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Wine Talk by Art of the Table
September 30, 2010
There is something special about being in the nothern area of Michigan's Lower Peninsula ~ especially the Traverse City area.  You've got both the Leelanau and Old Mission Peninsulas with their picturesque wine country and generally quaint hospitality.  The restaurants and hotels are particularly pleasant, and the peaceful beauty of the area are reasons alone to go...for the day, a weekend...or even a weeklong "stay"cation. 

But even up in "wine" country, we find ourselves going urban to Left Foot Charley's winery and tasting room.  It's right in Traverse City, not out in the vineyards.  The grapes are all sourced from the Old Mission, and LFC's farmers work exclusively with them.  A somewhat modern themed tasting room located in The Village (formerly the Northern Michigan Asylum) where Trattoria Stella is also located (AKA a very legit restaurant).

I want to preface, these wines are great.  I (Brandon) truly think it is the best white wine coming out of Michigan.  The balance and quality of their wines puts them into an international level of wine making.  Now that that's been said...this place is fun.  It's a "party foul" to spit, you will be made fun of for knowing what you are doing, but after the bantering and thin ice left foot murmurhas been broken, the air is clear and it's all about the wine.  These guys know there stuff.  Both Brandon and Amy have enjoyed the banter and casual approach, it's truly refreshing to see in the wine world.

If you haven't been...go.  We carry some of their wines, and they stand up on their own.  The memories you can relate the wine to makes everything so much better.  It'll also give you an honest idea of what good people making good wine looks and feels like.  
the "h" ladies @ left foot
this is what good people drinking good wine looks like! amy, mom and sister
on a weekend out


The wines we carry.

All of the wines at Left Foot Charley have some sort of medical reference - appropriate for its location @ the (former) Assylum...

Murmur

Named for the murmuring feeling you have whilst watching the clouds, the grapes that comprise this wine aren't far off from that feeling.  It's a dry blend of Riesling, Pinot Grigio and Gewurztraminer.  Also a 5% mix of Viognier, Sauvignon Blanc and Traminette are tossed in.  It's a dry and citrusy wine with slight floral and sweet tones.  We really like this guy.  It's a great example of where Michigan wine should be and where we hope it goes.  Things will be alright if that's the case. 

Medium Dry Riesling (MD)
Essentially what you know to be called Semi Dry Riesling, but not really at all.  It isn't sweet, but it certainly isn't dry.  It comes in floral with hints of honey and pear, and finishes nicely with dried apricot and this cool herbal thing.  We've found this to be very acceptable with really fresh, spicy dishes. 
Thai SumTom anyone?  Yeah.

left foot fridge
though we can't carry it, the resident and intern are available only
"on tap" at the winery from a vintage'ish' fridge. fun!
 
A few more tidbits.
Left Foot Charley produces many other great wines.  Most of them aren't available for distribution, but we are in the works of trying to get some special stuff down here soon. 
Meanwhile, take a trip up this season when the leaves are changing, it's truly a great time to go.
Oh Hey, Two Lads has something new!
Neighbor and friend to Left Foot Charley, new kids on the block, Two Lads, has enough Chardonnay to distribute a little.  We have some!  Actually we bought two cases...which really isn't that much.  This stuff will go fast, and you don't want to miss out on it. 
2lads

Remember, we also have the Cabernet Franc and Rose of Cab Franc still in stock.  Get it before it's gone for the season.

Upcoming Tastings
In the upcoming months, we'll try to keep your insides warm with beautiful wines and liquor tastings!  Keep watching this spot, it's where the info will arrive!  Here are a few to get you started in the flair of fall!

Next Wednesday, October 6, French winemaker, Arnaud Fabre, is in the house!  Well, at Corez 'house'!  Arnaud is the winemaker at
Chateau D'Angles in the Languedoc.  We'll be experiencing four wines that are all very different and incredibly well made these prices!  Three selections are under $15 a bottle and just wait, wait for the Oorain-Victoria.  I'm intrigued!  Give us a call if you want to join us for having a few happy drinks and some hors d'oeuvres with the Frenchman.  $25 + tax/tip

Saturday, October 23
- There will be mellow and fun music, super food delights from the store and local restaurants, along with beer and wine sampling throughout the evening for you to enjoy all night at Stonesthrow Furniture on Plainfield.
It's our 7th anniversary, it's Stonesthrow's 6th anniversary and we're also honoring Local First by giving them $5 per ticket as a donation! 
Trust us, it's the most cozy, fun atmosphere for a party and you should not miss it!
Tickets must be purchased from Art of the Table and are $65 and include all food, wine & entertainment for the evening.  A seriously great price for all there is to enjoy!  Check out some of the pics from prior years, dress up a little and please attend!

November 3 - The winemaker from Spy Valley in New Zealand!spy valley  We have a great opportunity to host one of our old favorite wineries that brings in great Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir.  Join us for a 3 course meal for $40 + tax/tip at Corez @ 6:30pm. 

Looking way ahead...
December 1 - Big Fat Reds
December 8 - Sparkling Things We Like to Sip
December 15 - Champagnes of Champagne

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