The Wine Epicure by James Barlow

Hello Ladies and Gentlemen,

The following link is an article I wrote for Spec’s on Great Thanksgiving Day wines.  Happy Holidays!

Click to access Thanksgiving2014.pdf

James C. Barlow

Certified Wine Educator

Certified Sommelier

Hello Ladies and Gentlemen,

The Steals will be driven by food friendly Thanksgiving day wines that you can take pride in putting on your table while keeping cash in your wallet. Happy Holidays! My next post will be MY TOP PICKS OF THE YEAR!

Versant Pinot Noir 2013

Vin de Pays D’Oc, France

Cash Price $9.99

Versant is always a stellar wine.  Flavors of silky red cherries and currant are encompassed by rich vanilla cream with supple acids and light tannins. True Value!

Dibon Brut Reserve N/V

Cava, Spain

Cash Price $9.49

Cava produces the best priced sparkling wine in the world.  Citrus and grapefruit play into fresh bubbles and baked apples. Hints of dough and toast on the finish. Bubbles and Turkey!

Pierre Archambault Melon de Bourgogne 2012

Muscadet de Sevre et Maine, France

Cash Prce $8.99

Muscadet is perfect with Thanksgiving.  Light, refreshing and un-oaked.  Flavors of freshly picked pear and candied peaches are surrounded by zesty acids and a pure finish.  Tasty!

Thank You,

James C. Barlow

Certified Wine Educator

Certified Sommelier

Hello Ladies and Gentlemen,

My favorite time of the year is fast approaching.  Thanksgiving is a special time when family and friends come together to break bread and be Thankful for the blessings that have been bestowed upon us.  As a Wine Professional, I get giddy this time of the year because it allows me to pick out excellent wines to pair with your feast.  You put your faith in my abilities to pair the perfect balance of fruit, acid, and tannin with the foods that took you all day to cook.  I do not take this task lightly.  Thank you all for choosing me to guide you through the wonderful world of wine this year.  I hope you all have blessed and bountiful holiday.  HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Schramsberg Cremant Sparkling Demi Sec 2009

North Coast, California

Cash Price $35.99

Schramsberg is often referred to as ‘America’s House of Sparkling Wine’.  They use Methode Champenoise (traditional style of Champagne) to produced their vividly deliciously sparkling wines.  The wine is uniquely American in style.  The cepage is 80% Flora, which is a cross of Semillon and Gewurztraminer that was developed at UC Davis in California, with the more traditional varietals of 17% Chardonnay and 3% Pinot Noir.  Flora shows the fruitiness of Gewruztraminer combined with the structure, roundness and depth of Semillon.  It is aged on its lees for two and a half years prior to disgorgement which adds complexity.  The wine is off-dry with three and a half grams of residual sugar which gives it a subtle sweetness.  Supple flavors of lemon meringue pie move softly through delicate bubbles that weave through notes of pineapple and nectarine with slight hints of candied raspberries encompassed by an easy acidity.  The finish is creamy with smidgeons of gingerbread, confection and crème brulee.  This is an absolutely stunning sparkler that will be a perfect start for the Turkey day Festivities!

Usseglio ‘Cuvee Girano’ Red Blend 2011

Chateauneuf Du Pape, France

Cash Price $44.99

The 2011 vintage was a tough one for Grenache, but this Grenache based blend is the ridiculously good.  I love pairing Chateauneuf Du Pape with Thanksgiving Day foods.  The wines are approachable and truly enhance everything on your table.  Flavors of ripe red cherry and red currant sinew into integrated, yet firm tannins and acids.  The mid palate is what performs for this wine.  Notes of roasted stones and bacon fat lead into smoke and black pepper.  The finish offers a medley of red berries, vanilla cream and just a touch of licorice.  Usseglio is built to impress the family and have the in-laws begging for more!  Stephen Tanzer and Robert Parker scored this wine 91 points.

Edu Pulenta Gran Pinot Noir 2011

Uco Valley, Argentina

Cash Price $39.89

The Uco Valley is nestled at the feet of the Andes Mountains in the picturesque region of Mendoza.  Pulenta is a brand that world renowned wine maker Paul Hobbs has put his personal stamp on, as he is a consultant for the winery.  Pinot Noir is a classic pairing for Turkey as it is lighter with minimal tannins and higher acidity, so it can cut through the dryness of white meat.  Flavors of strawberry and wild red berries burst off the palate with a creamy velvet core.  Notes of cola and all spice seep through the mid palate and slowly integrate into hints of cigar box and milk chocolate. The finish shows off the 12 months in 50% new French oak with silky tones of toasted oak and vanilla bean that lingers on the palate nicely.  Spectacular Pinot Noir!

Janzen Cabernet Sauvignon 2011

Napa Valley, California

Cash Price $46.29

Janzen is a Cabernet that you open when you really want to impress your guest.  Rock star wine maker Kirk Venge molded this wine and knocked it out of the park.  I recently tasted through a vertical of Janzen with Kyle Janzen and was blown away by the purity and richness of the 2011.  He let me in on a secret as well.  This wine has a portion of the hallowed To Kalon vineyard fruit in it.  Thick flavors of blackberry and black cherry sink deftly into jammed framboise and plum.  The mid palate offers loads of dark chocolate with medium plus tannins and medium acids.  The finish is silky smooth with toasted oak and vanilla from new and used French barrels and a long, lingering mouth feel.  James Suckling gave this wine 93 points.  I would tend to agree with that rating.  A ‘WOW’ Cabernet!

Rupert & Rothschild ‘Baroness Nadine’ Chardonnay 2010

Western Cape, South Africa

Cash Price $24.89

Forged by two wine dynasties, the Rupert’s of Huguenot ancestry and the Rothschild’s of 1st Growth Bordeaux acclaim, this Chardonnay has all the characteristics of aristocracy and history.  World-renowned wine maker Michel Roland helps give this 100% Chardonnay its Old World complexity combined with New World fruit to make a complete Chardonnay that rivals Burgundy.  Slow and meticulous harvesting gives ultra rich flavors of citrus blossom, green apple and melon that combine with a succulent honeycomb and nougat flavor that melds into a decadent vanilla oak core with 11 months of French oak aging.  The profile is divine with curves that are built to pair with any white meat dish.  I was quite impressed at the expressiveness of this Chardonnay. 

