C185-BC: Spain, Portugal, Alsace and Southern Burgundy

BRITISH COLUMBIA ORDER BY JANUARY 12, 2009

OFFERING 185

The AlsaceZealand and Southern Burgundy The wines wines of of Spain, South Portugal, Africa, New and Australia

Castoro Cellars

CELLAR OFFERING 185 The wines of Spain, Portugal, Alsace and Southern Burgundy This Cellar Offering hits doorsteps during the coldest part of winter, just at the right moment for the warmth of the beautiful wines of Spain and Portugal to gladden the eye and warm the heart. With these fantastic wines comes a great selection that perfectly welcomes the lengthening days and warmer weather of spring, the classy whites of Alsace with the rich white and red wines of Southern Burgundy.

SpCONCAVINS ain Catalonia

The pride and joy of Catalonia

Hidden from the holiday coastline of the Costa Brava by a wall of mountains, Conca de Barberà endured great hardship and poverty over its history, but when the great Cava companies took an interest in the white wines of the region, other investors brought in capital and transformed poverty to prosperity. No one has done more than Luis Carbonell Figueras, who came to indulge his passion for great wines and ended by building the most distinguished winery of the region.

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OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 185

SPAIN CONCAVINS >>

4818

CASTILLO D MONTBLANC, BRUT CAVA, NV $21.83

6 BTLS/750 ML $131.00

Three local varieties, Viura, Xarel-lo and Parellada are vinified separately, at low temperatures to bring out secondary aromas. After fermentation in tanks, the wines are blended before the second fermentation in bottle, followed by ageing on the lees for 18 months. The finely-textured mousse shows pale and clear silver with slight greenish glints. Fine bubbles give a subtle aroma of biscuits with a hint of toast.

This is a delightful, lively and balanced Cava that is pleasant, crisp and persistent. [03] M8 D9

4819

MONTBLANC 362, VIURA/CHARDONNAY, DO CONCA DE BARBERÀ, 2008 $14.50

12 BTLS/750 ML $174.00

An impressive blend of two grapes, the local Viura, which brings full body and structure, blended with ripe Chardonnay, which adds interest and perfumed pineapple and melon. The bouquet is rich, scented with soft, ripe fruit and floral fragrances against a dry, full-bodied structure showing delicious, cold-fermented features after two months in barrel with lees stirring to extract complexity.

Fresh, clean and zesty notes provide the background of mouth-tingling citrus and peach flavours. [01] M8 D8

4820

MONTBLANC 362, TEMPRANILLO, DO CONCA DE BARBERÀ, 2008 $14.17

12 BTLS/750 ML $170.00

A superbly made bold red with warm fruit and spice, the Tempranillo flourishes in the arid conditions. In fact, the only vegetation in the area surrounding the winery is Tempranillo vines! This wine displays classic characteristics with flavours of tobacco, spice and a hint of leather on the palate. The wine is unoaked, in contrast to most wines of this grape, which allows the ripe warmth to develop and show the soft tannins that shine through and provide a platform for succulent fruit. M8 D8

4821

MONTBLANC 362, CABERNET/MERLOT, DO CONCA DE BARBERÀ, 2006 $22.50

12 BTLS/750 ML $270.00

A wonderful expression of fruit, the joining of Cabernet Sauvignon with full-bodied Merlot makes a blend with huge potential. The grapes were crushed and fermented in temperature controlled steel tanks for 10 days, then spent 12 months in American oak (half new) before six months in French oak. This planed away all harshness leaving flavours of plums and stewed fruit with tobacco leaf aromas and a long finish. It is the perfect example of Spanish warmth and personality. M7 D7

SPAIN CONCAVINS >>

A great “sparkler” for everyday occasions Grape Variety

Viura, Xarel-lo, Parellada

Aroma

Oatmeal, cut apples, pears

Taste

Firm, assertive palate with a creamy mousse, ripe fruit and fresh acidity

Serve

10º C

Evolution

Perfect for the next celebration

Ideal with

Tarta de cebolla o de puerros [Onion or fresh leek tart], tapas, hors d’œuvres

A livewire white with a fresh complexion Grape Variety

Viura, Chardonnay

Aroma

Herbaceous nose with aromas of lemon peel, pear and hay

Taste

Fresh, fruity, an easy-to-drink wine

Serve

11º C

Evolution

Enjoy over the next two years

Ideal with

Salt cod and spring onion broth with lemon basil

Intensely flavoured and wellstructured Grape Variety

Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon

Aroma

Hints of leather, earth and spice

Taste

Pungent, fruity, ripe and very long

Serve

18º C

Evolution

Needs more time, will be best within two years

Ideal with

Pollito al agridulce [Poussin in a sweet and sour sauce]

Bordeaux style with a spoonful of sunshine Grape Variety

Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot

Aroma

Spicy, red fruits, refined oak

Taste

Supple, blackberry, cassis

Serve

18º C

Evolution

Very easy now, but harmony will improve with maturity

Ideal with

Cordero asado [Roast lamb]

BRITISH COLUMBIA

3

4822

CLOS MONTBLANC, CHARDONNAY, DO CONCA DE BARBERÀ, 2008

The best Chardonnay out of Spain this year

. $20.75

Grape Variety

Chardonnay

Aroma

Butter with hints of vanilla and tropical fruits

Taste

Fresh, fruity, good body and balance, creamy and complex

Serve

11º C

Evolution

If you like it fresh, this is perfect, but would be best after a year in bottle

Ideal with

Xatonada [Catalan Tuna salad with anchovies, olives and Romesco sauce]

12 BTLS/750 ML $249.00

This is a Chardonnay with outstanding freshness and complexity. The fine, golden colour indicates power and weight while the fragrant perfumes illustrate pure Chardonnay.

Filled with banana, pineapple and exotic fruits, it expands in the middle palate with a creamy, concentrated structure with upfront, clever oak adding elegance. The fruit persists to the final act as the flavours fade through a refined, buttery, vanilla-touched aftertaste that shows all the skill of the winemaker. [00] M8 D8

4823

CLOS MONTBLANC, XIPELLA, DO CONCA DE BARBERÀ, 2005

Everything in one glass!

. $22.58

Grape Variety

Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo, Merlot, Garnacha

Aroma

Pungent, powerful, black cherry, mulberry and fennel

Taste

Plush, extravagant, currants

Serve

18º C

Evolution

Try a bottle in two years

Ideal with

Pappardelle with a hare ragù

12 BTLS/750 ML $271.00

A huge wine from the vineyards around Luis Carbonell Figueras’ hillside home, the vines gather in a crescent, trapping the sun and ensuring that warmth is returned to the bunches during the cold nights. The winemaker has realized harmony with elegance and structure. With colour almost as black as tar, the bouquet shows smoke, pain grillé, cedar wood shavings and black cherry. Balanced, round, and ripe, the wine reveals a complex texture that will continue to develop for several years. M6 D6

4824

CLOS MONTBLANC, MASÍA LES COMES RESERVA, DO CONCA DE BARBERÀ, 2005 $30.08

12 BTLS/750 ML $361.00

This is a superb wine from Luis Carbonell Figueras’ estate.

It lies high on the hill above the hamlet of les Pobles where the thin soil, high in manganese, has a depleted water table. In such a terroir the vines must search deeply to sustain the fruit, producing small bunches with high concentration and flavour. Carefully matured in American oak, it is already powerful and complete, but at just three years of age, it has the potential for another ten years of development. M5 D6

Fabulous, among the treasures of Spain Grape Variety

Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot

Aroma

Spicy aromas dominated by red fruits and cedar smoke

Taste

Big, bold and balanced with sweet tannin and good acidity

Serve

19º C

Evolution

Still an infant

Ideal with

Perdices a la torera [Partridge with bacon, anchovies, tomatoes and peppers]

Conca de Barberà

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OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 185

SPAIN CONCAVINS

VINOSELECCION The original, the largest, Spain’s pre-eminent wine club Opimian is fortunate to be able to call on the three specialist buyers of Vinoseleccion, all of whom are qualified wine technicians with a combined vast knowledge of Iberian wines. The selections they have proposed in recent years have lifted our offerings from Spain and Portugal to new heights.

Vinoseleccion has opened doors that remain closed to buyers without intimate knowledge of Spain’s wine industry.

