Champagne Seminar
Sep
21

Champagne Seminar

My good friend Brian Martin will be here for our first wine class/seminar. Brian has spent a lot of time in Champagne cultivating relationships with many growers there so I'm excited to be able to do this. We'll be tasting 9 different grower Champagnes from Côtes des Blancs, Montagne de Reims, Vallée de la Marne and the Aube. We'll start at 5 and should be done by 6:30. Snacks will be provided. We are capping this at 12 people so RSVP me at vinoshoppdx@mail.com if you would like to attend. $55

View Event →

Friday Flight 9/12: France, Spain and Italy
Sep
11

Friday Flight 9/12: France, Spain and Italy

Flight 4 -8pm $16 for a taste of 5 wines with 3 additional for purchase.

Olivares de la Hoya Rosado Jumilla, Spain 2024 $13 - Old vine Garnacha from the sandy soils of Jumilla. Bright red fruit, cherry, strawberry and cranberry.

Cora 2022 Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, Italy $13 - This is an excellent value, with notes of bitter cherry and spice on the nose. The wine is medium bodied and juicy, with just enough tannin on the finish to give it structure.

Champ Fleury Bordeaux, France 2020 $19 - Sourced from vineyards near Saint-Émilion, it offers a classic Right Bank expression with soft structure and ripe fruit. Cabernet Franc adds lift and subtle spice.

Bernabeleva 2023 Camino de Navaherreros Tinto, Spain $19 - One of my favorite expressions of Garnacha. This vintage is fresh and lithe, offering red fruit, mountain herbs, and a sense of place.

Lucien Lardy Beaujolais Vieille Vignes, France 2022 $20 - Lardy makes some of the most interesting Gamay in my opinion.

BONUS WINES

Francois Cazin 2021 2021 Cour-Cheverny, France $23 - One of the most recent appellations of the Loire Valley (designated 1991), Cheverny has produced wine since the 6th century. Cazin is made from 100% Romorantin, an ancient local grape rarely seen outside the region. The 2021 offers up a bright, complex and utterly classical bouquet of fresh lime, quince, beeswax, orange peel, a lovely foundation of chalky soil tones and a topnote of white flowers.

Tomassi Valpolicella Classico Superior, Italy 2022 $24 - A blend of 60% Corvina, 25% Rondinella and 15% Molinara. This wine balances red and black fruit flavors with notes of sage, mint and marjoram. Carried by velvety tannins and mouthwatering acidity, the wine turns savory with exposure to air. With almost 40 years of experience under their belt, Bodega Akutain produces classically-styled Rioja wines exclusively from their own 6.5 hectares of vineyards located near the town of Haro, in the subzone Rioja Alta, widely considered to be the most prestigious terruño for producing age-worthy Rioja wines.  

Akutain Rioja Alta Crianza, Spain 2019 $35 - Over 40 years producing wines in Rioja Alta which produces some of Spain's most age worthy wines. 14 to 16 months in both French and American oak. Dark fruited, baking spices with firm tannins.

View Event →
Sep
10

Petite Monde Tasting with Kate

We’ll have Kate pouring some gems from her book 5 - 7pm free.

Château Fontenille Rouge 2021, AOC Bordeaux Rouge $17

Château des Adouzes “Le Tigre” 2023, AOP Faugères, $20

Olivier Pithon “Mon P’tit Pithon” Blanc 2024 $21

Domaine de la Graveirette “Ju de Vie” Rouge NV (2023) $16

Domaine de la Biscarelle Rouge 2021 Châteauneuf du Pape $43

View Event →
Friday Flight 9/5: Portugal
Sep
5

Friday Flight 9/5: Portugal

Portugal

No other country can match Portugal’s range of indigenous wine grape varieties, a rich palette for winemakers that goes back to the Bronze Age. Tartessians, Romans, and Phoenicians introduced wine grapes here, and viticulture eventually spread across Portugal’s diverse geography. Isolated from the rest of Europe, many unique wine varieties developed there as vines accustomed themselves to extremes in soil, weather and altitude. 

Now, in a small country with over 250 unique, indigenous wine grape varieties to choose from, it is not surprising that Portuguese winemakers usually draw from a variety of grape sources to create balanced, flavorful blends. The result is that Portugal is blessed with a treasure chest of unique and distinctive wines.

Portuguese blends, with their distinctive combinations and unique character, reward people seeking diversity. These wines, at their best, often from small but distinct regions, combine ancient winemaking wisdom with the latest scientific and technical knowledge to put the wonder and pleasure back in wine.

Quinta de Porrais 2023 Douro Branco $14 - The wine is a blend of Rabigato and Codega de Larinho, two classic whites of the valley.

Filipa Pato 2023 DNMC Tinto $19 - 100% Baga. Red fruited, savory, lifted aromatics.

Quinta dos Currais Tinto 2020 $13 - This is 80% Touriga Nacional, 15% Aragonez and 5% Castelao. Tarry, spicy and a bit reductive on the nose. Dense palate with blackberry and black cherry fruit with firm tannins. Bold, focused and firm on the finish

Quinta de Porrais 2022 Douro Tinto $15 - Sousão, Tinta Barroca, Touriga Franca, Touriga Nacional. This wine has excellent aromatic intensity with hints of ripe red fruit and spices. In the mouth reveals excellent structure and elegance, again with notes of ripe red fruits combined with oak notes.

Gota Wines Mirra Alentejo Red 2021 $17 - Castelão (20%), Moreto (20%), Aragonez (20%), Trincadeira (20%), and others (20%) Fresh and juicy wine dominated by notes of black fruit with aromas of black olive and spices, truffle and leather with a structure of soft tannins that surround the fruit. 

Bonus Pours

Filipa Pato 2024 DNMC Branco $21 - 80% Bical 20% Arinto. Fresh and textural, it offers citrus, white flowers, and saline minerality with lively acidity. 

Nicolau de Almeida, 2021 Cima Corgo Tinto $23 - Touriga Franca, Touriga Nacional, Sousão, Tinta Amarela, and Bastardo. The aromatic profile is layered with notes of wet grass and white pepper, complemented by subtle hints of red fruits and a spicy undertone. On the palate, the wine is fluid and balanced, with a refreshing acidity that harmonizes with its structured tannins. 

Nicolau de Almeida, 2019 Teles Theta $35 - An old vine field blend of primarily Touriga Francesa, Tinta Roriz and Tinta Barroca. Only small quantities and only in specific years that highlights the influence of the soil of the Douro Valley and, above all, of each of the decisions made by human beings with maximum involvement. is a smooth red wine with intense aromas of red fruit, floral notes and spicy hints. On the palate it is broad, juicy and fresh. A wine with refreshing acidity, ripe, fine tannins and a fresh, mineral finish.

The Flight is 4 - 8pm $16 for 5 pours with 3 additional pours available for purchase.

View Event →
Friday Flight: Malbec
Aug
29

Friday Flight: Malbec

Malbec

Malbec, sometimes called Côt or Auxxerois, is a 2,000-year-old black and thick-skinned grape variety with quite a history. Although Malbec originated in France, today it is often celebrated in association with Argentina. Malbec produces a full-bodied and deep coloured red wine known for its ripe plum flavours and notes of dark fruit such as blackberries and dark cherry. Thanks to its dark and inky color, Malbec earned itself the nickname "Black Wine". In particular, Argentinian Malbecs have a fruit-forward, juicy style with a reputation for richness balanced by high acidity and round, soft tannins.

The Flight - 4 to 8pm $16 for 5 pours with 3 additional wines for purchase

Santa Julia + Malbec 2024 Argentina $13 - Violet-intense purple, concentrated and bright. A complex nose with varietals notes of ripe, fruits, figs, prunes, jam and raisins. A good body, with sweet tannins and well balanced by acidity. A lingering and complex finish.

RJ Videos MDZ Malbec 2023 Argentina $14 - This 100% Malbec showcases the best and classic qualities of Mendoza. The nose comes alive with hints of mocha, blueberry, cherries, and rose petals that lead to a rich mouth feel held up by a good structure and smooth tannins.  

Zuccardi Serie A Malbec 2023 Argentina $16 - Intense and lively red-purple color. Intense red ripe fruit aromas such as prunes and cherries, with black pepper and tobacco. Can also detect chocolate, cherry liqueur, and spicy notes.

Ernesto Catena Tahaun Malbec Argentina 2022 $19 - The name "Tahuan" is inspired by the Inca word for "The Found Lands United," reflecting the winery's mission to honor the ancient culture. On the nose the wine offers lots of toasty aromas, but then, after only a few minutes, the aromas of fresh and juicy red fruits -such as strawberry and cherry- take center stage. There are also intriguing hints of wild flowers and violets.

