C197-BC: Canada, California, Spain and a glance back to Italy

BRITISH COLUMBIA ORDER BY JULY 12, 2010

OFFERING 197

Canada, California, Spain and a glance back to Italy

The perfect beginning in Monterey County – Mountain View Vintners

CELLAR OFFERING 197

Canada, California, Spain and a glance back to Italy Our final offering for 2010 delivery is an eclectic selection of the finest wines from four countries with widely varying styles and growing conditions. Look inside to find a treasure trove of wonderful, diverse wines.

Canada 2

OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 197

Icewine harvest begins when temperatures drop below -10º to -13º C and the grapes have frozen onto the vines. As the frozen grapes are pressed, the natural water portion of the juice remains as ice crystals.

The liquid that is extracted is a small and highly concentrated elixir.

On the world stage the wines of Canada continue to impress knowledgeable commentators, although there is scarcely a flicker of interest among international consumers. This is not because the wines do not deserve recognition, but it is in large part due to the modest size of production and the ready appeal of nearby wineries to the wine enthusiasts of the Canadian population.

CANADA >>

PELEE ISLAND WINERY Kingsville, Ontario Founded before Canada’s confederation, Pelee Island’s winery has been winning medals for excellence since 1878 in Paris. The winery was established as Vin Villa

by Austrian investors as long ago as the 1860s. Today, that link is continued by winemaker Walter Schmoranz, whose skill has motivated Ontario winemakers and those from beyond Canada’s borders for many years. The quality of the location is owed to its limestone-based soil, southern microclimate and maritime influence.

Pelee Island Winery vineyards

5673

VIDAL ICEWINE, VQA PELEE ISLAND, 2007 $52.33

6 BTLS/375 ML $314.00

Icewine is the area of wine production that is the quintessential expression of Canadian viniculture. The Vidal variety has the ability to concentrate the highly aromatic and flavoursome juice into extract-rich nectar with massive fruit sugar levels. In the vineyard, the grapes freeze almost solidly when the biting cold reaches through the vineyards in mid-December. The frozen grapes are picked and carefully pressed, the water crystals consolidate as ice in the press, while the sugary, mineral rich juice flows away to ferment. Now maturing, this golden wine is luscious, sweet and smooth. It is superbly balanced with tingling acidity carrying concentrated aromas of apricot and peach into the glass. [10] M5 D7

5674

Rich and voluptuous Grape Variety

Vidal

Aroma

Floral nectar, mineral, spice, orange peel, dried apricot

Taste

Flavours pour through the unctuous texture with racy acidity

Serve

8° C

Evolution

Carefully stored it will last a lifetime

Ideal with

An after dinner indulgence for quiet sipping

SAUVIGNON BLANC, PRIVATE SELECTION, VQA ONTARIO, 2009

Inviting, vibrant acidity to please every palate

$17.33

Grape Variety

Sauvignon Blanc

Aroma

Herbal sweetness

Taste

Good grip through the mid-palate, balanced acidity

Serve

9º C

Evolution

Perfect to enjoy now

Ideal with

Potato-crusted halibut fillets with Yukon Gold potatoes

6 BTLS/750 ML $104.00

This wine from the latest vintage seems a touch more mineral and vigorous than those of previous years while maintaining the same fruit-driven appeal with grass and herbal notes and typical young Sauvignon capsicum. The nose reveals ripe plumpness while in the mouth there is a chalky aspect. Little notes of citrus fruit provide a sturdy mouthfeel with nuances that come from maturation on the lees and add further complexity. [01] M8 D9

CANADA PELEE ISLAND WINERY >>

BRITISH COLUMBIA

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Far left photo: Pelee Island is Canada's warmest and southernmost appellation Near left photo: Left Martin Janz oversees the day-to-day winemaking operations. Right Winemaker & President, Walter Schmoranz, sits on the VQA board and heads several committees at the Wine Council of Ontario

5675

GEWÜRZTRAMINER/RIESLING, PRIVATE SELECTION, VQA ONTARIO, 2009 $20.50

6 BTLS/750 ML $123.00

This is the fourth vintage of a Pelee Island Winery blend that partners two of the most aromatic varieties. On its own, the spicy Gewürztraminer can be overpowering, but with a sizeable chunk of regal, more acidic Riesling, all excess is tamed. The bouquet is soft and aromatic with hints of rose petals and Turkish Delight perfume. The wellrounded palate, which features peaches and ripe, exotic fruit from the nose, is quite fat and ample. [02] M7 D8

5676

CHARDONNAY, PRIVATE SELECTION, VQA ONTARIO, 2009 $20.50

6 BTLS/750 ML $123.00

Although labelled as Chardonnay, this is blended with Auxerrois, which adds a completely new direction to the more opulent, creamy aspects of the Chardonnay. Bright gold and youthful flashes of lime green indicate its fresh nature. The nose is forward and fruity with citrus and tropical fruit. The palate is light, dry and crisp. Tangibly clean, the excellent presentation of primary fruit includes pineapple and citrus with cut apples and minerals. [00] M7 D8

Exuberant, creamy and full of green fruit Grape Variety

Gewürztraminer, Riesling

Aroma

Notes of orange peel

Taste

Immediate freshness, soft acidity

Serve

8º - 11º C

Evolution

Still has time to go, but approachable now

Ideal with

Wild rice pilaf with caramelized leeks, dried cherries

A versatile wine equally at home on its own or with food Grape Variety

Chardonnay, Auxerrois

Aroma

Lively, citrus

Taste

Dry, soft, notes of ripe peaches, apples and citrus acidity

Serve

9° C

Evolution

Will keep for five years in a good cellar, but it is at its best now

Ideal with

Fish fillets with grapefruit-tarragon beurre blanc

BLACK PRINCE WINERY Picton, Prince Edward County Once again, Black Prince Winery has been scooping up its annual haul of medals and awards, winning fourteen during 2009. Ken Christie’s evaluation leads to the statement, “These are the best yet from Black Prince Winery.”

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OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 197

CANADA PELEE ISLAND WINERY > BLACK PRINCE WINERY >>

Cabernet Franc is one of the varieties best suited for Prince Edward County's terroir and climate

5678

VIDAL, 2009, PRINCE EDWARD COUNTY $24.83

5679

6 BTLS/750 ML $149.00

A high-flying refreshing charmer

An instant gush of sappy, herbal aromas, it is more closely akin to elderberry and redcurrant than normally found in fine Sauvignon Blanc. The winemaker has done an expert job of bringing his fruit to near perfect ripeness, picking it from the six year old vines early enough to conserve the mouth-watering fresh acidity of the grapes. The nose is focussed and floral with fuller grape and grapefruit notes.

On the palate it is perfectly balanced between ripe fruit flavours and brisk acidity. [00] M9 D9

Grape Variety

Vidal

Aroma

Exotic, herbal, ripe berry notes, lifted, spicy edge

Taste

Balanced, sassy, vigorous

Serve

9° C

Evolution

Made for early enjoyment

Ideal with

Asian ginger-scallion crusted salmon

CHARDONNAY, 2009, PRINCE EDWARD COUNTY

A Prince Edward County combo of local fruit matured in local oak

$28.50

6 BTLS/750 ML $171.00

Clean, light and modestly fragrant, the first sniff shows that careful attention has been paid to the handling of the grapes which were pressed under moderate pressure before fermentation at low temperatures. This chilling process helped to retain the fine aromas which are enhanced by careful use of barrels made from Prince Edward County oak. This wine is pale in colour with the bouquet harmonized by use of Australian cultured yeast which developed the gentle, floral nose with sweet notes and fine spice. The palate shows good balance and firm acidity. [00] M8 D8

5680

Black Prince Winery retail room

MERLOT, 2009, PRINCE EDWARD COUNTY $31.00

6 BTLS/750 ML $186.00

It requires a great leap of faith for growers to plant this classic vine in a potentially hostile climate, yet the risk pays off with wines such as this. It has a modest red colour with a refined, fruity, youthful, but complete nose. After pressing the grape mash was cooled and left on the skins for ten days to assist the extraction of colour and complexity before fermentation in stainless steel tanks. Aged for several months in used barrels, it has a leafy, herbal edge to the nose which shows red berry fruits. On the palate the fruit dominates the low level of mouth-drying tannins. Small notes of vanilla and caramel complete the varietal picture. M8 D8

CANADA BLACK PRINCE WINERY

Grape Variety

Chardonnay

Aroma

Small, grapey, floral

Taste

Nicely balanced, moderate fruit without excess acidity

Serve

9° C

Evolution

Still young, it can develop over a medium term, drink 2010 – 2012

Ideal with

Maple Teriyaki chicken

Modestly stated, classy New World Merlot Grape Variety

Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon

Aroma

Light, spicy oak, raspberries, coffee

Taste

Cherry fruit, herbal complexity, a spicy finish

Serve

16° - 18° C

Evolution

Easy, forward, it will mature for two to three years

Ideal with

Butter-roasted chicken with roasted vegetables

BRITISH COLUMBIA

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California

Among the global wine giants, the USA has the sixth largest area under vines, falling behind China, and is fourth in the league of producers, behind the three European giants, Spain, Italy and France. However, when measuring per capita wine consumption, the USA remains relatively dry, being in sixtieth position, behind Canada (forty-seventh) and trailing a long way behind the most “vini bibulous” of the world’s nations – the Vatican! The USA produces wines at more than 6,368 wine estates with California’s 2,843 bonded wineries providing much choice for this stellar offering.