Ampelos Pinot Noir 2013

Sta. Rita Hills, California

Cash Price $23.99

Ampelos has been one of my favorite California producers for many years.  Their philosophy of being organic, biodynamic, and sustainable make them one of the ‘greenest’ wineries in America.  The grapes were hand harvested and allowed to start a natural fermentation.  The wine is un-fined, unfiltered, and 100%  Pinot Noir.  Flavors of dark cherries and raspberry sing into a rich cola and brown molasses core.  Notes of wild red berries meld  with medium acids and minimal tannins.  The finish offers hints of Asian spice and Moreno cherries with a touch of butterscotch and vanilla from French oak aging.  Ampelos will be open on my table at Thanksgiving!

Chateau Tour Leognan Blanc 2012

Pessac Leognan, France

Cash Price $23.99

Chateau Tour Leognan is the 2nd label of famed Chateau Carbonnieux in Pessac Leognan.  This winery is owned by the Perrin family and consistently makes my favorite white Bordeaux.  Tour Leognan may be a second label, but has a first label quality.  The wine is 70% Sauvignon Blanc and 30% Semillon with a small amount of French oak aging which I only noticed on the nose.  Vibrant flavors of grapefruit, citrus and cactus are encompassed by medium plus acidity and just a whiff of tannin.  The mid palate offers a distinct minerality of cracked stones that leads into meadow flowers.  The finish offers tinges of vanilla with a clean, refreshing mouth feel.  This wine will be a spectacular match for white meats on your table.

Schild Estate Shiraz 2011

Barossa Valley, Australia

Cash Price $19.94

Shiraz is a great pairing wine because it can be quite versatile in its flavor profile.  I often pass on Australian wine, but have been impressed with the quality from top to bottom with this winery.  It has become the darling of wine critics abroad and with good reason.  Voluptuous flavors of dark plum and currant are built on medium tannins and acids.  Notes of licorice, black pepper and toasted oak from 18 months of French oak aging are prevalent with an inky, dense core.  The finish offers leather, tobacco and dark cocoa with smidgeons of gamey complexity and a creamy, polished mouth feel.  This wine has a lot going on for a little price!

Castellargo ‘Albus’ White Blend 2011

Friuli, Italy

Cash Price $14.99

Albus is a refreshingly fun white blend of Friulano, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc.  Whites coming out of Friuli tend to be Pinot Grigio, so it is nice to see what the region has to offer other than its acclaimed varietal.  This plush, aromatic white exudes tasty flavors of white peach, nectarines, and lemon peel.  Hints of almond mingle easily with notes of apricot and freshly picked meadow flowers.  The wine does not see any oak, but does have a surprising roundness on the palate that gives it just a touch of richness.  Albus gives moderate acidity and exudes bits of lychee on the finish.  Castellargo is a great value white that will pair with any fowl on your plate! 

Jax Y3 ‘Taureau’ Red Blend 2011

Napa Valley, California

Cash Price $19.94

Kirk Venge is the master mind behind this decadent red wine.  It is a blend of mainly Merlot and  Syrah with smidgeons of Cabernet and Zinfandel.  The wine was named after the tenacious family bull which reminds them of this wine.  2011 was a difficult vintage for Napa Valley, but Kirk was undaunted and produced this gem.  Flavors of ripe red raspberry and cherry roll into sleek, well integrated tannins and acids.  The core offers a soft creamy texture with round fruits of currant and plum.  The finish is rich and long with notes of vanilla, cedar and cinnamon.  Taureau is a crowd pleaser!

Predator Old Vine Zinfandel 2013

Lodi, California

Cash Price $15.99

The grapes in this wine were grown on 50+ year old vines and it really shows in the intensity of Predator.  Dense flavors of black cherry and blackberry are encompassed by medium tannins and acids.  The core of the wine shows bacon fat and smoky mesquite that is wrapped in black pepper and plum. Predator will pair with well with fried chicken and green bean casserole.  This is an Old Vine Zin worth seeking out!

Oregon 99 West 2012

Willamette Valley, Oregon

Cash Price $15.99

The Willamette Valley offer wines with the panache of California, but the complexity of Burgundy.  The region has longer amounts of daylight that allow the grapes to reach full maturity, but still has the cooler temperatures which let the grapes retain the proper acidity to make the perfect Pinot Noir.  It is hard to find great pinot Noir from Willamette Valley for under $20.  Flavors of eloquent red cherry and cranberry play into medium plus acidity.  The mid palate offers notes of pomegranate and red roses with minimal tannins.  The finish shows hints of potpourri and vanilla bean with just a kiss of oak aging.  Great value Pinot Noir! 

Morgues du Gres ‘Les Galets’ Rose 2013

Costieres de Nimes, France

Cash Price $12.99

Inevitably, I always have a Rose open for Thanksgiving.  Probably because they are amazingly versatile to pair with food.  Morgues is a blend of 50% Syrah, 40% Grenache, and 10% Mourvedre. The region is on the southern end of the Rhone Valley, not far from the famed Rose AOC of Tavel.  Flavors of wild raspberry and cranberry flow seamlessly through vibrant acids and minimal tannins.  The mid palate offers a hint of roundness with rose petals and wild flowers with fresh bing cherries.  The finish is supple a refreshing with hints of spice.  This is a serious Rose that will pair quite nicely with cranberry sauce and stuffing. 

