Rhone Steals, RRWC Exclusive

Yesterday afternoon we spent some quality time with Kenny Likitprakong, his wife Lynn, and their lovely baby daughter Ida Mae. Kenny is the owner of Hobo/Banyan wines, as well as Moshin's winemaker.

He now is also collaborating with Sebastien Latour of the tiny Rhone winery Domaine de la Damase, bringing these wines into the USA for the first time. These are fantastic values on food and wallet friendly reds. There were only about 100 cases produced of each. We thought they were tasty as heck. We are also proud to mention we are the only shop in Northern California with these wines.

2006 Domaine de la Damase Vin de Pays de Vacluse

30% Syrah/30% Cinsault/30% Merlot/10% Grenache

$141/case, $11.75/bottle

Pleasingly vivid aromas of pepper, flint, violets and graham cracker. Pretty flavors of cocoa, raspberry and dried cherry. A velvety texture runs throughout, and lightly gripping tannins bode well for some bottle age.

2006 Domaine de la Damase Cotes du Rhone

60% Grenache/20% Carignane/20% Syrah

$192/case, $16/bottle

Smooth and rich, with an appealing earthiness, gobs of bramble, dark chocolate, coffee, and baking spice. This is the kind of wine I'll buy in a shop on a whim, open up on a Wednesday night, and kick my self later for not grabbing a case.

2005 Le Clochard

$252/case, $21/bottle

A winemaking collaboration between Sebastien and Kenny, this is a beautiful wine composed of 90% Mourvedre from 75 year old vines, 5% Syrah, and 5% Grenache; aged in 2nd fill barrels bought from Chateau Lafite.

This blend was just too "complicated" for the AOC, so it's "officially" a non-vintage Vin du Table. The rooster on the label (Chinese calendar, year of the rooster, 2005-shhh, don't tell the French government) is the clue to its vintage. This wine is smoky, spicy, meaty, juicy, complex, flavorful and intensely aromatic. It should age well for 10 years or so.

Cult Cab Flash! Axios and Venge!

Axios 2003 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

$1524/case, $127/bottle

"A Napa Cabernet worthy of bearing an emperor's image." – Wine Spectator

This larger than life wine is one of the consistently best of all the Napa "cult cabs," with brooding, complex flavors of wild sun-ripened black fruits, cedar, earth, tobacco, anise and oak spice, culminating in an impressively long finish.

It's crafted by genius winemaker Bob Egelhoff who has been instrumental in classic vintages from Beckstoffer Vineyards, Harlan Estate, Pahlmeyer, Merryvale, David Arthur and Richard Partridge, among others. The fruit is sourced from two immaculately tended vineyards: one in the Eastern Rutherford Hills and another at a higher elevation near the Howell Mountain appellation.

This is handcrafted A-List Napa Cabernet made by one of this country's greatest winemakers. If you collect, or just appreciate the very best things in life, you need some of this.

Venge 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville Napa Valley Family Reserve

$1104/case, $92/bottle

Nils Venge is universally regarded as a California wine pioneer. From his groundbreaking work with Villa Mount Eden and Groth in the 70's and 80's, to more recent accomplishments at Plumpjack, Del Dotto and his own Saddleback Cellars, Venge has consistently remained on the cutting edge of the Napa wine world. During his tenure at Groth Venge became the first American winemaker to receive a perfect 100 point rating from Wine Critic Robert Parker Jr. The 1985 Groth Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon catapulted Venge to a venerated position in the California wine industry

Since 1999, Nils' son Kirk has been Venge's winemaker and Dad's co-conspirator on many projects, and he has definitely taken them to the next level, if such a thing is possible.

Kirk is without a doubt one of the hottest young winemakers out there.

We absolutely loved this wine at the recent Oakville Growers Tasting, and worked hard to get a bit of this classic Oakville Cabernet to you. Robert Parker is equally enthusiastic about this big bold wine, giving it a 92 score.

Our Tasting Notes:

Fans of serious Napa Cabernet need look no further. A deep, brooding hue and a nose of blackberry, tobacco and cedar opens the door; and the first sip escorts you into the foyer (vestibule?) of smoky, dark fruit. Black cherry, red licorice and black currant mingle with spicy oak, earth, tar and graphite on the long finish. The powerful and unique structure, exquisite tannins and classic Oakville flavor profile make this one a must taste affair.

Marietta: Still the Best Wine for the $ in California!

Marietta Cellars '03 Angeli Cuvee

$342/case, $28.50/bottle

Marietta Cellars '04 Emilia's Cuvee

$342/case, $28.50/bottle

Marietta Cellars 2002 Zinfandel Sonoma County

$225/case, $18.75/bottle

Owner and winemaker Chris Bilbro initially founded Marietta Cellars in 1979 in an abandoned cow barn in the Dry Creek Valley. Over the last twenty-seven years, Chris has developed a product of incredible consistency both in quality and price with relatively complete anonymity. Marietta's flagship is the Anglei Cuvee, and it possesses perhaps the finest price/quality ratio of any wine in California. The new release is the 2003 version; Chris likes to hold them back until they are "ready to go." The 2004 Emilia's Cuvee is a delicious and decadent addition to the lineup, and the Zin is as great as ever…

Marietta Cellars 2003 Angeli Cuvée
$342/case, $28.50/bottle

Magnums - $75

A limited amount of the 2002 version is available also – by the case only at $342

If you are one of our many clients that pick this distinctive wine up every year, you know what this wine is all about. If you have not tasted this wine before, it is truly a unique experience.

The wine is made from Zinfandel grapes planted around the turn of the century in Geyserville, just north of Healdsburg. Some Petite Sirah is blended in to provide added structure and power. A small amount of old vine Carignane adds floral mid-palate flavors and sharpness of focus on the fruit in the wine. The end result is an immense and lusty offering that sports heady ripe raspberry fruit that is thick and mouth filling.