Clos la Coutale Cahors 2022 France $21 -  A robust, tightly coiled rouge, lifted by an impressive freshness that is balanced by notes of dark fruit, plum, earth, and eucalyptus.

Bonus Wines

Maal Biolento Malbec Luyan de Cuyo, Argentina 2022 $25 - The 2022 Malbec Biolento is sourced from old vines in Las Compuertas, Luján de Cuyo. Partially aged for six months in used barrels, this purple wine reveals crystal-clear aromas of plums, white pepper and a touch of mint. Rich and plush, with supple and velvety tannins, the smooth palate bursts with flavor and offers a long-lasting expression of pure fruit character. 95 points Vinous

Novelty Hill Malbec Stillwater Creek Vineyard Columbia Valley, Washington 2022 $26 - A deeply colored, expressive wine with inviting aromas of wild blueberry, black cherry, and ripe plum, layered with subtle hints of violet and baking spice. The palate is plush and concentrated, offering juicy dark fruit and a thread of cocoa, framed by polished tannins. Smooth and balanced, the finish is long and refined.”

Chateau du Cedre Cahors Cedre Heritage 2021 $29 - This deep, inky red practically shouts blackberry and liquorice from the glass. It comes from Cahors, where Malbec is the star grape, and it shows off all that powerful, dark-fruited character. The vineyards bask in warm sunshine, ideal for ripening grapes to perfection, and a touch of oak adds a whisper of spice.

View Event →
Grilling on the patio with Famille Perrin
Aug
27

Grilling on the patio with Famille Perrin

We'll be grilling out on the patio again with Emmanuel Lemoine, US Export Director for Famille Perrin. $15 gets you a flight of 4 wines plus some brisket and sides. There will be one bonus wine available for purchase.

Leos Rose Augusta 2024 Provence

Famille Perrin Cote du Rhone Villages 2021

Famille Perrin Vinsobres “Les Cornuds” 2021

Famille Perrin Chateauneuf du Pape “Les Sinards” 2021

Bonus pour $10 Chateau Beaucastel Chateauneuf du Pape 2021

View Event →
Aug
22

Friday Flight 8/22: Italy


The Flight

San Matteo Gavi DOCG 2022 $20 - 100% Cortese vines planted in sandy marl and marine deposits, south facing with vine age between 15 and 40 years. Aromatic nose with notes of flowers, white peaches and minerals. Fully dry with crisp acidity, the palate is flinty with Layers of fruit and textured creaminess; beautifully balanced. Hints of peach, pear and flowers wrap around the generous finish.

Cantina Frentana DOC Montepulciano d’Abruzzo “Vallevó” 2023 $14 - This cooperative, located in the foothills of the Majella massif facing the Adriatic Sea, was founded in 1958 and now employs 100 growers. The wines uniformly display rich, clean fruit, vibrant acidity and soft, developed tannins.

Avignonesi IGT Rosso di Toscana “Cantaloro” 2020 $17 - A versatile, young red wine with a ruby red color and a bouquet characterized by inviting aromas of black cherry pie, black berries, thyme, red pepper grains and exotic spices. The taste is medium-bodied, fruity and smooth with a long lingering, dry finish, reminiscent of undergrowth, with an underlying hint of menthol. Blend: 60% Sangiovese, 37% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Merlot.

Cantina del Pino DOC Barbera d’Alba 2023 $20 - The Vacca family traces its viticultural origins in Piemonte back to the wines that came to be known as Barbaresco,a position solidified when they purchased portions of the Ovello vineyard in the early twentieth century. Since then,their name has been synonymous with the famous local co-op and their work with the most famous producers from around the village. In the mid-1990’s, Renato Vacca, along with his father Adriano, created Cantina del Pino, bottling the 1997 production as their first vintage.

Reverdito DOCG Langhe Nebbiolo 2023 $20 - Rising star Michele Reverdito works 27 acres of vines, both around his estate in La Morra as well as in Monforte, Serralunga and Verduno., Two acres each are Barbera and Dolcetto,the remaining Nebbiolo. In the vineyards, he works traditionally and sustainably, eschewing herbicides, pesticides and chemical fertilizers. In 2015, Dante Scaglione, formerly of Bruno Giacosa, joined the team.

Bonus Wines

Cigliuti Barbera Serraboella d'Alba 2022 $25 - "The 2022 Barbera D'Alba Vigna Serraboella is a blend from three parcels of the southwest lower vines below the Nebbiolo, and the other two are on clay soil and southeast-facing. All the wines are fermented spontaneously, and the Barbera is aged for 18 months in Slavonian oak and French oak 500-liter tonneau. The nose is floral, ripe, and inviting, showing off the lavender floral notes that always sing in this wine. It has a slightly rustic feel, with fresh earth, blackberries, and leather. The palate is structured and full, with good freshness of acidity and ripe, well-defined tannins that feel livelier and more energetic if served a touch cooler.

Reverdito Barolo 2019 DOCG $37 - Grapes drawn from four Barolo communes, Monforte d’Alba, Serralunga d’Alba, La Morra, and Verduno. Fermented in steel and aged in large, neutral oak botti. This is a suave and silky Barolo, with a nose of pie cherries, roses, raspberries and strawberries with touches of anise and vanilla. The palate is framed with long, velvety, mature tannins, flavors of warm black fruits, black soil, and dried herbs. Incredible texture and elegance for an amazing price.

Felsina Chianti Classico Riserva 2021 $42 - #13 in Wine Spectator's Top 100 Wines of 2024, 95 points: "The core of cherry, pomegranate and raspberry fruit is detailed with Tuscan scrub, iron, vanilla and tobacco notes as this intense red builds in power to the expansive conclusion, where its fruit, mineral and wild herb flavors converge. Shows fine balance and length; this just needs time to absorb the oak.

View Event →
Friday Flight 8/15: Oregon vs Burgundy Pinot Noir
Aug
15

Friday Flight 8/15: Oregon vs Burgundy Pinot Noir

Flight 4 - 8pm $16 for 5 pours with 3 additional for purchase

Let's do a comparative Pinot Noir flight this Friday featuring wines from both Oregon and Burgundy. I absolutely love both expressions and can't wait to do some side-by-side comparisons.

The Flight

The fashionable red burgundy grape is capable of producing divinely scented, gorgeously fruity expressions of place but often unwilling or unable to do so. Pinot Noir is sensitive to the size of crop it is expected to produce, and many vapid examples exemplify an over-demanding yield. It ripens relatively early (Chardonnay and Pinot Noir are often harvested at the same time in Burgundy) so is not suitable for very warm regions where there would be no time to develop interesting flavours before acid levels plummet. On the other hand, many of the cooler regions in which it thrives suffer autumn rains which can rot Pinot's thin-skinned berries, resulting in pale, tainted wines. The Pinot Noir grower's lot is not an easy one.

The positive side of all this is that Pinot Noir is a very transparent grape. It really can communicate the difference in terroir, or grape-growing environment, between adjacent plots of vineyard. The heady wines grown in Les Amoureuses vineyard in the village of Chambolle, for example, really do taste distinctly different from the majestic produce of Le Musigny vineyard next door which is almost invariably fuller, denser and longer-living.

Constant Crush Pinot Noir Willamette Valley 2023 $15 - This is a real zinger! Bright red fruits dominated by cranberry, cherry and pomegranate. Fresh and bright on the palate with generous fruit.

Timothy Malone Willamette Valley Pinot Noir 2023 $17 - I'm stunned how Tim bottles such beautiful wines at these prices. This vintage for Tim yielded a very delicate wine. Red fruited and crunchy with racy acidity.

Ovum "EZY TGR" Pinot Noir Willamette Valley $19 - Striking, translucent ruby red in the glass, the first aromas are classic Willamette Pinot – fresh strawberry and dark ripe berries. Cherry cola notes begin to emerge as it opens up in the glass, followed by dried rose and black tea.

Thevenet & Fils Bourgogne Rouge Les Clos 2023 $20 - Red fruited and vibrant on the attack. Subtle and fine tannins.

Domaine Pillot Bourgogne Rouge 2022 $21 - Delivers precise red berry fruit framed by subtle earth notes and fresh acidity. It reflects the estate’s focus on terroir clarity and makes an approachable yet refined choice for versatile food pairing.

