CELLAR 231 MANITOBA
Order by March 2, 2015
Portugal, Spain, the Mâconnais & the Rhône Valley
ORDERING MADE EASY! WHAT TO ORDER Read the description or use the profile chart for each wine to help you make your selections. The profile chart features a variety of symbols; consult the legend below to discover which symbols best suit your palate. THERE ARE FIVE WAYS TO ORDER • Order online. Go to opim.ca , sign in and select Order Wine - Show Details or Quick Order Wine. • Email opim@opim.ca with your selection. • Call 1-800-361-9421. • Fax your order to 514-481-9699. • Mail your order in the envelope provided. THERE ARE TWO WAYS TO REDEEM YOUR COUPON From the same Cellar Offering… • Order a case of wine and choose your free case from the coupon wines listed on the back cover. OR • Order two cases of wine and receive $75 off your order. Restrictions: Coupons are non-transferrable and cannot be exchanged for cash. See coupon for full details Exclusions: Opimian Select and Founders’ Choice Programs. DELIVERY It takes time! The wines on this Cellar Offering are not yet in Canada. When the wine arrives at your local liquor store or distribution center, you will receive a Pick Up Notice with the specified date (the Release Date) and your pick up location. You can follow the status of your shipment at opim.ca. Expected arrival at a Canadian Port is mid-June 2015. Release dates are dependent upon actual arrival dates, distance from port of entry to liquor board, and processing time required by each liquor board. LET US HELP YOU! Contact us at 1-800-361-9421 or email us at opim@opim.ca “At Domaine La Ferme SaintMartin, in the Côtes du Rhône, century-old vines of old Grenache still exist. These vines were planted before the introduction of clones and modern varieties. They are an important part of our heritage. Although these old vines produce small quantities, the quality produced is exceptional. Organic farming strengthens the terroir’s expression to produce wines with a strong personality.” - Jullien Family
CONDITIONS OF PURCHASE • Methods of Payment: Credit Card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express) or by cheque payable to Opimian. • Prices include all applicable federal and provincial mark ups and taxes, including GST/HST #105 233 217 and QST #1000640430. • A valid 2015 membership card is required to order and pick up. • Bottle prices are for reference only. All orders are by the case, with no minimum required. • Last day to order from this Cellar Offering: March 2, 2015.
LEGEND Members’ Choice
White
Aroma
Drink this year
Red
Taste
Enjoyable now; will develop 6 months-2 years
Rosé
Serving temperature
Opimian Suggests Wine meant for laying down
Ideal with
Sparkling
Bottle size Great concentration Heavy oak
Number of bottles in case Medium concentration
Light in body
Medium oak
Light oak
Less than 100 cases available Very limited quantities
Extremely 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
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OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 231
Medal Winner
This symbol denotes wines most ordered by Opimian members. These are consistently popular with our membership at large.
Appeared in the C223 Select Cases (2014 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.
Sweetness scale gms/litre 00 0-3 01 4-6 02 7 - 12 03 13 - 20 04 21 - 34 05 35 - 50 06 51 - 74 07 75 - 100 08 101 - 139 09 140 - 179 10 180 >
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 Spätlese German, Sweet Loire, Port, Dessert Muscat Auslese, Beerenauslese Icewines, Sauternes, Barsac, dessert wines, Port Icewines, Sauternes, Barsac, dessert wines, Port Speciality sweet wines, Trockenbeerenauslese
CELLAR OFFERING 231
Portugal, Spain, the Mâconnais and the Rhône Valley
Opimian’s Wine Consultant Jane Masters MW is a graduate of Bordeaux’s famous Institut d’Oenologie and was elected to the Institute of Masters of Wine in 1997. Fluent in French and English, Jane is currently a member of the Council of the Institute of Masters of Wine, regularly speaks at industry seminars and is a Panel Chair for the International Wine Challenge.
I visited Spain four times in 2014, but the most memorable and fun trip was at the end of September, early October. We were a group of 80 people including Area Representatives and Opimian Board members, as well as winemakers from Australia, Chile, France and Portugal. We visited wineries in Rioja, Ribera del Duero and Toro and it was not only a great opportunity for the group to meet these producers, but to share their ideas and taste wines together. For some it was their first time in Spain, for others their first time visiting Spanish wineries. I believe the whole group was impressed by the diversity, quality and individuality of the producers we are working with and I hope that everyone went home with a little more knowledge about Spanish wines. I certainly did. That trip also influenced this cellar offering. We didn’t make it across the border into Portugal, but were very pleased that José Gaspar joined us and gave us a full exposé on what’s happening in Portugal. There is no doubt that it produces a diverse range of wines with great personality. Bernard and Blandine Perrin, who were driving back up through France via many of the estates featured from the Rhône Valley, also joined us on the trip. Tasting the 2013 Rhône wines left me with a very positive perception. You may remember my misgivings about the vintage last year; these wines are concentrated and rich. Cheers!
Quinta da Barreira p. 4
Churchill Graham p. 10
Bodegas Concavins p. 14
Vinoselección p. 18
Paul Sapin p. 24
Bernard Perrin p. 26
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Quinta da Barreira Carvoeira José Gaspar is a quietly spoken, shy man who doesn’t say much, but who knows his stuff when it comes to Portugal and its wines. There is definitely a buzz around Portugal and its wines at the moment. With 250 native grape varieties, it offers great variety, quality and value. Portuguese cuisine is characterized by full-flavoured dishes, which vary from region to region. Rich and hearty meals abound in the north, while fresh fish and seafood thrive in the south. To accompany these, a diverse range of still and Port wines are produced. Some of the wines included in the selection are José’s own wines and some from our regular favorite producers. There are also new producers such as Quinta Vale de Fornos with three wines, all of which really shone out in my tasting.
Portugal 7976 $20.00
$120.00
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Pica Peixe, Vinho Branco, 2013, Península de Setúbal, Sociedade Agrícola Boas Quintas
A delicate, floral wine produced from Moscatel and Arinto, rose petal and Turkish Delight aromas lead to a soft attack, nice lemon flavour, fine acidity and a mineral finish. After picking and light crushing, the grapes were left for short skin maceration before pressing. The juice was left to settle and then fermented at low temperature. Winemaker Nuno Cancela de Abreu was one of the main contributors to the research on the Arinto grape variety and its subsequent renaissance through clonal selections and vinification techniques at Sociedade Agrícola Boas Quintas.
OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 231
Moscatel, Arinto Floral, rose petal, Turkish Delight Refined, lemon finish, [01] 6° C 2015-2016, M8 D9 Grilled squid salad
PORTUGAL Quinta da Barreira >>
Hand-harvesting in the Setúbal Península region in late September; it is famous for the Moscatel de Setúbal it produces.
7977 $26.17
$157.00
Vidigueira, Antão Vaz, 2013, DOC Alentejo I don’t recall having much come across the Antão Vaz grape variety before, but what an interesting find it is. Referring to the “bible” on grape varieties, Jancis Robinson’s tome “Wine Grapes”, Jancis describes it as a high quality Portuguese variety, at home in the hot, dry south. It is one of the Alentejo’s most highly prized varieties and I can taste why. Until recently, it was almost exclusively grown around the small town of Vidigueira where it is well-suited to the warm and sunny climate of the plain. This wine, produced by the local cooperative at Vidigueira, is a little restrained on the nose at first with aromas of nectarines and tangerine peel. Soft and smooth, it has peachy flavours with a broad structure, balanced acidity and an elegant, lemony finish; an absolute delight and a great discovery.
PORTUGAL Quinta da Barreira >>
Antão Vaz, Arinto, Perrum Restrained, nectarines Smooth, peaches, lemon, [00] 6° C 2015-2018, M7 D9 Pataniscas de Bacalhau – Portuguese codfish fritters
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5
7978 $17.67
$106.00
7979 $20.17
$121.00
7980 $42.00
$252.00
7981 $50.67
$304.00
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3 Notas, 2010, Vinho Regional Alentejano A great value wine with nice development, it is produced from three native Portuguese varieties, Aragonez, Moreto and Trincadeira. The 3 Notas 2010 has started to develop a brick ruby hue. The wine was matured in American oak and has a delicious mellow character with autumnal notes of treacle, smoke, forest leaves and dark fruits. Mediumbodied with firm acidity, and a raspberry and sour cherry finish typical of the Trincadeira variety, it is ready to drink and will continue to mature for several years.
Vale de Fornos, 2012, Vinho Regional Tejo, Quinta Vale de Fornos Quinta Vale de Fornos is located in the extreme southwest of the Tejo region, itself a large area on either side of the Tejo River as it flows south-westwards towards its estuary at Lisbon and out into the Atlantic Ocean. Climatic and geological conditions vary greatly throughout the region, but Quinta Vale de Fornos sits in a pocket on an irregular terrain between valleys, slopes and hills. Varieties including Castelão, Cabernet Sauvignon, Touriga Nacional, Alicante Bouschet, Aragonez, Syrah, Fernão Pires, Riesling, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc are planted on clay limestone hills facing south at around 200 metres. This red, produced from 50% Syrah, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 15% Castelão has rich dark fruit aromas with blackberries, black cherries and cedar. It is soft and rich on the palate with vanilla, caramel and cooked fruits. With great balance and concentration, it is complex with just the right amount of oak seasoning.
Quinta Vale de Fornos, Syrah, Reserva, 2012, DOC Tejo Produced from 100% Syrah grapes, the terroir at Quinta Vale de Fornos seems to be perfect for this grape variety. Deep, dense purple in colour, the wine has spice, smoke, cooked black cherries and wine gum aromas. Fine in texture, it is rich and concentrated with a long blueberry, vanilla and blackcurrant finish. This is a real demonstration of the best of what the Tejo region and Portugal can produce. The grapes were picked at dawn in order to avoid the blasting heat of the day. After a short cold soak, the wine was fermented and subsequently matured for eight months in new French oak.
Quinta Vale de Fornos, Cabernet Sauvignon, Reserva, 2012, DOC Tejo The Quinta Vale de Fornos Cabernet Sauvignon 2012 is also a 100% varietal wine. Produced in a similar way to the Syrah, at the time of tasting it was a bit more restrained and will merit keeping for a short period prior to drinking. Herbal and raisin aromas lead to black fruits, smoke and cassis flavours. The wine is structured with good balance and was matured for 12 months in new French oak.
OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 231
Aragonez, Moreto, Trincadeira Mellow, treacle, smoke, dark fruits Sour cherry, red berries 18° C 2015-2018, M7 D9 Roast loin of black pork with fennel and garlic-creamed yellow potatoes
Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Castelão Blackberries, black cherries, pencil lead Rich, vanilla, cooked red and black berries, caramel 18° C 2015-2020, M6 D8 Porcini and blue cheese ravioli with brown butter sage sauce
Syrah Cooked black cherries, wine gums Smoke, cassis, blueberry, vanilla 18° C 2015-2020, M6 D9 Peking duck breast with parsnip purée, brandied cherries jus and turnips
Cabernet Sauvignon Herbs, raisins, cassis Black fruits, smoke 18° C 2015-2018, M7 D8 Rigatoni with sautéed eggplant and aged ricotta cheese in tomato sauce
PORTUGAL Quinta da Barreira >>
Alteia winemaker Fausto J. Montenegro Vieira Cardoso has followed the footsteps of his father and uncles and produces wines from the fruit of the vineyards he walked as a child.
7982 $22.17
$133.00
7983 $19.67
$118.00
Quinta da Barreira, Branco, 2013, Vinho Regional Lisboa The Quinta da Barreira estate has been in José Gaspar’s family since the 1950s; his grandfather was a grape grower. Located 50 kilometres south of Lisbon, the estate has a total of 11 hectares which José now fully manages. I first tasted the white 2013 with José during the Opimian visit to Spain and then again in November during the selection tastings for this cellar offering. Both times the wine stood out as being really special. Produced from a blend of Alvarinho, Arinto, Verdelho and Chardonnay, it is rich and honeyed with passion fruit and caramelized flavours, and mellow, vanilla, and lime with a mineral finish. Each variety was picked and vinified separately with some skin contact carried out before a long, slow fermentation at low temperature.
Decisão, Reserva Branco, 2013, DOC Távora-Varosa Távora-Varosa is a small, remote, mountainous region in the north which lies between Douro to its north and Dão to the south. Produced from a blend of 60% Malvasia Fina, which gives weight and structure, 35% Gouveio Real, giving acidity, and 5% Bical, the vines are planted on the right bank of the Távora River at 700 metres altitude. Decisão, meaning decision, has a fresh apples, hint floral blossom and mineral aroma. The soft, broad palate has a crisp lemon and lime finish. The grapes were handpicked the second week of September, 2013 into small boxes, transported to the winery and the grapes immediately de-stemmed and pressed. The decanted juice was slowly fermented at low temperature and the wine left to mature on yeast lees. Only a limited number of bottles of this wine were produced with each bottle individually numbered.