Thank You,
James C. Barlow

Certified Wine Educator

Certified Sommelier

Hello Ladies and Gentlemen,

The soothing cool weather has finally descended upon us and isn’t it glorious!  As we all begin to prepare for the holiday season, I would like to offer my services to you.  The wines in the ‘Steals of the Month’ are always of particularly great value and a no brainer for large parties and events.  I take extra care to provide you the best value money can buy with these wines.  December and My Top Picks of the Year are only a couple of months away as you will all be able to buy the best wines of the thousands that I tasted this year.  I am also pleased to announce that I have teamed up with The Black Sheep Bistro owner and Culinary Institute Graduate Joe Macri.  Together, we will provide progressive, educational dinners once a month in Old Town Spring starting in January of 2015. The results are going to be AMAZING!  Stay tuned for more information in the coming New Year. Happy Halloween!

Chateau Vieux Manoir Red Blend 2010

Bordeaux, France

Cash Price $8.99

Stunning Value from a can’t miss vintage.  Red currant, cedar and baking spices are encompassed by soft, plush tannins and acids. WOW!

Felipe Rutini ‘Trumpeter’ Cabernet 2012

Mendoza, Argentina

Cash Price $9.99

Consistent quality from a consistent producer.  Flavors of blackberry and black cherry with approachable tannins.  Finish is long with notes of toasted vanilla and hazelnut.

Yalumba ‘Y’ Viognier 2013

South Australia, Australia

Cash Price $9.39

Great Viognier at a remarkable price.  Flavors of citrus are rounded out by guava and melon.  Hints of honeysuckle and fresh meadow flowers are layered with medium acids.

Thank You,

James C. Barlow

Certified Wine Educator

Certified Sommelier

Hello Ladies and Gentlemen,

Autumn has entered gracefully and given us much needed cooler weather.  As we transition from the scorching heat of summer into the milder climate, our wine selections begin to gradually gravitate towards heavier reds as the lighter Rose’s typically fade till next summer.  This month I have chosen some Boo-rific wines for you all to sample and enjoy with an emphasis on the Chateau Leoville Poyferre from Bordeaux. I am pleased to offer a 2nd wine from them that is stunning and also a selection from their properties in Argentina.  Happy Halloween!

Chateau Leoville Poyferre Pavillion Red Blend 2010

St. Julien, France

Cash Price $45.89

Leoville Poyferre is located in the commune of St. Julien in Bordeaux.  They are a 2nd Growth in the Grand Cru Classe system.  I always try to stock up on a good wineries 2nd wine because they are usually excellent wines at half the price of their premier wine.  I especially buy when it is an exceptional vintage, as 2010 was one the best that Bordeaux has ever seen.  The wine is a Cabernet blend with stunning structure.  Pure and refined flavors of bright red cherries and currant flow seamlessly into the palate and are surrounded by notes of cedar, toast, and vanilla.  The mid palate is structured with tannins that finesse throughout the mouth feel.  The finish is long, plush and rich.  The premier wine of Poyferre received 98 points across the board from critics and their 2nd wine isn’t too far behind in quality!  This wine is drinking well now, but may be cellared for another 5+ years.  This is a must Try wine!

Calcareous Syrah 2009

Paso Robles, California

Cash Price $31.99

Paso Robles was recently awarded 11 new AVA’s to help differentiate the soil structure and geographical features through this very large American Viticultural Area.  Calcareous is one of my favorite producers in all of Paso Robles and their Syrah can be considered some of the best expressions of the varietal made in the United States.  Paso has become a hot bed for Rhone varietals and Syrah is leading that charge.  Sweet, jammy fruits of raspberry and blackberry sing into the palate with silky tannins and a rich, hedonistic core.  Notes of roasted fig and tar play through the mid palate and slowly molds into creamy milk chocolate.  The finish is vibrant with hints of scorched earth, black pepper and toasted oak.  Wine Spectator gave this wine 92 points, I am inclined to give it 93 points.  Spectacular Syrah!

Cuvelier Los Andes Grand Vin Red Blend 2007

Mendoza, Argentina

Cash Price $28.49 BUT ONLY

$23.49 FOR A LIMITED TIME WITH YOUR SPEC’S KEY $5.00 SAVINGS

The Cuvelier family purchased Chateau Leoville Poyferre in 1920.  In 1998, they decided to venture into Argentina with the help of world renowned oenologist Michel Rolland.  The ensuing wines are of the utmost quality and purity.   This wine is primarily Malbec with Cabernet and Merlot making up the rest of the blend.  The 2007 vintage gave plenty of sunshine for the grapes to ripen at the 1000 meter elevation that the vineyard lies.  The Grand Vin is a small production wine that is impressive from the start.  Dark, neon purple in color, this wine offers flavors of black cherry and jammy plum that is encompassed by integrated tannins and spices.  Full bodied and opulent, the mid palate gives dark bramble fruit with notes of leather and tobacco.  The finish is silky with hints of mocha and vanilla cedar.  Robert Parker scored this wine 92 points and I think he was right on target.  Drinking Gorgeously Right Now!

Domaine Herve Seguin Sauvignon Blanc 2012

Pouilly Fume, France

Cash Price $23.99

The villages of Pouilly Fume quietly produce some of the most striking 100% Sauvignon Blanc on Earth.  The Loire Valley is often overlooked with the popularity of New Zealand, but the best expressions of the varietal are firmly entrenched in France and my favorite come from this area that was once home of many kings and monarchs.  Seguin offers intense minerality from the start with notes of wet limestone and gun flint.  Citrus flavors of grapefruit and lemon lime zing through the palate with medium plus acidity.  There are some tropical notes of pineapple and candied green apples play into the light notes of pyrazine and minerals.  The finish is clean and pure with hints of nectarine and orange blossoms.  Wine & Spirits scored this wine 93 points and I think it deserves every bit of that high rating!

Bench Cabernet 2012

Alexander Valley, California

Cash Price $23.74

As the cooler weather arrives, I inevitably gravitate towards big, chewy Cabernet Sauvignon.  This wine is produced by The Brack Mountain Wine Company based along the western bench of the Mayacamas Mountain range.  Alexander Valley is garnering high praise throughout the wine industry for Cabernet.  Bench offers flavors of robust black cherries and cassis are surrounded by hints of freshly picked tobacco and cedar.  Hints of pencil shavings are found on the outer palate with medium tannins and easy acids.  The black fruit sweetens slightly on the finish, but is reigned back in with the integrated oak and vanilla that sinks into the mouth feel beautifully.  Strikingly Good Cabernet!