Additional black fruits, pepper and exotic spices round out this hedonistic delight. This is a serious wine aged for twenty months in French oak and built to age up to 10 years or more. The wine has a loyal following because there is nothing quite like it. This is one of THE best Angelis we've seen. It won't last long.

Marietta Cellars '04 Emilia's Cuvee

$342/case, $28.50/bottle

This is a blend of Montepulciano and Negro Amaro sourced from a killer vineyard in Mendocino County. These Italian varietals translate well to Chris' style – all the vital acidity is there, along with the big lush expression of fruit. Earth, tar, licorice and herbs join the explosive jumble of blueberry, coffee, dark chocolate and raspberry; with a clean orange zest kissed finish. A beautiful wine that should appeal to any fan of what Chris does with a "cuvee."

Marietta Cellars 2002 Zinfandel Sonoma County

$225/case, $18.75/bottle

Everything a Sonoma Zin should be – bold, nearly larger than life and spicy, with a cleaner, even more fruit driven profile than previous vintages. Raspberry, Blackberry, mocha and pepper mingle with nutmeg and vanilla. Those pricing their Zins at $30 or more would do well to taste this one and hang their head in shame.


Jon Kelvey-Winebroker
Russian River Wine Company
Healdsburg, CA 95448
1-800-477-0490 ext 17

Just Deserts: 99 Point Loire Gems

These are some of the finest dessert wines the Loire has to offer…

They are also extremely limited; we only have a couple cases of each to share – first come first served.

Philippe Delesvaux Coteaux du Layon Sélection de Grains Nobles 1999

$1524/case 500ML

Wine Spectator

99 Points

"So lush, so creamy, so dense, you almost lose track of the fig, almond, quince, persimmon, green tea, mineral and spice flavors here. Incredible length on the finish, with the flavors lingering effortlessly. An absolutely stunning wine. Drink now through 2025."

Philippe Delesvaux Coteaux du Layon Sélection de Grains Nobles 2004

$1224/case 500 ML

Wine Spectator

95 Points

"Seems very rich at first, with blood orange, persimmon and ginger notes, but then the fine minerality takes over, carrying it to a long elegant finish thanks to its rapierlike acidity. Each sip makes you want another. Drink now through 2020. 250 cases made."

Philippe Delesvaux Coteaux du Layon-St.-Aubin Clos du Pavillon 2004

$492/case 500ML

Wine Spectator

93 Points

Pure and precise, with apricot, persimmon, fig and dried tangerine notes riding atop lacy acidity and a fine, minerally spine. Beautiful balance, with the flavors playing out on the finish. Drink now through 2013. 300 cases made.

Plus a Cabernet for the adventurous…

Philippe Delesvaux Anjou La Montée de l'Epine 2004

$300/case

Wine Spectator

91 Points

Has a layer of tobacco-infused toast, but also a lovely beam of black cherry and currant fruit. Dark, lengthy finish shows mineral and more tobacco hints. Drink now through 2009. 250 cases made.



Jon Kelvey-Wine Broker
Russian River Wine Co
132 Plaza St.
Headldsburg, CA 95448
1-800-477-0490 ext 17
jonkelvey@gmail.com

Inaugural Release! Jayson Pinot Noir by Pahlmeyer

2005 Jayson (By Pahlmeyer)

Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast

$789/case, $65.75/bottle

Sourced from Pahlmeyer’s Wayfarer Vineyard two ridges in from the Pacific Ocean, the Jayson Pinot Noir is a "declassification" of the Pahlmeyer Pinot Noir. After a meticulous selection process in assembling the final blend of the Pahlmeyer Pinot Noir, Erin Green determines which to bottle under the Jayson label.

The winery never purchases juice or wine to make Jayson wines, and as far as the barrels used, winemaking, etc.; they are treated just like the Pahlmeyer wines.

Erin describes this Pinot as having a nose of Bing cherries and rich earth, with blackberry and elegant tannins on the palate; the wine has a long complex finish with touches of plum and spice, with a long elegant finish. "The fruit and acid balance in this wine make it a quintessential Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir, lively in the mouth with lots of stuffing and complexity at the same time," she says.

Miner Wild Yeast-Cult Chardonnay Classic?

Pre Release – Wine to arrive at our shop the first week of June.

2005 Miner Wild Yeast Chardonnay Napa Valley

$600/case, $50/bottle

Miner Wild Yeast Chardonnay is back with a vengeance; and it's as rich and decadent as ever. The 2005 might be the best version of this cult Chardonnay classic yet.

Aromas of vanilla and pear are followed by effusive ripe fruit flavors, buttery goodness, and subtle toast on the palate. Citrus and caramel notes add to the intrigue of this smooth, juicy, dramatic, supple and unabashedly sexy chardonnay.

The 2004 was a favorite among our clients and disappeared very quickly and we expect the same to happen with the 2005 version………

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Cheers,

Jon Kelvey

Russian River Wine Company
132 Plaza St.
Healdsburg CA, 95448
1-800-477-0490 Ext 17
Jonkelvey@gmail.com

Mercury Head: Dave Phinney's Masterpiece Cabernet

Dave Phinney's (the Prisoner) annual Cabernet masterpiece

2004 Mercury Head Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley
$456/six pack, $76/bottle (six bottle limit)

Those in the know know what this delicious cult cab is all about...

Spring Gaja Offering! VERY Limited!

Here is our current Gaja availability.

These aren't for everyone. If they are for you, you already know what these are all about.

These are ONLY available by the case of 6 or 12 as listed, and all are subject to prior sale; first come/first served.