PORTUGAL Quinta da Barreira >>
Alvarinho, Arinto, Verdelho, Chardonnay Mellow, vanilla, lime custard Caramelized fruit, banana, mineral finish, [00] 8° C 2015-2017, M8 D9 Clams cooked with olive oil, coriander and garlic
Malvasia Fina, Gouveio Real, Bical Floral, mineral, slate Lemons, limes, [00] 6° C 2015-2017, M8 D9 Pumpkin soup
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7984 $19.67
$118.00
7985 $20.00
$120.00
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Decisão, Reserva Tinto, 2012, DOC Távora-Varosa The red Decisão is produced from Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, and Tinta Roriz planted lower on the slopes between 400 and 700 metres. Intense and spicy with aromas of blackberries and chocolate, and a rich concentrated palate, it will mature for several years. The grapes were harvested the first week of October, destemmed and crushed. After 24 hours cold maceration, the juice was fermented at 25°C.
Quinta da Giesta, 2012, DOC Dão, Sociedade Agrícola Boas Quintas Nuno Cancela de Abreu returned to his roots in the Dão region planting a vineyard at Quinta da Giesta. The 2012 is deep in colour with herbal, vermouth aromas, plum, violets, and blackcurrant. On the palate, it has great balance with vanilla, blackberry and currant flavours. It has the potential to age and offers great value, a reflection of how wines in Portugal are currently undervalued. The wine was awarded a Gold Medal in Brussels and it’s no wonder. Produced from a blend of Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz and Jaen cultivated on clay soils in the Mediterranean Dão climate, the grapes were picked and left for cold maceration for two days followed by controlled fermentation at 23°C.
OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 231
Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz Black fruits, incense, spice Structured, firm acidity 18° C 2015-2020, M6 D8 Beef sirloin with baby rapini, potato gratin, green peppercorn and red wine reduction
Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz, Jaen Herbal, vermouth, plums, violets Blackberry, vanilla, currants 18° C 2015-2020, M6 D8 Lamb Vindaloo
New plantings of four white varieties at Quinta da Barreira in the Lisbon area - Alvarinho, Arinto, Verdelho and Chardonnay
PORTUGAL Quinta da Barreira >>
7986 $15.50
$186.00
7987 $21.50
$129.00
7988 $27.17
$163.00
7989 $41.17
$247.00
Serra Vinho Verde, 2014, DOC Vinho Verde Vinho Verde should be a fruity and refreshing wine, relatively light in alcohol with a touch of spritz on the palate. This is completely true for the Serra Vinho Verde 2014. It is produced from a blend of grape varieties, Loureiro, Azal, Trajadura and Pedernã, grown in the far north of the country, close to the border between Portugal and Spain’s Galicia region. This is Portugal’s largest DOC; the climate is rainy and cool, and the vines are cultivated in fertile, granite soils. Fruity and refreshing with some residual sweetness, it makes a good aperitif.
Alteia Gouveio, 2013, DOC Douro
Loureiro, Azal, Trajadura, Pedernã White blossom Light, refreshing, some spritz, [02] 6° C 2015-2016, M8 D9 Thai chicken lettuce wraps
Gouveio
Gouveio is a traditional white grape variety from the Douro where it was sometimes confusingly known as Verdelho, although it is completely unrelated to Madeira’s Verdelho. Alteia Gouveio 2013 has delicate white fruits and peach aromas, and soft and fresh flavours with good citrus, lemon acidity. The hot, arid climate of the Douro may not seem the obvious place to produce quality white wines, but the vineyard is located in Baixo Corgo where the climate is damper and cooler. The vines are planted on the south bank of the Douro River on steep slopes with shale soils, predominantly facing northwest and west.
Complex, delicate white fruits
Estopa Reserva, 2012, DOC Douro
Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca, Touriga Nacional
Deep purple in colour, the Estopa Reserva 2012 is intense with spicy, dark fruit, cedary and bacon fat aromas. The palate is rich with fresh black fruit and apple flavours, and a long, bitter cherry, chocolate finish. Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca and Touriga Nacional grapes were grown on steep terraced schist soils in the Upper Corgo sub-region. After crushing and fermentation, the wine was matured in used French oak barrels for six months. Produced by José Pinheiro, this wine is delicious and will only improve with bottle age.
Soneto Porto Reserva Tawny Tawny brown in colour, the Soneto Porto Reserva Tawny has an intense and complex bouquet with smoke and treacle. The palate is mellow with sweet fruits, raisins, nutty, vanilla, nutmeg, and a long, lingering finish. For many years, José Pinheiro made Port and Douro wine for one of the large Port Houses until deciding to set up on his own. He knows the land and the best sites better than anyone and has worked closely with growers in the Upper Corgo sub-region. Soneto Porto Reserva Tawny was produced from a blend of traditional grape varieties grown on both the well-recognized terraces and more modern, recently planted plots. The young Port wines were aged in old casks for a minimum of eight years with the final Soneto Porto Reserva Tawny blend created from various vintages.
PORTUGAL Quinta da Barreira
White fruits, blossoms, [01] 6° C 2015-2017, M8 D9 Prawn Rissoles
Intense, spicy, dark fruits, bacon fat Black fruits, apples, bitter cherry 18° C 2015-2020, M6 D7 Portuguese roast lamb with roast potatoes and broad beans with chorizo and coriander
Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz, Tinta Barroca, Tinto Cão, Touriga Nacional Smoke, treacle Complex, raisins, Christmas cake, nutty, [07] 18° C Ready to drink Aged cheddar, roasted mixed nuts, walnut crescents
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Churchill Graham is a boutique Port House established by Johnny Graham in the early 1980s. At that time, it was the first Port Company to have been established in over 50 years and one could have questioned whether it was a sound business decision or an act of madness. Around the world, sales and interest in fortified wines were in freefall and producing quality Ports requires significant capital investment given the time required to mature them. Nonetheless, Johnny wanted to make Ports with an individual style, naming the company after his wife Caroline, née Churchill. In 1990, the company purchased Quinta da Gricha Estate where it since produces all its Ports using the traditional granite “lagares” to tread the grapes. Churchill Graham produces a range of great Ports and still wines from the Douro.
