanied by lively acidity, layered flavors, and excellent balance. Drink this classy Chardonnay over the next 3-4 years."  You'll love it!
 
Paul Hobbs Felino Vino Cobos Cabernet Sauvignon 2008, $24.99 a bottle, $254.88 for a case, or $21.24 a bottle as part of a mixed case

Wow!  We think this 2008 Cabernet blows the pants off the 2007, it is that good!  The gravely soils and high elevation of the Felino Cabernet Sauvignon vineyards infuse this wine with classic Cabernet flavors of blackberry and cassis.  Farming for low yields intensifies the wine's concentration and complexity.  It is a big, but friendly, Cabernet Sauvignon that could intimidate many cabs from around the world at twice this price - honest.  Only 4,750 cases produced, so try this soon! 
Paul Hobbs Felino Vino Cobos Malbec 2008, $24.99 a bottle, $254.88 for a case, or $21.24 a bottle as part of a mixed case

Also from the Paul Hobbs' Felino winery, comes this delicious Malbec.  Powerful, firmly structured, it is deep and dark in color with vibrant touches of purple.  The wine tempts you with a perfumed nose accentuated by wild raspberry and bittersweet cocoa aromas.  The palate unfolds in velvety layers of plum, currant and anise. White pepper and minerals accompany fine-grained tannins on a long, memorable finish.  This is a terrific Malbec ...  if you didn't jump on the Malbec bandwagon last year, this is a reason to get on board!
January Wine Club Selections Are Ready! 

The Boutique Series
$50 a month plus shipping and handling,
complimentary local delivery
This month's selections include Brookman Wines Cool Sands Cabernet-Merlot 2007 and Ottimino VonWeidlich Zinfanadel 2005.

Grape Distinctions
$75 - $100 a month plus shipping and handling, complimentary local delivery 
This month's selections include Carlisle Carlisle Vineyard Zinfandel 2007 and Robert Biale Black Chicken Zinfandel 2007.

Cellar Collectibles
$100 - $150 a month plus shipping and handling, complimentary local delivery
This month's selections include Vieux Telegraphe Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2007 and Rene Rostaing Cote-Rotie 2004.

To enroll, or if you have questions about the clubs, email us at clientservices@tewksburyfinewine.com You can also reach us at 908-439-0007. 

Check out our
"End of Vintage" bin!


Filled with many one of the kind gems, the bin has been replenished to make way for the new vintages that will release in the Spring.  Offered at 20% off, you should definitely check it out this weekend!
January
Wines of the Month:



J Hofstatter Pinot Grigio 2008
$19.99 a bottle, $23.88 a case, or $16.99 a bottles as part of a mixed case. 

A Pinot Grigio from one of our favorite producers!  This elegant wine is bright yellow in color with copper reflexes.  It has a clear fruit aroma of pear, with warm light spices.  Definitely firm on the palate, velvety and full-flavored with well integrated acidity.  A deliciously, very round and very satisfying wine.  Try some with a bowl of seafood chowdah!


Fontana Mesta Blanco Macabeo-Moscatel 2008, $10.99 a bottle, $112.08 for a case, or $9.34 a bottle as part of a mixed case

Bodegas Fontana is an authentic family bodega belonging to the Cantarero Morales family.  The Mesta Blanco is a blend of 70% Macabeo with the balance coming from the aromatic Moscatel. Pale yellow in color, this wine has an aromatic fruity nose, with pineapple and citrus flavors. Mesta Blanco has a good acidity and is a crisp, juicy and refreshing white wine. Pairs well with snacks, fish and light cheeses. We had it with a citrus glazed salmon (part of the healthy January diet) and it was delicious!


Ruca Malen Malbec 2006,
$18.99 a bottle, $193.68 for a case, or $16.14 a bottle as part of a mixed case

Looking back at 2009, we definitely saw the rise of Argentinian Malbec!  With its firm structure, yet easy drinkability we think its popularity will continue to soar!  This Malbec from Ruca Malen definitely fits the bill.  It has a blackberry aroma with a touch of oakiness on the nose. Juicy blackberries on the palate mingle with licorice and violet flavors to create an intriguing nuance.  Simply put ... delicious!  And, very versatile, making it perfect for weekday meals.


Paul Hobbs Felino Vina Cobos Cabernet Sauvignon 2008,
$24.99 a bottle, $254.88 for a case, or $21.24 a bottle as part of a mixed case

One of the wines featured for Friday's Tasting.  Please see the column to the left for a complete description.

We'll open the wines for Friday's tasting around 4:00.  As always, we thank you for your continued support! 

Cheers!
Andrea, Stacy, Tim, and Victor

Contact Information
Andrea Maranca
One Old Turnpike, PO Box 377, Oldwick, NJ 08858
T:  908.439.0007  F:  908.439.9997     www.tewksburyfinewine.com