Bodegas Fariña

4825

SANZ CLÁSICO, DO RUEDA, 2008, VINOS SANZ $20.17

6 BTLS/750 ML $121.00

This is one of the most attractive white wines produced anywhere in Spain. The perfumed aroma is more about floral nuances than full-bodied vinosity, with the perfectly harmonious flavours appealing for a second glass. With a brilliant pale colour there is an abundance of fruit, markedly apricot and apples. Fresh and light in the mouth the limeaccented acidity sets up an aromatic finish that returns thoughts to the bouquet. [00] M9 D9

4826

OPIMIAN VIÑAS VIEJAS, VINO DE LA TIERRA DE CASTILLA, 2007, BODEGAS LUAN . $13.75

12 BTLS/750 ML $165.00

This wine is perfect for refreshing the palate and quenching the thirst. It has no pretence, just a moment in time to impress with its delicious characteristics; black cherry, plums and a hint of spice and herbs. In the mouth it is as juicy as blackcurrant cordial and finishes with lip smacking light tannins and fresh acidity. M7 D8

SPAIN VINOSELECCION >>

A perfect wine for warm days Grape Variety

Verdejo

Aroma

Fresh with hints of papaya

Taste

Zesty, ripe fruit, apple and lime on the palate

Serve

9º C

Evolution

Perfect now

Ideal with

Fideos con almejas [Noodles with clams], Asian cuisine

Far better than its price suggests Grape Variety

Bobal, Garnacha, Tempranillo

Aroma

Cherry powered, don’t overlook the plums

Taste

Plump, fresh, fine oak notes, balanced

Serve

16º C

Evolution

Good now, it will soften and develop in the middle term – up to three years

Ideal with

Five-spice pork and green bean stir-fry

BRITISH COLUMBIA

5

4827

MARQUÉS DE TEJARES, VINO DE LA TIERRA DE CASTILLA, 2007, BODEGAS LOS ALJIBES $20.50

6 BTLS/750 ML $123.00

A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah, these three classic imports have produced a wine of great interest and quality. The deep colour is polished to a vivid pigmentation by the ageing in oak. Toasted notes of coffee are enhanced by memories of ripe fruit, brambles and supporting silken tannins, while the fruit gives it great definition and palate length. A mineral note from the terroir adds a final touch of interest to a super wine from a relatively unknown producer. M7 D7

4828

CONVENTO SAN BERNARDINO, DO VINOS DE MADRID, 2007, BODEGAS JESÚS DÍAZ $19.83

6 BTLS/750 ML $119.00

A lively wine once known and enjoyed by the Madrileños as a daily treat, we recommend it for its delightful drinkability.

Ready now, it has a good red colour with a fresh, strong, fruity aroma, spicy and floral. This leads to rich flavour with cherry and plum closing on a note of liquorice. M8 D8

4829

MERLOT DE JESÚS DÍAZ, DO VINOS DE MADRID, 2007, BODEGAS JESÚS DÍAZ $20.00

6 BTLS/750 ML $120.00

Merlot is a great mixer; no matter where it is grown, it performs beautifully although not always to the same tune.

Here it has less spice than from cooler climes but it makes up in sheer affability and fresh fruit. The colour is dark and correct, the nose pleasing, plenty of aromatics to enjoy, plenty of fruit to fill the palate. M8 D9

4830

Grape Variety

Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah

Aroma

Floral, nice notes of ripe, soft fruit, pepper

Taste

Not far from a decent bottle of claret

Serve

17º C

Evolution

Clearly young but attractive now, will continue to develop over several years

Ideal with

Grilled red meat, soft cheeses

A wine for everyday pleasure Grape Variety

Tempranillo

Aroma

Fine fruit notes, cherries, touches of cedar

Taste

Good structure, fine fruit, balanced ripe tannins, fresh finish

Serve

17º C

Evolution

Wine to enjoy young and fresh

Ideal with

Hearty pasta

Flavourful and balanced Grape Variety

Merlot

Aroma

Attractive fruit, hearty red berries

Taste

Fruit drives the palate, soft tannin, liquorice

Serve

17º C

Evolution

A wine to enjoy upon arrival

Ideal with

Skewered lamb cooked over a fire

PALACIOS REALES TEMPRANILLO, DO LA MANCHA, 2007, BODEGAS VERDÚGUEZ

A well-priced newcomer

$20.50

Grape Variety

Tempranillo

Aroma

Fruit, more fruit and then a touch of oak

Taste

Ripe red cherry and succulent plum fruit

Serve

18º C

Evolution

Perfectly ready

Ideal with

Lamb chops with coarse-grain mustard, stews

6 BTLS/750 ML $123.00

La Mancha, the land of Don Quixote, lies south of Madrid, an endless sea of vines stretching to the far horizons. Many vines remain in natural growth without pruning, reminiscent of vineyards of a century ago. Today, modern wineries have transformed viticulture as their wines reach new export markets. Full, fruity and weighty this is a wine with lovely berry flavours and light, spicy oak overtones. After fermentation it was matured for seven months in American oak casks to build structure. M8 D8

6

Attractively presented and priced

OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 185

SPAIN VINOSELECCION >>

4831

MONTE CASTRILLO ROBLE, DO RIBERA DEL DUERO, 2007, BODEGAS PEÑALBA LÓPEZ $22.67

6 BTLS/750 ML $136.00

After only seven months in cask this is vigorous, energetic and youthful, yet the tannins are so attractively ripe that it is perfectly ready to drink. Fine reddish purple colour throughout the glass, the intensely perfumed nose puts forward aromas of just picked raspberries with ample spice notes, especially oregano. The palate is surprisingly tight with the power of the tannins returning a long final grip.

M8 D8

4832

CANTOS DE TORREMILANOS, DO RIBERA DEL DUERO, 2006, BODEGAS PEÑALBA LÓPEZ . $28.83

6 BTLS/750 ML $173.00

The Peñalba López family bought the estate in 1975 and since have made the enterprise one of the greatest wine estates. All operations, including cask making, are completed on site and the wines have rightly gained a great reputation. This young Crianza is typical. It has a lovely dark colour, a concentrated, intense aroma of fresh red fruit and freshly ground black pepper. A fine entry into the mouth leads to balanced acidity holding the fruit up to the final curtain call, ending on a note of tea and roses. M6 D7

4833

TORREMILANOS CRIANZA, DO RIBERA DEL DUERO, 2005, BODEGAS PEÑALBA LÓPEZ $31.83

6 BTLS/750 ML $191.00

Pablo Peñalba told us that the extreme heat and cold of Ribera del Duero enhances his fruit quality. With every vintage he uses only the finest grapes and the wealth of generations of experience to produce his wines. Deep and mellow with mouth-filling black cherry and raspberry fruit, vanilla and liquorice notes result from the time spent in new casks. Superbly harmonious, acidity and supple tannins add to the generous finish with flavours of baked cherry pie and pungent spice. M6 D7 Entrance Bodegas Jesús Díaz

SPAIN VINOSELECCION >>

A big success!

Grape Variety

Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon

Aroma

Fresh and fruity with aromas of redcurrants and raspberries

Taste

Medium-bodied, ripe tannins, cherries, spiced plums, crushed red fruits

Serve

16º - 17º C

Evolution

Young, but intended to be enjoyed that way

Ideal with

Guinea fowl with peaches, carrot and onion

Another beauty from Ricardo Peñalba Grape Variety

Tempranillo

Aroma

Instant and expressive, red cassis, hint of tar and spice

Taste

Big, chewy, firm tannins back up the red fruit

Serve

18º C

Evolution

Very young but a good glass in spite of its youth

Ideal with

Pollo Escabechado [Chicken casserole marinated with vinegar, wine, spices and herbs]

Great wine, one to remember Grape Variety

Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot

Aroma

Concentrated, forest fruit, toasted notes

Taste

Silky smooth with big ripe fruit and liquorice

Serve

18º C

Evolution

Not ready yet, but can be enjoyed now

Ideal with

Grilled red meats, mature sheep’s milk cheese Barrel Room at Bodegas Fariña

BRITISH COLUMBIA

7

4834

CYCLO, DO RIBERA DEL DUERO, 2006, BODEGAS PEÑALBA LÓPEZ $50.50

Bottled magic

6 BTLS/750 ML $303.00

As a collector of fine wines, this is one for the cellar. 2005, the second vintage with the innovative Cyclo label, received high marks from renowned wine critics. The 2006 is even more outstanding. Totally saturated with a thick, almost treacly black/red colour, layer upon layer of aromas reveal themselves. In no time the exuberant characteristics with fruity notes, jam, stewed red fruit, cinnamon and vanilla fill the room. A full-bodied, rich mouth-feel lingers with balance and warmth. M4 D5