Expression 38 Russian Camp Chardonnay 2012

Russian River Valley, California

Cash Price $19.94

Russian Camp is the newest addition to the Expression line produced by Bill Hill, who also founded William Hill and Van Duzer wineries.  He is considered one of the best vineyard developers in the United States.  I tasted this wine yesterday and was impressed enough to review it and recommend to you all.  Tropical flavors of pineapple and guava sink through the palate with a rich, creamy core that is encompassed with hazelnuts and brioche.  This 100% Chardonnay is able to keep nice acidity throughout due to the cool fog that flows through the Russian River daily making it perfect for this varietal.  The finish is fresh and lush with hints of toasted oak and butter.  Rich and Flavorful!

Nativ Aglianico 2010

Campania, Italy

Cash Price $19.89

Aglianico is starting to gain traction in the American market and I couldn’t be happier.  This grape, known as the Barolo of the South, has often been overlooked in the Italian world of wine.  It is a wine with gripping tannins and an excellent medley of fruits and spices.  Nativ exudes flavors of black plum and roasted fig that race into brawny tannins.  The mid palate gives notes of brown sugar and cocoa with hints of leather and smoke.  The hearty finish is long with bits of oak and spice.  This wine will age beautifully, but can be paired now with a big juicy steak with all the fixings.  Great Food Wine!

Lucien Albrecht Brut Blanc de Blanc N/V

Alsace, France

Cash Price $19.94

I love the sparkling wines from this winery.  This cremant is driven by Pinot Blanc.  Alsace produces some of the best white wines in the world and give excellent value without the higher price points of Champagne.  I often find myself buying Alsatian sparkling (Cremant) wines over those of Champagne.  Light and Refreshing, this wine offers flavors of yellow apples and pear with tight, clean bubbles.  The mid palate gives way to a soft creaminess with hints of nuts and confection.  The finish is lip smacking with hints of lemon zest and key lime pie.  While not quite as complex as Champagne, this wine is delicious and packed full of fruit and flavor.  Awesome Bubbles!

Chateau Croix Mouton 2010

Bordeaux Superior, France

Cash Price $17.99

Jean Philippe Janoueix, former assistant to Michel Rolland, has become a rock star of Right Bank wines with his production of such gems as La Confession in St. Emilion and La Croix St. Georges in Pomerol.  His every day endeavor is the production of Croix Mouton which seems to get better and better every vintage.  This delicious Merlot Blend is spectacular for under $20.  The 2010 vintage is the best I have tried of this winery.  Flavors of blackberry and blueberry play through dense, refined tannins and eloquent acids.  Notes of tobacco and pencil shavings weave through a core of minerality and earth.  Voluptuous fruits encompass the entire  mouth feel with smidgeons of cedar plank and just a touch of licorice.  Stunning Value! Robert Parker scored this wine 90 points.

Trig Point ‘The Railyard’ Zinfandel 2012

Alexander Valley, California

Cash Price $17.99

Nick Goldschmidt is the master mind behind some of the best wines produced in Alexander Valley.  He is from New Zealand, but has a penchant for finding the best vineyards in Sonoma and making wines of outstanding value, typically without breaking bank.  Railyard Vineyard sits just north of Geyserville (Ridge Winery fame) and is planted on pre Phylloxera vines.  The 2012 vintage may go down as the finest of this  decade with an absolutely perfect growing season.  Decadent fruit flavors of bright bing cherry and bramble leap into palate with exotic spices playing throughout the core.  Black cherry and raspberry sink into the mid palate with notes of toasted nuts and vanilla.  The finish is silky with soft tannins and lightly sweet blackberry cobbler pie.  Only 500 cases produced!

O. Fournier Urban Tempranillo 2010

Ribera Del Duero, Spain

Cash Price $14.99

Tinta del Pais is the synonym used in Ribera Del Duero for Tempranillo.  Urban is 100% Tinta Del Pais and aged for 3 months in oak.  The wine is medium bodied with flavors of plum and black currant that sink into soft, easy tannins.  O. Fournier has estates all over the world and are intent on producing high quality value wines.  Light spices are prevalent on the outer mouth feel with medium acids.  Raspberry and cranberry encompass a fresh, vibrant finish with smidgeons of toasty nuts and cocoa beans.  Great Value Wine!

Firriato ‘Altavilla’ Grillo 2011

Sicily, Italy

Cash Price $12.99

Italy produces some excellent whites and Sicily, specifically, has several indigenous grapes that I find to be very interesting varietals.  One such grape is Grillo which grown on the western side of Sicily.  It is unquestionably the noblest white grape on the Island and yet it is fairly unknown throughout the wine community.  Firriato is one of the better producers on the Island.  Fresh, clean flavors of citrus and melon tickle throughout the palate.  Hints of prickly pear combine with cactus and green apples.  There is a distinct wet stone minerality throughout the core of the wine which adds complexity.  It is un oaked.  Fall in love with Grillo!

Pierre Archambault Cabernet Franc 2012

Chinon, France

Cash Price $12.99

I have a true infatuation with the Loire Valley, especially with the region of Chinon.  This area produces my favorite Cabernet Franc in the world.  Vibrant, fresh flavors of red cherries and raspberry zing into the palate.  Fresh herbs and hints of green bell peppers combine with pyrazines to give a light vegetal undertone.  Lively acids and low tannins combine to make a truly refreshing and delightfully fruit forward wine.  The finish is soft and plush with notes of wild red berries and cranberry.  Delicious!

Thank You,

James C. Barlow

Certified Wine Educator

Certified Sommelier

Hello Ladies and Gentlemen,

Just a quick reminder that there are still seats available for my next class at Crescent Moon Wine Bar on South America.

The class is from 7-9pm this coming Wednesday the 24th.