“A genius for sure, Angelo Gaja can not be faulted for what he puts in the bottle.” –

Robert Parker

Gaja Barbaresco 2003 -375ml $ 1236 - 12 pack - 93 Points Parker

Gaja Ca Marcanda Magari 2003- 375ml - $ 480 - 12 pack

Gaja contesia 2001- 750 ml- $ 1560 per 6 pk - 92 Points Parker

Gaja Costa Rousi 2003 750 ml -$ 2226 per 6 pk - 93 Points WS

Gaja Ca Marcanda Promis 2004- 750 ml $ 570 per 6/pk

Gaja Darmagi 2001 750 ml - $ 1620 PER 6/PK

Gaja Sito Moresco 2004 750 ml - $ 1200 per 6/pk

Gaja Sori Tildin 2003-750 ml $ 2226 per 6/pk -94 Points Parker

Gaja Speress 2001-750 ml $ 1620 per 6 /pk-95 Points Parker

Is this Fleshy, Flashy Cab a "Mini-Merus?" Well, it is made by Mark Herold...

This is a big fleshy and flashy Napa Cabernet, stuffed like a sofa pillow with all those pure aromas and flavors of ultra ripe blueberries, espresso, toasty oak, baking spices, currant, cassis, tobacco, flowers and minerals.

It's made by Mark Herold (owner/winemaker Merus) so it has all the perfect polish of that that ball in the display case at the bowling alley. What it doesn't have is that "members only" price.

It's $59 a bottle.

There's a reason those in the know call this the "mini-Merus."

Meyer Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

$708/case, $59/bottle

Mike Officer's Arresting Carlisle Wines...

Carlisle 2005 Six Pack

$194

Mike Officer's Carlisle wines, as you know, are some of the most coveted around, and it seems like the supply year after year dwindles as the winery strives to make everyone happy by sharing just a little bit. Here is a six pack sampler from Carlisle's new release: 4 bottles of Zinfandel and 2 Syrah. Tasting notes are from the winemaker.

Your six pack will contain 2 bottles each of the following wines:

2005 Russian River Valley Syrah

100% Russian River Valley Syrah, Parsons' Ranch

pH: 3.62 T.A.: 0.600 g/100mL Alcohol: 15.7% Cases Produced: 287

Tasting Note: Inky black-purple in color. Heady aromas of blackberry compote and fresh churned butter. Smells just like Grandma's blackberry cobbler! As full-bodied as our Dry Creek syrah but perhaps with slightly brighter acidity (as expected from Russian River Valley). Slurp-able now but even better with cellaring. Drink from mid-2008 through 2013.

2005 Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel

57% Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel, Teldeschi Ranch

23% Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel, Mounts Ranch

20% Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel, Gold Mine Ranch

pH: 3.62 T.A.: 0.602 g/100mL Alcohol: 15.6% Cases Produced: 370

Tasting Note: Medium-dark ruby garnet. Fragrant scents of red cherries, iron, and spring flowers. Classic Dry Creek zin! On the palate, absolutely seamless with plenty of delicious lip-smacking cherry fruit. As with many of our wines in 2005, easily my favorite Dry Creek zinfandel to date. Drink mid-2007 through 2011.

2005 Sonoma County Zinfandel

50% Alexander Valley Zinfandel, Kuimelis Vineyard

26% Russian River Valley Zinfandel, Tanya's Vineyard

14% Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel, Gold Mine Ranch

6% Sonoma Valley Zinfandel, Rossi Ranch

3% Russian River Valley Petite Sirah, Bacigalupi Ranch

1% Russian River Valley Zinfandel, Bacchi Ranch

pH: 3.68 T.A.: 0.650 g/100mL Alcohol: 16.1% Cases Produced: 430

Every year we have fun putting this wine together, challenging ourselves to come up with a Sonoma County blend that is qualitatively equal to our more expensive offerings. This year's blend has a record number of components, with lots coming from four different appellations. Bottled unfined and unfiltered after 15 months barrel aging.

Tasting Note: Beautiful dark ruby garnet. Aromas of red and black raspberries are intertwined with notes of smoke and earth. Full bodied and creamy on entry but with pleasing tannins and acidity on the finish. Enjoy late 2007 through 2011.

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Cheers,

Jon Kelvey

Russian River Wine Company
132 Plaza St.
Healdsburg CA, 95448
1-800-477-0490 Ext 16
Jonkelvey@gmail.com

Even MORE Galleron Magick; Morisoli Included!

Our good friend Gary Galleron came by the other day, to deliver yet more of that delicious Cabernet that most of you purchased in massive (well over 100 cases) quantities.

Along with the wine he dropped off samples of two more library wines, along with a "pricelist" scrawled hastily on a fast-food napkin.

As hard to believe as it seems, Gary has "topped" the deal he gave us last time; offering his 2002 Rockpile Zinfandel for $16.75 (originally $32) and his 2001 Morisoli Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon (yes THAT Morisoli Vineyard) for $25.75/bottle (originally $100)

As loathe as we are to use the word "bargain" in this business, it's really hard to avoid it. This is an opportunity to grab Zinfandel from one of the best appellations in the world for about half price.

And we don't need to tell you what an opportunity it is to be able to obtain a Napa Cabernet from a great vintage sourced from famous vineyard for nearly 75% off.

2001 Galleron Morisoli Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

$309/case, $25.75/bottle

120 Cases Produced

100% Cabernet Sauvignon

The Cab is gloriously aromatic with sublime aromas that leap from the glass. An intensely beautiful bouquet of black plums, dark exotic spices, roses and deep black fruit engulf the senses. The first sip reveals the massive proportions of this voluptuous Cabernet. A big, soft mouthful of crushed blackberries, dark cherries and sweet oak, linger and seduce the palate. Bursting with rich valley floor fruit, this Cabernet is intensely pleasurable and ready to drink tonight.

2002 Galleron Zinfandel Branham Rockpile Vineyard Sonoma

$201/case, $16.75/bottle

195 Cases produced

100% Zinfandel

The vines for this exceptional mountain fruit are spring fed from an underground stream, creating pure fruit flavors of raspberry, cherry and strawberry, against a backdrop of wildflower aromas and great minerality. Black raspberry and a hint of clove round out the deep rich fruit flavors on the palate. This wine has such great balancing acidity that it pairs beautifully with food. This is classic Rockpile Zinfandel at a crazy good price.