Burgess vineyards, Howell Mountain

BURGESS CELLARS Howell Mountain, Napa Valley This year, Tom Burgess turns seventy. He has been the strong arm and guiding hand at the once rundown 100 acre winery he bought in 1972, on the side of Howell Mountain in the heart of the Napa Valley. At that time, Napa was extensively rural and success was not assured. Joined by winemaker Bill Sorenson, Tom set out to re-plant and re-build. Today the vineyards and the winery are a testament to their successful efforts. Over the years two vineyards have been added; Tom’s production has reached 28,000 cases, all of it estate grown on Burgess land. He would be the first to admit that he works hard and does many jobs at the winery, doubling as gardener, carpenter and handyman. In 2005, Tom persuaded his son, Steve, to return to the family business providing him with more time with his three grandchildren, while permitting the handover of the sales and marketing roles to his son. Like many of California’s finest wineries, this is driven by the whole family’s ambition to seek higher levels of personal satisfaction from the success of the estate they have built together.

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OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 197

CALIFORNIA BURGESS CELLARS >>

5681

BURGESS PETITE SIRAH, NAPA VALLEY, 2007 $28.00

12 BTLS/750 ML $336.00

The wine is produced from fruit grown in the Burgess Ink Grade vineyard on the eastern slope of Howell Mountain, where early morning sun warms the vines, but leaves the vineyards cool through the night. These temperature variations permit phenolic ripening, allowing the concentrated, water-stressed fruit to be picked with a high level of retained acidity. Burgess has only a little over two acres of Petite Sirah, so it does not feature on their public releases, but it is reserved for their club members and Opimian enthusiasts. Deep and tooth-staining purple, it is an orchestrated symphony of berry aromas, spice, vanilla and tarry liquorice. Big flavours fill the palate with pure vinosity that leaves a long memory of the grainy tannins. M6 D7

5682

BURGESS SYRAH, NAPA VALLEY, 2006 $31.58

12 BTLS/750 ML $379.00

The Burgess fruit comes from two of the family-owned vineyards, the Triere vineyard at the southern end of Napa Valley, the other, above Pope Valley. Due to poor conditions in spring, the grapes were picked later than usual. Even the arrival of a blazing hot summer was not sufficient to prevent the delay of harvest until October to ensure full ripeness. The blended fruit was fermented with plenty of aeration then aged in oak from France and lactone-rich American wood giving the wine its fine vanilla aromas. Bottled two years ago, there has been progressive maturity, but it still appears youthful. Big, plush and smoky, it has a dark chocolate centre with plum and blackberry fruit.

Delicious, spicy, piquant acidity is found on the palate with a refined, ripe tannin structure. M6 D7

5683

BURGESS CABERNET SAUVIGNON, NAPA VALLEY, 2006 $43.50

Excellent balance, a beautifully pitched wine Grape Variety

Petite Sirah

Aroma

Fragrant, blackcurrant, ripe, black plum

Taste

Structured, broad and concentrated, dark fruit fills the mouth, tannins are fine and supple

Serve

18° C

Evolution

Already showing good development, but so concentrated it will go on for some years

Ideal with

Lamb with smoked garlic and vegetables

Big and powerful, similar to a northern Rhône classic Grape Variety

Syrah, Grenache

Aroma

Wild mulberries, spicy blackberries, violets, toasty oak

Taste

Concentrated, ripe berries

Serve

18° C

Evolution

Developing well, drink 2010 - 2015

Ideal with

Grilled beef steaks with green peppercorn sauce

A fine wine showing complexity and balance

6 BTLS/750 ML $261.00

Although the growing conditions of the Napa Valley are regular and can be relied upon to produce fine fruit, the involvement of both of Tom’s sons, Jim and Steve Burgess, working together for the first time in 2006, ensured that a strict and more detailed evaluation of grape maturity was carried out before the harvest. With perfectly ripe fruit coming from the Howell Mountain and Ink Grade vineyards, the wine could truly be said to have been made in the vineyard. With such complex soils, the 34 year old vines extract from deep into the rocky sub-structures, producing a small yield that develops cassis, blackberry, cherry and plum accented by nuances from barrel ageing, a process that enhances the colour and organoleptic properties of the nose and palate. M6 D6

CALIFORNIA BURGESS CELLARS >>

Grape Variety

Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot

Aroma

Notes of vanilla and oak restrain the powerful black fruit

Taste

Big, filled with fruit flavours, long powerful finish

Serve

18° C

Evolution

Good for a long stay in the cellar, drink 2011 - 2020

Ideal with

Grilled or barbecued red meats, well-aged cheeses

Centre: Tom Burgess in original winery built circa 1880's Right: Burgess ranch vineyard

BRITISH COLUMBIA

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5684

BURGESS ESTATE VINEYARDS RESERVE, CABERNET SAUVIGNON, NAPA VALLEY, 2006 $75.17

This is BIG in every way

6 BTLS/750 ML $451.00

Without the balance coming from sensitive skill in the winery, this would have been a brute of a wine. It is almost black, typical of Tom Burgess’ biggest and finest, the polished hue comes from ageing in new oak. The bouquet includes all the notes in the wine book, ranging from pepper, smoke, fruit, with vanilla, liquorice and tea leaves thrown in for good measure. With such complexity it is just as noteworthy in the mouth where the tannins are muscular and still weighty, waiting to soften to complete the harmony.

For this wine Tom uses fruit picked from his original Howell Mountain site. M6 D6

Grape Variety

Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Petit Verdot

Aroma

Pungent, piquant, spicy, ripe

Taste

Utterly fills the palate with gushing juice and smooth tannins

Serve

18° C

Evolution

Marvellous mouth-feel, can be enjoyed, but should be cellared, drink 2010 to 2020

Ideal with

Grilled teal with jalapeños, bacon wrapped and stuffed with cream cheese

STELTZNER VINEYARDS Stags Leap, Napa Valley Opimian members first met Richard Steltzner in the early 1980s, at a time when the Napa Valley was carrying many prizes and gaining many devotees. Dick has the physique and appearance once used as a model to carve the great figureheads that adorned the bows of sailing ships of war. He is, if nothing else, a man of the soil. By the time we met Dick, his small Stags Leap vineyard was well-established, along with his reputation as a vineyard consultant. As the Steltzner vineyard expanded and its wines became cherished, the need for more barrel space was provided when Dick drove a broad 710 foot tunnel right through the mountain at the back of his office. Throughout close to thirty years, Opimians remain convinced that wines carrying the Steltzner label are full-bodied, bold and hearty – all rather like Dick Steltzner!

Steltzner Family - Left to Right: Laura, Allison - General Manager, Justin - Vineyard Manager and Founders, Christine and Richard

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OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 197

CALIFORNIA BURGESS CELLARS > STELTZNER VINEYARDS >>

Steltzner caves

5685

STELTZNER VINEYARDS SANGIOVESE RISERVA, STAGS LEAP DISTRICT, ESTATE GROWN, NAPA VALLEY, 2006

Happy hunting ground for lovers of Sangiovese

$43.50

Grape Variety

Sangiovese

Aroma

Plush, dark, luxurious cherry and plum entwine with mushrooms and tobacco leaf

Taste

Vibrant, an earthy texture and solid background of tannins supporting the glossy black cherry

Serve

18° C

Evolution

Now mid-aged but ready, the tannins have integrated

Ideal with

Braised pork loin cutlets with thyme-lemon sauce

6 BTLS/750 ML $261.00

Wines that pass through the gates of the Steltzner winery are invariably full and concentrated, like fruit compressed into a bottle. It has a rich crimson colour, deep at the edge of the glass, impenetrable in the centre with a perfumed and mellow bouquet and complex red fruit with classy, savoury notes and vinosity. The ripe berry and chocolate nose with leafy notes seems to come straight out of the forest. Balanced and approachable, it is filled with sweet concentration and fruit that is silken and beautifully delineated. This is bright, polished and crisp with tannins and good acidity giving length. M7 D8

5686

STELTZNER VINEYARDS, HENDRICKS VINEYARD, PINOT NOIR, SONOMA COAST, 2008 $45.67

6 BTLS/750 ML $274.00

When his team wanted to offer Pinot Noir, Dick Steltzner, always a stickler for quality, searched high and low and even far away to find the right location for the grapes that would carry his label. This gorgeous example comes from Hendricks Vineyard, close enough to the coast to smell the seaweed and where the conditions for Pinot Noir are near perfect. The wine is a dense tangle of spicy bramble fruit. Rich and full in the mouth, it is well-balanced, and adequately tannic. The handcrafted approach has paid off handsomely with big, sweet strawberry fruit, silky texture and superbly measured raspberry flavours that, at the finish, round out the tannins. M7 D7