4835

URBAN ROBLE, DO RIBERA DEL DUERO, 2006, BODEGAS O. FOURNIER $25.83

Grape Variety

Tempranillo, Albillo, Garnacha

Aroma

Coffee, tar, squashed berries, tea

Taste

Black cherries, plum jam, cassis, leather

Serve

18º C

Evolution

Far from ready, a wine for laying down

Ideal with

Roast turkey stuffed with raisins, pine nuts, and sausage

Harmonious, well-balanced, great complexity

6 BTLS/750 ML $155.00

Consultant Ken Christie was so fascinated by the O. Fournier story that he drove across Spain to see the vineyards where the story began. He found a flat, dry plain swept by hot winds in summer, icy blasts in winter and the vines as sturdy as the gnarled winemakers. Fournier’s motto, “The world is there to be conquered”. That is what he has done with this wine which has a trace of oak, packets of red fruit, earthy notes, spice and ripe berries. Coffee and chocolate add complexity to a final swirl of liquorice.

M7 D7

Grape Variety

Tempranillo

Aroma

Black and red fruit nose, floral, vanilla and spice

Taste

Smooth fruit balanced by touches of oak and rounded tannins

Serve

17º - 18º C

Evolution

Delicious, fine now, will keep

Ideal with

Charollais steak crusted with black pepper, rice dishes

Fariña Vineyards

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OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 185

Freshly crushed grapes at Bodegas Hispanos-Suizas

SPAIN VINOSELECCION >>

4836

ALFA SPIGA, DO RIBERA DEL DUERO, 2004, BODEGAS O. FOURNIER

One of the world’s great red wines

. $66.50

Grape Variety

Tempranillo

Aroma

Black fruit, coffee, toast

Taste

Succulent, velvety, crammed with blackberry fruit and vinosity

Serve

17º - 18º C

Evolution

Time to open the first bottle, put aside the rest and dream of tomorrow

Ideal with

Provençal braised beef

6 BTLS/750 ML $399.00

José Manuel Ortega Gil-Fournier says that his wines require 15 years to reach maturity. He selects the finest sites, fruit and vineyard practices so that he can continue to build on his incredible reputation with vines that yield no more than two bottles each year. Volume is not José Manuel’s passion; he seeks quality to recreate wines. The Alfa Spiga offers a dark, inky, ruby colour with soft, easily accessed fruit. Spice and oak smoke mingle with massive bunches of dark berries supported by ripe tannins. M6 D6

4837

FAUSTINO SELECCIÓN DE FAMILIA, DOCa. RIOJA, 2006, BODEGAS FAUSTINO . $26.67

6 BTLS/750 ML $160.00

One of the best wines of this cherished region, this is far from the old-fashioned oak, chocolate and vanilla confections of years ago. It is made in a modern style that owes much to the fruit and little to ageing in wood. Fresh and clean finely defined red cherry and blueberry combine with lightly toasted nuances to add spice and vanilla to the aroma. On the palate it has a soft, velvet mouth-feel with amiable sweet fruit slowly fading into a quiet farewell.

M7 D8

4838

COLEGIATA, 4 MESES EN BARRICA, DO TORO, 2006, BODEGAS FARIÑA . $25.33

6 BTLS/750 ML $152.00

Fariña notes seven reasons for the greatness of his wines; climate, the nearby river, the vineyards, scarce rainfall, the grapes, the barrels and know how. Fariña is fantastic, a legend in his region and in time. With an intense, deep cherry colour with purple tones, this young red is bursting with ripe berry fruit flavours and hints of oak. Great texture with good acidity allows the pure fruit to show its structure in layers that drive the dynamic fruit-driven palate. M7 D7

4839

GRAN COLEGIATA CRIANZA, DO TORO, 2003, BODEGAS FARIÑA . $27.67

6 BTLS/750 ML $166.00

This huge wine is filled with dark, brooding colour and is richly perfumed by red fruits and smoke with a weight of flavour that almost shocks the palate. Firstly powerful, then complex, finally somewhere at the back of the palate there is a wealth of attacking, pungent but sweet spices. Masterly winemaker Bernardo Fariña brings balance to his wines in a harmonious symphony of the terroir, the climate and the artistry of its gifted producer. M6 D7

SPAIN VINOSELECCION >>

Rioja as it should be Grape Variety

Tempranillo

Aroma

Plums, damsons, brambles, coffee and good vanilla notes

Taste

Rich, fruity with a bite of acidity and small oak on the finish

Serve

16º - 17º C

Evolution

Will show its best until 2010

Ideal with

Coq au Vin

A big band show, bold and brassy Grape Variety

Tinta de Toro

Aroma

Complex aromas characterizing youth and fruit

Taste

Fruit-driven, fleshy, well-rounded and complex

Serve

16º C

Evolution

Drink within three years

Ideal with

Rack of lamb with redcurrant wine sauce

A solid wine Grape Variety

Tinta de Toro

Aroma

Toasty black currant with black cherry and vanilla

Taste

Austere tannins meet crushed red berries

Serve

17º - 19º C

Evolution

Approaching readiness but has most of its life ahead

Ideal with

Pork loin with apples and cranberries, large game dishes

BRITISH COLUMBIA

9

4840

GRAN COLEGIATA CAMPUS, DO TORO, 2006, BODEGAS FARIÑA $45.83

6 BTLS/750 ML $275.00

Although expensive, this is the finest wine made by Fariña.

It has everything, a real Grand Cru effort in an area celebrated for excellence. The yield of the vines is dismal, no shock when they are up to 140 years old. Still totally closed in, it has everything that Toro has to offer. Intense fruit flavours, black Morello cherries, blackberry with violets, spice and liquorice blend seamlessly with vanilla, smoke and tobacco. M5 D5

4841

Aroma

Smoke, cherries, black pepper, vanilla and spice

Taste

Tight, structured, very tannic and closed

Serve

18º C

Evolution

Too good to open too early, be patient

Ideal with

Chateaubriand, sausage, mature cheeses

. $96.00

Grape Variety

Tinta de Toro

Aroma

Vast, an extravagance of cassis

Taste

Full, powerful, everything still to come

Serve

18º C

Evolution

Very much at its beginning, cellar away in the dark

Ideal with

Red meat, game, mature cheeses

6 BTLS/750 ML $576.00

BASSUS PINOT NOIR, DO UTIEL-REQUENA, 2007, BODEGAS HISPANO-SUIZAS 6 BTLS/750 ML $267.00

This winery came to life last year when the Swiss boat won the Americas Cup in Valencia, home of the bodega. Pinot Noir is not a natural choice for Spain. Utiel is at the head of a long sloping valley where the vines are cooled each evening by altitude and breezes coming off the sea. The colour is medium dark, but clearly correct for the variety. In the nose it starts with notes of tobacco leaf, smoke, and sweet spice before the raspberry nuances develop. Soft and elegant, with very finely grained tannins, it closes with raspberry jam and orange peel. M7 D7

TRIUMVIRAT, DOCa. PRIORATO, 2007, TERRA DE VEREMA $59.00

6 BTLS/750 ML $354.00

Imagine Priorato with its mighty crags and deep valleys so near to Barcelona yet so far away in time. The villages with a lost-in-time aura slow the pace of life to follow the seasons of the vine. The people are few and mostly too old to move away, but the wines have caught the imagination of wine collectors the world over. Geography influences all, the sheer slopes of poor volcanic soil making viticulture a manual operation. The colour is black, the perfume complex with strands of smoke, black fruit and a generous, spicy, intense flavour. M4 D5

10

Tinta de Toro

An extraordinary adventure

$44.50

4843

Grape Variety

SPIRITUS SANCTI, GÉRARD DEPARDIEU, DO TORO, 2006, BODEGAS BERNARD MAGREZ ESPAÑA Having sold to Marie Brizard, Bernard Magrez, once a successful Bordeaux négociant, moved on to his dream of making great Spanish wine. No surprise that Bernard bought a vineyard in Toro. The big surprise came with his partnership with Gérard Depardieu, the French actor turned winemaker. Their wine is superb. Ruby red and concentrated, the nose is captivating with sweet spice gathering up the rich fruit; deep plums, blackberry with balsamic hints, anise, mint and tar. M5 D6