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Cheers,

Jon Kelvey

Russian River Wine Company
132 Plaza St.
Healdsburg CA, 95448
1-800-477-0490 Ext 16
Jonkelvey@gmail.com

Paul Hobbs Crafts "Fully Realized" Sauvignon Blanc

We sold out of our allocation of this a couple of months ago in less than a day. The winery was so pleased that they offered us one "last grab" at this absolutely beautiful Sauvignon Blanc.

To remind you - For several years Ulises Valdez has grown grapes that have gone into spectacular wines from the likes of Paul Hobbs, Mark Aubert, Pahlmeyer, Rosenblum and Jeff Cohn. Now with the assistance of some of his superstar friends, Valdez has his own label and the results are predictably delicious.

This one is a Paul Hobbs masterminded Sauvignon Blanc - one of the most fully realized expressions of this grape we'd tasted in quite a long time. If you are a fan of white wines that rise above the norm and truly shine, this is one for you…

Valdez Family 2005 Sauvignon Blanc, Sonoma County

$288/case, $24/bottle

• Alexander Valley and Rincon Valley (Kick Ranch)
• 14.3% alcohol
• 580 cases
• Harvest dates: September 15, 23, 2005
• Bottled February 21, 2006.
• Winemaker: Paul Hobbs

"...Hobbs blended fruit from two Valdez-farmed vineyards, one in northern Alexander Valley and the other in Rincon Valley, north of Santa Rosa, for this bright, racy wine. Mineral, grapefruit, lime and melon aromas and flavors finish with very refreshing acidity..." Linda Murphy, San Francisco Chronicle, September 29, 2006

95 Point Sbragia Family Chardonnay

Sbragia Family

Chardonnay Napa Valley Gamble Ranch Vineyard 2004

$492/case, $41/bottle

Wine Spectator

95 Points

Special Designation: Highly Recommended

“This big, rich, flamboyant Chardonnay delivers a wallop of flavor, with tiers of smoky, toasty oak, buttery pear and fig notes and hints of citrus and fresh earth. Yet for all its size and dimension, this manages to have a measure of elegance. The finish sails on, revealing extra flavor nuances. An excellent combination of a great Chardonnay vineyard with a winemaker who knows the site. Drink now through 2010.”

Stuning New Wines From Walter Hansel

Here are the latest two wines from Walter Hansel: a wine that always leaves our premises as fast as we can get it in.

We've made reference to the "Rocchioli-esque" and "mini Kistler" comparisons but the bottom line is: for many years, Walter Hansel has crafted delicious Russian River Valley Pinot Noir and Chardonnay that wows the fans and critics alike.

91 points is the average Robert Parker score for a Walter Hansel wine. Pair that with a price tag that will have you shaking your head in disbelief, and you have world class, highly regarded wines with an everyday price. Here is the latest Pinot and Chardonnay from Walter Hansel – we were allocated 10 cases of each of these, and then it's gone…

2005 Walter Hansel Winery Chardonnay Cahill Lane Russian River Valley

$444/case, $37/bottle

Wine Advocate #168

Robert Parker

92 Points

Drink 2006-2013

Similarly styled to the Estate with wonderful intensity, but tighter, more elegant as well as full-bodied, the 2005 Chardonnay Cahill Lane offers up hints of honeysuckle, pears, white peaches, currants, minerals, and toasty oak in the background. It will provide impressive drinking over the next 5-7 years. Kudos to Stephen Hansel for keeping prices so realistic.

2005 Walter Hansel Winery Pinot Noir The North Slope

Russian River Valley

$444/case, $37/bottle

Wine Advocate #168

Robert Parker

91-93 Points

Drink 2008-2015

"A blockbuster Pinot, the 2005 Pinot Noir The North Slope boasts deep, sweet, jammy black cherry notes interwoven with crushed rocks, flowers, and underbrush (or is it peat moss?). Medium to full-bodied, with excellent acidity, elegance, and purity as well as a savory mouthfeel, this terrific effort will provide immense pleasure between 2008-2015. Kudos to Stephen Hansel for keeping prices so realistic."

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Cheers,

Jon Kelvey

Russian River Wine Company
132 Plaza St.
Healdsburg CA, 95448
1-800-477-0490 Ext 16
Jonkelvey@gmail.com

Cult-Zin Alert: New Gamba Moratto!

SPECIAL PRE-RELEASE

IN-HOUSE FIRST WEEK OF MAY

RESERVE YOURS NOW

GAMBA 2005 MORATTO VINEYARD ZINFANDEL RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY

$489/case

A Special Vineyard Designate From Gus Gamba

Please take special note of this one; it definitely falls into the “WOW wine” category. Having marketed his wine since the first release, Gus takes good care of us with regard to allocations; however, it is a very limited release.

You should be aware that last year’s 2004 Gamba Moratto (93 Pts Parker) sold out in a couple of months. Do not hesitate on this wine. We will have the wine at the beginning of May, and start shipping thereafter.

The Moratto Vineyard – Russian River Valley

Just north of the Gamba Estate is the Moratto Vineyard. Owned and tended by Robert Moratto, these 87 year-old grapes have been organically dry-farmed since their beginnings and grown on gently sloping hillsides.

Moratto tasted a Gamba Zinfandel some years back, and it immediately became his favorite Zin. He knew that Gus needed to see his vines: Gamba was the only one that could articulate in the glass what Moratto was trying to express in his vineyard.

For years, Moratto tried to convince Gamba to buy his grapes to no avail. Finally, in 2003, Moratto went to Gus and told him that several quite well known winemakers, who must remain nameless wanted his grapes (think wineries beginning with “R” & “C”, for starters.) Gus asked him, “Why didn’t you just sell the grapes to them?” Moratto replied, “Because I was waiting for you.” The rest is Zin-history.