5687

Richard Steltzner established his first Stags Leap District vineyards in 1965

STELTZNER VINEYARDS, HENDRICKS VINEYARD, SYRAH, SONOMA COAST, 2006 $47.67

Far more than raspberries alone Grape Variety

Pinot Noir

Aroma

Raspberry and a mild green note

Taste

Lean, herbal, filled with quality fruit

Serve

19º C

Evolution

Drink 2010 - 2015

Ideal with

Roast duck with red wine poached pears

Extraordinarily long

6 BTLS/750 ML $286.00

Like the Pinot Noir the fruit is sourced from Dick’s vineyard near the northern Californian coastline. The cool evening breeze blows up from San Pablo Bay and brings a stop each day through the growing and ripening seasons, to the onset of early fruit maturity. This delay in ripening essentially fixed and retained the fruit acids and avoided overripeness. The nose is an essay in spice awareness, with cloves alongside rosemary. The palate is soft and well-balanced, some acidity showing through to keep the fruit lively while offering the promise of further ageing. Mulberries mixed with blueberries and fallen leaves integrate with sweet smoke from oak fires and dark chocolate. M7 D7

CALIFORNIA STELTZNER VINEYARDS >>

Grape Variety

Syrah

Aroma

Leather, spice, dark, muscular

Taste

Attractive fruit, dense, subtle olive, black fruit

Serve

18° C

Evolution

This wine will age gracefully for several years

Ideal with

Chicken Provençale with olives, tomatoes and roasted capsicum

BRITISH COLUMBIA

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5688

STELTZNER VINEYARDS, POOL BLOCK, CABERNET SAUVIGNON, STAGS LEAP DISTRICT, 2006 $69.83

6 BTLS/750 ML $419.00

Many years ago a group of Canadian enthusiasts from Opimian sat on Dick Steltzner’s terrace, comfortable after a barbecue, feet dangling in the pool, while he gave a Master class in viticulture. As always Dick was memorable, his warnings of bugs and creepy crawlies in the vineyard were dire, but all around were burgeoning vines swaying in harmony.

This was the three acre Pool Block vineyard. The vineyard sits on the fine bench land of Stags Leap, one of Napa’s greatest sites. Its deep colour is wonderful, almost black. A fine nose offers murmurs of violets, tea, roses and liquorice. The palate is filled with rich, dusty, blueberry and redcurrant with a touch of elderberry. It is a commendation to a dedicated winemaker and his vision as to how Cabernet should be enjoyed. M5 D6

As rare as the crown jewels Grape Variety

Cabernet Sauvignon

Aroma

Big, spicy, vanilla, mulberry and plum pie

Taste

Sweet, raspberry-edged black fruit, concentrated and powerful, spice and chocolate with ripe, tongue-coating tannins

Serve

19º C

Evolution

A wine that will live as long as you wish it to, drink 2012 - 2025

Ideal with

Fillet of venison with red wine and wild wood mushrooms

MOUNTAIN VIEW VINTNERS Novato Kevin Shannon was not the first Californian that Opimian worked with in the early years, but he came very early in the story and charmed a generation of Opimian members with his jovial personality and his wines. Later, to build supply consistency, he joined in a partnership with wellknown winemaker, Philip Zorn.

Together they source all their wines from more than a dozen vineyards, mainly in Monterey and Amador counties. Kevin’s partnership with Philip goes back almost a quarter of a century during which time they have cultivated an impressive portfolio of small and not so small growers, including past Opimian favourites Clockspring, Paraiso Springs and Morningsun vineyards.

A report published classifying grape growing districts by climate classified Monterey County as comparable with the premium regions of Napa, Sonoma, Burgundy and Bordeaux

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OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 197

CALIFORNIA STELTZNER VINEYARDS > MOUNTAIN VIEW VINTNERS >>

5689

OPIMIAN CALIFORNIA WHITE $10.17

12 BTLS/750 ML $122.00

Kevin’s challenge is to find components to make a young, fresh wine that retains balance of fruit and zesty acidity. He has achieved this by blending Chenin Blanc with the fragrant and floral French Colombard. Golden with an emerald green hint, it is subtle and soft and filled with pears, apples and a hint of flowers. The palate has good lemon and apple notes. Well-balanced, there is a hint of minerality and good length. [00] M9 D9

5690

Chenin Blanc, French Colombard

Aroma

Fragrant, apple, melon and pear

Taste

Dry, mineral, grapefruit, nuttiness, herbal nuances

Serve

11º C

Evolution

Ready now

Ideal with

Zucchini and mushroom omelette with zucchini blossoms

A very good “everyday” wine 12 BTLS/750 ML $122.00

This is a well-priced wine purchased from artisan producers and blended by Kevin Shannon. Although the label shows no vintage, the wines do come from the last two years and therefore show considerable youth and vivid fruit. The nose has nice fruit; crushed cranberry and blackberry, with aromatic notes of Morello cherry and tiny floral nuances. On the palate it is medium-bodied with bold, chewy fruit, a fine layer of tannin and gripping plum skin acidity. Harmonious and with good length, it is fruity and polished. M9 D9

BUTTERFLY RIDGE CHARDONNAY, MONTEREY COUNTY, 2009 $15.50

12 BTLS/750 ML $186.00

This gorgeous Chardonnay has Kevin’s hallmark bouquet of ripe tropical fruit. The initial impact, after the pleasure of the limpid, clear golden colour, comes from the discrete but alluring perfume of freshly crushed grapes and stone fruits such as peach and mango. Typically Chardonnay, it delivers persistence with plenty of attractive, easy components including ripe Ogen melon and fat, peachy notes. Simple but quite full, it ends with the lovely zing of lime and apple with more ripe melon and wellbalanced acidity. [00] M8 D8

5692

Grape Variety

OPIMIAN CALIFORNIA RED $10.17

5691

For enjoyment anytime

Grape Variety

Zinfandel, Ruby Cabernet, Grenache, Carignan

Aroma

Blackberries, blackcurrant jam, blue plums

Taste

Crunchy blackberries with bittersweet fruit, warming, ripe tannins, touches of spice

Serve

15º - 17º C

Evolution

Delicious, soft and ready

Ideal with

Grilled sausage with potatoes and green beans

Distinctive and harmonious Monterey fruit Grape Variety

Chardonnay

Aroma

Tropical fruit

Taste

Fresh fruit balances acidity

Serve

9º C

Evolution

It will develop, but best to enjoy its youthful fruit

Ideal with

Fried shrimp with avocado

BUTTERFLY RIDGE, PINOT GRIGIO, CALIFORNIA, 2009 $15.50

12 BTLS/750 ML $186.00

Kevin does not disclose where he and Philip Zorn source their wine, but it has such a light touch and sensitive acidity that it surely comes from Lake County. The aromatic nose presents apples, pears and Sauvignon-like tropical fruit and lychee. Showing lees richness, there is pleasant peach, the palate rich and textured with fat lemony fruit, hints of apricot and a big, dry rush of grapefruit into the finish. [00] M8 D8

CALIFORNIA MOUNTAIN VIEW VINTNERS >>

A much different palate impression than Italian counterparts Grape Variety

Pinot Grigio

Aroma

Soft white fruit, pear drop and a floral quality

Taste

Nice lemony fruit and acidity

Serve

9º C

Evolution

Wait for a fine, sunny day

Ideal with

Lemony pasta salad with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh oregano

BRITISH COLUMBIA

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5693

BUTTERFLY RIDGE ZINFANDEL ROSÉ, CALIFORNIA, 2009 $10.67

12 BTLS/750 ML $128.00

This delicious rosé is totally in tune with a modern, casual approach to everyday socializing. Darker than most pink wines, it has the eye appeal of clear raspberry juice. Its perfume is rich and ripe with attractive, chunky cherry and red plum juice. The aromas lead directly to the palate where it expresses flavoursome, dense raspberry fruit that is powerful and well-ripened. Much more substantial than many rosés, the acidity is restrained and there is still a good bite of tannin on the finish. [02] M8 D9

5694

BUTTERFLY RIDGE, MERLOT, LAKE COUNTY, 2008 $15.67

12 BTLS/750 ML $188.00

The fruit for the Butterfly Ridge Merlot has been sourced from Lake County for many years. Kevin sees the qualities he expects in the initial rush of ripe berry fruit which gives his wine superb balance. The spice and piquancy of the fruit add definition and high notes of flavour that work to maintain the popularity of this versatile varietal. The grapes come from deep-rooted thirty year old vines, south-east of Clear Lake; the final blend is underpinned by the addition of Cabernet Sauvignon from the Red Hills area. The blended wine was aged for thirteen months in American oak which gave the palate a smoother, more subtle mouth-feel. M7 D7

5695

BUTTERFLY RIDGE CABERNET SAUVIGNON, CENTRAL COAST, 2008 $15.67

12 BTLS/750 ML $188.00

The fruit came from two regions of the Central Coast, northern Paso Robles and southern Monterey. Produced under the ever watchful eye of Philip Zorn, the wine was racked into American oak casks for fourteen months. At the end of this period, an additional 10% Merlot was blended in to give more varied flavour interest. There are notes of super-ripeness that recall figs and prunes and add to the core of cassis and warming stewed plums. The same fruit fills the palate where it integrates with smoky aromas and flavours of quality oak. Balanced and poised, the tight oak matches the fruit to give good structure. M7 D7

5696

BUTTERFLY RIDGE ZINFANDEL, CALIFORNIA, 2008 $15.67

12 BTLS/750 ML $188.00

Kevin’s Zinfandel features lush fruit with aromas of raspberries, plums and the benchmark spicy black pepper. The bouquet is highly aromatic, the pepper freshly ground with notes of cedar wood and smouldering embers. Even with all this complexity it retains a structure that is bright with fresh berries. In the mouth the creamy texture is filled with sweet, jammy blackcurrant fruit, still fragrant and exotic, with a deeper suggestion of stewed plums. The tannins and acidity brace the finish, but stay focused on full, lush, sweet fruit right to the end. M8 D8