4842

A terroir-driven wine

OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 185

A Pinot Noir success story from Spain Grape Variety

Pinot Noir

Aroma

Coffee, tobacco, ripe berry fruit

Taste

Stalky, fresh, then richer as the fruit warms in the glass

Serve

16º C

Evolution

Unready now but will mature quickly

Ideal with

Ham in parsley gelatin

Colossal wine, it needs time and patience Grape Variety

Cariñena, Garnacha, Syrah

Aroma

Chocolate, wild fruit, anise

Taste

Massive concentration, spicy, intense fruit

Serve

17º C

Evolution

Will mature in bottle, it’s a twenty year wine

Ideal with

Wild boar stew, bison steak, venison

SPAIN VINOSELECCION

Portugal 4844

CUME DO PEREIRO, DOC DOURO, 2006, DOMINGOS ALVES DE SOUSA

Deep, dark and flavourful

. $24.17

Grape Variety

Tinta Roriz, Tinta Barroca

Aroma

Blueberries, cassis, smoke, earth, fallen leaves

Taste

Ripe, sweet fruit mingled with spice

Serve

17º - 19º C

Evolution

Unready, but it will be great within two years and then last six or seven more

Ideal with

Amêijoas na Cataplana [pork and clams]

6 BTLS/750 ML $145.00

This is a perfect example of the wines that, year after year, emerge from the vineyards of the Douro. Once the preserve of fortified Port wine, many oenologists have migrated to change for a lifestyle in the Alto Douro where huge wines are produced. This is a blend of two local varieties, unfiltered and aged in small French oak. The colour is dark maroon, almost purple and lustrous. In the glass the concentration shows as “legs” that coat the surface releasing a smooth juicy aroma. Full and generous, here we have big tannins, plenty of spicy, peppery fruit and a capacity to age. M6 D7

4845

Domingos Alves de Sousa

CUME DO PEREIRO RESERVA, DOC DOURO, 2005, DOMINGOS ALVES DE SOUSA

A new wine concept from the Alves de Sousa family

$26.33

Grape Variety

Touriga Nacional, Tinto Cão

Aroma

Powerful red fruit, fragrant with nuances of toasted coffee

Taste

Undiluted flavour, black fruit, leathery tannins and smooth integration

Serve

18º C

Evolution

Surprisingly forward but still some way to go to maturity, will go on for a decade

Ideal with

Grilled and roasted red meats, soft cheeses such as Camembert and Brie

6 BTLS/750 ML $158.00

This is an entirely subtle affair being made from Portugal’s classic Touriga Nacional with Tinto Cão. The Touriga Nacional grape puts the capital “P” into Port wine, as vital to the Douro as Zinfandel to California. Huge and rich, the colour is a deep, thick and uniformly dark purple.

Surprisingly the aromas are discreet, but pure and clean with cinnamon orchestrating the black fruit notes. A parade of light and elegant flavours follows, but the tannins are hiding much of the fruit that is still to be revealed. This is a fine example of thoughtful winemaking producing finesse from massive materials. M6 D7

PORTUGAL VINOSELECCION

BRITISH COLUMBIA

11

QUINTA DA BARREIRA Carvoeira, Estremadura For many years we have shipped our Portuguese selections from João Serra, but on his 80th birthday he decided that it was time to hand his love for everything Opimian to his friends José and Clara Gaspar, colleagues and wine producers.

The Quinta da Barreira is situated in the Estremadura region, at the heart of Portugal’s emerging quality wine production.

4848

VINHO VERDE, DOC VINHO VERDE, JOÃO SERRA PRIVATE RESERVE $14.92

12 BTLS/750 ML $179.00

A terrible summer promised an awful vintage until in midAugust the clouds disappeared and the sun shone all day, every day, until the harvest. Although small the vintage is excellent, producing a wine that characterizes lightness and brightness. Filled with a tiny mist of bubbles, splashing with vivid aromas of apple blossom and flowers, it is so delicious that it insists on a second glass. [02] M9 D9

4849

MOURAS DE ARRAIOLOS RESERVA BRANCO, DOC ALENTEJO, 2007, ADEJA DAS MOURAS DE ARRAIOLOS . $31.17

6 BTLS/750 ML $187.00

If there was ever any doubt about Portugal’s ability to create world class white wines then this has to be tasted. It has a pale, golden straw colour with a scented, almost perfumed nose and lifted fragrance that develops qualities close to those of Sauvignon Blanc. On the palate it is crisp with juicy grapefruit acidity and flavours that create perfect balance with well-integrated acidity. The finish, dry, long and complex, seems closer to top class Bordeaux than the undulating countryside of southern Portugal. [00] M7 D8

12

OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 185

As sun-kissed and green as a grassy meadow Grape Variety

Loureiro, Azal, Trajadura, Pedernã

Aroma

Fruit blossom, freesias, cut grass

Taste

Lively and vigorous

Serve

8º - 10º C

Evolution

Ready now

Ideal with

Enjoy it on its own

It’s a new experience Grape Variety

Antão Vaz

Aroma

Big, full aroma, more Australian than Atlantic

Taste

Crisp, fine balance between oak and fruit

Serve

12º C

Evolution

Will develop well for two to three years

Ideal with

Mussels steamed in wine

PORTUGAL QUINTA DA BARREIRA >>

4850

QUINTA DA BARREIRA RESERVA, VINHO REGIONAL ESTREMADURA, 2007, JOSÉ GASPAR

With each year this estate makes better wines

$23.83

Grape Variety

Tinta Roriz, Castelão

Aroma

Upfront, ripe black berries

Taste

Tough, tannic and full-bodied with fine spicy notes

Serve

18º C

Evolution

Put it away for six months, good for six years

Ideal with

Casserole of braised beef

6 BTLS/750 ML $143.00

This is a heavyweight package revealing a wine of great class and structure. Produced from two local varieties, Tinta Roriz and Castelão, the grapes were macerated on the skins to allow the juice to clean. Slow fermentation in temperature-controlled vats retained the aroma before six months in new American oak added complexity and depth.

Deep purple in colour, with a full-bodied, rich “fruitcake” nose, the powerful, ripe cassis and redcurrant flavours are backed by firm tannin. M6 D7

4851

FIÚZA MERLOT, DOC RIBATEJO, 2007, FIÚZA & BRIGHT

An eye-opener, stunning

$24.33

Grape Variety

Merlot

Aroma

Complex with ripe damsons

Taste

Ripe with dark berry spice and coffee flavours supported by fine-grained tannins

Serve

18º - 20º C

Evolution

Ready now, careful cellaring will be rewarded for 4 to 5 years

Ideal with

Pan-fried liver, bacon and mashed potatoes

6 BTLS/750 ML $146.00

Joaquim Mascarenhas de Fiúza, owner of three fine estates, specializes in quality wines of local varieties. He bought a fourth vineyard, the Quinta da Granja which, with Australian winemaker Peter Bright, was planted with classic French red varieties. The wines have achieved international recognition with a spectacular number of awards. The increasingly popular Merlot is full-bodied, rich, ripe and quite firm, but smooth. On the palate black cherry and plum fruit dominate with a delicate chocolate texture carrying through to hints of cedar oak. M7 D8

4852

MOURAS DE ARRAIOLOS RESERVA TINTO, DOC ALENTEJO, 2005, ADEJA DAS MOURAS DE ARRAIOLOS $30.67

6 BTLS/750 ML $184.00

In an arid summer, it is humid Atlantic breezes blowing from the northwest, in combination with the unique schistose and volcanic soil, which produce the distinctive qualities of the wines from the 790 acre Mouras estate. Winemaker Ângelo de Jesus expressed his delight in the development of this deeply coloured red with complex aromas of ripe, red fruit and vanilla. Rich, full and chewy with a cassis flavoured palate, it has notable spicy complexity, good depth of fruit and firm structure with a buzz of tannin.