Food will be paired with the likes of Don Melchor, Clos Apalta, Colome Torrontes, Don Juan Nahuel Reserve Malbec, Crios Rose and more!  The price is only $50, which is a steal for the quality of food and wine on the table.

RSVP to 281-364-9463

Enjoy my latest article and I’ll see you Wednesday!

Today we have a guest post from Houston Wine Educator James Barlow, CS, CWE. James shares with us how its a great time to be in the wine business!

It is a great time to be in the wine industry in the United States.  American consumers are more educated and adventurous than they have ever been.  There is now a willingness to step outside the box when buying wine which shows a changing of the guard is in progress.   The newer consumers are starting to seek out ‘geek wines’ rather than buying the standard Cabernet, Chardonnay, or Merlot.

As a Wine Professional, it is my job to guide the customer into a bottle that will not only give them pleasure, but also expand their palate and open up their eyes to new experiences with wine.  I have found that this is becoming easier because customers are now seeking me out and asking the question that every wine geek loves to hear:  Sell me a wine that I have never tried.  When I hear these lovely words, inevitably, my mind starts racing with varietals that are off the beaten path.  These are some of the wines that are starting to gain traction in the US market that consumers and sommeliers alike are starting to ‘Geek Out’ on.

One such varietal is Assyrtiko.  This eclectic varietal is catching on like wild fire in the wine community.  It is a dry to bone dry grape that has become famous for its smoky characteristics from the volcanic Island of Santorini.  The wine is quite versatile as it may be oaked or (more often) un-oaked.  Assyrtiko has been called the most terroir driven wine in the world.  It has bracing acidity and with citrus lemon lime and yellow apples flavors that are compounded by earthy minerals such as ash, flint, lava and gun smoke.  Warmer vintages allow for more stone fruits to come forward in the flavor profile.  The finish on the wine is typically clean and somewhat haunting.  It is becoming popular due to its fuller body which allows the wine to pair well with numerous dishes.

Sauvignon Blanc drinkers are also looking for something new, which gives me an opportunity to show off some obscure grapes that have similar characteristics.   Sylvaner (Silvaner) is one such grape that is starting to become popular from Germany, Austria, or France.  In fact, Silvaner has gained so much traction that in 2006 Alsace gave the varietal Grand Cru status in the vineyard of Zotzenberg.  I had the pleasure of trying several versions of this varietal while traveling through the Pfalz this past summer.  I was stunned at the beauty and terroir that these wines exuded.   The varietal is usually un-oaked and high in acid, yet the grape is fairly neutral so the characteristics of the soil really sing in the ensuing wine.  In Germany, Weingut Hans Wirsching Silvaner from Franken is producing stellar Silvaner that is worth seeking out.  This zingy white is best known for being grown in the Rheinhessen or the Palatinate (Pfalz).  While Austria is most likely its original home, only minimal acreage is devoted to the grape now, but is high quality and deliciously dry when one can find it.

Light, refreshingly whites are becoming the trend, leaving the heavy, oaky Chardonnays in the dust.  Melon de Bourgogne is one such varietal that is famously known to be produced in the region of Muscadet in the Loire Valley on the coast of France facing the Atlantic Ocean.  It can really thrive in the schistous soils of the region.  The grape is rarely blended with other varietals thus keeping the purity of the flavor profile.  One process used to enhance complexity in Muscadet is ‘Sur Lie’ aging.  This process is implemented by leaving the wine on the dead yeast cells which gives the wine a nutty, creamy complexity that softens the acids, adds richness and often just a hint of sparkle to the finished wine.  Over 80% of all production comes from Muscadet-Sèvre et Maine; these wines are meant for early consumption and pair perfectly with light seafood dishes.

Rose’s sales are exploding, yet some drinkers still prefer red wines.  Grignolino, which means grape seeds, is an Italian red grape that can often be a bridge between the two styles.  One can find Grignolino in California (Heitz makes an excellent Rose), but it is primarily found in the Piedmont region of Italy.  The wine is pale red and borders on Rose in color.  It has medium to high acidity and light to medium tannins.  Its profile shows sour bing cherries and raspberry with hints of minerality throughout the core.  It is meant to be drunk young and slightly chilled, which is perfect for the hot summer weather.  I open a bottle of Grignolino every Thanksgiving because it pairs perfectly with fowl.  A top producer is Marchesi Incisa Della Rocchetta.

Several geeky red wines are now coming into the spotlight.  I have been quite surprised and ecstatic to see interest in the lightly sweet sparkling wines of Bugey Cerdon.    Bugey Cerdon is fully sparkling and made mostly from Gamay (Beaujolais) and Poulsard.  The wine is produced Methode Ancestrale which skips the disgorgement step and allows the wine to naturally finish fermentation in the bottle.  This method typically will have residual sugars left over.  Bugey Cerdon pairs wonderfully with softer chocolates or fresh fruits.  Bottex is a small producer that is making high quality wine from Savoie.

Wine Professionals have found an alternative to the high priced reds of Burgundy with Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir) from Germany.  Burgundy has had several very high quality vintages, yet dangerously low yield in the past several years.  This has allowed Spätburgunder to come to the fore front in the world of Pinot Noir.  The Pfalz and Rheingau are hot spots where the varietal thrives.  Spätburgunder is usually lightly oaked or aged in a neutral vessel with excellent acidity and light tannins.  The ensuing wines are deliciously vibrant in youth.  Pinot Noir from Germany has proven that it can rival some of the best in the world.  Knipser is one of my favorite producers with their Blauer Spätburgunder.

‘Geeky’ varietals are becoming the trend for wine drinkers to seek out.  It has become hip to be a ‘wine geek’ with knowledge about what is in the bottle.  The American wine drinkers are becoming very savvy shoppers.  I find that it is much easier to steer a potential buyer into something other than the standard varietal and, more importantly, they are coming back for more.  Cheers to the future of the American Wine Geek!