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OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 197

A white zinfandel that drinks like a quality rosé Grape Variety

Zinfandel

Aroma

Cranberry, cherry, hints of Zinfandel spice, dry tea leaves

Taste

Raspberry pulp, citrus acidity, small herb and leaf notes

Serve

10º C

Evolution

It would be a terrible crime to allow it to grow old

Ideal with

Tortelloni with radicchio and Robiola cheese

This epitomizes Merlot’s popularity Grape Variety

Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon

Aroma

Plum fruit, cassis, a whiff of cedar smoke

Taste

Structured, complex and long, quite spicy with vegetal, green flavours

Serve

19º C

Evolution

Will drink at its peak 2011 - 2012

Ideal with

Char-grilled duck with plum and chilli salsa

A classic coastal Cabernet Sauvignon Grape Variety

Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot

Aroma

Dark, expressive, cassis, tobacco, kitchen spices

Taste

Great heart of ripe cassis fruit, hints of plum and cedar

Serve

19º C

Evolution

Proceed with care, it is still evolving, but some may love it now

Ideal with

Roast leg of lamb with port and rosemary glaze

A fine example of a great and versatile variety Grape Variety

Zinfandel

Aroma

Loganberries, raspberries, crushed pepper with a whiff of smoke

Taste

Bramble and black plums, citrus acidity, supple tannins

Serve

16º - 18º C

Evolution

Drinking well now

Ideal with

Barbecued sirloin steak with garlic butter

CALIFORNIA MOUNTAIN VIEW VINTNERS >>

All grapes grown in Monterey County are wine grapes; there are no table grapes or grapes sold for juice

5697

FRONT PORCH SYRAH, CALIFORNIA, 2009 $13.83

12 BTLS/750 ML $166.00

This has a fantastic nose with wild, freshly picked blackberries emerging with touches of earth and subtle herbaceous notes that marry well with lush berry fruits, hints of spicy white pepper and smoked ham. The palate has fine, pure black fruit with a lean, muscular structure and massed ranks of black fruit at its core. The supple tannins add the grip and clean acidity that sharpen the finish. M8 D8

5698

Three key elements contribute to the distinctive wine from Monterey County; terroir, near perfect climate conditions and a combination of traditional and innovative methods used by the growers and winemakers

FRONT PORCH PINOT NOIR, MONTEREY COUNTY, 2009 $18.50

12 BTLS/750 ML $222.00

This wine comes from a transitional year after the short harvest of 2008. The fruit, from a top rated area for Pinot Noir, was sourced by Kevin in the hopes that there would be a transfer of sweet ripe cherries and plums to the finished wine. It is now darker than its French equivalents, the colour influenced by the Californian sun. The bouquet is filled with raspberries and oak nuances. It has a fairly light palate, entirely typical for Pinot Noir, with racy fruit, finegrained tannins and keen acidity. M6 D7

CALIFORNIA MOUNTAIN VIEW VINTNERS

A savoury food wine Grape Variety

Syrah

Aroma

Racy, leafy raspberry fruit

Taste

Earthy depth, sweet, voluptuous

Serve

18º C

Evolution

Recently bottled, made to drink while fresh and vibrant

Ideal with

Roast pork with cranberry, mustard and cloves

Great California Pinot, larger than the grape itself Grape Variety

Pinot Noir

Aroma

Raspberry, a touch of smoke

Taste

Powerful, persistent, firm but understated tannins

Serve

18° C

Evolution

Still young, leave it for a year

Ideal with

Spicy chicken casserole with apricots

BRITISH COLUMBIA

13

KAUTZ FAMILY VINEYARDS Calaveras County, Sierra Foothills The fairy tale story of the Kautz family and the growth of their wine business is one of an American dream come true. Over sixty years ago, John Kautz, then a row crop farmer in the Central Valley, saw the potential of vines as a crop in the aftermath of Prohibition. He purchased twelve acres and began to make premium quality wines to sell to other growers. As time went by, John purchased more and more land until by 1988 he had amassed over 5000 acres around Lodi and into the Sierra foothills. This acreage made the family the tenth largest vineyard owners in California. With a decision to bottle under his own label, John employed a visionary winemaker, Steve Millier, who rapidly took the Kautz wine brand into Ironstone Vineyards, a reference to the rock on the site of John and Gail Kautz’ family home. By now, the four younger members of the family started to work at the winery, which has grown from a maturation cellar blasted and carved out of the Calaveras limestone and schist, to the largest winery entertainment complex in the state. Today, over sixty years after John picked his first grape harvest, he, with his wife Gail, are joined by Stephen, Kurt, Jack and Joan, who continue the pursuit of excellence with outstanding value.

John and Gail Kautz remain actively involved in the growth of both the winery and the wine brands

14

OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 197

CALIFORNIA KAUTZ FAMILY VINEYARDS >>

5702

STONE VALLEY CALIFORNIA CHARDONNAY, 2009 $13.25

12 BTLS/750 ML $159.00

John Kautz was the first grower to plant Chardonnay and enjoy early success in the Lodi region. This led to the development of additional vineyards in other Lodi subappellations which allowed blending from a variety of soils and micro-climates, giving the wine more complexity.

Aromatic and fruity, it has a toasty nose with a ripe, nutty bouquet that manages to be concentrated and restrained at the same time. The palate is finely balanced with rich tropical fruit notes countered by lemony acidity. [01] M8 D9

5703

STONE VALLEY CALIFORNIA CABERNET SAUVIGNON, 2009 $13.25

12 BTLS/750 ML $159.00

One of its appeals is the retention of a solid varietal core while bolting on others that reflect growing conditions and vintage variations. This Stone Valley wine is sourced from family vineyards in Lodi, the Sierra Foothills and Calaveras County. The 2009 was harvested after a perfect year which, according to winemaker Steve Millier, had “phenomenal weather…never so hot that the ripening process shut down while the grapes ripened nice and evenly”. After four months in American oak, it is dense with a rich, sweet nose edged with herbs. The fruit comes right through at the entry with lovely structure giving a full, rich palate and spicy tannins with masses of berry fruit. M6 D7

5704

STONE VALLEY CALIFORNIA MERLOT, 2009 $13.25

12 BTLS/750 ML $159.00

The Stone Valley brand reflects the generic soil of the Central Valley where the limestone is broken by sedimentary gravel which provides easy drainage that water stresses the vines throughout the growing season. The fruit came from the Sierra Foothills vineyards where sustainable farm management techniques are used with crop pruning, leaf removal, organic material and drip irrigation that controls plant vigour. Ripe berry, blackberry and plum are on the nose with a spicy, pungent, tarry edge. This is piquant, with tannins that attack the palate carrying black cherries, blackcurrants, neat oak vanilla and soft caramel highlights.

Everything is wrapped up in soft tannins that provide good structure. M6 D7

5705

SONOMA CREEK CABERNET SAUVIGNON, SONOMA COUNTY, DRY CREEK VALLEY, 2007 $22.75

A seductive, immediate wine, always welcome Grape Variety

Chardonnay

Aroma

Rich, evolved buttery Chardonnay, oatmeal, zesty

Taste

Peachy fruit with a touch of oak and fresh acidity keeping it balanced

Serve

9º C

Evolution

The essence here is the freshness, enjoy this year

Ideal with

Sweet potato mash with walnuts and pineapple

Very appealing, in the Australian style Grape Variety

Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc

Aroma

Sweet berry and black fruit, a small note of spicy oak

Taste

Lots of berries, well-balanced with spicy fruit and fine structure

Serve

18º C

Evolution

Drink 2010 - 2018

Ideal with

Barbecued steak with potatoes and red onions

Expressive and impressive, very classy Grape Variety

Merlot

Aroma

Open berry fruit nose with spicy pungency

Taste

Good fruit, refreshing acidity, a spicy edge

Serve

17º C

Evolution

Potential for further development, drink 2011 2015

Ideal with

Lamb skewers with pistou, eggplant dip and Lebanese bread

Rich, complex, easily approachable

12 BTLS/750 ML $273.00

This small vineyard is known for the sumptuous Cabernets that show off complex, balanced varietal characteristics.

The vines are located on the west bank of the river in welldrained, sandy soil laden with rocks held in place by bands of clay. The deep carmine/maroon colour is a feature of the wines grown on this site, where the air is cooled by coastal fog which clears by noon to allow the sun to raise the vineyard temperatures to over 27ºC by mid-afternoon. The bouquet mixes blackberries and cherries with vanilla and toasted oak. The complex palate has sufficient concentration to fill the mouth with ripe berries, supple oak and vanilla. M6 D7

CALIFORNIA KAUTZ FAMILY VINEYARDS

Grape Variety

Cabernet Sauvignon

Aroma

Rich blackcurrant with plums, cherries mineral notes

Taste

Concentrated, chunky, full of black fruit and lots of tannin

Serve

18º C

Evolution

Drink now to 2016

Ideal with

Barbecued beef with pepper crust

BRITISH COLUMBIA

15

Lodi has been a major wine grape growing region since the 1850's.