M7 D7

4853

SOLAR JORDÕES, DOC DOURO, 2006, CASAL DOS JORDÕES $40.17

6 BTLS/750 ML $241.00

This extraordinary wine has a gold star for quality. It is produced by Arlindo da Costa Pinto e Cruz from vineyards situated on a tributary of the Douro, the Rio Torto [the twisted river]. Made with fruit produced by entirely organic cultivation, it is pressed by foot and left for five days in an historic stone “lagare” which extracts a fantastic level of darkly pigmented colour. To retain everything that makes it fine, it was neither filtered nor clarified. After a period of maturation, it will, like Port, throw a deposit. M5 D6

PORTUGAL QUINTA DA BARREIRA

Spiced lively flavours with a solid tannic backbone Grape Variety

Syrah

Aroma

Red fruit with rich plum and blackcurrant jam

Taste

Mouth-filling with persistent complex fruit

Serve

19º C

Evolution

Softening and integrating; enjoy now

Ideal with

Braised spiced beef

Wine made from organically grown grapes Grape Variety

Touriga Franca

Aroma

Ripe, red fruits compote, very intense

Taste

Ample red fruit flavours, harmonious wood tannins

Serve

16º - 18º C

Evolution

Will reach its best before 2014

Ideal with

Lamb stew in a garlic and sweet pepper sauce

BRITISH COLUMBIA

13

CHURCHILL, GRAHAM LDA Vila Nova de Gaia Over recent years the Churchill, Graham name has become so well known that it has become synonymous with the highest quality of wines of the Douro. The risk that Johnny Graham took when he started the business in 1981 was enormous, establishing the first new Port wine shipping company since prior to the First World War. By 1985, Opimian had become the first Churchill, Graham customer in North America, a connection which has continued without break and remains strong to this day.

Vila Nova de Gaia

4854

OPIMIAN DRY WHITE PORT $35.67

6 BTLS/750 ML $214.00

This is no pale pre-lunch sipper but a full-bodied, powerful wine made by Johnny Graham, using traditional methods.

The colour is almost apricot gold, shining highlights that illuminate the strong perfume of dried fruits and toasted walnuts. Slightly off-dry, its awesome power makes a lasting impression leaving the palate richly filled with grapey vinosity. [05]

4855

OPIMIAN FINEST RESERVE PORT $33.83

6 BTLS/750 ML $203.00

Surely this is the best wine in the Vintage style marketed today. The wines come from top grade “A“ “quintas” committed to the production of full-bodied and flavourful wines.

In blind tastings it is virtually unbeatable for its type, deep in colour with significant extract concentration. Although blended from young wines the fruit is so sweet that it replaces the need for long maturation offering a harmonious mouth-feel and long finish. Johnny Graham refers to this Port as “An ideal introduction to Port drinking”. [07]

14

OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 185

Perfectly balanced acidity and fruit Grape Variety

Malvasia Fina, Códega, Rabigato

Aroma

Rich, nutty nose with hints of raisins, the result of ten years in barrel

Taste

Apricot and nuts with a long, fruit finish

Serve

12º C

Evolution

Ready but there’s no hurry

Ideal with

Roasted almonds, smoked fish

A serious alternative to Vintage Port Grape Variety

Tinta Roriz, Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Barroca

Aroma

Bursting with blueberries and plums

Taste

Structured, concentrated layers of fruit

Serve

12 - 15º C

Evolution

Bottled ready for drinking

Ideal with

Enjoy before a warm fire with a hunk of Cheddar cheese

PORTUGAL CHURCHILL, GRAHAM >>

4856

OPIMIAN LATE BOTTLED VINTAGE PORT, 2003 [FILTERED] $37.33

6 BTLS/750 ML $224.00

This is a wine from a superb vintage remembered for the constant heat of the mid-summer, when forest fires consumed thousands of acres. In the vineyards the grapes ripened magnificently, giving wines of intense, purple black colour. The nose is enticing with potent, complex fruitiness.

The fruit is rich and luscious, a harmonious blend of blackcurrant, cherry and plum. Full-bodied on the palate, the tightly-knit chewy tannins provide volume and structure to the succulent, jammy fruit which slowly fades into an incredibly long finish. [07]

4857

OPIMIAN LATE BOTTLED VINTAGE PORT, 2002 [UNFILTERED] $40.50

6 BTLS/750 ML $243.00

Churchill, Graham vintage ports are always full-bodied and rich, but this is more so than usual after bottling without the filtration that absorbs some of the complexities of the fruit. It is a big wine with plenty of chewy tannins, intense dark berry richness and long persistence in the mouth. The grapes are from Churchill, Graham’s own “quintas” in the Alto Douro where the yields are pathetically small and where the wine was made by the ancient method of foot pressing in “lagares” [stone tanks]. [07]

4858

OPIMIAN CRUSTED PORT, BOTTLED 2004 $46.33

6 BTLS/750 ML $278.00

This fine Port is produced in much the same manner as the flagship Vintage Port although, to throw a heavy crust or natural sediment, fine quality wines of more than one year are blended into well-matured, aged barrels. It is full-bodied and rich with spicy, ripe fruit flavours, pungently forceful tannins and an elegant aromatic nose. Well-rounded on the palate with an unctuously rich finish, it is one of the finest of all Crusted Ports. It is ready for immediate enjoyment but, like Vintage Port, decanting is advised. [07]

4859

Full-bodied, rich style with tannic structure and good balance Grape Variety

Tinta Roriz, Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Barroca

Aroma

Crushed black fruit, especially mulberries

Taste

Big tannic structure and intense berry richness

Serve

18º C

Evolution

Will drink at its best over the next 5 years

Ideal with

Roasted nuts

Needs time to develop Grape Variety

Tinta Roriz, Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Barroca

Aroma

Concentrated berry aroma

Taste

Luscious, mouth-filling fruit

Serve

18º C

Evolution

Becoming easier now, will last 5-10 years

Ideal with

Rins salteados em Vinho do Porto [Kidneys in a Port sauce]

Bottles cellared horizontally should stand upright for 24 hours prior to decanting Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca, Touriga Nacional, Tinta Grape Variety Barroca Aroma

Stewed prunes, rich, mellow

Taste

Ripe black plums, blackcurrant conserves

Serve

18º C

Evolution

Lovely now, but it will keep well for up to 10 years

Ideal with

Callos a la Gallega [Slow cooked tripe with chick peas, ham and sausage], rich cheeses

OPIMIAN TAWNY PORT, 10 YEARS OLD A gourmet experience $50.50

6 BTLS/750 ML $303.00

Fully aged in wood, yet retaining the freshness of youth, Tawny is carefully matured in casks or “port pipes” over many years with steady evaporation reducing the final yield, while fading the dark hue to the colour of a tiger’s eye.

What makes it profound is its complex fragrance of roasted nuts and sweet fruit. There is impeccable definition and richness, a velvety texture and a long, powerful finish. [07]

PORTUGAL CHURCHILL, GRAHAM >>

Grape Variety

Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca, Touriga Nacional, Tinta Barroca

Aroma

Roasted nuts, stone fruit, fig and vanilla

Taste

Light appearance, big secondary attack, svelte tannins, easy to enjoy

Serve

8º C

Evolution

Great now, will not change dramatically in bottle

Ideal with

Fine, mature hard cheeses such as Cheddar, Manchego or the Azores’ “Ilhas”

BRITISH COLUMBIA

15

4860

OPIMIAN SINGLE QUINTA, “AGUA ALTA” VINTAGE PORT, 1998 [WOODEN CASES] . $39.42

4861

12 BTLS/375 ML $473.00

OPIMIAN SINGLE QUINTA, “AGUA ALTA” VINTAGE PORT, 1998 [WOODEN CASES] $78.67

6 BTLS/750 ML $472.00

Johnny’s association with Agua Alta goes back to the early Churchill, Graham vintages. He continues to select these wines in years where he feels that the Quinta has produced a Port of exceptional quality. 1998 was such a year and was top rated by many eminent wine critics. The 1998 has fabulous intensity, both in colour and aromas, with the deep richness of ripe fruit pervading the room. [07]

4862

6 BTLS/750 ML $164.00

This is the first vintage of this most delicious, full flavoured rosé imaginable. The grapes, from low yielding bush trained vines, were de-stemmed, crushed and macerated on the skins for between six to eight hours. This gave the juice a deep pink complexion, after which it was run off and cold fermented. The bouquet is fresh, youthful, fruity and dry.