Bonus Wines

Evesham Woods Pinot Noir Willamette Valley 2023 $25 - On the palate this offers tart cranberry and pomegranate seed flavors that mingle well with dried herbs and shades of forest floor.

Domaine Pillot Mercurey 2022 $29 - This is a lovely example of Mercurey with delicious, red fruits and spice on the nose, carefully extracted tannins and a beguiling, fresh aftertaste. Pinot from Mercurey  colour is a deep, profound ruby. This crisp-fruited wine evokes strawberry, raspberry, and cherry. Age brings in notes of underbrush, spicy tobacco notes and cocoa beans. In the mouth this wine is rich, full-bodied, and chewy. In its youth, the tannins of this wine lend it a mineral firmness. When aged, it is attractively rounded and meaty.

Agnès Paquet Auxey-Duresses "Les Hoz" 2022 $54 - Wines from Auxey-Duresses are bright ruby colour is neither too light nor too dark. The bouquet, too, is well-balanced between rich aromas of small black fruits (blackcurant, blackberry, bilberry…) and flower scents (peony). In the mouth, the attack is refined and supple, measured, meaty and pleasing. When young, there may be a touch of astringency but its tannins soon soften and its texture becomes velvety and it develops musky notes, as well as those of leather and spices.

View Event →
Friday Flight 8/8 - Languedoc Roussillon
Aug
8

Friday Flight 8/8 - Languedoc Roussillon

Languedoc-Roussillon

Located in Southern France, the Languedoc is part of the large Mediterranean coastal area now known as the Occitanie region, reaching from the Spanish border on the southeast to the region of Provence in the east. The Languedoc makes up approximately 90 percent of the territory; Roussillon occupies the other 10 percent. Together they represent France’s largest wine-producing region and vineyard area—more than one in three French wines is produced here. The greater Languedoc-Roussillon region is also the largest vineyard area in the world with a geographic identity. Viticulture is one of the main drivers of the local economy, and many of the wineries are small family holdings that date back generations.

The main area of the Languedoc wine region stretches across three départements—from the Aude to the Gard by way of the Hérault—and then extending to the Pyrénées-Orientales where it meets Roussillon. The region’s proximity to the Mediterranean Sea helps provide greater consistency across vintages than in other areas of France.

For the most part, the region has a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild springs, autumns, and winters. There are, however, varying microclimates throughout. They can be broken down into five groups.

  1. Mountain: In the north of the region, the climate tends to be more continental, similar to that of the nearby Rhône.

  2. Coastal: Along the coast, there is a strong Mediterranean influence, with abundant sunshine.

  3. South: In the southern part of the region, the climate is similar to Roussillon’s—making it suitable for more production of Carignan.

  4. Center: In the heart of the region, the climate is classically Mediterranean.

  5. West: In the west, the region experiences a mix of continental and Atlantic influences, which help create ideal conditions for Languedoc’s sparkling wines.

Domaine Riere Cadene Côtes De Roussillon Villages White Augusta 2023 $20 - Named after Emperor August who, 2000 years ago, built the road that goes through the Pyrenees Mountains, this cuvée is a blend of 60% Macabeo, 25% Grenache Blanc and 15% Vermentino. The 80+ year old vines are grown on the hillsides of the Agly Valley, on black schist and black marls. 

Château d’Oupia 2023 Les Heretiques $14 - Les Heretiques is mainly old vine Carignan plus a splash of Grenache to add a little oomph. It is a rustic, earthy, and spicy red wine with loads of ripe berry fruit.

Domaine De Campaucels Igp Oc “Rousseline” 2020 $15 - Grenache, Cinsault, Merlot and Syrah. Raspberry and truffle aromas with smoky notes. Taste is round, fruity and light, balanced with melted tannins.

Chateau du Donjon IGP Red Coteaux de Peyriac "Le Petit Coup" 2021 $16- Merlot 50%, Grenache 25%, Carignan 25% "With its pretty ruby colour, P'tit coup rouge is a bistro wine of excellence: a fruity, round red wine with a beautiful balance, which makes it immediately pleasant.."

Olivier Coste “Mourvèdre Illégal” 2023 $17 - 100% Mourvedre. Dark and inky in the glass. Medium bodied, blue fruits, and soft tannin.

Bonus Wines

Olivier Pithon “Mon P’tit Pithon” Rouge 2023 $22 - Olivier Pithon Mon P’tit Pithon Rouge is a crunchy, chillable, thirst-quenching red. Fresh cherry and blueberry, tart cranberry, and a lemon zest acidity on the finish. 100% whole berry co-fermentation in large stainless-steel tanks.

Domaine Riere Cadene L'Echals 2020 $26 - The result is a classic roussillon table red, with strong syrah aromas of stewed black cherry and red currant, pipe smoke, Ethiopian coffee beans and olive tapenade. Grenache + Syrah.

Danjou-Banessy, “Roboul” 2022 $36 - Comprised of Grenache Noir and Mourvèdre grown in clay/limestone soils under galets (see Châteauneuf) and aged for 14 months in barrel. In the glass it is a pale ruby, and on the palate it charms with delicate red fruits and powdered stone.

View Event →
Friday Flight 7/25 - Island Wines
Jul
25

Friday Flight 7/25 - Island Wines

I don't know why, but wines grown on Islands have always fascinated me. They seem to be a blend of cultures not quite the same as the countries they belong to. Corsica, Mallorca, Sicily, Sardinia and Crete all make compelling wines that deserve attention. Let's island hop for this week's flight.

Alexakis 2024 Assyrtiko Crete, Greece $20 - The fruit is amply layered with marine salt and minerals, giving the wine a very angular and crisp personality. There are aromas of lemon, pear and star fruit over a lean, fresh close. 

Alcesti 2022 Isola dei Profumi Rosso Sicily, Italy $15 - A blend of Periccone and Nero D'Avola. Bright red fruits, medium bodied, soft tannins and juicy.

Domaine Vetriccie Il Beaute Rouge Corsica, France 2021 $14 - The wine pours a ruby red with slight purple reflections at the rim. On the nose, there's a lively mix of red and dark fruit. Expect aromas of ripe cherries, wild raspberries, and blackberries, with hints of Mediterranean herbs like rosemary and thyme.

Ciello Rosso Nero D'Avola Sicily, Italy 2021 $16 - Ciello Rosso Nero d'Avola Terre Siciliane offers a rich and full-bodied flavour profile. It typically exhibits dark fruit flavours like black cherry and plum, along with hints of spice and savoury notes.

Contini Cananou 2022 di "Sardegna" Sardinia, Italy $19 - Familiar aromatics of blackberry, plum, violets and provençal herbs greet you from the glass. The acidity effortlessly persists on the slightly rich palate with a lovely smooth texture that gently leads to a mildly sweet and herbal tannic finish.

Bonus Wines

Ca'n Verdura Tinto 2023 Mallorca, Spain $24 - 51% Mantonegro / 24% Merlot / 20% Syrah / 4%Monastrell / 1% Callet. This fragrant, Mediterranean red is medium-bodied, with notes of wild red berries, citrus, fresh herbs, and exotic spices. It is fresh and energetic, with excellent texture.

Azienda Agricola Schirru 2022 Vino Arkimia Bianco Sardinia, Italy $27 - 60% Vermentino, 35% Nuragus, 5% Semidano, Malvasia, and other minor, endemic Sardinian varieties. The fruit is hand-harvested, fermented with 24 hours of skin contact in stainless steel. Aged in steel for 11 months on fine lees, unfined, unfiltered. This is a white wine fuller in body with pronounced herbal tones, apple peel, and hints of toasted nuts.

E Custodi Etna Rosso "Aetneus" 2019 Sicily, Italy $38 - A blend of 80% Nerello Mascalese and 20% of Nerello Cappuccio from vines between 90 and 150 years-old planted at 2000ft. on the slopes of Mt. Etna. The 2019 vintage is a stunning reflection of Etna’s raw power and finesse: aromas of red cherry, blood orange, wild herbs, and volcanic ash leap from the glass. The palate is taut and linear, framed by firm, savory tannins and a cool, mineral finish that speaks directly of the lava-rich soils. There's a brightness to the fruit and a wild, smoky edge that make this unmistakably Etna and unmistakably alive.

View Event →
Landmass Free Tasting 5 - 7
Jul
23

Landmass Free Tasting 5 - 7

Don't miss the Landmass tasting Wednesday, July 23rd. These gals are on fire right now and on everyone's radar. I don't think I've seen this kind of excitement around a winery in my 18 years in the Oregon wine business. We'll be pouring these 5 - 7pm free.

