Tag Archives: Staff Pick

Wine of the Day: Johan Vineyards Pet-Nat Pinot Noir 2014 6-3-16

Johan Vineyards Petillant Naturel Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2014 750ML ($24.95) Buy Now: $21.90 special

Spicy and yeasty, this Pet Nat from Johan spins your expectations for Oregon Pinot on its head. Sure, there are some classic red berry notes, a touch of tarragon and a nice body, but this bottling highlights the funky side of Pinot. Decidedly bubbly, enjoy with just about any food – cheeses, chicken, or even burgers and fries. –Suzanne

“Vinopolis, an endless holy temple of wine, is home to one of Portland’s best selections of peasant fizz. The shop stocks a regular supply of Johan Vineyards’ pét-nat of pinot noir ($21.90), a wine that defies any preconceived notions you might have about what Oregon pinot can be.… Read the rest

Wine of the Day: Elevee Three Martins Rose 2015 6-1-16

Elevee Winegrowers Three Martins Rose 2015 750ML ($24.95) Buy Now: $21.90 special

Another fine rose from Tom Fitzgerald at Elevee Vineyards, who is the winemaker and GM at Alloro Vineyards. The wine is all estate-grown Pinot Noir. It’s just a touch lighter than the ’14, the palate shows wonderful red berry notes, racy acid and just a little something that says, “hmm, I need another sip…” Perfect summer sipper. Try with shellfish, aged cheeses, and roasted vegetables.

Now, if summer would only start! Cheers!

-Troy… Read the rest

Wine of the Day: Produttori del Barbaresco ‘Barbaresco DOCG’, Piedmont 2011 5-31-16

Produttori del Barbaresco ‘Barbaresco DOCG’, Piedmont 2011 750ML ($37.95) Buy Now: $29 special

Produttori del Barbaresco ‘Barbaresco DOCG’, Piedmont 2011 1.5L ($69.95) Buy Now: $59 special

Two of us from the shop opened this 2011 Barbaresco from Produttori del Barbaresco on Thanksgiving eve, pouring little tastes as we mapped out what would become a lovely dinner with all sorts of dishes, new friends, and a wide array of wines. This one was truly one of the standouts, so much so that we had to hide the bottle so as to not drink it all before the dinner even came to fruition.

As cooking began and thirsts resurfaced, this humble bottle from the legendary Produttori estate came back to reward our efforts.… Read the rest

Wine of the Day: COS Frappato Terre Siciliane IGT 5-25-16

Azienda Agricola COS Frappato Terre Siciliane IGT, Sicily 2014 750ML ($31.95) Buy Now: $21.90 special

I don’t need to dress a wine like this up all that much: COS make riveting, multifaceted Sicilian wine for the masses and this is by no means an exception. Sprightly red fruit and wild herbs spread out on the palate with laser-like precision; the closing song is full of energy and persists with two encores. I absolutely adore this wine, which tastes unquestionably Sicilian yet should appear to fellow Cru Beaujolais fiends, Pinot lovers, and those who seek out wines of character and value across the nooks of northern Italy. -Tyler

Not convinced? Spectator, help me out here!

Wine Spectator 90 points “A vibrant red, with light tannins framing flavors of dried marjoram and thyme, crushed currant, wild strawberry and star anise.… Read the rest

Wine of the Day: Owen Roe Chapel Block Syrah 2013 5-24-16

Owen Roe Red Willow Vineyard Chapel Block Syrah, Yakima Valley 2013 750ML ($59.95) Buy Now: $49 special

This new vintage of the Chapel Block Syrah from the Red Willow vineyard shows poise and balance. There are overtones of dark chocolate and dark roast coffee layered with sweet spices and a hint of new leather on the finish. Unabashedly New World, the palate offers ripe berry and floral notes with a lingering chocolate taste. It has an excellent grippy texture to keep the rich body in check. I would cellar for at least 2-3 years before opening, though ideally this baby could go for 7-10. -Suzy

Winery note: “Aged in 44% new oak (100% French) for nearly 14 months. The blend is comprised of 100% Red Willow Syrah from both East and West facing slopes, from the Yakima Valley AVA.”… Read the rest