7991 $16.00
$96.00
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Meio Queijo, 2011, DO Douro, Churchill Graham A great value wine produced from Churchill Graham’s estate grown grapes, it is a blend of 40% Touriga Nacional, 30% Touriga Franca, and 30% Tinta Roriz. Despite its three years of age, the wine is still an intense plum, purple colour. On the nose mellow scents of dark fruits, black cherries and raisins mingle with a hint of smoke. The palate is soft and smooth with notes of treacle and a fresh finish. The grapes were handpicked into small boxes and then crushed at the winery. 20% of the wine was aged in old barrels with the balance in tank.
OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 231
Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz Black cherries, smoke Raisins, cherries, treacle 18° C 2015-2017, M8 D9 Salt cod with tomatoes, peppers and olives
PORTUGAL Churchill Graham >>
Churchill Graham Villa Nova de Gaia
Quinta da Gricha is a 50 hectare Grade “A” vineyard estate situated on the south bank of the Douro River between Pinhão and Tua in the prestigious Cima Corgo sub-region of the Douro Port Wine region.
7992
Churchill’s Estates Rosé Douro, 2013, Churchill Graham
$21.50
A soft and approachable wine, appropriately crimson pink in colour, it has aromas of redcurrants, crushed red berries, and fresh apples with a raspberry yoghurt flavour. Produced from 100% Touriga Nacional, the grapes were grown at high altitude in the Cima Corgo sub-region of the Douro Valley.
$129.00
Touriga Nacional Redcurrants, apples Crushed red berries, yoghurt, [00] 6° C 2015-2016, M8 D9 Spicy prawns with garlic
7993 $25.33
$152.00
Churchill’s Estates Douro, 2012, Churchill Graham
Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz
Deeply coloured, the 2012 has brambly fruit aromas. On the palate it develops meaty, savoury flavours with a hint of tar and marmite; it should go superbly well with game or substantially hearty meat dishes. The wine is produced from 40% Touriga Nacional, 30% Touriga Franca, and 30% Tinta Roriz, all grown in the company’s own vineyards. Approximately 30% of the wine was aged for 12 months in new and old French oak casks.
Brambles
PORTUGAL Churchill Graham >>
Savoury, meaty 18° C 2015-2019, M6 D8 Classic Civet of Hare
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7994 $23.67
$142.00
7995 $34.83
$209.00
7996 $44.00
$264.00
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Churchill’s Reserve Port, Churchill Graham Churchill Graham is a boutique Port House and only uses grapes from top grade “A” vineyards to produce its Ports. Vineyards in the Douro are planted on steep, terraced slopes with great variations in orientation and altitude so that they are graded from “A” down to “F”. Churchill’s Reserve Port is produced from a field blend of Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz, Tinto Cão, Tinta Barroca, Touriga Franca and Tinta Francisca; all the grapes were handpicked and crushed in the traditional “lagares”. Port is a fortified wine, meaning that the fermentation is arrested through the addition of brandy before the yeast has metabolized the natural sugar present in the grape juice. The result is a sweet and alcoholic, fiery young Port which is matured and blended. Churchill’s Reserve Port has ripe black cherry fruit. Rich and succulent on the palate, it is concentrated with a nice bitter cherry twist. It is a blend of several vintages which were matured in large oak vats for an average of three years. It is perfectly ready to drink and can be served straight from the bottle.
Churchill’s Late Bottled Vintage Port 2008, Churchill Graham Late Bottled Vintage Port comes from a single year. 2008 was a fairly cool year with low yields and a delayed harvest. Quality was good, but not widely considered good enough to “declare” as a vintage, although there are some Port Houses that did. The young 2008 Ports were tasted post-harvest and the best casks selected for Churchill’s Late Bottled Vintage Port. Slightly less intense in colour than Churchill’s Reserve Port, it has aromas of plums, raspberries and cherries. Sweet and medium-bodied on the palate, it has nice spice, vanilla and bitter cherry flavours. The Port was matured for four to five years and was bottled without filtration in order to retain maximum richness and complexity. It will continue to mature in bottle and may throw a deposit. For those that enjoy Vintage Port, this is as close as it gets at a fraction of the price. Ideally, stand the bottle upright for several hours to allow the sediment to settle and then carefully decant one to two hours before serving.
Churchill’s Crusted Port, Bottled in 2007, Churchill Graham Churchill’s Crusted Port is a blend of two vintages, generally vintages which are good, but not the best to be declared as a single vintage. The Ports are aged in oak casks and then matured in bottle for at least three years before release. This Crusted Port was bottled in 2007. It will continue to mature and improve in bottle during which time it may throw sediment, hence the term Crusted Port. Medium ruby in colour, it is a little mute with aromas of fruit, cherries and kirsch. While it can be enjoyed now, it is youthful and vibrant with a lingering cherry finish; as it matures it will develop more complex notes. The bottle can be cellared horizontally, although care should be taken before serving to avoid the crust. The bottle should be allowed to stand for two hours before carefully decanting.
OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 231
Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz, Tinto Cão, Tinta Barroca, Touriga Franca, Tinta Francisca Black cherries, ripe dark fruits Rich, succulent, bitter cherries, [07] 18° C Ready to drink Taleggio, cherry custard tart with sliced almonds
Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz, Tinto Cão, Tinta Barroca, Touriga Franca, Tinta Francisca Plums, raspberries, cherries Vanilla, spice, bitter cherries, [07] 16° C 2015-2025 Crottin de Chavignol, fruit and nut Christmas pudding loaf
Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz, Tinto Cão, Tinta Barroca, Touriga Franca, Tinta Francisca Kirsch, red cherries Vibrant cherries, [07] 16° C 2015-2025 Highland blue cheese, cherry-chocolate mousse cake
PORTUGAL Churchill Graham >>
Port styles are determined based on the oak-ageing period. Typically, Tawny Port matures in barrels for five to seven years, but can be aged up to 40 years, while Vintage Port can spend a short two-year maturation period in oak casks.
7997 $36.22
$326.00
Churchill’s 10 Years Old Tawny Port, Churchill Graham Tawny Ports develop their typical brownish hue and nutty flavours during extended maturation in large oak casks. Churchill’s 10 Years Old Tawny Port is a blend of many different ports with an average age of 10 Years. As the Port matures in oak, some of the colour drops out as sediment so that Tawny Ports tend to be paler as well as browner in colour. This is brick ruby in colour with raisins, treacle and smoke aromas. On the palate it is sweet, but lighter in style with vanilla, oak, nutty, and spicy flavours. This Port is ready to drink and can be served directly from the bottle at around 12°C to 14°C. It will not mature further in bottle, although it can be kept.