Heavy Glow Sparkling Rosé $24

Grüner Veltliner 2024 $24

Chenin Blanc 2024 $24

Chillable Red 2024 $26

Eola-Amity Hills Pinot Noir 2023 $30

View Event →
Friday Flight 7/18 - Prufrock Takeover
Jul
18

Friday Flight 7/18 - Prufrock Takeover

We’ll have my friend Brian Martin from Prufrock Wines pouring some highlights from his book this Friday 4 - 8pm for our flight. Wines from Columbia Gorge, Willamette Valley, Austria, Sicily, Chianti and Bordeaux.

This is a great lineup so grab a friend and come on down.

Timothy Malone Nebbiolo Rosato Columbia Gorge 2024 $19 - I've know Tim for years as the winemaker at J Christopher and have watched the success he's had with his own label. Nebbiolo from the Garnier vineyard out in the Gorge. Light, bright and refreshing!

Weninger Ponzichter Austria and Hungary NV $20 - Named for the German speaking “bean growers” that farmed between the vines of the Austrian and Hungarian borders. This light red blend of Pinot Noir and Zweigelt has a nose of fresh spring meadow and a palate displaying notes of bright red fruits, black pepper, alpine herbs, and earth.

Oedipoda Gamay Beaujolais, France 2023 $21 - From declassified plots of Gamay from Jullié and Émeringes (just south of Jullié) with soil types of pierres bleues andschist. In order to achieve a lighter extrac4on this wine is pressed before alcoholic fermenta4on has fully completed and as higher alcohol levels extract more tannin, they achieve a brighter and frui4er wine that could be served a few degrees cooler than the village or cru wines.

Champfleury Bordeaux, France 2020 $20 - This is mostly Merlot from the St Emilion area, and offers classic notes of blackcurrant, tilled earth, dark chocolate and vanilla bean mark the nose, and palate shows deep black cherry, currant, fresh raspberries and black dirt among gentle yet firm tannins. 

Calabretta Nerello Mascalese Gaio Gaio Sicily, Italy 2022 $23 - Ripe rhubarb, strawberry pie, blueberry, fig, cedar, pine needles, forest floor, purple flowers, violets. Palate is fresh strawberries and crème on a vibrant palate with fresh garden herbs + rustic tannins. Honoring centuries old traditions in natural farming, the Calabretta family tends these historic vineyards on the volcanic soil of Mount Etna, intertwined with olive trees and fruit orchards, for now 4 generations. Since 1997 Massimo & Massimiliano built a new winery and started to bottle and sell the Calabretta wines all over the world.

Bonus Wines

Twill Cellars Pinot Noir Willamette Valley, Oregon 2023 $26 - I met with the winemaker last week and tasted through the Twill wines and loved them all. I'm bringing in a few of the wines and thought the Pinot Noir would work for the flight. Deep, crimson red. Immediate and sweeping aromas of rose petal, rhubarb,blood orange and raspberry. Brooding secondary notes of salt, cranberry and earth provide layers to the more agile and forward red aromas. Flavors feel pure, poised and tense with primary notes of pomegranate and nutmeg.

i Clivi Schioppettino Venezia Giulia Friuli, Italy 2022 $29 - Ferdinando Zanusso lived and worked in Africa for forty years, before returning to Italy and his wife’s hometown. Here in Corno di Rosazzo, Gramogliano, he founded I Clivi in the mid-1990s. Shortly after its founding, his son Mario joined him in the winery where he continues to oversee all aspects of the vineyards and winemaking. Ferdinando and Mario share a vision to showcase Friuli’s prized terroir and unique, singular expressions of Friulano, Ribolla Gialla, Cabernet Franc, and Schioppettino. Bright notes of strawberries and cherry compote hover over notes of peppercorns, dried thyme and rose water. A silky mineral-forward texture steals the show before a savory, fruity finishes crisp with lingering mouthwatering acidity.

Castell'in Villa Chianti Classico DOCG 2019 $39 - The 2019 Chianti Classico is a very pretty, open-knit wine. In most vintages, the Castell'in Villa Chianti Classico is quite forbidding young, but the 2019 is surprisingly approachable. Cedar, sweet pipe tobacco, menthol, licorice, dried herbs, ripe red cherry fruit and a suggestion of new oak all open effortlessly. Readers will have a hard time keeping their hands off this gem. In 2019, the Chianti Classico is quite aromatic and decidedly medium-bodied. 94 points from Vinous

4 - 8pm $16 for 5 pours with 3 additional wines available for purchase.

View Event →
Friday Flight - European Wines
Jul
11

Friday Flight - European Wines

We'll have Emily from Handcrafted returning this Friday for a European flight from her book. Along with her Missouri "can do" attitude, she's bringing wines from Italy, Spain and France. We spent an hour coming up with this list yesterday so come on down Friday and check it out.

The Flight

Galerna Verdejo Castilla, Spain 2024 $14 - 100% Verdejo A fruit forward white wine with pear aromas and light tropical notes on the nose. Dominio de Punctum was born in 2005 as the initiative of three siblings with a shared goal: to produce wines that care for both our ecosystem and our palate.

Galerna Garnacha Castilla, Spain 2023 $14 - 100% Garnacha Bright red fruits, cherry, raspberry and white pepper.

Maylandie Cabanon Corbierres Rouge 2023 $16 - Cinsault and Carignan. The Corbières appellation is the largest appellation in Languedoc and includes terroirs with varied geological and climatic characteristics. It is mainly on the Boutenac terroir that the 25 hectares of vines of Château Maylandie are grown. The grape varieties of Château Maylandie are essentially composed of Grenache noir, Syrah and Carignan. In addition to these three majority grape varieties, it also includes Mourvèdre, Cinsault, Grenache Blanc, Bourboulenc and Vermentino. Lightly aromatic with morello cherry juice and strawberry compote, almost floral like reseda. On the palate, caramelized apple and licorice combine with a fine, tight texture.

Raffault Chinon Galuches, Loire Valley 2023 $22 - 100% Cabernet Franc Les Galuches lieu-dit is an ancient river bed of the Loire. The name of parcel derives from the presence of gravel. According the records from the era, vines were already well established in this sector by the 1830s. The Cabernet Franc ripens very well in the domaine’s 10 hectare holding on a sand and gravel soil. The wine rests 6 months in 500 litre double barriques. It is very aromatic and is noted for its bouquet of violets, followed by lush and supple dark berry/cherry fruit. 

Cavaliera Elena Pignoletto Bianco Lambrusco NV, Veneto $21 - Clean, crisp, and very dry, with yeasty summer fruit notes on the nose, a dry and mineral palate, and refreshingly tonic bitters on the finish. The Cavaliera lambrusco is not “normal” lambrusco (it should be normal for wines to be this delicious), but it is authentic lambrusco. The Cavaliera wines are made to highlight the hyper-local varieties of the area of Castelvetro: lambrusco di Grasparossa, pignoletto, and trebbiano.

Bonus Wines

Brotte Creation Grosset Cairanne, Rhône Valley 2020 $23 - CairanneRuby with garnet reflections. The nose offers a combination of fresh fruits such as raspberry and redcurrant. Spicy notes of cinnamon and garrigue stand out. The wine will gain in suppleness over time, and in jammy aromas of raspberry and plum as well as undergrowth. The wine is generous and spicy with notes of wild strawberries, raspberries and red currants.

Jean Louis Chave Mon Coeur 2023, Rhône Valley $26 - The Chave family is based in a small village on the northern right bank of the Rhone. There have been Chaves growing vines on the famous Hermitage hill since 1481. Gerard Chave took over from his father in 1970 and rapidly achieved megastar status due to the extraordinary quality of his wines and has since passed on the winemaking responsibilities to his son Jean-Louis. 

Cecilia Monte Barbaresco 2019 $45 - High rent district terroir! Cecilia’s San Giuliano Barbaresco vines are adjacent to the rightfully esteemed Gallina vineyard. The ground here is very white with clay and limestone, facing East. A nose that is about purity and lifted aromatics with tones of strawberries, red cherries, raspberries, rose petals, cinnamon sticks, fresh herbs, violets, new leather, mineral notes, and some potpourri notes.

Every Friday 4 -8pm $16 for 5 pours with 3 additional for purchase.

View Event →
Friday Flight 6/27: Rioja
Jun
27

Friday Flight 6/27: Rioja

Rioja

On June 6, 1925, Rioja became the first Designation of Origin (DO) in the country. And though the designation is celebrating its centennial, ancient artifacts and ruins—including wine presses and cellars dating back 2,000 years—prove that winemaking is a deep-rooted cultural practice in the region. 