The forward, ripe, juicy flavour imparts strawberry and raspberry both on the nose and the palate. It is the perfect wine for barbecues. [00] M8 D9

VINHA DO MEIO QUEIJO, DOC DOURO, 2006 . $22.67

Aroma

Purple in colour with a mass of soft, concentrated fruit

Taste

Tannin to give structure with pleasant earthiness on the finish

Serve

18º C

Evolution

Soft and ready

Ideal with

Pollito de Grano al Vino de Porto [Chicken flavoured with Port, served in a Port wine sauce]

A crisp jet of pure summer Grape Variety

Touriga Nacional

Aroma

Freshly picked raspberries and strawberries

Taste

Light, acidic, very fruity, small earthy notes

Serve

10º C

Evolution

Drink while it is at optimum freshness

Ideal with

Pan-seared tuna, grilled prawns

Wild and strong Grape Variety

Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca, Touriga Nacional

Aroma

Earth, spice, leafy notes, raspberries

Taste

Soft, approachable, dry, red fruit finish

Serve

18º C

Evolution

Easy enough now, give it an early try

Ideal with

Tripas a modo do Porto [Slowly cooked tripe with butter-beans and chorizo sausage]

CHURCHILL ESTATES, DOC DOURO, 2007 Dynamite in a glass . $31.50

6 BTLS/750 ML $189.00

Simply stated, this is one of the best table wines to come out of the Douro. It is dark black in colour, powerfully perfumed, opulently ripe and has massive concentration. 2007 is a classic vintage and part of this power and thickness comes from the summer heat, the low yields and the waterstressing of the vines. It also says much about the skills of the winemaker. The palate power is endless, tannins driving on with the fruit in tow, long, complex and earthy. M5 D6

16

Tinta Roriz, Tinta Barroca, Touriga Franca, Touriga Nacional

6 BTLS/750 ML $136.00

The Douro producers have entered the table wine market with brilliance. This is fresh and fruity with aromas of redcurrants and raspberries and a touch of sweet clove spiciness. The palate is full-bodied, with no aggression from young tannins, and ends dry. Notes of big black cherries, spicy plums and crushed red fruit all add up to this special glass. M6 D7

4864

Grape Variety

CHURCHILL ESTATES ROSÉ, DOC DOURO, 2007 $27.33

4863

Named after the clear spring at the top of the vineyard

OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 185

Grape Variety

Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz

Aroma

Black plums, mulberries, damsons

Taste

Tough as leather, firm ripe tannins, blackcurrants

Serve

18º C

Evolution

Only just ready to taste then put it away for a couple of years

Ideal with

Vitela assado com passas [Veal with caramelized grapes], pato assado com molho de cerejas [Roast duckling with cherry sauce]

PORTUGAL CHURCHILL, GRAHAM

France

CAVE VINICOLE DE HUNAWIHR Alsace In the heart of Alsace the three villages, Riquewihr, Ribeauvillé and Hunawihr form a triangle encompassing the most famous of the Grands Crus and the majority of the finest sites. This small area is the equivalent of Burgundy’s famous Côte d’Or. It is where Opimian’s supplier, Cave Vinicole de Hunawihr, an ultra modern growers’ co-operative, controls the grape production and winemaking for close to five hundred small family wine growers.

Members of the co-operative at the entrance of Cave Vinicole de Hunawihr

4865

CRÉMANT D’ALSACE, CALIXTE BRUT, AOC ALSACE CRÉMANT, NV

Sparkling value for money

$27.50

Grape Variety

Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Auxerrois

Aroma

An integration of citrus and freshly baked bread crust

Taste

Crisp, elegant flavours of brioche

Serve

11º C

Evolution

A perfect start, middle and end to an evening among friends

Ideal with

Oysters, seared saddle of rabbit

6 BTLS/750 ML $165.00

We’ve described this as the finest “Champagne that is not Champagne” for more than twenty years. It is refined and perfectly balanced with no excess acidity and no sign of harshness. Around the glass a host of tiny bubbles release grapey perfumes. A bright, crisp charmer, it fills the glass with aromas of apple, pear and pineapple followed by wellbalanced fruit flavours, a touch of sugar and fresh acidity.

[02] M8 D9

4866

SYLVANER RÉSERVE, AOC ALSACE, 2007 $20.50

6 BTLS/750 ML $123.00

A native to Austria, the Sylvaner first appeared in Alsace 200 years ago, where it rapidly gained popularity. This grape produces wines with fresh, vivid flavours and a charming bouquet showing refined notes of apple freshness and fruity acidity. Always versatile, it finishes with a fine, dry impression that leaves the palate squeaky clean.

[00] M7 D8

FRANCE CAVE VINICOLE DE HUNAWIHR >>

Youthfully bright, wonderful appetizer Grape Variety

Sylvaner

Aroma

Fresh, clean, grapey

Taste

Combination of grape with light apple and pear notes

Serve

11º C

Evolution

Lovely now, it will hold well for 3 years

Ideal with

Tarte à l’Oignon

BRITISH COLUMBIA

17

4867

RIESLING RÉSERVE, AOC ALSACE, 2007 Fine, sharply defined fruit $22.67

6 BTLS/750 ML $136.00

Dry and lively with racy acidity, the Riesling is considered the “King of Alsace”. It is utterly different from its German counterpart and more refined than the Rieslings from vineyards in other parts of the world. This has wonderful balance between acidity and fruit that results from long ripening on the vine, allowing for the development of rich characteristics, continuing even when the harvest extended into late October. Dry and robust, it initially appears rather light, but power asserts itself in the mouth where it finishes with good length. [01] M6 D7

4868

6 BTLS/750 ML $156.00

Vibrant, light green/straw in colour, it has a lifted nose of fresh grapey aromas and hints of spice. The mouth-filling palate shows lively flavours, balanced by acidity, giving a crisp, dry finish. Serving well-chilled will heighten the crisp, spicy aroma and intense flavours which are balanced by fruit acidity. The combination of the flavour with a clean, dry finish makes it a perfect aperitif that can be enjoyed without food. [01] M7 D7

GEWÜRZTRAMINER RÉSERVE, AOC ALSACE, 2007 $27.67

6 BTLS/750 ML $166.00

Crystal clear with light golden reflections, it has ripe intensity that has begun to develop through the youthful qualities. Pleasant, distinguished aromas reveal roses, peony and fresh peach. Slightly candied, it builds on the exotic fruit and then shows notes of ginger and lychees. In the mouth the flavours are ample and soft, the palate evolving on refreshing lime accents. [03] M6 D7

4870

Aroma

Sherbet, lemons and honeysuckle

Taste

Dry, medium-bodied, flavours of white peach and lemon

Serve

10º C

Evolution

Develops slowly over a period of at least four years

Ideal with

Flaked trout with melon and herb salsa

Muscat in a style all its own Grape Variety

Muscat

Aroma

Intense fruit, floral aromas, hints of toasted almond

Taste

Passion fruit, ripe banana, jasmine and spice

Serve

10º C

Evolution

Open and enjoy within three years

Ideal with

Côtelettes au vin blanc

Fragrant and beautifully balanced Grape Variety

Gewürztraminer

Aroma

Flawless spicy varietal character exuding rose petals

Taste

Big flavours with honeysuckle and lychees

Serve

10º C

Evolution

Already great and ready to enjoy

Ideal with

Terrine de Foie, Chinese and Carribean food

PINOT BLANC, MÉDAILLE D’OR MÂCON, AOC ALSACE, 2007

Intense heather honey with vivid, fresh qualities

$23.50

Grape Variety

Pinot Blanc

Aroma

Melons, nectarines, lime zest

Taste

Rich body, fine acidity maintains the fresh taste

Serve

10º - 12º C

Evolution

Delicious now, but it is in no hurry

Ideal with

Lobster salad

6 BTLS/750 ML $141.00

The 2007 Pinot Blanc is vigorous, powerful, balanced and beautifully structured; it is no surprise that it has won a Gold Medal. Subtle, elegant and tempting, it is fresh and soft with noticeable fruit sweetness and small notes of angelica and lemon peel. Dry in the mouth, with apple fruit and a stony, mineral accented acidity, the Pinot Blanc ages well, retaining the floral aroma and natural acidity. [01] M6 D7