PORTUGAL Churchill Graham
Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz, Tinto Cão, Tinta Barroca, Touriga Franca, Tinta Francisca Raisins, treacle, smoke Vanilla, mellow spice, fruits, [08] 14° C Ready to drink, no need to decant Queijo São Jorge, butterscotch pudding
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Spain
Bodegas Concavins Montblanc, Barberà de la Conca Catalonia
Winery founder, Luis Carbonell Figueras, at the age of 20, overlooking the vineyards from Masia Les Comes – This photo was taken long before the farmhouse, which was in the family for more than five generations, was restored and rendered operational.
Conca de Barberà lies in the heart of Catalonia, to the west of the Penedès region and the town of Barcelona. The Clos Montblanc estate and winery is close to the Monastery of Poblet, founded in the early 12th century by Cistercian monks, and the fortified town of Montblanc. Cistercian monks are known for their fieldwork, manual labour and focus on viticulture, but it is likely that viticulture was introduced to the region by the Romans, centuries before their arrival. More recently the region was kept a secret amongst the trade, although it was often considered the source of some of the best wines to produce Cava. Clos Montblanc estate was established by the Carbonell family 25 years ago. The family planted indigenous and international varieties and renovated the old farmhouse. Today, it is run by Pilar Carbonell and the wines are made by Josep Vadrí.
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OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 231
SPAIN Bodegas Concavins >>
7999
Montblanc 362 Macabeu/Chardonnay, 2014, DO Catalunya
8006
Free case CHOICE for this Cellar Offering
$14.25
$171.00
For a long time Conca de Barberà was kept a secret, but was known amongst locals for its loose and well-draining limestone soils, and its potential to produce quality grapes. This wine is produced from a blend of equal parts of Macabeu and Chardonnay grapes grown on 20 year old vines. The grapes were picked mid-September. After de-stemming, they were left for a short maceration and then fermented at low temperature producing elegant, fresh fruit flavours and a crisp palate.
Macabeu, Chardonnay Discrete white fruits Soft, crisp, [00] 6° C 2015-2016, M8 D9 Romesco Bruschetta – grilled bread with Romesco sauce and Manchego cheese
COUPON
8000
Montblanc 362 Tempranillo/Cabernet, 2014, DO Catalunya
8007
Free case CHOICE for this Cellar Offering
$14.00
Montblanc 362 is produced from a blend of 85% Tempranillo and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon. The vines were planted on the estate 10 years ago on calcareous clay soils. Both varieties were picked separately and fermented in stainless steel tanks at 25°C to 28°C. The wine was aged in barrel for approximately three months.
Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon Red and black fruits Soft attack, firm acidity 16° C 2015-2018, M7 D9 Moussaka
$168.00
COUPON
8001 $29.83
$179.00
Clos Montblanc Únic Chardonnay, 2014, DO Catalunya The Clos Montblanc Únic Chardonny 2014 has intense butterscotch and fresh apple aromas. Soft and broad on the palate, it has rich, buttery, fruit flavours complemented with good acidity and a long, toasty finish. The Chardonnay vineyard lies in the foothills of the Sierra de Miramar range and was planted two decades ago on clay loam soils. The harvested grapes were pressed and fermented in new French oak barrels and left to mature for four months prior to bottling, giving the wine extra richness and structure.
Chardonnay Butterscotch, fresh apples Soft, broad palate, tropical fruits, buttery, toast, [00] 6° C 2015-2018, M7 D9 Herbed rotisserie chicken with Catalan allioli autèntic The Clos Montblanc cellar holds over 1000 barrels that are made from the finest French and American wood. Almost every wine passes through these barrels before bottling.
SPAIN Bodegas Concavins >>
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8002
Clos Montblanc Únic Trepat, 2012, DO Conca de Barberà
$179.00
The Trepat grape is a local variety in Conca de Barberà which is gaining traction, although admittedly there is only very limited production. Previously, the grape variety was used to produce rosé Cavas. More recently, it is being used to produce red wines such as this. Clos Montblanc has 1.5 hectares of a single vineyard at an altitude of 400 metres which was planted with Trepat 25 years ago and which is organically farmed. Just 1 kilogram of grapes is yielded per vine. The wine was aged in oak and has a distinct cedar and pencil lead aroma that leads to more black fruits flavours on the palate. It is light to mediumbodied with firm acidity. The oak will better integrate with more time in bottle.
8003
Clos Montblanc Xipella Premium, 2013, DO Catalunya
$29.83
$17.17
$206.00
The Xipella Negra has an altogether more savoury, earthy aroma with floral notes. Produced from a blend of Monastrell, Garnacha, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cariñena, the wine is medium-bodied with quite firm structure and an almost salty impression. After fermentation, the wine was matured for up to 18 months in American and French oak barrels.
Trepat Cedar, black fruits, soot Medium-bodied, firm acidity 18° C 2015-2018, M7 D7 Pork sausage with white beans and mushrooms
Monastrell, Garnacha, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cariñena Earthy, floral notes Savoury favours, firm tannins 18° C 2015-2018, M7 D8 Moroccan meatball stew with couscous
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SPAIN Bodegas Concavins >>
8004 $20.83
$250.00
8005 $25.67
$308.00
Clos Montblanc Syrah Premium, 2012, DO Conca de Barberà Two hectares of Syrah were planted in the late 1990s, directly surrounding Clos Montblanc winery, on black slate and quartz soils known as Llicorella, which is free-draining and nutrient-poor. The wine is a deep plum colour. Quite restrained on the nose, it displays notes of oak, vanilla and fruit. On the palate it is concentrated with firm acidity and flavours of blackberries and bitter cherries. Fermentation in stainless steel tanks was followed by malolactic transformation in French oak barrels, then maturation in American oak for 12 months.
Clos Montblanc Masia Les Comes Reserva, 2010, DO Conca de Barberà This is a complex wine showing nice development; it is perfectly ready for drinking. Masia Les Comes is the Carbonell family’s original farmhouse and winery dating back five generations. In 1988, the family established the Clos Montblanc winery and at the same time planted this vineyard with six hectares of Cabernet Sauvignon and four hectares of Merlot on east-facing slopes at 700 metres altitude. The Masia Les Comes Reserva 2010 has complex, meaty aromas, with a hint of leather and forest leaves. The palate is succulent with more forest fruits emerging and vibrant, balanced acidity, good concentration and length. The wine was aged in barrels for 18 to 24 months prior to bottling.
