But Wait, There's More!

More new products to discuss, that is.

Hayes Valley Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot

Two different wines-not a blend. Located in the northern Central Coast of California, the lore of Hayes Valley extends back to the days of missionaries and the historic El Camino Real. The land was planted with wine grapes in the late 1800’s, but the vineyards eventually succumbed to Prohibition.

Agriculture was restored to the Valley in the late 1990’s with the planting of new vines. The Hayes Valley is an ideal climate for growing grapes—cool, foggy nights followed by warm sunny days.

Hayes Valley Wines are grown and produced at Clos LaChance Estate Vineyards and Winery in California’s Northern Central Coast, which was one of the first certified sustainable wineries in California.

The Cabernet shows aromas of cocoa, dried cherry, black currants and a hint of cigar, with vanilla and spice undertones. Rich cherry and blackberry flavors upon first sip. Medium tannins and acidity create perfect balance. A bit of bakers spice and rosemary on the finish.

Pair with Beef Dishes (New York Steak with Gorgonzola Butter, Prime Rib, Grilled Filet), Grilled Lamb with Mushrooms, Chocolate Brownies with Walnuts or Pecans, Blue Cheeses (Camembert, Aged Jack, Parmesan, Gorgonzola).

In the Merlot, bramble berry, vanilla and a hint of fresh dill on the nose. A hint of cocoa and dried strawberry. On first sip, bright acidity and blackberries dominate. Secondary flavors of raspberries, savory and rosemary follow. The finish is very smooth with soft tannins and a hint of that vanilla peeking through.

This wine would pair great with Beef dishes (Grilled Flank Steak or a Beef Brisket Pot Roast) or Lamb dishes (Rosemary Braised Lamb Shanks or Roasted Rack of Lamb).

Each is priced at only $9.96 in the Bottle Club®.

Dreaming Tree Pinot Noir

This is the newest wine from the partnership between Steve Reeder and Dave Matthews.

When Steve Reeder and Dave Matthews first met, they realized they had a few things in common, like a passion for making wine at least as strong as their passion for drinking it.

They set out into wine country, looking for a way to make quality wines accessible to everyone. Along the way, they found inspiration in the down-to-earth characters and unforgettable flavors that give the region its rare kind of charm.

"We think this wine hits all the right notes. No matter what your journey may be, this is the perfect wine to share along the way." - Sean McKenzie, Winemaker.

$13.99 in the Bottle Club®.

Prats & Symington Douro Post Scriptum de Chryseia 2011

2011 was another exceptionally dry year whose effects were mitigated by the abundant rainfall of the previous winter, which was crucial in building good water reserves deep in the subsoil. The opportune rains of late August/early September, and the dry, sunny conditions which ensued, proved decisive in delivering grapes of exceptional quality in our vineyards of Quinta de Roriz and Quinta da Perdiz. A great year for wine.

Deep garnet center with vivid velvet-red rim. Aromas of plums and attractive resinous notes. Lush and mouth-filling with satisfying pure and compact black fruits, displaying undertones of mineral and spice, underscored by fine acidity. 90 points from Wine Spectator. $23.99 in the Bottle Club®.

Touriga Nacional – 56%, Touriga Franca – 30%, Tinta Barroca – 7%, Tinta Roriz – 7%.

Tozai Snow Maiden Junmai Nigori

Produced in Kyoto by the Kizakura Brewery, this unfiltered sake is flavorful, full, and creamy. While fairly dry, it displays abundant flavors of fresh fruit underscored by the assertive character of the rice. Tozai "Snow Maiden" Junmai Nigori is remarkably food-friendly, and an excellent overall value. Enjoy slightly chilled. Only $14.99 in the Bottle Club®.