The Wine

On the “flavor-per-ounce meter”, this one is off the charts. The key to this wine, and what sets Gamba Zins apart from most on the market, is the great acidity that exists even in these ultra ripe style Zinfandels. This is 87-year-old vine, dry farmed, Russian River Zinfandel at its very best. If you thought nothing could be more hedonistic and delicious than Gamba’s estate wine, think again…

Cherries, spice, blackberry, and hints of coffee meld with subtle tannins, toasty oak, and a caramel infused finish. The super ripe fruit is immense enough to hold up the well over 15% alcohol without being hot. The key once again is balance and acidity combined with gorgeously concentrated fruit. Pure hedonism in a glass! This was without a doubt THE highlight of the January ZAP tasting.

Gamba 2005 Moratto Vineyard Zinfandel $489/case

Is California Chardonnay too Oaky?

New wine from our "Sojourn" collection – a Russian River Wine Co. exclusive!

As most of you know, we aim to bring you wines bottled under our Sojourn label of the highest quality at very reasonable prices. We're able to do this because of our relationships with growers and winemakers, and because we do much of the work ourselves like hand labeling and capsuling the bottles.

Sojourn 2006 Russian River Chardonnay (10 cases produced)

$225/case $19.00/bottle

Here's a liquid sigh-of-relief for those of you seeking a vacation from oak heavy, buttery Chardonnay.

This ALL stainless steel/sur lie aging/zero percent malolactic white is bursting with true Chardonnay fruit, with lots of crisp green apples, kiwi, pineapple, lemons and grapefruit. This luscious Chard is perfect as a spring sipper. It's a worthy companion to that cracked crab or a scallop pan roast; or utilize it as a delicious by the case party wine.

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Cheers,

Jon Kelvey

Russian River Wine Company
132 Plaza St.
Healdsburg CA, 95448
1-800-477-0490 Ext 16
Jonkelvey@gmail.com

Brand New Russian River Chard from Hobbs!

2005 Paul Hobbs Chardonnay Russian River Valley $51/bottle

This wine is our ambassador for Russian River Valley chardonnay and is produced as a blend from select properties neighboring our winery and estate vineyard. The 2005 is opalescent, pale gold in color and fragrant with citrus blossom and lime rind. Abundant, full-bodied flavors of pear juice, ripe apple and toasted almond coat the mouth and frame a wine of considerable finesse that finishes with pleasing minerality. Alcohol 14.6%

Chicken Pad Thai and a Wine Pairing...

Although this blog is primarily consists of tasting notes, I do like to provide anecdotes, recipes and a little wine philosophy whenever possible (as in, when we aren't tasting hundreds of wines). Since spring is coming and along with it, spicy food and crisp "Alt-White" wines I have a little recipe to get you started on your summer cuisines Odyssey. I feel this would pair perfectly with a good Gewurz and of course, tasting notes on just such a wine follow the recipe....ENJOY!!

Chicken with basil and chili

Gai Pad Bai Graprau

1 lb chicken fillets

4 cloves garlic

20 green beans

20 fresh krapao (Thai) basil leaves

3 tbsp oil

1 tsp chili paste

3 tbsp fish sauce

2 tbsp sugar

1. Slice chicken, chop garlic, cut beans into 1 cm long pieces, chop basil leaves.

2. Heat oil in a wok or a pan, add garlic and roast for a minute. Add chili paste and roast.

3. Add chicken and stir-fry for two minutes. Add fish sauce, sugar and beans and continue to stir-fry.

4. Reduce heat and add the basil leaves.

Banyan 2006 Gewurztraminer Monterey County

$144/case

Banyan is collaboration between Moshin’s dynamic young winemaker Kenny Likitprakong and his father Somchai with the goal of creating wines that pair with the spicy cuisine of Somchai’s native Thailand. This full flavored, fleshy, off dry “Gewurz” works well to cool down and compliment the addictive burn of capsicum.

Fresh elegant flavors of ripe Anjou pears poached with mulling spices, lychee, mango, candied orange rind and caramel all intertwine with a bright acidity and silky texture in this highly quaffable white. Open this one with your next Thai meal, Indian curry, or as a reflective “Tuesday night, just got home from work, I could sure use a glass of white wine.”

Is California Cabernet Too Big?

Dunham Cellars 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon IX Columbia Valley

(100% Cabernet Sauvignon)

$567/case, $47.25/bottle

Dunham Cellars is housed in an abandoned World War II airplane hangar in Walla Walla Washington. There, Eric Dunham, an ex-Navy man with a degree in Fluid Dynamics, crafts wines from the best vineyards all over Washington State.

Eric apprenticed at Hogue Cellars and was assistant winemaker at L'Ecole No. 41 before starting his own winery in 1995. He's received numerous accolades, including a 91 Score from the Wine Enthusiast for this 2003 Cabernet.

We loved Eric's marriage of New World fruit-forwardness and "Frenchy" structure in this delicious and most decidedly "Un-California" Cabernet.

Tasting Notes: Ripe, rich Friar plum and Bing cherry really come together, weaving themselves around a central core of black cherry, clove, anise and pomegranate. A dusting of cocoa and fine grained tannins lead to a truly pleasing finish. This Cabernet has a beautiful structure perfect to drink now, or age nicely for 10-15 years.

Wine Spectator Collector's Alert! 94 Pts Top 100 Wine

We just tasted this, and absolutely loved it. So did the Spectator, placing it in their Top 100 for 2006. This is a big wine that should satisfy wine lovers on both sides of the pond with its convergence of old and new world styles.

2003 Bodegas LAN Rioja Edición Limitada

$606/case, $50.50/bottle

Score: 94

Special Designation: Highly Recommended

Issue: Sep 30, 2006

Top 100 Wines – 2006

Rank: #56

"Powerful yet graceful, this rich, ripe red delivers blackberry and currant fruit framed by coffee and toasty oak notes. Though thick on the palate, it remains fresh and focused, and the finish is clean and sweet, with floral and mineral grace notes. Drink now through 2012. 1,500 cases made."