18

Riesling

MUSCAT RÉSERVE, AOC ALSACE, 2007 $26.00

4869

Grape Variety

OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 185

FRANCE CAVE VINICOLE DE HUNAWIHR >>

4871

PINOT GRIS, MÉDAILLE D’OR COLMAR, AOC ALSACE 2006

Low yield resulted in concentration of fruit flavour

. $28.83

Grape Variety

Pinot Gris

Aroma

Pear, honeysuckle, peaches

Taste

Lifted by fresh acidity, it has fruit, citrus and mineral streaks

Serve

10º C

Evolution

Should reach perfection within the next four years

Ideal with

Sushi, sashimi

6 BTLS/750 ML $173.00

Although Pinot Gris is not widely planted in Alsace, it is becoming increasingly popular for its complexity. The bouquet is an aromatic star showing stone fruit, peach and crisp mineral notes. The palate is vigorous and rich with ample acidity giving good length and a buttery, powerfully intense flavour. Touched by honeyed sweetness, the fine mouth-feel is still fresh with leafy elements that finish with the refined caress of residual sugar. [02] M6 D6

4872

RIESLING, LIEU-DIT SILBERBERG, AOC ALSACE, 2005

From a small vineyard that traps the sun

. $25.17

Grape Variety

Riesling

Aroma

Pure peach aromas with hints of white flowers

Taste

Peach and slate with a tight acid structure

Serve

11º C

Evolution

Perfectly ready

Ideal with

Trout with rosemary and ginger sauce

6 BTLS/750 ML $151.00

This fine classic comes from the Silberberg vineyard that spreads like a cloak around a shoulder of the hillside above the winery. While this is not a Grand Cru, it is clearly in a class that sets the wines far above the ordinary, local Rieslings. Quite brilliant on the nose, always a touch austere, there is enormous depth and concentrated purity with citrus, spice, honey and flinty mineral notes. It is ripe and ready, the richness of the extract giving opulence and length. [01] M7 D8

Muehlforst

FRANCE CAVE VINICOLE DE HUNAWIHR >>

BRITISH COLUMBIA

19

4873

RIESLING, GRAND CRU, SCHOENENBOURG, AOC ALSACE GRAND CRU, 2007

Classy, powerful and perfectly balanced

$32.83

Grape Variety

Riesling

Aroma

Citrus fruits and mineral nuances reminiscent of its terroir

Taste

Essentially dry, rich and full

Serve

11º C

Evolution

Still very young, a wine with great ageing potential – minimum 10 years

Ideal with

Freshly opened oysters with a touch of lime juice

6 BTLS/750 ML $197.00

There can be few to doubt the place of the Riesling in the aristocracy of white vines; it produces greatness wherever planted, but those of Alsace are unique. This beauty has light yellow gold with green highpoints. The nose evokes scents of passion fruit, citrus and mango while a note of spicy ginger adds interest to the heady flavours which remain perfectly fresh. Almost dry, it offers a long-lasting finish. [02] M6 D7

4874

PINOT GRIS, GRAND CRU, ROSACKER, AOC ALSACE GRAND CRU, 2007

Ripe stone fruit with a hint of spice and smoke

$37.17

Grape Variety

Pinot Gris

Aroma

An array of fruit: apricots, citrus blossom, cumquats, lime, pineapple and mangoes

Taste

Luscious, sweet, concentrated

Serve

10º C

Evolution

Only just in bottle, leave it to build complexity

Ideal with

Calves sweetbread, white meat, poultry, game birds, blue cheese

6 BTLS/750 ML $223.00

2007 was a superb vintage in Alsace. The grapes reached perfect ripeness, particularly on the southeast facing slope of the Grand Cru, Rosacker site. This Pinot Gris has a ripe, spicy, cinnamon and clove nose, with brilliantly pure fruit notes taking the bouquet to refined elegance. Focussed lemony acidity ensures it remains light despite the concentration of fruit and residual sugar. [06] M5 D6

4875

GEWÜRZTRAMINER, GRAND CRU, SCHOENENBOURG, AOC ALSACE GRAND CRU, 2006

Still locked up and ungainly

$39.50

Grape Variety

Gewürztraminer

Aroma

Intensely floral aromas alongside spice, melon, guava and ripe pears

Taste

Big range of flavours that require time to harmonize

Serve

10º C

Evolution

Needs time, superb ageing potential

Ideal with

Roasted sea bass with tomato coulis and fennel salsa

6 BTLS/750 ML $237.00

Although the 2006 vintage was lighter than its predecessor it has enhanced harmony and poise, the flavours of the ripe fruit balanced by a fine level of fresh acidity. In the glass it has a lemon golden colour edged with a youthful green hue with the bouquet developing candied notes and delicate traces of roses and woodland leaves. Still a touch stalky, there is good length and balanced vivacity. [04] M5 D5

4876

PINOT NOIR, MÉDAILLE D’OR COLMAR, AOC ALSACE, 2007

Fleshy with firm, fine-grained tannins

$29.17

Grape Variety

Pinot Noir

Aroma

Morello cherry, blackcurrant, fallen leaves

Taste

Tart and austere with flavours developing nicely

Serve

18º C

Evolution

Still young, will reach optimum drinking within 5 years

Ideal with

Roast leg of lamb with seasonal oven roasted vegetables, Chinese food

6 BTLS/750 ML $175.00

Alsace is too far north for its Pinot Noir to be a big wine, but the continental climate ripens the grapes slowly, concentrating the refined, classy aromas and flavours. The grapes were fermented in old wood to ensure that no woody flavours transferred to the wine before bottling. This has a light ruby colour with a nose full of red fruits and cooked plums alongside forest floor leaves. Silken threads of tannin add length to the smooth and flavoursome palate as it cruises towards maturity. M6 D7

20

OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 185

FRANCE CAVE VINICOLE DE HUNAWIHR

PAUL SAPINThe Master of the Maconnais La Chapelle de Guinchay Only a dozen years ago many wine brands were produced in the Mâconnais with labels that were almost old friends. Most of them have gone in the globalization of the wine industry. However, one stands apart; Paul Sapin. Thierry Coulon has turned this family-owned winery from a small traditional négociant into a state of the art, world class winery.

Castle in the Beaujolais Region

4880

COEUR DES LANCIERS BLANC, VIN DE TABLE FRANÇAIS

A long time, firm favourite

$12.17

Grape Variety

Ugni Blanc, Chardonnay, Colombard

Aroma

Attractive fresh aroma

Taste

Sappy, concentrated with balanced fruit

Serve

11º C

Evolution

Ready upon arrival

Ideal with

Poached mussels in a light butter and cream sauce

12 BTLS/750 ML $146.00

Always light and bright, this blend has a clear, golden colour with plenty of fresh fruit in the glass. Typical lemony crispness is paired with sliced apples and pears and is augmented with finely balanced citrus acidity that adds length in the mouth. Thierry Coulon sources the grapes from local vineyards, many being too young for their wines to have reached AOC status, but with qualities that produce easy to enjoy wines. [01] M9 D9

FRANCE PAUL SAPIN >>

BRITISH COLUMBIA

21

4881

COEUR DES LANCIERS ROSÉ, VIN DE TABLE FRANÇAIS

Light and charming, a nice quaffing wine

. $12.17

Grape Variety

Grenache, Gamay

Aroma

Light, red fruit and apple

Taste

Dry, mildly spicy, fresh cut fruit

Serve

11º C

Evolution

Perfect for springtime and summer

Ideal with

Cold meat, poultry, barbecues

12 BTLS/750 ML $146.00

Interest in rosé is growing enthusiastically with each passing season. Until recently, these typically light-bodied wines took just 2% of sales, but now they reach four times that number. This has a delightful salmon pink colour with attractive touches of redcurrants, raspberries and strawberries that caress the nose and palate against a background of apple malic, tasty acidity. [00] M9 D9

4882

COEUR DES LANCIERS ROUGE, VIN DE TABLE FRANÇAIS

An ever popular, every day favourite

$12.33

Grape Variety

Grenache, Gamay

Aroma

Perfumed, attractive red fruit

Taste

Light and fruity

Serve

16º - 18º C

Evolution

Ready, an “anytime” glass

Ideal with

Serve slightly chilled with cold roasted meats

12 BTLS/750 ML $148.00

For many years this label has represented fantastic value for money. This unoaked, light and fruity red has a solid backbone of cherry and blueberry fruit. The nose has aromas of raspberries and strawberries with a touch of spice.