Our guest author, James Barlow, CS, CWE, is a wine director of over 6,000 wines labels for a store owned by Spec’s Fine Wines and Liquors in Houston, Texas. He is also the author of the widely recognized wine blog thewineepicure.com. James is also a recent recipient of the CWE Certification (Congratulations, James!) and as such has taken on the duty of teaching the Certified Specialist of Wine course to fellow employees in hopes of having the best educated staff in the state of Texas. Way to go, James!

Hello Ladies and Gentlemen,

We have finally seen the weather cool down just a bit.  That gives us all an excuse to get back into drinking heavy reds again.  Thank you for making Astrid Cabernet the best ‘Steal of the Month’ Ever!  I have found another stunning Cabernet for you all to enjoy and an absolutely delicious Sauvignon Blanc on sale as well as a spectacular Merlot Blend from Bordeaux.  Enjoy!

Perimeter Cabernet Sauvignon 2012

California

Cash Price $9.99

Expressive Cab with notes of plum and black cherries.  Medium to full bodied with a touch of spice and toasted oak on the finish.  Big, Bold, and Beautiful!

Centauri Sauvignon Blanc 2010

Casablanca, Chile

Cash Price $12.99 but $3.00 Spec’s key only

$9.99 for a limited time

100% Sauvignon Blanc from the red hot appellation of Leyda Valley in Chile.  Fresh cut grass melded with grapefruit and melon. Focused finish with hits of cream.  Must Try!

Chateau Maine D’Arman Red 2010

Cotes de Bourg, France

Cash Price $9.99

Ripe and Fleshy, this Merlot blend shows red cherries and currant.  Robust tannins and integrated acids with vanilla cedar and tobacco on the finish.  Awesome Bordeaux!

Thank You,

James C. Barlow

Certified Wine Educator

Certified Sommelier

Hello Ladies and Gentlemen,

It’s hard to believe that the holidays are right around the corner.  It seems that we may finally start seeing a reprieve from this scorching summer heat.  I have picked a spectacular array of wines to quench your thirst and help your palate transition into the cooler weather and up coming holiday months.  This has been a year of Burgundy for me.  I have made it mission to open up everyone’s minds to the beauty and elegance of the Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from this iconic region.  It is actually a great time to be drinking French wine in general as the vintages we have on the shelf whether it be Bordeaux, Burgundy or Languedoc have been some of the best in recent history.  Enjoy!

Holdredge ‘Old School’ Pinot Noir 2008

Russian River Valley, California

Cash Price $34.99

The 2008 vintage was my favorite of the decade.  It was a low yielding crop, but the fruit that was harvested was something to behold.  John Holdredge only produces about 3,000 cases and the ensuing wines are truly classic.  He makes his wines Burgundian in style with elegance and balance.  Flavors of bing cherry and crushed, ripe raspberry sing into the palate with a plethora of acids that race seamlessly through the core of the wine.  The mid palate offers quaffs of cola and freshly picked rose petals.  The finish gives soft, round tannins that are surrounded by hints of vanilla and hazelnut with a lush, balanced ending.  This is a stunning Pinot that is drinking perfectly right now!

Bernard Moreau Chardonnay 2012

Burgundy, France

Cash Price $26.99

Moreau is one of my absolute favorite producers in all of Burgundy!  He emphasizes terroir in his wines and low yield, high quality grapes.  Located in the famed Chardonnay region of Chassagne-Montrachet, this wine exudes brilliance from start to finish.  Fresh flavors of ripe green apple and melon softly lay into nutmeg and brioche.  The wine has excellent acidity, yet not over powering with an expressive terroir of wet rocks and limestone.  The finish offers hints of lime and citrus with a roundness of toasted oak and vanilla bean.  Spectacular Chardonnay!

Fumanelli ‘Squarano’ Red Blend 2006

Veneto, Italy

Cash Price $29.99

Squarano is a classic baby Amarone style. The wine has the same basic blend of grapes as an Amarone and goes through some of the same process to give it the true richness of the style.  It stays in French oak barrels for 15 months with another 6 in the bottle before release.  The wine offers thick, brawny notes of roasted plum and baked Moreno cherries.  Notes of cinnamon and spice lace easily through the core with medium tannins and easy acids.  The finish is long and balanced with notes of fig, leather, and tar that sit on the palate for a deliciously long time.  Pair Squarano with a big, thick steak with brown gravy and Portobello mushrooms.  This wine is drinking perfectly right now!

Cult Cabernet Sauvignon N/V

Napa Valley, California

Cash Price $26.59

I am always on the search for a Cabernet that over delivers in the $20 price range.  This non vintage gem is right up that alley.  It is a small production winery that blends all of its vintages for consistency much like the Champagne region in France.  Abundant flavors of black currant, black berry and raspberry flow silkily through the palate with velvet tannins and eloquent acids.  The mid palate offers hints of spice with tinges of wild berry and black cherry mingled with milk chocolate.  The finish is long with smidgeons of mocha, hazelnut and toasted cedar.  Wine Enthusiast gave this wine 90 points.  A Killer Cab for the price!

Riglos ‘Quinto’ Sauvignon Blanc 2012

Mendoza, Argentina

Cash Price $19.99 BUT WITH A $5.00 SPEC’S KEY

ONLY $14.99 FOR A LIMITED TIME

Quinto is a 100% Sauvignon Blanc and is a perfect way to beat the final dog days of summer.  The grapes are grown at 3,750 feet about sea level in the region of Tupungato inside of Mendoza.  Riglos works hard to offer a wine that shows the terroir of Mendoza while displaying supple fruits.  This un-oaked Sauvignon Blanc is deliciously refreshing from first sup.  Flavors of citrus lemon, gooseberry and grass sing into zesty acids with touches of minerality throughout the core.  Hints of white flowers and pear are an under current with a clean, lip smacking finish.  Paul Hobbs has his handprint on this winery, so you know that the wines are going to be stellar!