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Cheers,

Jon Kelvey

Russian River Wine Company
132 Plaza St.
Healdsburg CA, 95448
1-800-477-0490 Ext 16
Jonkelvey@gmail.com

Two Killer Zins, Each Under 300 Cases Produced

Here are two Zinfandels we've sampled recently that meet our criteria: small production, handcrafted and delicious. We don't have any fancy story about the winemaker or anything like that; it's just great Zin at a great price.

2005 Homefire Zinfandel Dry Creek Valley Sonoma

$219/case, $18.25/bottle

(285 cases produced)

Here's one that we tasted and loved at the ZAP tasting in San Francisco a couple of months ago. It delivers plenty of classic old vine (in this case 50+ year old vines) Dry Creek Zin pleasure – zesty rich berries, nutmeg and mocha spice. The finish is lengthy and complex. To top it off, the price is refreshingly reasonable, given the ever spiraling price of what is purported to be "the peoples wine."

2002 Eric Ross Old Vine Feeney Ranch Zinfandel Russian River Valley

$333/case, $27.75/bottle

(250 cases produced)

Here's a real knockout. From the historic Feeney Vineyard (Carlisle also makes a Zin from here) comes this Russian River classic. It has a hypnotic nose of fresh tobacco, cedar, blackberry, spices, pepper and chocolate, with well integrated tannins. Sweet oak and dark fruit create a wine that's soft and balanced, with a long rich finish.

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Cheers,

Jon Kelvey

Russian River Wine Company
132 Plaza St.
Healdsburg CA, 95448
1-800-477-0490 Ext 16
Jonkelvey@gmail.com

Exquisite Pinot from "Vineyard Of The Year"!

Exquisite Pinot from the Connoisseur’s Guide’s “Vineyard Of The Year”

2005 Miner Family Rosella's Vineyard Pinot Noir $60/btl, $720/case.

Rosella's vineyard is just a stone throw away from Garys’ Vineyard and is named after Rosella Francioni. Planted in part to the same La Tache clone as Garys’ as well as a Dijon clone, Rosella's vineyard has a slightly different, perhaps more exotic flavor profile than the Garys’ fruit. Receiving even more fog and ocean breeze than the nearby Gary's, Rosella's vineyard enjoys an extremely protracted growing season leading to optimal ripeness.

This sought after fruit is handed over to Miner's master winemaker, Gary Brookman who also crafts vino at Grace Family and Carver Sutro. The result of bringing together such immaculate vineyard management, fruit and talented winemaking is evident in an equally stunning glass of Pinot Noir on your table. The only problem is keeping enough around to share with anybody else…

What a beautiful Pinot Noir! Toasted almonds, crushed coffee, raspberries and rose petals; we could just smell this all day! Yet only sniffing would mean missing out on the extremely smooth mouth feel, and deliciously exotic flavors. Roasted cherry, raspberry and cinnamon stand first then take a back seat for clove, cola and tobacco smoke on the long, smooth, but spicy earth kissed finish.

Jon Kelvey
Russian River Wine Company
132 Plaza St.
Healdsburg, CA
jonkelvey@gmail.com
1-800-477-0490 ext 16

EXTREMELY Limited Napa Valley Petite Sirah

As most of you know, we aim to bring you wines bottled under our Sojourn label of the highest quality at very reasonable prices. We're able to do this because of our relationships with growers and winemakers, and because we do much of the work ourselves like hand labeling and capsuling the bottles. We also make sure the juice is killer...

Today we have a minuscule production Napa Vally Petite Sirah from good friend Gary Brahnam; the perfect thing for that BBQ Tri-tip or even a curried leg of lamb. Grab yours while it lasts...

Sojourn 2005 Napa Valley Petite Sirah (5 cases produced)

$360/case $30/bottle

If you like to live on the wild side, immerse yourself in the new release of our 2005 Sojourn Petite Sirah. One whiff will engulf you in memories of Mom's freshly baked blueberry pie and figs enrobed in brown sugar. Suggestions of black leather and cherry pipe tobacco soon give way to dark berries and candied rose petals, with enough tannins to remind you this is serious as well as seriously fun stuff. The finish is long, smooth, silky, and completely memorable.

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Cheers,

Jon Kelvey

Russian River Wine Company
132 Plaza St.
Healdsburg CA, 95448
1-800-477-0490 Ext 16
Jonkelvey@gmail.com

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Three Killer Cabernets

I would like to pause here for just a moment to let everyone out there know that this is not merely a commercial blog with our wine offerings...although I do believe many of our tasting notes tell a story, I will be including articles of other types. We will be exploring the state of the wine industry today, glassware, winemakers and producers as well as behind the scenes looks at industry events. We do however, spend most of our time tasting wine at RRWC (over 2000 wines a year!) so I can't help but let you in on things like the Cabs posted below. For those awaiting more diverse blog content, stay tuned; this weeked we are attending the Rhone Rangers tasting in San Francisco....Until then, enjoy the notes!



2004 Elliot Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Rutherford

$360/case, $30/bottle

Smooth and fruit forward - loaded with black cherry, coffee, licorice, cocoa, smoke and velvety tannins; with all the aromas and flavors you look for in a fancy blockbuster Napa Cabernet. The only thing that isn’t fancy about this small production, big Cabernet is the price.


2004 Barnett Cabernet Sauvignon Spring Mountain

95% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc

$780/case, $65/bottle

Ripe dark cherry fruit aromas are followed by dusty earth tones and spicy cedar, cinnamon, nutmeg and hints of black olive, cassis and gooseberry. The palate is rich and lush on the entry, carrying fine grain tannins to a broadening mid palate and long finish. This is a classic, age-worthy mountain Cabernet.


2003 Liparita Cabernet Sauvignon Vineyard Reserve Napa

92 Points Connoisseur’s Guide

$816/case, $68/bottle

A beautiful silk screened bottle makes this spicy rich crowd pleaser a joy to the eye as well as the palate. The aromas and flavors are deep and heady - powdered sugar dusted blueberry, currants, black raspberry, coffee, caramel, toast and just a hint of sage. An outstanding effort.