Today, the area boasts 100,000 acres farmed by 750 growers

TORTOISE CREEK WINES Tortoise Creek magic was created by Mel and Janie Master, who lived in Clarksburg, Lodi The Provence before moving to the United States. They chose the name of Tortoise Creek

to recall the terrapins living in a creek beside their home. While living in France, Mel’s concept was to work with individual growers as he believed that they understood that the key to good wine lies in restricting the yield. Following the same premise, in 2008, Mel and Janie joined forces with the Sager family and together they have extended the Tortoise Creek range from France to include four rich and perfumed Californian wines from the Lodi region. All the wines are produced following the “Lodi Rules”, a programme of seventy-five farming practices that sets out to protect the ecosystem and produce by bio sustainable methods.

5706

TORTOISE CREEK CHARDONNAY, LODI, 2009 $20.08

12 BTLS/750 ML $241.00

The fruit comes from a drip-irrigated vineyard where midsummer pruning, the removal of leaves and shoots, increases airflow around the fruit clusters and restricts the yield size.

The grapes were picked early to conserve natural acidity after fermentation, which helps to balance the natural tannin level. The wine was aged for several months “sur lie” adding fine Chardonnay expression, emphasized by the bright, golden colour. The nose shows fresh minerality, brioche and tropical fruit with richness that carries the soft and creamy flavours and recalls pears, apples and flowers. The finish fades with a swirl of zesty citric flavours. [00] M8 D9

16

OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 197

Vitality with lingering texture and excellent length Grape Variety

Chardonnay

Aroma

Citrus, crème brûlée

Taste

Mouth-filling, pear, apple and nougat balanced by zesty lime and lemon acidity

Serve

9° C

Evolution

Perfectly ready now

Ideal with

Grilled chicken citrus salad

CALIFORNIA TORTOISE CREEK WINES >>

5707

TORTOISE CREEK ZINFANDEL, LODI, 2009 $20.17

12 BTLS/750 ML $242.00

This is a delicious example of Zinfandel at its ripe and fruity best. The herbal, tobacco leaf aromas are spicy and bursting with sweet berries. Leafy nuances make the first impact on the palate, followed by chocolate with complexity and brambly raspberry fruit. This wine is a platform of flavours, with the palate stacked up, not forgetting ripe cherry, blackcurrant, blue plums, high acidity and a tarry finish. All this fruit is backed up by warming tannins. M7 D8

5708

TORTOISE CREEK CABERNET SAUVIGNON, LODI, 2008 $20.17

12 BTLS/750 ML $242.00

This is another Tortoise Creek wine made following the ecosystem set up by the Lodi Rules regime which continuously improves farming sustainability and management. The Australian designed fermentation tanks were devised to give the winemaker absolute control over extraction, before a period of extended maceration, 40% in a combination of American and French oak. This improved the flavour and aromas, adding depth, structure, complexity and stability to the deep red colour of the Central Valley Cabernet. The spicy nose releases seductive, creamy blackcurrant fruit.

On the palate, there is dense fruit and spicy complexity with bold, assertive tannins. M8 D8

5709

An easy wine with real personality Grape Variety

Zinfandel

Aroma

Plums, brambles, spice, vanilla

Taste

Smooth, concentrated, ripe, nicely textured fruit

Serve

15° C

Evolution

Still a touch tannic at the edges

Ideal with

Spaghetti alla Puttanesca

A flavour-filled blockbuster Grape Variety

Cabernet Sauvignon

Aroma

Spicy, herbs, mint, rose petals, cassis, cedar smoke

Taste

Sweet fruit, rich texture, soft, easy acidity

Serve

18° C

Evolution

The sweet, juicy fruit masks the tannins, it can be enjoyed anytime

Ideal with

Lasagna al Forno

TORTOISE CREEK MERLOT, CLARKSBURG, 2009 $20.17

12 BTLS/750 ML $242.00

Historically famous for Chenin Blanc, the amazing aspect of the Clarksburg vine area is that it cannot be seen as it sits fifteen feet below the banks of the Sacramento River, on a web of islands covered with pear orchards and a sprinkling of vineyards in between. The Merlot is a newcomer and it is brilliant. Deep ruby red in colour, the rim is bright and youthful. The nose is aromatic and fruit-driven, displaying ripe plum and red berry fruit with an undertone of forest floor. The palate is medium-bodied and finely structured with blackberry and Morello cherry flavours, wood spice and a hint of vanilla. It is well-rounded and ripe with soft, chewy tannins. M8 D8

CALIFORNIA TORTOISE CREEK WINES

Immensely quaffable Grape Variety

Merlot

Aroma

Strawberries, red cherries and wild herbs

Taste

Bursting with currant, plum and cherry flavours

Serve

18° C

Evolution

Open and enjoy now

Ideal with

Roast leg of lamb with goat’s cheese, mint and rosemary

BRITISH COLUMBIA

17

CASTORO CELLARS Templeton, Paso Robles During a visit to the Livermore Valley a group of Opimian Area Representatives and Directors had the pleasure of meeting a modest character, adorned by a dark brown baseball cap bearing the words “Dam Fine Wine”. It was Niels Udsen of Castoro Cellars. That cap logo alone was sufficient to raise interest levels, but not as much as the excitement stirred on tasting the wines. They were instantly memorable, full, fat, rich, and the “larger than life” epitome of everything for which California stands. They came from Niels and Bimmer Udsen’s Paso Robles winery, founded with the intention to create a series of world class varietals. Niels once worked in Italy where his boundless energy earned him the nickname “Castoro”, Italian for beaver! On returning home, the nickname endured and the winery became the Castoro Cellars, soon earning the sobriquet “Dam Fine Wine”. Niels is the first to admit that, "There's a lot less romance in the every day wine world than appears from the outside. Our winery isn't a showplace, we don't have big stone pillars and art collections, but we have everything we need to make great wine."

In the span of 24 years, Niels and Bimmer have grown from making a few barrels of wine for family and friends in a rented corner of someone else's winery to developing a custom-crush, 60,000 case operation for Castoro Cellars

5710

CASTORO CELLARS FUMÉ BLANC, PASO ROBLES, 2009 $23.50

6 BTLS/750 ML $141.00

Castoro’s wine is full-bodied, ripe and mouth-filling with generous qualities rarely seen outside California. To add to the well-rounded Paso Robles Sauvignon, a splash of Gewürztraminer from their Hog Heaven vineyard is added to increase interest. The ripe Sauvignon Blanc, rich in fruity extract and spice, comes from the Dos Viñas vineyard which typically produces wines with a lingering citrus note.

[00] M8 D8

18

OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 197

Bright and grassy, closer to a hay field Grape Variety

Sauvignon Blanc, Gewürztraminer

Aroma

Filled with ripe apples and kiwi

Taste

Grassy, concentrated, vigorous, herb-tinged fruit

Serve

10º C

Evolution

At its best this year

Ideal with

Cajun prawns with avocado salad

CALIFORNIA CASTORO CELLARS >>

5711

CASTORO CELLARS CHARDONNAY, CENTRAL COAST, 2009 $26.67

6 BTLS/750 ML $160.00

The rich flavours show a rumbustious need to fill the palate with lime-accented acidity and peachy fruit. Coming from grapes harvested from several contracted growers along the coastal range, it has masses of white fruit, especially apple, pear and mango. It spent almost no time in wood as it passed through casks, but the time was sufficient to add oak nuances. The nose suggests baked apples and pears with a hint of lemony zest. Good spice and toasty oak add richness and length. [00] M8 D8

5712

6 BTLS/750 ML $164.00

The whole point of Zinfandel is that it is not like any other red wine. It can be as light and fragrant as a hillside Valpolicella or as deep and profound as Barolo, but between these extremes there is plenty of room for it to shine its individuality through the bowl of the wine glass.

Niels and Bimmer Udsen structure their wine at the fullbodied end of the spectrum. It is masses of black fruit and sweet spice with a warm note of smoke from a wood burning stove and several dashes of freshly ground pepper. To deepen the colour, a small percentage of Petite Sirah is added. This wine is really about upfront impressions, an explosion of fruit and the wash of juice. M7 D8

CASTORO CELLARS CABERNET SAUVIGNON, PASO ROBLES, 2008 $27.33

6 BTLS/750 ML $164.00

The ripe black cassis notes with rose petals and tea leaves add breadth to the varietal that is so readily apparent in the perfumes that emerge as soon as the wine is poured. This immediacy and richness of the bouquet is clearly typical of the ample and robust Paso Robles fruit. In the mouth, dominant cassis is joined by sophisticated notes of liquorice, kir and dark chocolate. Signs of the fruit’s ripeness fill the mouth with soft notes and all the flavours defined by soft oak tannins that lengthen and give structure to the palate. M6 D7