Chateau Laplagnotte Bellevue Red Blend 2010

St. Emilion Grand Cru, France

Cash Price $25.99

This estate is producing some of the best priced Merlot based wines in all of St. Emilion.  The wine is a 70% Merlot/30% Cabernet Franc blend from one of the best vintages that Bordeaux has ever seen.  Claude Labarre of Cheval Blanc fame purchased this vineyard in 1990 and now her son, Arnaud, produces passionate wines with excellent expression.  Flavors of rich red cherries and red currant play into silk, yet firm tannins.  Notes of leather and graphite encompass the mid palate with hints of creamy vanilla.  The finish offers quaffs of toasted oak with touches of spice and dark chocolate.  This is a ‘WOW’ Bordeaux!

Nguni Chenin Blanc 2012

Coastal Region, South Africa

Cash Price $17.99 BUT WITH A $5.00 SPEC’S KEY

ONLY $12.99 FOR A LIMITED TIME

I have been an avid fan of Chenin Blanc aka Steen since I visited South Africa several years ago.  I was astounded at the quality of Dry Chenin Blanc that was produced throughout the region.  Chenin Blanc is one of the more versatile white grapes in the entire world and South Africa is at the forefront of producing complex, tasty wines.  Nguni offers medium plus acids and shows crisp green apple, lime, and freshly cut grass.  The wine is un-oaked and gives just a touch of guava and lemon curd throughout the mid palate.  The finish is refreshingly dry and clean with just a whiff of meadow flowers.  I loved this wine at $18, but it’s a steal for $13!

Chateau Pontac Phenix 2010

Haut Medoc, France

Cash Price $19.94

Phenix is the 2nd wine of Pontac Lynch and is located partly in Margaux and the Haut Medoc, not far from 1st Growth Chateau Margaux.  It is hard to find a wine in the 2010 vintage that isn’t amazing quality, but this one is a true diamond for under $20.  Flavors of red cherry and kirsch lay on a medley of sweet spices and medium tannins.  This wine is deliciously ripe and ready to drink.  The acids are tantalizing with dense notes of toasted oak  and roasted coffee bean.  The finish is persistent and well rounded.  This is a Must Try Red!

Domaine De La Garenne Rose 2012

Vin de Pays, Franc

Cash Price $12.99

Rose season is still in full swing with this muggy hot weather.  I have loved this wine in every vintage that I have tried and is, not surprisingly, produced by one of the premier producers in Bandol.  It is a Cinsault, Carignan, Grenache blend that is fruity and friendly from the start.  Flavors of strawberry and bing cherry sinew through medium acids and just a touch of tannin.  Hints of wild berries and perfumed roses waft hauntingly through the fleshy core.  A slight chill is perfect for this wine.  Drink Pink!

Rupert ‘Protea’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2010

Coastal Region, South Africa

Cash Price $14.99

Protea is the 2nd label of the famed Anthonij Rupert winery that is putting South Africa back on the map in the wine world.  This winery has become the darling of critics and sommeliers alike.  Protea is a 100% Cabernet Sauvignon and aged in French oak for 12 months.  Flavors of Cassis and black currant mingle throughout medium tannins and acids.  Notes of licorice, tobacco, and cocoa are prevalent on the mid palate with tinges of black cherry.  The finish is full and long with silky, yet structured fruits and just a smidgeon of oak.  South Africa is producing awesome wine!

Pietra Santa Pinot Gris 2012

Cienega Valley, California

Cash Price $13.99

Pietra Santa is 25 miles from the Monterey Bay and benefits from the cool coastal breezes that allow for a long growing season.  Their Pinot Gris is grown on the highest elevation vineyards on the estate.  Pietra Santa is Italian for ‘Sacred Stone’ in honor of the rich terrain and terroir on which  the winery is located.  Italian Wine Maker Alessio Carli has produced a pure and focused wine with this offering.  Flavors of mangos and nectarine are up front on the palate with an under current of citrus fruits.  Candied peaches play through soft acids and hints of stony minerality. The finish is delightfully fresh with hints of papaya and stone fruits.  Delicious!

Vassal de Mercues Malbec 2011

Cahors, France

Cash Price $11.99

Vassal is the 2nd label of Chateau de Mercues and is owned by highly touted producer Georges Vigouroux in the birth place of Malbec, which is Cahors, France. This wine is meant to be drunk early and often!  Flavors of dense plum and currant seep through the palate with medium tannins and acids.  The mid palate is well structured and offers notes of red cherry and hints of cranberry.  The finish is filled with spices of black pepper, cinnamon and cardamom.  I think this wine has more character than most of the Argentinian  offerings.  Fall in love with French Malbec!

Lockwood Cabernet Sauvignon 2012

Monterey, California

Cash Price $10.99

Lockwood has been a staple in the Spec’s portfolio for many years, however it was purchased by the Boisset family a couple of years ago and they have changed the flavor profile of the wines a bit.  The wines are still all estate grown on calcareous soil and spends time in French oak.  Flavors of cherry and cassis flow into hints of chocolate and tobacco. Framboise is prevalenton the mid palate with soft, lush tannins and accessible acids.  The finish give hints of oak and cocoa.  Tasty daily Red!

Thank You,

James C. Barlow

Certified Wine Educator

Certified Sommelier

Hello ladies and Gentlemen,

August is one of the toughest months of the year in Houston.  Humidity and heat are sky high and it seems as if there will never be a reprieve.  Let me offer some relief with these steals of the month.  We received a new Cabernet recently that will take Houston by storm with its low price and excellent quality.  Make sure to try these wines and survive the scorching days ahead.

Astrid Cabernet Sauvignon

California

Cash Price $8.49

This is a killer Cab at a crazy low price!  Soft, supple with red fruits and plush tannins.  Round, smooth finish with hints of cedar and vanilla.  Must Try!

Chateau Bonnet Blanc

Bordeaux, France

Cash Price $9.99

Tasty little Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Muscadelle blend.  Crisp citrus fruits and zesty acids that are rounded out and turn tropical on the finish.  No Oak.

Chateau Penya Rose

Roussillon, France

Cash Price $8.49

Dangerously easy drinking Rose.  Flavors of Moreno cherries and red raspberry pair with just a whiff of garrigue and spice. Excellent acidity and deliciously dry!  Mostly Grenache based.