Pahlmeyer's "Jayson" Chardonnay and Red

Jayson by Pahlmeyer wines will be in house the week of April 2, orders will be shipped out thereafter. To insure you get your fair share, reserve yours today.

2005 Jayson by Pahlmeyer Chardonnay - $39.75/bottle

In some years, Pahlmeyer chooses to declassify some of their wines and release them under the Jayson label. These are barrels that barely missed being big brother Pahlmeyer.

They are given the same oak program in the same fancy barrels; it's made by Erin Green, just like the Pahlmeyer, the whole works. It delivers a great deal of pleasure at a portion of the Pahlmeyer price.

The 2005 Jayson Chardonnay offers aromas of orange blossom, Meyer lemon and honeyed notes. The palate provides citrus, orange blossom and biscotti flavors that finish with crisp minerality on the finish.

2004 Jayson by Pahlmeyer Red - $56.25/bottle

92 Points

Wine Spectator

Drink now through 2012.

"Firm, ripe and complex, with vivid red currant and black cherry fruit that's well-defined, structured and supported by firm, integrated tannins. Ends with a nice flash of toasty oak and mineral notes. Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot."






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Cheers,

Jon Kelvey

Russian River Wine Company
132 Plaza St.
Healdsburg CA, 95448
1-800-477-0490 Ext 16
Jonkelvey@gmail.com

Gamba-Cult Zinfandel Greatness!

Gamba 2005 Old Vine Zinfandel – Russian River Valley

$40 bottle/$480 a case

Easily our most requested zinfandel, this viscous, heady wine should be more in demand than ever, given its increasingly legendary status, and the fact that Robert Parker has finally "discovered" what we knew all long about Gamba.

The century-plus-old Gamba Vineyard is nestled alongside some of the most exceptional old vine Zinfandel vineyards in the Russian River Valley appellation. Some consider Gus Gamba a maverick for his almost fanatical vineyard management techniques: a labor-intensive, hand hoeing, dry farming, organic approach. The vineyard yields only ½ to 1 ton per acre, producing incredibly intense fruit.

This is serious Zin: powerful, but not muscular, the qualities some call "hedonistic" completely integrated with a smoothness and lush drinkability. The 2005 vintage is another striking example of what Gus coaxes out of his 106 year-old vines: jammy fruit, lavish oak, a rich texture, and a seamless presentation.

Tasting Notes: Gus Gamba himself describes the '05 as: "A little more solid, somewhat like a cross between the 2000 vintages' intense purity of fruit and spiciness and 2001's richness and stone fruit characteristics. That being said, it's still a left-of-center Zinfandel, when people drink it; they'll know its Gamba."

In any case, this is a complex Zin, full of finesse, and it serves as annual confirmation of Gus Gamba's status as a Zinfandel alchemist of the highest degree.

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Cheers,

Jon Kelvey

Russian River Wine Company
132 Plaza St.
Healdsburg CA, 95448
1-800-477-0490 Ext 16
Jonkelvey@gmail.com

Could This Be the Cabernet Deal Of The Year?

Galleron.

This email is a personal account of our buyer, David's initial experience with these wines last week. It was only moments later that Gary duplicated that challenge for me and I had much the same reaction as David: these are beautiful wines!


Good friend and winemaking legend Gary Galleron, who has made wine at Whitehall Lane (he put them on the map), Grace Family, Hartwell, Vineyard 29, Del Dotto, Seavey, S. Anderson and Chateau Montelena, among others, stormed into my office Friday afternoon, plunked down a bottle of his 2000 Napa Cabernet and exclaimed, "Taste this and tell me 2000 was a bad year, I dare you."

Being someone who has never turned down an opportunity to hone my corkscrew skills, I opened the bottle (actually 2 bottles, he had also brought a bottle of his '02) right here at my desk, and poured a glass for each of us. I don't know how the 2000s are holding up in your cellar, but this one was gorgeous, full bodied, beautiful fruit, silky texture, smoke, cassis, cherry, cocoa, Rutherford dust and a big finish – all those things you look for in a fancy Napa Cabernet.

The 2002 of course was kick-ass: rich, ripe fruit spiced with black pepper and smoky oak. Smooth, polished tannins beautifully framing the layers of dark, rich valley floor fruit. and luscious waves of blackberry, cherry, berry, cassis, cedar wood and vanilla.

A couple years ago, we sold a ton of this wine at around $50/bottle, and it was a good value the. We've now struck a deal with Gary to offer this to you for $279 a case. That's right, about half price for fancy-schmancy expensive tasting Cabernet crafted by a legend. I cannot stress what an opportunity this is.

2000 Galleron Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

(100% Cabernet - 75% Taplin Vineyard/25% Morisoli Vineyard)

$279/case, $23.25/bottle

2002 Galleron Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

(100% Cabernet - 60% Morisoli Vineyard/20% Taplin Vineyard/20% Galleron Vineyard)

$279/case, $23.25/bottle





Jon Kelvey-Wine Broker
Russian River Wine Company
jonkelvey@gmail.com
1-800-477-0490
http://feeds.feedburner.com/RussianRiverWineCompany

Jus Soli: 285 Cases of True Cult Zinfandel (Plus a stunning Pinot and Syrah to boot!)

Jus Soli

One of the main reasons for Jus Soli's success is "young turk" winemaker Tom Garrett. Tom started his career in the wine industry at Wine Spectator where he spent 5 years as the West Coast Tasting Coordinator. Tom decided making wine was more fun than writing about it. A five-year apprentice tour took him through Turley Wine Cellars, Joseph Phelps Winery and Robert Mondavi Winery. Along the way, Tom launched Detert Family Vineyards from grapes grown on his family's vineyard in Oakville. Then in 2002, the collective effort of Jus Soli Winery emerged. In addition, Tom is also the assistant winemaker and general manager at Revana Family Vineyards. There he assists winemaker Heidi Peterson Barrett, whom he considers the greatest of a string of great teachers/winemakers with whom he has worked.