SPAIN Bodegas Concavins
Syrah Vanilla, oak, fruit Concentrated, fresh blackberries, bitter cherries 18° C 2015-2019, M6 D8 Garlic and herb tagliatelle with pork and beef ragù
Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot Complex, meaty, forest leaves Forest fruits, concentrated, succulent 18° C 2015-2020, M6 D9 Beef brisket with garlic and rosemary, and hearty root vegetables
A view over the vineyards just before one of Clos Montblanc´s remarkable sunsets
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Vinoselección are few people in Spain that know the regions, styles and producers Madrid There to the same extent as the team at Vinoselección. Set up by Massimo
Galimberti, he would spend his weekends driving around Spain loading up the boot of his old Renault 6 with his discoveries. These would subsequently be enjoyed and shared with his friends at informal get-togethers. The team at Vinoselección has grown since then, but the ethos is still the same. Working with Maribel Gómez, we have put together our favourite producers, some new introductions and, more specifically, wines that really stood out during my visit in September with a group of Opimians.
8009 $22.67
$136.00
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Cava Parxet, Edición Limitada, Brut Reserva, 2011, DO Cava, Parxet The Parxet winery sits in the village of Tiana just 20 kilometres north of Barcelona. The village dates back to Roman times and was named after the Emperor Titus, but today vineyards co-exist with and are under increasing pressure from the ever-growing residential areas. Vines are planted on degraded granite soils, with a rough, sandy texture known as Sauló, which provide good drainage. The Brut Reserva 2011 is a blend of Pansa Blanca (Xarel.lo), Macabeo and Parellada. With ripe pears and fresh apple aromas, a fine stream of bubbles, good acidity with lemon, and mineral notes on the finish, this is a refreshing and zesty alternative to Champagne.
OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 231
Pansa Blanca, Macabeo, Parellada Fresh apples, pears Balanced, lemon finish, [01] 6° C 2015-2016, M8 D9 Vegetable Tempura
SPAIN Vinoselección >>
Bodegas Portia totals 12,500 square metres and is spread over three floors in the form of a star with three points that correspond to vinification, fermentation and ageing.
8010 $27.00
$162.00
Finca La Colina Verdejo, Cien x Cien, 2013, DO Rueda, Vinos Sanz The Rueda region is, without doubt, one of Spain’s best white wine-producing areas and Vinos Sanz produces some of the finest examples. It is the extreme continental climate of the region, with the dramatic drop in temperature at night, which allows elegant white wines to be produced. Finca La Colina, set in the village of La Seca, grows some of the oldest Sauvignon Blanc vines to be found in the region, but this wine is produced from 100% Verdejo, a native grape to the region. The 2013 has ripe gooseberry fruits, pink grapefruit and elegant floral aromas. Soft and round on the palate, it has fresh apple flavours and a long lime, citrus finish.
SPAIN Vinoselección >>
Verdejo Pink grapefruit, gooseberry Floral, apples, lime, [00] 6° C 2015-2017, M8 D9 Pan-roasted haddock with black olive tapenade and zucchini olive oil purée
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8011 $29.83
$179.00
8012 $39.67
$238.00
8013 $18.83
$113.00
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Gargalo Godello, 2013, DO Monterrei, Gargalo SL The DO of Monterrei in Galicia was for long a neglected and forgotten area despite its renown during the middle ages. The Godello grape variety was almost extinct in the 1970s, but thankfully there has been a revival in this variety and region in northwest Spain. Leading this revival are estates such as Gargalo which was established by Roberto Verino, a Spanish fashion designer with strong ties to the region. Its eight hectares of vineyards sit below the ancient walls of the town of Monterrei, on a slope facing west with granite and slate soils. This is a subtle, elegant wine with aromas of white blossoms, a hint of rose petal and a touch of honey. The soft, smooth palate is balanced by fresh lemon acidity.
Enate Chardonnay, Fermentado en Barrica, 2013, DO Somontano, Viñedos y Crianzas del Alto Aragón An intensely toasty, oaked wine, I was recently at a blind tasting where this wine was included and it was variously guessed as being a white wine from Burgundy or Rioja. I can completely understand why. Jesús Artajona Serrano, winemaker at Enate, has produced a barrel-fermented wine with butterscotch, ripe banana and cedary spice aromas. It is smooth and rich on the palate with a long, toasty finish. If you don’t like rich, buttery, oaky Chardonnays, then this is not for you. Personally, despite the prominent oak flavours, it was 100% barrel-fermented in French and American oak barrels, I find the tropical fruits complement and balance them well, producing a succulent and tasty style. Somontano, meaning beneath the mountains in Latin, is a region in the north of Spain close to the Pyrenees and the border with France. There is a confluence of forces when the clear blue sky from the Mediterranean knocks up against humid Atlantic air from the ocean and the mountain chain which disperses the clouds, all having a moderating effect on the climate and temperature.
Portia Vendimia Seleccionada, 2011, DO Ribera del Duero, Bodegas Portia Like something out of a James Bond movie, Bodegas Portia is an impressive sight. Designed by leading world architect Norman Foster, I have often passed the winery as it lies directly off the trajectory from Madrid up to Rioja. This year was the first time I had the opportunity to visit and to do a full vertical tasting of some of Portia’s older wines. The winery in Ribera del Duero at Gumiel de Izán is part of the larger Faustino Group from Rioja. The group has certainly put its money where its mouth is with a no holds barred approach to the design and building of the facility. I wanted to keep looking over my shoulder and couldn’t get over the feeling that Jaws, Mr. Blofeld or some other baddie was going to jump out from behind one of the very shiny stainless steel tanks and attack me. The Vendimia Seleccionada 2011 has oaky aromas with cedar, sandalwood and pencil lead which somewhat overshadow the blackberry fruits in the background. The palate is concentrated with firm, chewy tannins ending on notes of fresh blackberries and green apples.
OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 231
Godello White blossoms, rose petal Honey, lemon, [00] 8° C 2015-2016, M8 D9 Turbot in green sauce – parsley, peas, white wine and garlic
Chardonnay Butterscotch, toast, banana Tropical fruits, butter, toast, [00] 6° C 2015-2018, M7 D9 Cod, shrimp and bay scallops in garlic butter sauce over linguini
Tempranillo Sandalwood, pencil lead, blackberries Blackberry, apple, chewy finish 18° C 2015-2018, M7 D8 Braised short ribs with confit potatoes and crispy leeks
SPAIN Vinoselección >>
8014 $30.33
$182.00
8015 $57.00
$342.00
Blasón de San Juan Crianza, 2009, DO Ribera del Duero, Bodegas y Viñedos Ortega Fournier I have been a fan of O. Fournier wines for years and while I often see José Manuel and head winemaker José Spisso at trade shows, my last visit to O. Fournier winery in Ribera del Duero was with winemaker Laura Terrazas in 2012. Located in Berlangas de Roa, the winery was founded in 2002 by Natalia Ortega, her husband José Luis and her brother José Manuel. Sixty-five hectares of Tinta del País (Tempranillo) vines up to 60 years old are planted on three soil types within the estate. Large differences in temperature between day and night allow grapes to ripen slowly, but present a high risk of frost at spring time and again during harvest. The wines are made by the understated and camera-shy Laura Terrazas who was biting her nails during my visit with harvest due to start in a few days and temperatures forecast to drop dramatically. Her Blasón de San Juan Crianza 2009, tasted at the winery and again in November, has a mellow bouquet with berry fruit aromas. Soft and smooth with vanilla, red berries and red cherry flavours just go on and on. It was matured for 12 months in 90% French and 10% central European oak barrels.
Alfa Spiga, 2008, DO Ribera del Duero, Bodegas y Viñedos Ortega Fournier The Alfa Spiga is a step up in quality and complexity, but while the 2008 is starting to show nice mature flavours, it will benefit from more time in bottle. Cooked dark fruits, vanilla, ginger, spice and herbs combine in the bouquet, with more liquorice treacle and balsamic red berry flavours on the palate. Grapes from the old bush vines on stony, sandy soils were handpicked in October, 2008. After five days cold maceration the grapes were fermented in oak vats for 22 days. The wine was transferred to new oak barrels for malolactic to occur, where it was subsequently aged for a further 24 months with 80% French and 20% central European oak.
SPAIN Vinoselección >>
Tinta del País Complex, plums, blackberries, vanilla Sweet berry fruits 18° C 2015-2020, M6 D9 Paella with duck, seafood and chorizo
Tinta del País Mellow, spice, ginger, dark fruits Red berries, balsamic, vanilla 18° C 2015-2020, M6 D8 Grilled fillet steak medallions served with sautéed wild mushrooms and herbs
The Pujanza winery is situated at the foothills of the Sierra de Cantabria in an area where altitude presents challenges to vine-growing.
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8016 $100.50
$603.00
6 Años, Valduero Reserva Premium, 2007, DO Ribera del Duero, E. Valduero SA The Valduero winery sits at the highest point in the Ribera del Duero region at Gumiel de Mercado at around 900 metres. Established in 1984 by Gregorio García Álvarez, a new winery was built in 2000 based on a series of three tunnels, one for tanks, one for barrels and one for bottle maturation, buried under an excavated hill. The five metres of soil overhead provides insulation and constant storage conditions naturally, without the use of energy. The estate is run by Gregorio’s two daughters, Yolanda and Carolina, who both have a strong passion for the region and a strong sense of terroir. The Valduero philosophy is to fully mature their wines under the best possible conditions before release, hence the design of the winey. 6 Años refers to the six years the wine is matured in barrel and bottle prior to its release. Aromas of coconut spice and cooked berries are appealing. The palate is mellow and soft, but still lively with firm acidity. Grapes from selected plots of 40 year old vines were picked into small crates early October, 2007. After fermentation the wine was matured for 36 months in four different types of oak. The wine was then aged a further 36 months in bottle and is showing nice maturity. Tinto Fino Coconut, cooked berries, spice Berry fruits, mellow 18° C 2015-2020, M6 D8 Roast baby goat with small pearl onions
8017 $20.00
$120.00
Koden de Luis Alegre, 2013, DOCa Rioja, Bodegas Luis Alegre Historically, wineries in Rioja produced large blends of wines sourced across the region (which measures 140 kilometres long and is split into three sub-regions) from small wine-growers and cooperatives which they then matured in barrel and bottled under their name. In more recent times there has been a shift to producers who grow grapes, make, and mature their wines. With this shift, there is a lot more focus on site selection and terroir. Bodegas Luis Alegre is situated close to the town of Laguardia in the Alavesa sub-region north of the Ebro River. In 2000 it built an impressive circular winery set into the hillside, designed to gravity-feed the grapes directly into the tanks. The bodega owns 54 hectares of vineyards with the Koden produced from 100% Tempranillo. It has an intensely fruity aroma of red berries, strawberries, vanilla and other ripe fruits. Not a wine to serve with hearty game or heavy dishes, the palate is light and refreshing, approachable and full of charm. Tempranillo Aromatic, strawberries, vanilla Soft, light, juicy fruits 16° C 2015-2017, M8 D9 Piquillo peppers stuffed with chorizo and Manchego cheese
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OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 231
SPAIN Vinoselección >>
8018 $261.17
$1,567.00
Pujanza Cisma, 2011, DOCa Rioja, Bodegas y Viñedos Pujanza The Pujanza estate and winery truly is a boutique affair and the antithesis of historic and traditional Rioja Houses. Established in 1998 by owner and technical director Carlos San Pedro Rández, the idea for this single vineyard estate had been growing in his mind for years. A fifth generation grapegrower, Carlos’ philosophy is to transmit all the character and personality of the terroir through his wines. The Pujanza winery, built in 2002, sits on the outskirts of Laguardia amongst vineyards and the foothills of the Sierra de Cantabria. This is the limit of vine-growing and in some years the grapes struggle to ripen. Pujanza has a total of 40 hectares of vineyards around Laguardia, but only the 0.8 hectare plot at Finca La Valcabada, planted in 1925 at an altitude of 600 metres, is used to produce Pujanza Cisma. When I tasted the 2011, before its release, with winemaker Marta Appellaniz Gallego, I was determined to secure some for Opimian. The wine has concentrated, musky, animal notes with vanilla and other spices. The palate is concentrated, with fine, pure texture and great depth. Everything about this wine shouts quality and handcrafted. These old bush vines yielded a mere 1500 kilograms per hectare. The grapes were carefully selected and picked by hand and, after de-stemming, the fermentation was carried out in a specially made French oak vat with extended maceration on the skins. The wine was then transferred to new French oak barrels to undergo malolactic followed by further 22 months maturation in French oak barrels. Tempranillo Spice, ripe dark fruits Concentrated, smooth, blackcurrant 18° C 2015-2025, M6 D7 Slow-cooked lamb shank with blackberry jus
8019 $45.50
$273.00
Braó, 2011, DO Montsant, Acústic Celler The Montsant DO is somewhat eclipsed by neighbouring Priorat. However, Montsant too has ancient vineyards planted with Samsó (Carignan) and Garnatxa (Grenache) combatting the wild, remote conditions, poor stony soils, and extreme weather conditions to grow. Albert Jané’s Acústic Celler is housed in an old 18th century underground cellar. Braó is produced from 70 to 80 year old vines grown on three plots between 300 and 800 metres. These old vines were planted before the wide use of tractors and so there is no option but to tend them by hand. Braó 2011 has an intense colour with cedary notes, pencil lead, ripe fruits, and blueberry aromas. Concentrated and succulent, this is an opulent wine at 15% alcohol, but it is balanced with lingering flavours of red fruits, fresh blueberries and incense. It was matured for 13 months in new French oak. Samsó, Garnatxa Cedar, ripe fruits, blueberries Concentrated, opulent , blueberries, red fruit, cedar 18° C
Bodegas Valduero vineyards under a blanket of snow - located at the highest point in the Ribera del Duero, the winters are cold with frequent frosts, even in May.