Thank You,

James C. Barlow

Certified Wine Educator

Certified Sommelier 

Today we have a guest post from Houston-based Wine Educator James Barlow, CS, CWE. James’ article describes an amazing trip he recently took along the Wine Route in the Palantinate. Read on!

Nestled comfortably in the Haardt Hills, which is an extension of France’s Vosges Mountains, is the exquisite town of Neustadt. The town happens to be the central point for the 85-kilometer long German Wine Route (“Weinstrasse”) through the Palantinate.  I recently spent two weeks in this fascinating area.

Established in 1935, this is the oldest of the German wine routes. The ‘trail’ is a windy road that delivers you past many of the great wineries and famous vineyard sites throughout the region. The Weinstrasse has the most expansive array of vineyards that I have ever encountered.  The drive is breathtaking as it winds through historic wine villages such as Forst and Bad Durkenheim, which holds the largest wine festival in the world.

The picturesque Haardt hills and Palatinate forest provide a stunning backdrop for the various varietals grown in the Pfalz. The trail starts right near the French border of Alsace with the symbolic German Wine Gate in the town of Schweigen-Rechtenbach.  It is made of sandstone which is also the main soil structure throughout the Weinstrasse.  There is a

rather unique tasting room with an abundance of excellent wine to sample and buy.  The trail ends at the House of the German Wine Route in Bockenheim an der Weinstrasse.  The Rhine River flows lazily through the area as it continues onward through Germany.

One common theme with the wine of the Pfalz was that most of the wines were Trocken (dry). The typical American consumer often has a stigma with German wines thinking that they are all syrupy sweet and uncomplicated.  The Pfalz wines are quite the opposite with most being dry and deliciously complex.  The reason that dry wines are common throughout this region is that it is one of the hottest in Germany and therefore the grapes can ripen to a greater degree.  The ensuing wines created can range from off dry to completely bone dry.

I had the distinct pleasure of traveling the entirety of the Weinstrasse as well finding quaint towns a little off the main road. St. Martin was one such town that we decided to visit.  Our guide’s favorite winery, Weingut Egidiushof, was located here and recommended that we try the wines.  The town’s name came from the huge sandstone church of St. Martin, with its statue of the saint overlooking the town.

The people of Weingut Egidiushof were very hospitable as we sat down in the small tasting room to try a plethora of selections such as Silvaner, Riesling, and Muller Thurgau. The whites had a common theme as all of them had a distinct tropical fruit bouquet, were un-oaked, and had good acidity. They produced some delightfully light reds with the Blauer Portugieser being the best of the bunch.  It, in fact, was the wine that we drank while watching Germany eliminate Argentina in the World Cup Final.  The wine was light bodied (like a Pinot Noir) with an easy acidity and vibrant fresh red fruits that reminded me of a Cru Beaujolais.

The crown jewel winery of the entire trip was actually in the Haardt hills of Neustadt. The winery was called Muller Catoir.  It is managed by 9^th generation owner Philipp David Catoir (pronounced Kat wah) and the vineyards have been in the family since 1774. Muller Catoir is part of the VDP system in Germany.  This system holds the wineries to a higher standard of quality which include lower yields and typically hand harvesting.The quality wines at this winery were second to none.

The wine maker, Martin Franzen, is from the Mosel and makes a true effort to showcase terroir and varietal character. Five wines were tasted, starting with the Haardt Dry Riesling 2013. It showed an abundance of tropical fruit with vivacious acidity.  The Haardt Muskateller (Muscat a Petite Grains) 2013 was brilliant and a wine to seek out for summer.  My personal favorite was the Haardt Spatburgunder (Pinot Noir) 2012 which offered sleek acidity to pair with the delicious bright fruits and just a kiss of oak.  Spätburgunder is beginning to gain traction in the wine world with low yield, boutique wines that can rival Burgundy in quality.  The most interesting was the dessert wine Herzog Rieslaner Trockenbeerenauslese 2007.

Rieslaner is a cross of Silvaner and Riesling that is highly susceptible to Noble Rot. There is very little Rieslaner in the world and this vineyard is nestled in the Haardt hills, so a TBA wine is not able to be produced every vintage.  This wine was exceptional and rivaled the sticky Selection de Grains Nobles wines of Alsace.  The Haardt Riesling Kabinett 2013 was a surprise.  It had just a touch of residual sugar, but the wine was perfectly balanced by the backbone of acidity.  The minerality came to the forefront and gave the wine a striking personality.  All in all, Muller Catoir is a winery that is offering whites and reds of impressive quality that should be sought out.

Just outside of Neustadt in Wachenheim was another excellent producer called Weingut Dr. Burklin-Wolf. This winery is considered one of the three main quality wineries of note known as The Three B’s, the others being Von Buhl and Basserman-Jordan. Dr. Burklin-Wolf had excellent Rieslings that had definite aging potential, especially in the 2013 vintage.  The best of the selections tasted was the Wachenheim Altenburg Riesling 2013 which showed powerful acidity with precise citrus fruits and exquisite minerality.

The Pfalz wine country is an experience that one should definitely seek out if in Germany. The history and sheer volume of vineyards are enough to make a wine lover immediately start to geek out.  I had the pleasure of trying several wines like a Schwarzriesling Rosé

and Rubin Cuvee Halbtrocken Sparkling that I have never seen in the states.  The abundance of wineries throughout the wine road could keep any interested traveler busy for weeks.

Many can say that they have traveled through Paris, Champagne, and Burgundy, but how many can boast a trip through the picturesque Weinstrasse? I am thankful that I can.

Our guest author, James Barlow, CS, CWE, is a wine director of over 6,000 wines labels for a store owned by Spec’s Fine Wines and Liquors in Houston, Texas. He is also the author of the widely recognized wine blog thewineepicure.com. James is also a recent recipient of the CWE Certification (Congratulations, James!) and as such has taken on the duty of teaching the Certified Specialist of Wine course to fellow employees in hopes of having the best educated staff in the state of Texas. Way to go, James!