Monday Odds & Ends

With the holiday season in full force, there will be a lot to talk about every day, so our regular schedule of posts might vary a bit. Today. we'll skip the mixology to cover other things.

Sparkling Wine

As we get closer to New Year's, we'll take time to discuss Champagne and other sparkling wines. We agree with those who consider sparkling wine to be something we can enjoy every day, and we'll

showcase products in every price range.

Chassenay D'Arce Brut Champagne rates 90 points from Wine Spectator, which is impressive for a non-vintage Champagne. "Lightly floral and delicate overall, this is nonetheless focused by a firm frame of well-meshed acidity that drives the flavors of white raspberry, apricot, candied lemon zest and biscuit. A fine aperitif." Brandon Bartfalvi, Senior Wine Manager at our Lawrenceville store, adds, "This delicious Champagne is a steal at this price! This blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay is lovely with flavors of stone fruits, green apples and a fine mineral touch. Crisp, light and lively with good acidity. Fantastic Champagne value!"

Only $29.96 in the Bottle Club®.

A quick note for those who aren't sure about Champagne versus Sparkling Wine. Champagne is one kind of sparkling wine, made in a specific method, from the Champagne region of France. Prosecco, Cava and Moscato d'Asti are all examples of different types of sparkling wine; none are Champagne. An "American Champagne" is usually made in the manner of a Champagne, while other domestic sparkling wines (like Gruet or Mumm Napa) use the "Methode Champenoise" or "Methode Traditionelle" designation to show that they are made like Champagne.

New Products

Motto Red Blend "Gung Ho". This Red Blend is full of contrast—rich, yet delicate; fruity, yet structured; soft floral aromas give way to flavors of blueberry pie and pomegranate, with hints of jasmine tea and spice.

Pair with beef chili, roasted chicken, pot roast, burgers, or fettuccine Alfredo. For a twist, pair with nachos, beef jerky or spicy tuna tartar.

60% Zinfandel, 23% Petit Verdot, 17% Petite Syrah. Available for $12.99.

Chateau Lilian Ladouys Saint-Estephe 2010. 94 points from Wine Enthusiast (#15 of their Top 100), 92 points from James Suckling and 90 from IWC. This lovely little cru Bourgeois in Saint Estephe enjoys an enviable location close to Lafite Rothschild and Cos

d'Estournel and is planted to 58% Cabernet Sauvignon, 38% Merlot and 4% Cabernet Franc. With old vines averaging 40 years, Lilian Ladouys has incredible potential to produce exciting wines during our lifetime with very reasonable price tags.

From Wine Enthusiast: "Obviously wood-aged, with a smoky toast flavor, this is a wine that shows the power of Saint-Estèphe tannins in full force. At the same time, there is a blackberry character that adds richness and juiciness, which cuts through the dry core. Age for at least 7-8 years."

Only $26.99 in the Bottle Club®.

Holiday Hours

We will have extended holiday hours, as follows:

Sunday, December 20, 9am-9pm
Wednesday, December 23, 8am-10pm
Thursday, December 24, 8am-7pm
Friday, December 25, Closed
Thursday, December 31, 8am-8pm
Friday, January 1, noon-4pm

We close by remembering Pearl Harbor Day. Your blogger had the opportunity to visit there about 10 years ago, and it's difficult to find a more moving site here in US. This is a stock photo, showing the interior of the USS Arizona Memorial. On one wall, there is an honor roll of those who died in the attack. What's unexpected is the list of those who survived the attack who later had their cremated remains interred there.