Jus Soli 2005 Dry Creek Zinfandel $300/case - $25/bottle (285 Cases Produced)

Last years' version of this cult zin was great, but slightly less hedonistic than the inaugural vintage.

This one is back to form with a vengeance – classic pedal to the metal Zinfandel. This powerhouse Zin is packed with super ripe Dry Creek raspberries, with currants, pepper and licorice in abundance, with a silky finish of black cherry nectar spiked with cloves and stirred with a cinnamon stick.

Jus Soli 2005 Sonoma Valley Syrah $288/case, $24/bottle (290 Cases Produced)

Sourced from a 4 acre Syrah vineyard near Kenwood in the heart of the Sonoma Valley, this Syrah is just gorgeous: mouth-coating sandalwood, leather, smoky bacon fat and blackberry pie, with judicious amounts of violets strewn about. This wine looks smells and tastes magnificent, with fine grained tannins, sweet fruit, and a long, intriguing mineral-laden finish.

Jus Soli 2004 Mendocino County Pinot Noir $240/case, $20/bottle

From a 35 year old Mendocino vineyard uniquely bordered by the west fork of the Russian River comes this delicious Pinot that tastes as wonderful as examples at twice the price. Sweet aromas of strawberry, dried-cranberry and red-cherry lead, with intriguing background notes of spice. The flavors echo the aromas, with hints of plum, vanilla and mild baking spices joining in. The texture is full and plush, but also more structured than past vintages, finishing with pleasant tannins.

Jon Kelvey
Russian River Wine Company
jonkelvey@gmail.com
1-800-477-0490 ext 16




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97 Parker Point El Nido Clio

These wines also subject to prior sale; contact me with your interest!

2004 Bodegas Alto Moncayo Alto Moncayo – Campo de Borja, Spain – 94pts Parker $46/btl

"The estate's mid-level effort is the fairly priced Alto Moncayo. This wine is spectacular, and represents the perfect foil for grilled steak. Even richer, fuller, and more muscular than the 2003, with riveting intensity and palate staining extract, the 2004 Alto Moncayo is inky/purple, full-bodied, and rich. This pedal-to-the-metal offering should age handsomely for a decade." – Robert Parker

2004 Bodegas Alto Moncayo Aquilon – Campo de Borja, Spain – 97pts Tanzer. 96pts Parker $181/btl

"Incredibly seductive aromas of blackcurrant and blackberry

liqueur, cherry cola, candied licorice, smoky bacon and exotic

tobacco. Vibrant and fresh, with amazing depth and

sweetness to its concentrated dark berry and cherry flavors.

Almost viscous in texture but shows outstanding vivacity and

lift on the palate, thanks to its supple tannins and gentle acids." – Stephen Tanzer

"The 1,000 case luxury cuvee, the 2004 Aquilon, was fashioned from the winery's oldest vines and best material. Revealing nearly off the chart ripeness, richness, and intensity, it will undoubtedly be controversial, separating traditionalists from more progressive tasters, but I loved it. It will be interesting to see how this tour de force in winemaking ages. It is the vino equivalent of a Hummer four-wheel drive vehicle." – Robert Parker

2004 Bodegas El Nido Clio – Jumilla, Spain – 97pts Parker $55/btl

"The consulting winemaker at Bodegas El Nido is Chris Ringland of Barossa Valley fame. The 2004 Clio is 30% Cabernet Sauvignon and 70% Monastrell (from 63-year-old vines) which received malolactic fermentation in new oak followed by 26 months of aging in new French and American barriques. A glass-coating opaque purple, it exhibits a sensational nose of earth, mushroom, leather, blueberry, and blackberry jam. On the palate the wine is supple-textured, complex, with vibrant flavors of spicy blue and black fruits and a big-time WOW factor. This is a totally hedonistic effort with exceptional length and balance. It is remarkably light on its feet for such a powerful wine." – Jay Miller

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Cheers,

Jon Kelvey

Russian River Wine Company
132 Plaza St.
Healdsburg CA, 95448
1-800-477-0490 Ext 16
Jonkelvey@gmail.com

Opulent Merlot from Pride Mtn, Switchback, Foley Vineyards Assistant Winemaker

Corte Riva's owners Romel Rivera and Lawrence Cortez have quite a history, and judging from the quality of their wines, quite a future.

Corte Riva winemaker Romel Rivera is Bob Foley's assistant at Pride Mountain, and also Foley's Hourglass, Switchback Ridge, School House and Robert Foley Vineyards projects.

Rivera has 25 years experience in the business, and his stylish Merlot is testimony to his time spent working for some of Napa's absolute best wineries. Partner Lawrence Cortez' past employers include Hans Kornell and Clos Pegase. Lawrence is also the cellar master at Pride Mountain.

Fruit sources for this exceptional merlot are Kenefick Ranch and a little from a vineyard in Carneros belonging to Clos Pegase. This is a powerful, polished and elegant Merlot with enough stuffing to merit laying down a few bottles. The wine press has acknowledged their efforts also, with Parker giving the Corte Riva Merlot a 91 score.

The Wine:

Corte Riva 2004 Merlot Napa $612/case $51/bottle

If you pick up only one Merlot this year, this should be the one! The Corte Riva 2003 is a gorgeous ruby hued, abundantly perfumed Merlot with aromas of dried cherry and anise. The flavors are lively: Mocha, violets, vanilla and dark fruits, more of that licorice tinged cherry, and a ridiculously long finish. Below is Robert Parker's take on this wine.

Wine Advocate #168

Robert Parker

91 Points

Drink 2006-2014

"Corte Riva's 2004 Merlot is a wonderful successor to the brilliant 2003. Aromas of chocolate, underbrush, blackberries, cherries, licorice, and espresso roast emerge from this deep, opulent, full-bodied Merlot that coats the mouth. It is ideal for drinking over the next 7-8 years."

Jon Kelvey-Winebroker
Russian River Wine Company
Healdsburg, CA
jonkelvey@gmail.com
1-800-477-0490 Ext 16