5714

Grape Variety

Chardonnay

Aroma

Buttery and fat with tropical fruit

Taste

Broad, rich peachy fruit, a good dash of oak

Serve

9º C

Evolution

It is made to be enjoyed early

Ideal with

Veal cutlets with lemon beans

CASTORO CELLARS ZINFANDEL, PASO ROBLES, 2008 $27.33

5713

Dressed as Chardonnay this is a saxophone rather than a clarinet

CASTORO CELLARS, BIEN NACIDO, PINOT NOIR RESERVE, SANTA BARBARA COUNTY, 2008 $35.83

6 BTLS/750 ML $215.00

Prior to 1970 wine scarcely existed in Santa Barbara, although during the days of the Spanish Missions attempts to establish wineries had been made and largely failed. In fact, it was a Quebecois, Pierre Lafond, who opened the first winery in Santa Barbara County in 1962. Since then, the region has developed numerous AVAs, several great wineries and great vineyards such as Bien Nacido on the Santa Maria River, where Pinot Noir and Chardonnay rule. It has a lovely, cherry aroma with complex spice and medicinal notes. Pure in the mouth, the impressive palate offers dark cherry fruit with added vanilla and cinnamon, balanced with ripe tannins and buzzing alcoholic power that lengthen the finish. M6 D6

CALIFORNIA CASTORO CELLARS >>

A fermented black fruit salad Grape Variety

Zinfandel, Petite Sirah

Aroma

Blackberries, herbs, leaves, tobacco, sweet spice

Taste

Piquant spice notes and ripe wild brambles

Serve

16º C

Evolution

Opulent, easy and immediately ready

Ideal with

Barbecued pork ribs with smoky barbecue sauce

Enticing, straightforward, full and rich Grape Variety

Cabernet Sauvignon

Aroma

Blackcurrant and cassis with a sweet spice backing

Taste

There is lots of fruit and plenty of oak, the result is balanced and appealing

Serve

19º C

Evolution

Drink 2010 - 2015

Ideal with

T-bone with tomato and bocconcini salad

From one of Santa Barbara’s top vineyards Grape Variety

Pinot Noir

Aroma

Pungent, herbal, cherry nose with smoky nuances

Taste

Rich and savoury with dark cherry fruit and toasted notes

Serve

18º C

Evolution

Big wine, high alcohol, but easy in the mouth, drink 2011 - 2015

Ideal with

Pan-seared veal leg steaks with tomato and mozzarella

BRITISH COLUMBIA

19

5715

CASTORO CELLARS ZINFUSION, ZINFANDEL RESERVE, PASO ROBLES, 2008 $35.83

Pungent, powerful, piquant, it is irresistible

6 BTLS/750 ML $215.00

A hearty blend of wines from four Paso Robles vineyards, Niels selected samples of those that complemented each other. His goal was to produce a flavoursome package with aromatically intense fruit and succulence on the palate.

Carrying its high alcohol like a flag, it has a delicious, open nose of ripe red fruits with an herbal, leafy edge. It is clearly rich with the palate showing the complexity of black mulberry fruit and spicy elements. A success in every aspect, it is sweet, juicy, complex and amazingly long. M6 D7

Grape Variety

Zinfandel

Aroma

Black cherry, full-bodied with rich, dark berries

Taste

Powerful attack of sap and fruit with stretched tannins that showcase the sweet, dark berry fruit

Serve

19º C

Evolution

Drink 2010 - 2015

Ideal with

Linguine with round beef steak, chilli and garlic

Hook & Ladder Vineyards and Winery, the next generation of Russian River Valley wines

5716

THE TILLERMAN, SONOMA COUNTY, RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY, 2007, CECIL AND CHRISTINE DE LOACH $38.17

6 BTLS/750 ML $229.00

Cecil de Loach was a fireman for eighteen years, controlling the ladder. He was “The Tillerman”. After working with wine for thirty years, Cecil and Christine sold the family winery, purchased some prime land and started out again, this time helped by two sons and a grandson. The vineyards are sited in the beautiful Russian River Valley, close to Healdsburg, where on the Los Amigos site the fruit of several classic red varieties reaches complete maturity. The Tillerman is, in Cecil’s words, “an enthusiastic burst of ripe fruits, a seductive combination of luring aromas that only start with berry, spice and chocolate; a wine whose texture is smooth, juicy and long.” M6 D6 Top: The calm after harvest, Bottom: Tasting Room arbor

20

The label is a tribute to the San Francisco Fire Department

OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 197

Grape Variety

Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Sangiovese

Aroma

Ripe black fruit, chocolate and vanilla

Taste

Concentrated, bold and spicy with firm, finegrained tannins

Serve

18° - 20° C

Evolution

Wandering slowly towards maturity, drink 2012 2018

Ideal with

American-style sticky beef ribs

Niels and Bimmer Udsen

CALIFORNIA CASTORO CELLARS > HOOK & LADDER VINEYARDS AND WINERY

Spain & Italy Revisited

Spain 5717

A major league big hitter!

Among the global wine giants, Spain is one of the most important and prolific. The country is swathed by a carpet of vines from east to west, north to south, planted or re-planted in recent years as Spain has prospered. There are more acres of wine-producing vineyards in Spain than any other country, an astonishing 6.7 million acres, with a production of 840 million gallons. After the domestic consumption of wine, the balance left over for other purposes, important among which is export for trade, amounts to 500 million gallons or 1000 times greater than Canada’s total production. No wonder that from within this great ocean of Spanish reds and whites there are groups of producers making some of the greatest wines in the world. Opimian, through its close relationship with Vinoseleccion of Madrid, believes that it has the key to the finest that the country has to offer.

FINCA ANTIGUA BLANCO, D.O. LA MANCHA, 2009, FAMILIA MARTÍNEZ BUJANDA, FINCA ANTIGUA SA $14.83

During Roman times, Licinia was the name of the town of Morata located in southeast Madrid

6 BTLS/750 ML $89.00

A lovely white from the El Palomar vineyard, the grapes were harvested early and came from a region that is high enough for great luminosity and solar exposure, yet cooled by evening breezes, a combination that perfectly ripens the fruit by the second week of September. This wine never sees a wooden barrel, as every effort is focused on bringing the vivid fruit to the glass as fresh as possible. The colour is light lemon with fresh hints of green. Concentrated, the perfume is clean and honest with intensity marked by apricots, pears, fennel and camomile. On the palate it is notably silky with balanced acidity providing energy, leaving a fruity finish with marked memories of garden herbs. [01] M8 D9

SPAIN & ITALY REVISITED SPAIN >>

A delightful debutante Grape Variety

Viura

Aroma

Nettles set with apple, mango and leafy fennel

Taste

Quite full, crispness, mouth-watering citrus fruit

Serve

8° C

Evolution

Ready now

Ideal with

Salmon and noodle salad

BRITISH COLUMBIA

21

5718

FINCA LA COLINA, VERDEJO, CIEN X CIEN, D.O. RUEDA, 2009, VINOS SANZ SA $23.33

6 BTLS/750 ML $140.00

Not too many years ago the thought of finding fresh, vigorous and squeaky clean dry whites in Spain was beyond reality. Viticulture has been transformed and wines like this brilliant Verdejo are a tribute to the skills of the winemakers.

The fruit, from a vine unique to Rueda, came from the La Colina vineyard, one of the most beautiful locations of the Castilian meseta. The vines originally came from Morocco a thousand years ago, but it was not until the 1970s that they began their resurgence in Rueda, close to the banks of the Duero River. The wine has a brilliant limpidity and an intense, complex and elegant nose with balsamic, herbal nuances balanced with the intense fruit. [00] M8 D9

5719

M DE MURVIEDRO CRIANZA, D.O. VALENCIA, 2007, BODEGAS MURVIEDRO $12.67

6 BTLS/750 ML $76.00

Murviedro is named after the walls that surround the ancient town which is reached by driving westwards from Valencia for fifty miles, always upwards to close to 1000 metres before reaching the ultra modern winery. A frisson of excitement at the breathtaking label design, in the glass it has a bold, deep, thick ruby colour. The nose is warm and rich with a lovely mingling of plums, dried herbs, redcurrant fruit and tiny notes of aromatic violet. On the palate it is juicy and fresh with a great core of raspberry and cranberry fruit, a gentle lick of spice, toast, gentle tannins and fine acidity. M7 D7

5720

LAR DE PAULA MADURADO, D.O. CA. RIOJA, 2008, LAR DE PAULA SL $13.83

6 BTLS/750 ML $83.00

Against the stunning backdrop of the mountains of the Sierra de Cantabria, two enthusiasts, Fernando Meruelo and Félix Revuelta, established a new Rioja winery close to the heart of the Rioja Alavesa. The wine is lovely with a vibrant ruby colour and an inviting nose of raspberries and cherries. The flavours are smooth and round with vanilla joining dark earthy notes.