This deep history allowed Rioja to help the European wine industry through one of its most difficult periods: the phylloxera outbreak that swept across France during the 19th century. While Rioja’s ample production succeeded in slaking international thirst, Spanish winemakers, too, benefitted from this exchange. 

“A lot of French winemakers came to look for grapes here and they actually established wineries,” says Peter Arijs, the education and global projects manager of the Rioja Consejo Regulador, confirming that several of the now century-old wineries in operation today were founded during this time. “The French brought with them their knowledge and also their winemaking techniques and that involved barrels, which was not common to the region.” 

In fact, the region has never stopped innovating and improving. In 1980, Rioja was the first to develop a system for standardized categorization based on aging—crianza, reserva, and gran reserva—each indicating a specific length of aging time prior to release. “These are wines that have been aged for you in the winery in perfect conditions,” says Arijs. “You don’t have to buy a wine very young, put it in your cellar and wait. These wines are basically released when they are ready to drink. That’s a huge advantage and something that still makes these styles very relevant today.”

As a testament to the high standards met and exceeded throughout the region’s wine industry, in 1991, Rioja became the country’s first Denominación de Origen Calificada (DOCa). Quality control measures put specific restraints on planting density, vine load, and total harvest size in an effort to maintain healthy grapes and quality wine production, and to uphold Rioja’s reputation as a premium wine-producing territory. To this day, only Rioja and Priorat have achieved this prestigious status. 

Ostatu 2024 Rioja Rosado $19 - 70% Tempranillo, 27% Garnacha, and 3% Viura. Tasting Notes Floral and acidic, very light on the palate with notes of red berries.

Luberri 2023 Rioja Orlegi $15 - Luberri Orlegi is the reference point for traditional, light-bodied, fruit-forward wines of Rioja Alavesa. Bright red and blue fruit from high-elevation vineyards. Fresh acidity and light on the palate.

Anciano No. 5 Rioja Crianza 2020 $14 - Elegant, complex, well-structured, fresh and fruity. Aromas of red fruits and vanilla with subtle hints of liquorice and toffee. Silky and persistent finish with a touch of spice. 

Carlos Serres Crianza Rioja 2020 $15 - Dark garnet in the glass, this Crianza has aromas of forest floor, red cherry, and black plum. In the mouth there are flavors of ripe black fruits and red cherries with a hint of new car leather in the finish.

Peciña 2023 Rioja Cosecha Tinto $16 - A luscious red wine. On the nose, it is distinguished by its intense notes of fresh red fruits, such as cherries and raspberries, imparting a vibrant freshness. On the palate, it is light and easy to drink, with a fruity character.

Bonus Wines

Sierra de Toloño 2023 Rioja Blanco $23 - 100% Viura. The primary aromas of white flowers give way to an elegant and complex background, with subtle toasted pastry notes. Its mouth is surrounding and silky, with powerful acidity that allows a lasting aftertaste.

Peciña 2017 Rioja Crianza $24 - This “Crianza” (usually the lightest and youngest of aged Riojas) is the equivalent of other producers’ “Reservas,” as it ages for 2 years in American oak, and then another 2 years (!) before release. Red berries, dried flowers, vanilla, tobacco, and silky tannins, too.

Bonus Bonus

Lopez de Heredia Cubillo 2016 $34 - Viña Cubillo wines come from the vineyard called Viña Cubillas, some 4 km away from the bodega, which as with all of the other vineyards, was bought by our founder. Historically these wines were called "Special Harvest". Vina Cubillas has an altitude of 410 m, and the vines have an average age of 40 years. The soil is from the terciary age and is a mixture of clay and limestone. Savory berries with aromas of white pepper, blood orange peel, preserved plums, iron and a touch of dust. Still pretty structured and intense, with a medium to full body, but juicy.

View Event →
Friday Flight June 20th - Northern Italy
Jun
20

Friday Flight June 20th - Northern Italy

The Flight

Piedmont, located in northwestern Italy, is renowned for its exceptional wines, particularly red varieties. The region is most famous for Barolo and Barbaresco, both made from the Nebbiolo grape, known for their complexity, aging potential, and aromas of tar and roses. Barbera and Dolcetto are also widely produced, offering more approachable, fruit-forward profiles. Piedmont’s cool climate and rolling hills, especially around Alba and Asti, contribute to the distinct character of its wines. The region also produces elegant white wines like Gavi and the sparkling Asti Spumante. Piedmont's deep winemaking tradition makes it a cornerstone of Italian viticulture.

Alto Piedmont, in northern Italy, produces distinctive wines primarily from the Nebbiolo grape, locally called Spanna. Known for their elegance and minerality, these wines are lighter than Barolo but still complex and age-worthy. Key appellations include Gattinara, Ghemme, and Boca, where volcanic soils and cooler climates shape refined reds with floral, earthy notes. Blends may include Vespolina and Croatina, adding spice and structure. Alto Piedmont remains a hidden gem for Nebbiolo lovers.

Lombardy, in northern Italy, offers a diverse range of wines, from crisp whites to bold reds and renowned sparkling wines. Its most famous wine region, Franciacorta, produces high-quality metodo classico sparkling wines rivaling Champagne. Valtellina, in the Alps, crafts elegant Nebbiolo-based reds known as Chiavennasca. Lugana, near Lake Garda, delivers fresh, mineral-rich white wines from the Turbiana grape. Lombardy’s varied terroirs and climates make it one of Italy’s most versatile wine regions.

Ercole Bianco 2023, Piedmont $15 (1 liter) - Peach pit, pear, sweet nectarine with delicate flowers. Crushed pineapple and sweet citrus on a smooth, mineral driven palate. Blend of 80% Cortese with Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. Fermented in Stainless Steel. 

Cantalupo Rosato Il Mimo Colline Novaresi, Alto Piedmont 2024 $22 - This gorgeous 100% Nebbiolo Rosato is full of aromas and flavors of fresh red berries, rose petals, and spice notes. A more full-flavored style of rosé, it has a juicy, long finish, with mouthwatering acidity to balance the rich flavors.

Cantina Casteggio Barbera 2022, Lombardia $13 - Intense ruby red color with violet tone. Intense perfume of black fruits. Mouth: a young fruity taste with almond aroma.

Ca del Baio Dolcetto d’Alba Lodoli 2023, Piedmont $16 - The Dolcetto d'Alba Lodoli presents itself with a lively ruby red color, hinting at its organoleptic qualities. On the nose, it offers an aromatic bouquet rich with notes of cherry, raspberry, and a slight spiciness that adds complexity without overpowering the freshness of the fruit.

Cantina Sociale di Gattinara 2022 Vino Rosso, Alto Piedmont $22 - This Vino Rosso is predominantly Nebbiolo grape blended with other local, indigenous grapes. Hand harvesting and aging in Slavonian casks lends to the enticing aroma with its tobacco nose highlighted with hints of cedar. On the palate you are greeted with flavors of red and black berries that instantly dazzle the tongue.

Bonus

Cigliuti Barbera D’Alba Serraboella 2022, Piedmont $27 - The 2022 Barbera d'Alba Vigna Serraboella is plump, juicy and super-expressive. A rush of dark cherry, plum, mocha, rose petals and licorice caresses the palate. Pretty floral notes lift the finish, adding brightness and persistence. 

Cantalupo Nebbiolo Agamium Colline Novaresi 2022 Alto Piedmont $21 - The 2022 Colline Novaresi Agamium, 100% Nebbiolo, is a terrific entry-level wine in this range. Bright acids cut through a core of red berry fruit, chalk, white pepper, mint and pine. This mid-weight Nebbiolo is an absolute gem.

 Bonus Bonus

Marco Ferrari 2023 Rosso di Valtellina, Lombardia $45 - Their 2023 Rosso di Valtellina has every keynote I look for in a Nebbiolo — grippy tannins, bright acidity, light body, tart fruit, and excellent minerality.

View Event →
Tablas Creek on the Patio
Jun
16

Tablas Creek on the Patio

4 - 7pm with Darren from Tablas Creek in Paso Robles. This will be a casual gathering with a wine flight and some brats off the grille.