Fresh tasting with a smooth finish, the base wine comes from a Gamay vineyard in the Loire blended with southern Grenache. M9 D9

4883

MÂCON-LUGNY BLANC, AOC, GRANDE TERRE, 2008 . $24.00

6 BTLS/750 ML $144.00

Thierry Coulon believes that great wines are made in the vineyard rather than in the winery. His growers use traditional work patterns with the vines. Later, in the winery, minimal intervention allows the development of fresh, youthful aromas of apples and oatmeal. The refined, creamy, succulent flavour features pineapple, grapefruit and a mineral-edged finish. [00] M7 D8

4884

Grape Variety

Chardonnay

Aroma

Nutty, apple, overtones of acacia

Taste

Dry hazelnuts with exotic fruit

Serve

11º C

Evolution

As young as it is, try it now and capture the youth

Ideal with

As an aperitif, veal escalope with mushrooms and tarragon

POUILLY-FUISSÉ, AOC, VIEILLES VIGNES, 2008 $35.17

6 BTLS/750 ML $211.00

There are many occasions when Pouilly-Fuissé is just as good, even as great, as the wines of the Côte d’Or. This wine is one such example. Fresh from the latest vintage, this is the pinnacle of the Mâconnais. Succulent and rich, the nose has pineapple, apple, mango and a hint of vanilla.

The palate is rounded and generous, offering grapefruit and lemon rind to bring depth, texture and vigour to the finish. [00] M6 D7

22

From one of the best sites in the Mâconnais

OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 185

Musical harmony Grape Variety

Chardonnay

Aroma

Understated, ripe tropical fruits

Taste

Pineapple and peach with creamy vanilla, slightly spiced

Serve

11º C

Evolution

Best in 3 years, will go on for 8 years or more

Ideal with

Ruffle-edged pasta with cauliflower and parsley sauce

FRANCE PAUL SAPIN >>

4885

BEAUJOLAIS ROUGE, AOC, LES GENETIÈRES, 2008 . $14.92

12 BTLS/750 ML $179.00

It has been quite a while since we offered Beaujolais from Sapin, but this one is too good to miss. Wines from the Gamay grape have low tannins, so they can be relished while young. Here we liked the sappy, energetic attack of the youthful characteristics. Flushed with spicy fruit and an almost raw appeal, it is nicely structured with dominant raspberry and cassis fruit, soft light tannins and essential balancing acidity. M7 D8

4886

BEAUJOLAIS VILLAGES, AOC, VIEILLES VIGNES, 2008 . $17.17

12 BTLS/750 ML $206.00

The long autumn sunshine fully, but gently, ripened the fruit after the poor weather of early summer. This led the fruit to perfection, allowing the Gamay to show off fruity succulence heightened by scrumptious red berry aromas with a typical, underlying mineral tang. The concentrated palate, complex and long, works in harmony with well-balanced tannins to create the secondary bouquet with clear notes of iris. M8 D8

FRANCE PAUL SAPIN

Charming, impressive, complete Grape Variety

Gamay Noir à Jus Blanc

Aroma

Chocolate and freshly picked, unripe red fruit

Taste

Juicy, acidic, fresh pungent finish

Serve

14º - 17º C

Evolution

Still young, but very good now

Ideal with

Pistachio-crusted pork with plum sauce and fried leeks

Voluptuous with enduring intensity Grape Variety

Gamay Noir à Jus Blanc

Aroma

Rich, succulent raspberry with a pinch of black pepper

Taste

Black cherries, ripe tannin, ample mouth-feel

Serve

12º C

Evolution

Developing quickly but steadily, drink within two years

Ideal with

Spinach and cottage cheese lasagna

BRITISH COLUMBIA

23

COUPON PROGRAMS

WINE PROGRAMS

Refer a new member, and upon joining, the new member will receive a Free Case Coupon and you will receive a Referral Case Coupon.

OPIMIAN SELECT

WWW.OPIM.CA or 800-361-9421 NEW MEMBERS With your valid Free Case Coupon, choose one of the 6 bottle cases listed below, with the order of any other case on the same Cellar Offering (excluding Opimian Select and Founders’ Choice).

REFERRING MEMBERS With your valid Referral Case Coupon, choose one of the 6 bottle cases listed below, with the order of any other case on the same Cellar Offering (excluding Opimian Select and Founders’ Choice) OR

A Selection of our Wines Receive a mixed case (6 bottles) from a region’s most representative wines from every offering. This is a great way to sample the many styles, grape varietals, and terroir from the world’s best wine-producing regions.

Redeem your valid Referral Case Coupon for a Wine Credit (based on tenure) and apply against a case of your choice, with the order of any other case on the same Cellar Offering (excluding Opimian Select and Founders’ Choice).

FOUNDERS’ CHOICE

YOUR FREE CASE CHOICES FOR THIS CELLAR OFFERING

Receive one premium wine (6 bottles) from Opimian’s most trusted suppliers.

COEUR DES LANCIERS BLANC, VIN DE TABLE FRANÇAIS Packaged in cases of 6, this is the same wine as lot 4880, available only with the coupon as explained above.

Every Founders’ Choice selection features a dedicated back label and we provide a detailed description of each wine region, terroir, winemaking style, grape type, and food match.

COEUR DES LANCIERS ROSÉ, VIN DE TABLE FRANÇAIS

The Founders’ Choice feature supplier is Vinoseleccion

4877 4878

Coupon

Coupon

6 BTLS/750 ML

6 BTLS/750 ML

Packaged in cases of 6, this is the same wine as lot 4881, available only with the coupon as explained above.

4879

,

COEUR DES LANCIERS ROUGE, VIN DE TABLE FRANÇAIS Coupon

A Collection of Premium Wines

These wines are not available on the Cellar Offering and can only be ordered through reserving on these programs.

For an application, please visit our website, www.opim.ca, “Downloads” section OR call us at 800-361-9421.

6 BTLS/750 ML

opim.ca Packaged in cases of 6, this is the same wine as lot 4882, available only with the coupon as explained above.

CONDITIONS OF PURCHASE FOR CELLAR OFFERING 185

• Bottle prices are for reference only. All orders are by the case, with no minimum nor maximum required.

• 4 ways to order: Online: www.opim.ca Email at: opim@opim.ca Phone: 800-361-9421 Fax: 514-481-9699

• Last day to order for this Cellar Offering: January 12, 2009

• A valid 2009 membership card is required to order and pick up.

• Expected arrivals at Canadian Port: End of May, 2009. Arrival dates at liquor boards depend on their distances from port of entry.

• Methods of Payment: Credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express) or by cheque made out to Opimian in Trust.

• Release dates: Dependent upon actual arrival dates, and processing time required by each liquor board.

• Your order status: Updated weekly at www.opim.ca.

SYMBOLS

Members’ Choice

White

Drink this year

Red

Enjoyable now; will develop 6 months-2 years

Rosé

This symbol denotes wines most ordered

by Opimian members. These are consistently popular with our membership at large.

Opimian Suggests

Heavy oak

Medium concentration

Light in body

Medium oak

Light oak

Less than 100 cs available

Extremely limited quantities

Very limited quantities

Limited quantities

Prices include all applicable federal and provincial mark ups and taxes, including G.S.T & H.S.T #R 105 233 217 • Q.S.T #1000640430

Appeared in the C178 Select Cases (2008 Season)

To help novice members, this symbol is a guide to wines that are suitable for starting a cellar, and/or for drinking within two years of delivery.

Wine meant for laying down

Sparkling

Great concentration

Medal Winner

Sweetness scale

gms/litre

00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10

0-3 4-6 7 - 12 13 - 20 21 - 34 35 - 50 51 - 74 75 - 100 101 - 139 140 - 179 180 >

Examples Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, many reds Some New World Varietals, some reds Champagne, Sparklers, Rosés, few reds Mosel, some Alsace, Anjou Semi-sweet Bordeaux, some sherry Kabinett German, Late Harvest, Alsace, dry White Port Spätlese German, Sweet Loire, Port, Dessert Muscat Auslese, Beerenauslese Ice Wines, Sauternes, Barsac, dessert wines, Port Ice Wines, Sauternes, Barsac, dessert wines, Port Speciality sweet wines, Trockenbeerenauslese

#420 - 5165 Sherbrooke West, Montreal, QC, H4A 1T6 T: 514-483-5551 or 800-361-9421 F: 514-481-9699 opim@opim.ca www.opim.ca