Medium weight in the middle palate with lots of youthful, primary fruit, it fills the mouth with deeper nuances of bittersweet chocolate, coffee, and integrated oak char. The finish is long with fine, rich tannins. M8 D8

5721

CONVENTO SAN BERNARDINO, D.O. VINOS DE MADRID, 2008, BODEGAS JESÚS DÍAZ $14.17

6 BTLS/750 ML $85.00

Although Tempranillo is considered to be Spain’s finest variety it is a relative newcomer in the Madrid region due to its susceptibility to spring frosts which regularly occur at Madrid’s high altitude. Clonal selection has provided some protection leading to increased planting. After fermentation the wine was matured for six months in American and French oak, a period sufficient to deepen and polish the dark ruby colour. The nose is refined, with massed ranks of black fruit, creamy vanilla, peppery spice and a warming, earthy core. This is classic Tempranillo, on the palate there is attractive fruit, sturdy, quite muscular tannins and cherry flavours with tension between the upfront fruit and the refined, spicy oak background. M8 D8

22

OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 197

One of summer’s greatest benefits, Verdejo and the outdoors Grape Variety

Verdejo

Aroma

Appealing, exotic fruits, splashes of citrus

Taste

Fresh, grapey, vigorous, crisp

Serve

8° C

Evolution

A pleasure in waiting, enjoy this year

Ideal with

Mixed mushroom and tarragon salad on grilled polenta

Velvety and mouth-filling with good structure Grape Variety

Tempranillo, Monastrell, Syrah

Aroma

Layers of sweet summer berry and plums, wrapped in a mellow cloak of spicy and silky tannins

Taste

Ripe fruit, gutsy, but elegant, sweet fruitcake, ends with good balance and fine oak tannins

Serve

18° C

Evolution

Eight months in oak has softened most of the hard edges, try a bottle, but be prepared to wait a year

Ideal with

Pork medallions in cream sauce, semi-mature sheep’s milk cheeses

A new Bodega, with finely crafted, traditional wines Grape Variety

Tempranillo

Aroma

Fragrant raspberry with freshly cracked black pepper

Taste

Damsons and cherries, fine touches of vanilla

Serve

15° - 19° C

Evolution

Ready to be opened

Ideal with

Spanish Manchego cheese

A fine red to demonstrate the wide appeal of the Tempranillo Grape Variety

Tempranillo

Aroma

Blackberries, kirsch-soaked plum fruit, earthy depth

Taste

Fruit-forward, cherries, brambles and black fruit

Serve

18° C

Evolution

Will cellar for a few years

Ideal with

Grilled meats, rice dishes

SPAIN & ITALY REVISITED SPAIN >>

5722

TRIUNFO TEMPRANILLO-SHIRAZ, VINO DE LA TIERRA DE CASTILLA Y LEÓN, 2006, HIJOS DE ANTONIO BARCELÓ $14.50

6 BTLS/750 ML $87.00

Carefully picked at full ripeness, the clusters were manually sorted prior to gentle crushing to break the skins. The cracked grapes were then pumped into tanks for a period of cold maceration which enhanced the colour and aroma extraction. After fermentation, there was further maceration on the lees before gravitational filtration and maturation in French oak for a year. The wine is called “Triunfo” and that is what Sam Harrop, MW, has achieved with this rich and rewarding blend of Tempranillo with Shiraz. Dark and intense, the aroma is filled with flowers, berries and a powerful combination of harmonious oak, liquorice and dark chocolate. The flavours mingle in a dense black mix with smoke and coffee. This is one of the best yet of the modern wines coming from Spain. M8 D9

5723

RAMÓN BILBAO SINGLE VINEYARD, D.O. CA. RIOJA, 2008, BODEGAS RAMÓN BILBAO $15.00

6 BTLS/750 ML $90.00

Single vineyard wines are almost unheard of in Rioja where blending of grapes from different vineyards is the norm. At this winery, the owners followed the principles laid down by their predecessors and over time established a following for their estate bottled wine. This is a terrific wine that emphasizes the appeal of modern Rioja. Cedar and spice in full measure, it is not overwhelming the fruit with curtains of vanilla and coffee, nor does the quality French oak dominate the nose. The balance is impeccable, aligning black fruit with warming spice. The palate represents fruit definition, clarity and crispness, with fine, grainy tannins while focusing on the opulence of the fruit. M7 D8

A stunning wine that deserves its big reputation Grape Variety

Tempranillo, Shiraz

Aroma

Creamy and smooth, blue-black fruit, hints of mineral

Taste

Mouth-filling blackberry, enhanced by a touch of black chocolate

Serve

16° - 18° C

Evolution

Very fine now, continue to enjoy it through 2011

Ideal with

Chicken with capers, prunes and morcilla sausage

Attractive palate and wellbalanced vanilla notes in the background Grape Variety

Tempranillo, Garnacha

Aroma

Dark and alluring, vanilla-tinged, baked cherry and damson pie

Taste

Caramel, juicy cherries, modest briar, cedar with balancing tannin

Serve

18º C

Evolution

It will soften and enrich with modest cellaring

Ideal with

Lomo con Champinones [Pork loin with mushrooms]

Left: Bernardo Fariña, third generation of Fariña winemakers and current oenologist Right: Manuel Fariña, second generation and mythical figure in the Spanish wine industry

SPAIN & ITALY REVISITED SPAIN >>

Olga Fernandez, winemaker at Bodegas Licinia

BRITISH COLUMBIA

23

The building in which the Bodegas Jesús Díaz winery is located was part of the Franciscan Convent constructed in the 15th Century

5724

HOYA DE LOS LOBOS CRIANZA, D.O. RIBERA DEL DUERO, 2005, BODEGAS BEAMONTE $19.17

6 BTLS/750 ML $115.00

Perhaps Rioja is more easily recognized, but the wines of the Ribera have greater individuality and equal their neighbours for excellence. This wine comes from the great 2005 vintage, which had a shorter growing season due to the heat, resulting in small, concentrated yields. The title on the label respects the wild wolves, the invisible but constant companions of the vignerons, always nearby. Matured in small French oak barrels, with quarterly racking to clean casks, all the treatments are minimal in order to preserve elegance. The big colour and full aroma are the introduction to a pannier of black cherries, plum jam and cassis with hints of tobacco leaf, vanilla and dried fruits. This is a fine wine with a persistent, tannic finish. M7 D8

5725

AD LIBITUM, MATURANA TINTA, D.O. CA. RIOJA, 2008, JUAN CARLOS SANCHA SL $24.83

6 BTLS/750 ML $149.00

Winemakers never stop experimenting and out of their vineyard trials come great new wines. This is the first made from a grape only recently recognized as a native vine of Rioja, the Maturana Tinta. It is made by Juan Carlos Sancha from ten year old vines which produce small clusters with high tannins and deep fruit colour. Truly a handcrafted wine, undoubtedly this is the first to be offered to Canadians. Remarkably dark, the bouquet is intense with ripe black fruit, finely toasted notes and a powerful range of sturdy tannins. The fruit has retained its freshness and acidity throughout full ripeness, with good balance and structure, all the commendable characteristics of this new varietal. M7 D7

24

OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 197

Top: Harvest at Bodegas Ànima Negra Bottom: Triunfo - Hijos de Antonio Barceló vineyards

Arguably, this comes from Spain's finest red wine region Grape Variety

Tinta del País

Aroma

Dense with blackcurrant, mint and liquorice

Taste

Plenty of tannin over a core of smoky plum and blackberry fruit, structured and serious

Serve

18° C

Evolution

Cruising slowly to perfect maturity

Ideal with

Lapin en gibelotte [stewed whole rabbit in white wine]

A varietal never seen before in Canada Grape Variety

Maturana Tinta

Aroma

Pure, ripe raspberry fruit, notes of smoke, earth and cedar wood

Taste

Silky, warm berry fruit against austere tannins and acidity, complex and layered structure with good length

Serve

17° - 19° C

Evolution

Tough now, beginning to soften, be patient

Ideal with

Pan-seared venison with blueberries, shallots and red wine

SPAIN & ITALY REVISITED SPAIN >>

5726

GRAN COLEGIATA CRIANZA, D.O. TORO, 2006, BODEGAS FARIÑA SL $25.50

6 BTLS/750 ML $153.00

This wine from earlier vintages has been an Opimian favourite since first offered. The winemaker, Manuel Fariña, one of a small group of enthusiasts who resurrected the vineyards after years of decline during the Franco era, has passed the winemaking to his son. Bernardo uses only the Tinta de Toro grape, another name for Tempranillo, to produce this massive, thick concentration of fruit. It has superripe aromas of blackcurrant, blueberry and eucalyptus, as well as mint. Brimming with dark fruit on the palate, a firm cassis edge is supported by ripe tannins and attractive, integrated vanilla notes. M7 D7

5727

VEGA LARA, D.O. RIBERO DEL DUERO, 2008, FINCA TORREMILANOS, BODEGAS PEÑALBA LÓPEZ SL $28.00

6 BTLS/750 ML $168.00

The Torremilanos winery takes its name from the 1000 year old castle standing in the centre and dominating the four hundred acres of the estate’s wide vineyards. In winter, the vines are buffeted by icy winds and in summer, they are baked by the high Spanish sun. When the fruit rushes to full ripeness it is hand-picked and taken within the castle walls for sorting, crushing and fermentation in steel tanks. The wine, recently bottled, is youthful, dark, deep crimson with a broad pink rim.

The restrained nose is tight and notably tannic with vegetal and herbal notes, pepper and chunky black fruit. There is good length, tannin purity and balance that will see this mature and reach greatness. M6 D7

5728

ÀN/2, VINO DE LA TIERRA DE MALLORCA, 2007, BODEGAS ÀNIMA NEGRA $30.50

6 BTLS/750 ML $183.00

Pronounced “Àn Dos” this is one of the most unusual wines we have ever offered, coming from the major island of the Balearics, Majorca. It is produced from three indigenous varieties, the Callet, Mantonegre and Fogoneu, with a small percentage of Syrah. By chance three people met in a bar, spoke with passion of the risk that the island’s grapes would be lost and soon a new winery was born. Add the return to the island of oenologists trained overseas and it was not long before the first wines left the winery. Each year, Mallorcan painter Miquel Barceló designs a new label and the story is complete. This is a wine of pure, magical complexity, deep colour, huge concentration, herbaceous, sweet spicy aromas and a powerful, dry, fruity palate. M5 D6

5729

VALDUERO 3 AÑOS, D.O. RIBERA DEL DUERO, 2006, BODEGAS VALDUERO $31.17

6 BTLS/750 ML $187.00

This remarkable winery is located in a huge earth pyramid with thick lavender-covered, sloping walls that keep the interior cool throughout the heat of the relentless Spanish summer. Inside the wines mature in oak for up to five years.