BBQ & Wine Flight $15 (flight of 3 wines + BBQ)

Tablas Creek "Patelin" Blanc 2023 $26

Tablas Creek "Patelin" Rose 2023 $23

Tablas Creek "Patelin" Rouge 2023 $26

Bonus Pours $8 each

Tablas Creek Esprit de Adelaida Blanc 2019 $57

Tablas Creek Esprit de Adelaida Rouge 2022 $72

View Event →
Friday Flight June 13th - Portugal
Jun
13

Friday Flight June 13th - Portugal


The Flight - Portugal 4 - 8pm $16

No other country can match Portugal’s range of indigenous wine grape varieties, a rich palette for winemakers that goes back to the Bronze Age. Tartessians, Romans, and Phoenicians introduced winegrapes here, and viticulture eventually spread across Portugal’s diverse geography. Isolated from the rest of Europe, many unique wine varieties developed there as vines accustomed themselves to extremes in soil, weather and altitude. 

Now, in a small country with over 250 unique, indigenous wine grape varieties to choose from, it is not surprising that Portuguese winemakers usually draw from a variety of grape sources to create balanced, flavorful blends. The result is that Portugal is blessed with a treasure chest of unique and distinctive wines.

Portuguese blends, with their distinctive combinations and unique character, reward people seeking diversity. These wines, at their best, often from small but distinct regions, combine ancient winemaking wisdom with the latest scientific and technical knowledge to put the wonder and pleasure back in wine.

Altano Douro Branco 2023 $15 - (Malvasia Fina and  Viosinho) Crisp orchard fruits, a touch of citrus, and refreshing minerality.

Quinta do Infantado 2023 Infantado Junior Palhete $20 - 75% native red varieties/25% white varieties. From a single hectare of 40-year-old vines: a field blend of red and white varieties, planted at almost 2000 feet in elevation on a schistous, north-facing hillside in the Douro. The name of a legal category of Portuguese wine, "Palhete" is Portuguese for the British term "claret" (from the French "clairet" originally), historically applied to the pale red wines of Bordeaux wines going back to the 14th-15th centuries. 

Altano Douro Tinto 2022 $14 - (Touriga Nacional and Touriga Franca) Altano reflects its Douro origins perfectly: generous aromas of wildflowers (rockrose and lavender); full-bodied structure with fresh and assertive fruit (plums and black cherries); spicy, peppery tones, all seamlessly held together.

Gota Wines Mirra Alentejo Red 2021 $17 - Fresh and juicy wine dominated by notes of black fruit with aromas of black olive and spices, truffle and leather with a structure of soft tannins that surround the fruit. 

Nicolau de Almeida 2021 Baixo Corgo Tinto $21 - The blend comprises Touriga Franca, Touriga Nacional, Tinta Barroca, and Tinta Roriz. The aromatic profile is layered with notes of blackberries, elderberries, and blueberries, complemented by subtle hints of pepper and forest floor.

Bonus Wines

Quinta Várzea da Pedra Branca Resrva 2018 $27 - Nose of peach pit and apricot crumble, pecan pie, flint, artisanal apple sauce with cinnamon. There’s a soaring nuttyness too. The palate is full of minerality, pecans and peaches and pineapple and green apple, a raging torrent of acidity, and the finish that echoes with white fruits and baking spices.

Nicolau de Almeida, Mateus 2021 Cima Corgo Tinto $23 - Cima Corgo is a blend of Touriga Franca, Touriga Nacional, Sousão, and Tinta Amarela. The grapes come from the schist soils of mid-Douro region, which has an almost Mediterranean climate. This vintage presents a more elegant side, with juicy red berry fruit, and bright acidity. Medium-bodied, but well structured but it's plush tannins, notes of eucalyptus, white pepper and fresh herbs balance the dark fruit profile.

Bonus Bonus

Filipa Pato 2022 Nossa Calcario Baga $39 - 100% Baga from a selection of low-yielding centenary vineyards. Deep crimson. Deep-flavoured and subtle. And so appetising that for the first time in this massive tasting I,m tempted to swallow this! Tannins are like the most luxuriously polished soft leather.

View Event →
Lungarotti Tasting - Free
Jun
12

Lungarotti Tasting - Free

We’ll have Marco from Lungarotti Estate in Italy’s Umbria region.

Lungarotti and Torgiano, the area that made Umbria famous for its wine. A long love story with the territory that spans many generations. Founded by Giorgio Lungarotti, pioneer of modern Italian oenology, the company today continues its path focused on quality production and sustainability, thanks to the commitment, passion and competence of the daughters Chiara and Teresa, supported by their mother Maria Grazia and by the sons of Teresa: Francesco and Gemma.


  Lungarotti Vermentino IGT Umbria  2022  $13                                               

  Lungarotti Torgiano Bianco DOC Torre di Giano Bianco 2022   $18

   Lungarotti Cadetto Rosso Umbria IGT 2022  $13                                 

    Lungarotti Torgiano Rosso DOC Rubesco 2020  $19                             

Lungarotti Torgiano Rosso Riserva DOCG 2018   “Vigna Montecchio”   $68                        

                       

View Event →
Friday Flight June 6th - "Fizz Fest"
Jun
6

Friday Flight June 6th - "Fizz Fest"

The Flight 4 - 8pm $16 for 5 pours with 3 additional pours available for purchase.

Cellar Jan Vidal Cava NV, Spain $14 - This wine spends 18 months aging to develop its flavors and has an exquisite fine bubble to it. Super fresh tart apple fruit and just a sublime finish. 

Asolo Prosecco Superiore N/V Gasparini, Italy $17 - Coming from the estate in giavera del montello north of treviso this asolo superiore is as sophisticated as they come. Soft bubbles and a fragrant nose of flowers apples and pears.

Ca de Medici Sobara Lambrusco, Italy $18 - The maceration of the grapes on the skins after pressing is very short and this gives this Lambrusco its typical bright pink color. It is characterized by delicate and floral aromas, like rose and violet, that timidly give way to a distant aroma of strawberry and pomegranate. 

Avinyo Cava Brut Reserva 2021, Spain $22 - It presents fresh aromas of green apple, citrus, and white flowers. On the palate, it's crisp and lively, with flavors of lemon zest and a delicate mineral note, all culminating in a refreshing, dry finish.

NV Vignoble de Jacques Rose Brut Cremate de Limoux “L”Inspire” Loire Valley, France $22 - 60% Chardonnay, 20% Chenin Blanc and 20% Pinot Noir. A subtle cherry color with a nice greedy raspberry nose. On the palate, red fruits are lightly present and Pinot noir brings all the fullness. The bubbles are delicate and the style is fresh, and vigorous.

Bonus Wines

Landmass Brut Rose NV Columbia Gorge, Oregon $26 - Sunshine in a bottle! Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from Underwood Mountain. Fresh Hood strawberries, raspberry and lively acidity.

Domaine Franc Besson Dentelle Blanc de Noir Beaujolais, France $27 - 100% Gamay that comes from the Beaujolais region. 40-year-old vines are planted in a bedrock of granite. The fruit aromas are incredibly aromatic and driven by an array of mixed red berries. 

Billecart Salmon 1818 Champagne, France $45 - 37% Chardonnay, 30% Meunier and 30% Pinot Noir. White flesh fruits, plums and dried fruits. Refreshing with notes of citrus fruits and pepper.

View Event →
Friday Flight May 30th - Rhône Valley
May
30

Friday Flight May 30th - Rhône Valley

The Rhône Valley is the second largest producer of AOC wines in France. The range of wines produced is as large as the region itself: about 70,000 hectares dedicated to the making of 388 million bottles from numerous different appellations.

The Rhône Valley was the result of an epic geological clash between the Massif Central and the Alps, creating a rift valley which was flooded by the Mediterranean. Today, the valley’s soils consist of four different types of rock: granite, sandy silica, limestone and clay. The bedrock plays an essential role in the way in which the growing vines are supplied with water, determining the varied aromas and flavors of Rhône wines.

The vineyards of the Rhône Valley run along the banks of the Rhône River in southeast France, which originates from the Rhône glacier in the Swiss Alps, flows 500 miles though Lake Geneva, Lyon, Avignon and then into the Mediterranean Sea. The sunny climate and Mistral wind from the Alps down to the Mediterranean has nurtured vines and winemaking in the region for over 2,000 years. Rhône Valley wines exhibit rich and concentrated flavors due to the regional soil diversity and warmth of the sun. The region offers beautiful rosés, whites and red blends, made from 20+ different grape varietals, notably Grenache and Syrah.

Friday Flight 4 - 8pm $12 for 5 pours with 3 additional wines for purchase.

Domaine de Fenouillet Beaumes-de-Venise Rose 2024 $16 - (60% Grenache, 30% Cinsault, and 10% Syrah) Vivid, spicy and bright red fruit with vibrant acidity.

Domaine Clavel Côtes du Rhône 2022 $14 - A blend of Grenache, Syrah and Marselan, this nose offers juicy ripe plums and currants with a slight candied edge. The palate is balanced and loaded with black cherry, saffron and a round stone and clay finish.

Domaine de Fenouillet Beaumes-de-Venise Rouge 2022 $15 - This cuvée is a blend of 75% Grenache, 20% Syrah and 5% Carignan. Spicy red fruit, subtle tannins, and white pepper,

Chateau Pesquie Le Paradou Ventoux 2021 $16 - Made from 100% Grenache (75-year-old vines) and aged 7 months in concrete tank, it offers up a naked expression of Grenache with meaty black cherry, pepper, dried Provencal herbs and earth all soaring from the glass.

Paul Autard Côtes du Rhône Rouge 2022 $20 -  70% Grenache, 20% Syrah, and 10% Mourvèdre. Bright flavors of raspberry, strawberry, cherry, and red currant, all wonderfully complemented by lifted aromatic notes of lavender, classic Southern Rhône garrigue, and a dash of black pepper. 

Let's move to the Northern Rhône Valley for the bonus pours.

These 3 wines are all from Vincent Paris. Vincent Paris, whose first vintage was 1997, is as shy as his wines are bold. In his early 30's, he has retro sideburns, but not much else about this appellation's established star is "retro". Vincent's uncle is Robert Michel, one of Cornas' finest growers. He made his two first wines with his uncle and then, seeking autonomy, rented facilities for the vinification of his most recent wines. He is in the process of building his own winemaking facilities with a courtyard that holds his apricot plantation.

Vincent Paris Syrah VdP des Collines Rhodaniennes 2023 $23 - This Syrah comes from young vines in Crozes-Hermitage, but the wine gets classified as a “wine of the land” versus village level. Aromas of ripe blackberries and plums, complemented by subtle notes of black pepper, violets, and a hint of smoked meat.

Vincent Paris "Granit" Blanc 2023 $32 - Only 5% of wine made in Northern Rhône Valley is white. This wine is made of 66% Viognier, 34% Roussane. The vines are planted on North-facing slops in the Cornas appelation, a rarity, since Cornas is mostly known for its red wine production. The wine itself is unique and limited, and tops out at 200 cases produced annually. The Viognier offers orchard fruit flavors, while the sandy granite soils in the vineyard bring out the Roussane's super sharp minerality.

Vincent Paris Crozes-Hermitage 2022 $48 - Dry, low acidity, intense but polished tannin, and full body. The palate brims with black fruit, roast plum, vanilla, oak, pepper, black olive, licorice, and spice. Pure Syrah so try with something gamey or peppery.


View Event →
Friday Flight 5/22 - Italy
May
23

Friday Flight 5/22 - Italy

di Lenardo Vineyards 2023 Friulano "TOH!", Friuli $14 - Friuli, located in northeastern Italy near the borders of Austria and Slovenia, is a prestigious wine region known for its high-quality white wines, especially from grapes like Friulano, Sauvignon Blanc, and Pinot Grigio.

Tenuta Le Velette 2019 Rosso Orvietano "Spicca" Umbria $16 - (100% Sangiovese) Umbria, often called the "green heart of Italy," is a central Italian wine region known for its rolling hills and historic towns. It produces both red and white wines, with standout varieties like Sagrantino from Montefalco and Grechetto from Orvieto.

Ippolito 2021 Cirò Rosso Classico Superiore "Liber Pater", Calabria $16 - (100% Gaglioppo) Calabria, located in the toe of Italy's boot, is a warm, sun-drenched wine region known for bold red wines made from native grapes like Gaglioppo. With a winemaking history dating back to ancient times, Calabria's rugged terrain and Mediterranean climate produce robust, rustic wines that reflect the region's heritage and natural beauty.

Fidora 2020 Monte Tabor Valpolicella, Veneto $19 - (Corvina, Corvinone and Rondinella) Veneto, in northeastern Italy, is one of the country’s most important and diverse wine regions, known for producing both high-quality reds and whites. It’s famous for Prosecco, Amarone della Valpolicella, and Soave, offering everything from light, sparkling wines to rich, full-bodied reds. 

Musto Carmelitano 2020 Aglianico del Vulture "Rosso Maschitano" Basilicata $20 - (100$ Aglianico) Basilicata, a mountainous region in southern Italy, is known for its bold red wines, especially Aglianico del Vulture, grown on the slopes of an ancient volcano. Its high elevations and volcanic soils contribute to wines with depth, structure, and aging potential, making it a hidden gem among Italy’s wine regions.

Bonus Wines

Umani Ronchi Pecorino Terre di Chieti Vellodoro 2023, Marche $20 - (100% Pecorino) Marche, located on Italy’s Adriatic coast, is a picturesque wine region known for its crisp white Verdicchio and elegant reds like Rosso Conero. With a mix of coastal and mountainous terrain, Marche produces fresh, food-friendly wines that reflect its diverse landscape and rich winemaking tradition.

I Custodi 2022 Etna Rosso "Pistus", Sicily $27 (90% Nerello Mascalese and 10% Nerello Cappuccio) Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean, is a dynamic wine region known for its diverse climates and volcanic soils, particularly around Mount Etna. It produces a wide range of wines, including bold reds like Nero d’Avola and the elegant, mineral-driven Nerello Mascalese, as well as crisp whites like Grillo and Carricante. 

Bonus Bonus

COS 2021 Cerasuolo di Vittoria Classico, Sicily $45 (Frappato di Vittoria 40%, Nero d’Avola 60%) I love Sicilian wines so I couldn't help myself and doubled up here. In 1980, they were the youngest wine producers in Italy. They received an old family winery from Giambattista Cilia’s father Giuseppe Cilia and the nearby vineyard of bush trained vines, a total of 3.60.40 hectares in the famed town of Bastonaca. On October 5, 1980 they harvested their first vintage and made 1,470 bottles. COS began its adventure that would one day lead to the transformation of Cerasuolo di Vittoria. Cerasuolo di Vittoria is Sicily’s only DOCG wine, made primarily from Nero d’Avola and Frappato grapes. It’s known for its vibrant ruby color, juicy red fruit flavors, and balanced structure, combining the richness of Nero d’Avola with the floral freshness of Frappato.

Friday Flight 4 - 8pm $12 for flight of 5 with 3 additional wines for purchase.

View Event →
May
16

Friday Flight: Italy's Piedmont Region

Podere Ruggeri Corsini 2023 Langhe Bianco $18 - (Arneis, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc) This is a pale straw color in the glass with subtle greenish reflections. The nose is expressive, offering a bouquet of white peaches, green apples, and citrus, complemented by floral hints of roses and a touch of minerality.

Podere Ruggeri Corsini Rosso 2022 Langhe Rosso "Matot" $14 (Dolcetto, Nebbiolo, Barbera) The resulting wine exhibits a deep ruby red color with violet hues. The bouquet is rich and complex, dominated by black cherry, blackberry, and currant aromas, complemented by subtle notes of earth, tobacco, and leather. 

Elio Perrone 2023 Barbera d'Asti "Tasmorcan" $18 - Loaded with aromas of blueberry, raspberry and plum with a hint of sweet baking spice and wild mint is a pleasure. 

Le Marie Dolcetto Pinerolese DOC 2021 $22 - Juicy red berries, violet, and smooth tannins. Fresh with a firm slap of tart berry fruit liquorice and ripe herb mint and walnut a light to medium bodied dry red wine.

Ca’ del Baio Langhe Nebbiolo "Bric del Baio" 2022 $23 - Garnet red color with ruby hues; fragrant scent of dried flowers and geranium aroma, with light fruity notes reminiscent of raspberry; dry, warm, soft, slightly tannic, and highly drinkable Barbaresco-esque flavor.

Bonus Wines

Punset Barbera D'Alba 2022 $27 - Ruby red wine presents delightful aromas of fresh red berries that are both intense and harmonious. On the palate, the fruity notes shine through, characterized by an energetic acidity and a dry, clean finish.

Francesco Rinaldi & Figli Barbera 2022 $34 - More refined than most around, the Dolcetto d’Alba Roussot from Franceso Rinaldi is a fruit-forward, mouth-filling red with lots of attractive, floral aromas. The strong plum and blueberry fruit character that we pick up on the nose is accompanied by dried petals and a granite-like note that make it very enticing. 