Deeply coloured with a fading pink edge, it is subtle, harmonious and elegant with toasted aromas. The palate has soft, elegant black fruit with cassis sweetness and liquorice that follows a clear line right through the palate. M6 D6

SPAIN & ITALY REVISITED SPAIN >>

Toro, with Rioja and Ribera del Duero, is one of the three greatest Spanish reds Grape Variety

Tinta de Toro

Aroma

Rich, red and black fruits, currants, raisins and cherries

Taste

Smooth, good length, weighty ripe fruit

Serve

17º - 19º C

Evolution

It will change and develop

Ideal with

Slow-braised lamb shank in red wine with root vegetables

Big, powerful, an infant who will be a giant Grape Variety

Tempranillo

Aroma

Quite jammy, powerful, ripe blackcurrants, damsons

Taste

Firm black fruit featuring fine black cherries and blackcurrants

Serve

16° C

Evolution

Drink 2010 - 2018

Ideal with

Quality game meat sausages straight off the grill

Discover the unique characteristics of the Island of Mallorca Grape Variety

Callet, Mantonegre, Fogoneu, Syrah

Aroma

Particularly herbaceous, cinnamon, rosemary, unctuous black cassis

Taste

Rich, concentrated, almost thick, long

Serve

17° - 19° C

Evolution

It needs time to reach its best, drink 2012 - 2020

Ideal with

Baked bream with vegetables à la provençale

Supple, subtle, a big wine with great sophistication Grape Variety

Tempranillo

Aroma

Earthy, cedar, red berry fruits dominate

Taste

Intense, naturally concentrated fruit, sweet blackcurrants

Serve

17° - 19° C

Evolution

Coming round, but will drink well for at least ten years

Ideal with

Sautéed leg of lamb with figs and prunes

BRITISH COLUMBIA

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5730

LICINIA, D.O. VINOS DE MADRID, 2007, BODEGAS LICINIA $41.83

6 BTLS/750 ML $251.00

It is one of the finest wines ever tasted, providing that one does not mind the incredible punch that it delivers to all the senses. It is massive, so deep in colour that it is difficult to find an expression to match. The nose, more like a mixed punnet of blackberries, over-ripe Bing cherries and blackcurrants, is sweet and luscious. In the mouth dense tannins are softened by the sweetness and appeal of endless concentration. This wine is as memorable as its entirely unique label. M5 D6

5731

TRIUMVIRAT, D.O.Q. PRIORAT, 2008, TERRA DE VEREMA SL $42.33

6 BTLS/750 ML $254.00

Knowledge of Priorat was passing into memory until it was rescued by a small band of aficionados; now it is the biggest thing in Spain. Every major bodega from Rioja to Jerez desires a patch of Priorat vines and newly constructed vineyards are changing the landscape forever. This wine, made by Ramon Farré, is a blend of three varieties of old vines, each contributing to the density of both the aroma and flavour.

Lovely black fruit nuances with charry French oak dominate the nose, layering coffee and vanilla onto bright blackberry fruit. The palate has ripe cherries and a touch of liquorice with firm tannins and balanced acidity. Gorgeous, big and rustic, it has loads of chunky fruit. M6 D6

An icon for Spanish winemaking Grape Variety

Tempranillo, Syrah

Aroma

Huge, powerful black fruit

Taste

Sweet fruit, bittersweet edge, dense, chewable, concentrated

Serve

17° C

Evolution

It has several years of ageing potential, drink 2011 to 2018

Ideal with

Venison stuffed steak

Fabulous wine, brilliant and distinctive Grape Variety

Cariñena, Garnacha, Syrah

Aroma

Rich, blackberries, ripe, opulent

Taste

Spice, pepper, black fruit and vanilla, typical earthy notes of Scala Dei’s terroir

Serve

18° C

Evolution

Drink now through 2015

Ideal with

Casserole of wild boar with caramelized root vegetables

Italy

A backward glance through a window of opportunity For members who missed our popular Italian Cellar Offering or for those new members who would otherwise wait a year before seeing our next major Italian selection, here is a small glance over the shoulder towards Italy.

Tenute del Neccio oenologist Antonella Conti

26

OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 197

SPAIN & ITALY REVISITED SPAIN > ITALY >>

5732

TENUTE DEL NECCIO, NERO D’AVOLA, IGT SICILIA, 2009 $14.17

6 BTLS/750 ML $85.00

The wines of the island of Sicily have hugely improved during the past twenty years. Burgeoning “jet set” tourism brought affluent visitors along with a requirement for wines to reach the highest levels of quality. Talented winemaker Antonella Conti is responsible for this wine made from the opaque black grape, the Nero d’Avola. It is deep purple in colour with an intense nose. This is a value-for-money red brimming with fruit. The nose has cherries, vanilla and hints of herbs. The palate is medium-bodied with lovely ripe cherry and raspberry fruit and nuances of tobacco, spices and chocolate found on the finish. M8 D9

5733

TENUTE DEL NECCIO, CHIANTI CLASSICO, DOCG, 2007 $23.33

6 BTLS/750 ML $140.00

The vineyards of the Valiano estate have a fine north-easterly aspect; the winery looks south across unfolding hillsides to Siena. Winemaker Paolo Vagaggini explained his traditional approach, with hand-picking, crushing and fermenting on the skins in oak vats to extract all the complexities and nuances of the Sangiovese. The bouquet accentuates swirling, smoky, racy blackcurrant and black cherry fruit. The structure is balanced with refined tannins and fine spice. M7 D7

5734

IL SODERO, SANGIOVESE CABERNET, IGT MAREMMA TOSCANA, 2008, TENUTA MORAIA $22.67

6 BTLS/750 ML $136.00

The vineyard was planted in 2001 in the Maremma area of southern Tuscany. During the preparation for the planting, the plough blade turned up a huge rock engraved with the words “Il Sodero”, giving the vineyard its name. It is a blend of two classic vines and manages to balance the best aspects of each grape beautifully, perhaps due to the increasing age and maturity of the vine stock. It is a rich, dark wine, displaying classic notes of ripe red fruits and a perceptible presence of blackberries. The structure is solid with tannins that are beginning to soften and add complexity. M7 D7 Chianti Classico vineyards

SPAIN & ITALY REVISITED ITALY

A dark wine from Italy’s bright and sun-kissed island Grape Variety

Nero d’Avola

Aroma

Raspberries, truffles and undergrowth, a suggestion of sweetness

Taste

Huge rush of ripe, full fruit

Serve

18° C

Evolution

As youthful as it is, it is ready now

Ideal with

Agnello agli aromi [Roast lamb with herbs]

Just gorgeous, good enough to make a black rooster crow Grape Variety

Sangiovese

Aroma

Floral, intense dark fruit, hints of cedar and lead pencil

Taste

Blackcurrants with sweet, ripe cherry fruit

Serve

18° C

Evolution

Soft, supple and ready, drink within five years

Ideal with

Spiedini di agnello al limone [lamb skewers with lemon]

One of the modern, no denomination, super Tuscans Grape Variety

Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon

Aroma

Black cherries, blackberries, earthy, mineral

Taste

Firm and savoury, liquorice-tinged black fruit, forceful tannin

Serve

18° C

Evolution

Softer touches are emerging, drink 2010 - 2013

Ideal with

Aquacotta - a local soup made of tomatoes, eggs, roasted bread and a variety of seasonal vegetables Tenute del Neccio estate cellars

BRITISH COLUMBIA

27

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 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).

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.

FOUNDERS’ CHOICE

YOUR FREE CASE CHOICES FOR THIS CELLAR OFFERING

A Collection of Premium Wines

5700 STONE VALLEY CALIFORNIA CHARDONNAY, 2009

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

COUPON

6 BTLS/750 ML

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.

Packaged in cases of 6, this is the same wine as lot 5702, available only with the coupon as explained above.

5701 STONE VALLEY CALIFORNIA MERLOT, 2009 COUPON

The Founders’ Choice feature supplier is Pelee Island Winery.

6 BTLS/750 ML

opim.ca Packaged in cases of 6, this is the same wine as lot 5704, available only with the coupon as explained above.

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.

CONDITIONS OF PURCHASE FOR CELLAR OFFERING 197

• 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: July 12, 2010

• A valid 2010 membership card is required to order and pick up.

• Expected arrivals at Canadian Port: End of October, 2010. 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

This symbol denotes wines most ordered

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

Opimian Suggests

Rosé

Heavy oak

Medium concentration

Light in body

Medium oak

Light oak

Less than 100 cs available

Extremely limited quantities

Very limited quantities

Limited quantities

Degrees of Maturity (M) (Scale of 1-10) 1 = lay down 10 = fully mature Degrees of Drinkability (D) (Scale of 1-10) 1 = needs time 10 = ready to drink 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 C190 Select Cases (2009 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