Bonus Bonus

Francesco Rinaldi & Figli Barolo 2019 $72

View Event →
May
9

Friday Flight 5/9 Featuring Vineyard Brands

 I thought it would be fun to have one of our favorite suppliers, Jacob Lee, from Vineyard Brands in for the Friday Flight. Vineyard Brands works with wineries all over the globe so we'll taste wines from Austria, Italy, France, Argentina and Spain, Get ready for Jacob to bring fun and facts about all of these wineries.

The Flight 4 - 8pm $12 for a taste of 5 with 3 additional for purchase.

Hecht & Bannier Blanc Languedoc, France 2023 $16 - The Piquepoul Blanc brings this crunchy and vivid character, which, blended with the Roussanne citrus fruits and white flowers notes, complete perfectly the aromatic pallet and give us a delightful volume in mouth.

Rivarey Rioja 2020, Spain $13 - Generous on the palate with delicious fruit flavors (raspberries strawberries cherries) and notes of vanilla. 

Umani Ronchi Montepulciano D'Abruzzo, Italy 2023 is normally $14 but $10.99 toninght only!!! - A stunningly steal! This utterly delish Italian red manages to be rich, ripe, earthy and polished, all in the same mouth-filling sip. Extracted color stains the glass, and the fruit mimics juicy red and black plums, laced with anise.

Comtesse de Malet Roquefort Bordeaux 2021 $16 - This wine reveals a deep purple color as well as classic notes of black cherries, tobacco, forest floor, and earth. Showing a floral edge with time in the glass, it's medium-bodied, upfront, and ready to go. 90% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc.

Famille Perrin Vinsobres "Les Cornuds" 2020 $21 - The most northern vineyard of the southern Rhône. The Perrin family owns around 60 hectares in one single plot in Vinsobres. Superb deep ruby-red colour. Powerful and complex, the nose shows notes of spices, black fruit, liquorice and a hint of fennel. Elegant and perfectly balanced by a beautiful freshness, the mouth offers a full and silky texture with aromas of spices, pepper and cloves.

Bonus Wines

Weingut Wieninger Gruner Veltliner 2022, Austria $22 - A striking Gruner Veltliner from Vienna. This mineral-laden white showcases aromas of spiced pear and green apple, enhanced by delicate floral notes. The palate is laser beam-focused with a bright acidity and long-lasting flavors. Absolutely delicious!!

Maal Malbec "Biutiful" 2023 Uco Valley Mendoza, Argentina $23 - I had a chance to spend some time with propiretor's Tobias and Alfredo in 2019 while visiting Argentina. They were just about to break ground on their new winery in the heart of the Vistaflores Vineyard in the Uco Valley. Dark purple in hue, the nose offers notes of prunes, violets and white pepper over faint oaky aromas. Broad and gentle with delicate tannins, it has a good body and gentle feel followed by a flavorful finish.

Vincent et Sophie Morey Santenay 1er Cru Les Hautes 2021 Burgundy, France $46 - I'm probably going to lose money on this, but what the hell. Sophie and Vincent Morey both come from families of winegrowers in Santenay and Chassagne-Montrachet respectively. This is a wine of pure enjoyment. Dark and earthy with a lovely raspberry scented bouquet highlighted by aromas of forest berries, autumn leaves and sweet spices. Round, juicy and delicious in the mouth, with a silky texture and purity of flavor that lingers delightfully into the long finish.

View Event →
May
7

Vino Picks for May. Tasting 5/7 4 - 7pm Free


Vino Picks for May - A few wines that we love and will be featuring through the month of May.

Championship Bottle You me and the Moon 2023, Willamette Valley $23Saul Mutchnick of Championship Bottle, inspired by the Italian wines of Fruili, is making some of my favorite wines in the shop. He recently stopped by with the new vintage of You Me & the Moon and it's dynamite! Even Saul admitted this was is favorite vintage. A harmonious blend of Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris and Chardonnay resulting honeydew, stone fruits and sweet lemon.

Landmass "Heavy Glow" Sparkling Rose Columbia Gorge $26Melany and Malia, the duo behind Landmass, have an infectious quality that have made them darlings of the Oregon wine scene. I've been carrying their rose, Chenin Blanc and sparking rose for a few weeks and I can't keep them on the shelves. The sparkling rose is a blend of high elevation Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from the Gorge. It shows off notes of honeydew melon, vanilla biscuits, pears, bright minerality and tastes like sunshine in a bottle.

Cameron Willamette Valley Pinot Noir 2023 V2 $27Ian from Cameron said they were bottling more Willamette Valley Pinot Noir but it would be a different wine. I was intrigued and asked him to please stop by with a bottle when it was ready. The 2nd bottling, I think, is juice that usually goes into the Dundee Hills bottling. The fruit was a little darker and more generous than the 1st bottling that came out in March.

Pithon "Mon P'Tit Pithon" Côtes Catalanes Rouge 2023 $20 We poured this at a recent tasting and it was the hit of the night. Equal parts Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre from Southwest France's Côtes Catalanes. The wine is crunchy, chillable, thirst-quenching red. Fresh cherry and blueberry, tart cranberry, and a lemon zest acidity on the finish. It's one of those wines you think about for a couple of days and it has a Monty Python reference on the label!

Orlegi de Luberri Rioja Cosecha 2023 $17This wine was a huge surprise the first time I tasted it. We are all used to dark and muscular Temprañillo from Rioja, but Luberri puts this through partial carbonic maceration and adds a touch of Viura to lighten it up. The resulting wine is bright, fresh, youthful and and bursting with energy. Think pretty blue fruits with a crunchy texture that you could served slightly chilled. Perfect BBQ wine.

View Event →
May
2

Friday Night Flight May 2nd Cab Franc

The Flight

TintoNero Cabernet Franc Valle de Uco, Argentina 2022 $17 - I met Jeff Mausbach while on a trip to Argentina back in 2019 and the guy makes good Cabernet Franc. Sourced from the Los Chacayes district in Mendoza’s high altitude Uco Valley, this wine is meant to showcase the intensely floral and mineral style of Cabernet Franc in the Uco Valley’s high altitude, limestone-driven soils. Perfumed violet aromatics, bright red fruit flavors, supple texture, and a bright, mineral finish.

Fellow Wines Cabernet Franc Clarksburg, California 2020 $17 - The Fellow wines have been shop favorites since I bought the shop. Bright blue fruits and fresh jam followed up with bright acidity.

Vignobles du Paradis Chinon, France 2022 $19 - Lovely ruby color, violet aroma. Made from Cabernet Franc grapes grown on a clay-limestone hillside, this fruity and aromatic wine develops wonderfully,

Damian Lorieux Bourgueil Loire Valley, France 2020 $20 - Dark raspberry, dark berry, soil, some herbal notes. Medium body, medium acidity, nice tannic grip in the finish. More forward, early drinking style, but it's fresh and has bright fruit. Nice earthy, herbal notes mingle win the tannic finish.

Dorigo Cabernet Franc Veneto, Italy 2021 $21 - It might sound weird, but Cabernet Franc has been grown here for generations. A warm, soft, spicily aromatic wine that can be enjoyed at once, or aged in the cellar for many years.

Bonus Wines

Bernard Baudry 2023 Chinon Les Granges $22 - This is Loire Cabernet in its purest form, low in alcohol but high in perfume, which the Baudrys harness through low-intervention techniques like aging only in concrete and bottling unfiltered with barely any sulfur.

Durandiere Vielles Vignes Saumur, France Cabernet Franc 2022 $23 - This saumur has an elegant red colour with shades of black and purple and delivers a fragrant assortment of red and black fruits. As the nose develops, there are also more complex notes of toast and liquorice.

Division Wine Cabernet Franc Granit Mae's Vineyard, Oregon 2021 $40 - Applegate Valley AVA in southern Oregon. The palate delivers muddled, savory raspberry flavors, essence of pomegranate, and dense mineral notes.

Friday Flight 4 - 8pm $12 for a flight of 5 wines with 3 additional taste available for purchase.

View Event →
Apr
30

Free Tasting Wednesday the 30th with Kate from Petite Monde

We’ll have Kate from Petite Monde here Wednesday, April 30th 5 - 7pm pouring some French wines from her book.

Domaine Chiroulet “Terres Blanches” Sud Ouest 2023 $16

Château La Baronne “Les Lanes” 2021, AOP Corbières $19

Olivier Pithon “Mon P’tit Pithon” Rouge Languedoc Roussillon 2023 $20

Domaine Arnaud Lambert “Mazurique” Loire Valley 2023 $23

Agnès Paquet AOC Auxey Duresses Rouge, Burgundy 2022 $55

View Event →