SPAIN Vinoselección
2015-2025, M6 D9 Catalan-style turkey with prunes, raisins and pine nuts
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Thierry Coulon may not be the stereotypical image of a Burgundian wine-grower, but he was born and bred in Burgundy and studied winemaking and oenology at the University of Dijon. Today, he leads the Paul Sapin team and is always very hands-on when it comes to sourcing wines from the Mâconnais at the southern end of Burgundy where he lives.
The Mâconnais Paul Sapin Southern Burgundy
The Mâconnais is the most southerly terroir in the Burgundy winegrowing region and is nestled between two valleys, the Grosne to the west and the Saône to the east.
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OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 231
THE MÂCONNAIS PAUL SAPIN >>
8020 $12.42
$149.00
Coeur des Lanciers Blanc, Vin de France The Coeur des Lanciers Blanc is great value for money. Fresh and fruity, it is aromatic with scents of passion fruit, grapefruit and pears. Smooth on the palate, it has refreshing, crisp acidity and a fresh, lemon finish. It is produced from a blend of Colombard and Chardonnay sourced from the southwest of France.
Colombard, Chardonnay Passion fruit, grapefruit Melons, pears, [01] 6° C 2015-2016, M8 D9 Steamed mussels in white wine broth
8021 $12.42
Coeur des Lanciers Rosé, Vin de France Medium pink in colour with aromas of herbs, strawberry leaf and raspberries, it ends with a crisp berry finish. The Coeur des Lanciers Rosé conjures up images of long, summer evenings.
Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah Strawberry leaf, raspberries Crisp berries, [01] 6° C 2015-2016, M8 D9
$149.00
Baby lettuce with feta, strawberries and almonds
8022 $12.42
Coeur des Lanciers Rouge, Vin de France Intensely coloured with ripe, dark fruits, blueberries and blackberries, it is medium-bodied on the palate with some firm, chewy tannins and a liquorice characteristic on the finish.
Syrah, Marselan Blackberries, blueberries Liquorice, dark fruit 18° C 2015-2017, M8 D9
$149.00
Potato gnocchi with lamb ragù
8023 $25.67
$154.00
8024 $40.00
$240.00
Paul Sapin Viré-Clessé, La Collection, 2014, AOP At the southern end of the Burgundy region, within the Mâconnais area, two of the best villages are Viré and Clessé which lie on a limestone strip that becomes the Côte d’Or further north. The Paul Sapin Viré-Clessé 2014 has honeysuckle and melon aromas, and a smooth palate with fresh pears and melon fruit flavours. The grapes were picked and pressed with part of the juice fermented in oak barrels and the balance in stainless steel tanks with some ageing on fine lees.
Paul Sapin Pouilly-Fuissé, La Collection, 2014, AOP Pouilly-Fuissé lies at the very extreme southern end of Burgundy and produces wines of distinction. A series of steep hills and rocks, vineyards are planted on limestone sub-soils, with alkaline clay top soil, that suit the Chardonnay vine, with crystalline primary schist in some places. Various expositions and slopes means that harvest dates can vary from one parcel to the next with vineyards generally between 200 and 400 metres. The Paul Sapin Pouilly-Fuissé is bright in colour with aromas of apples, melons and pears. The palate shows more weight and depth.
THE MÂCONNAIS PAUL SAPIN
Chardonnay Honeysuckle, melon Pears, melon, lemon, [00] 8° C 2015-2017, M8 D9 Seared scallops over wilted spinach and lemon risotto
Chardonnay Apples, melons, pears Mineral, grapefruit, [00] 6° C 2015-2018, M7 D8 Olive oil poached salmon with fingerling potatoes
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The Rhône Valley bernard perrin Viticulteur-récoltant-négociant Tasting wines for the selection of this cellar offering, I was pleasantly struck by just how good the 2013 vintage in the Rhône Valley has turned out. It was not an obviously easy vintage. Coulure early on in the season reduced the crop, especially in the southern Rhône. The northern Rhône also got off to a slow start. The very cool spring and early summer produced one of the latest vintages ever to be picked. We were told that the heat in the latter part of the season had produced outstanding results, but I have to admit I was sceptical. But, as the saying goes, the proof of the pudding is in the eating and these wines have great concentration and balance. Last year, I was disappointed to announce the retirement and sale of Domaine Villabea. This year, I am especially pleased to introduce Stéphane Montez and his domaine Monteillet wines. Stéphane is a rising star. Coming from a family associated with the region since the 16th century, he worked in wineries around the world before taking over the reins from his father Antoine and is now making wines with great personality, depth and potential to cellar.
The valley of the Côtes du Rhône wines is of great beauty, flowers along the Rhône River, and hillside vineyards in Hermitage, fruit trees, lavender and olive trees, all offering unforgettable scents and flavors.
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OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 231
THE RHÔNE VALLEY BERNARD PERRIN >>
8025 $17.83
$214.00
8026 $17.83
$214.00
8027 $21.67
$130.00
8028 $25.00
$150.00
Clos de la Grange des Moines Rosé, 2014, AOP Costières de Nîmes The Costières de Nîmes region lies between the ancient Roman city of Nîmes and the western Rhône delta. This is a great value rosé wine brimming with summer fruits, strawberries, red berries, pear drops and banana. It is a blend of 65% Syrah, 20% Cinsault and 15% Grenache. After picking, half the grapes were directly pressed, the other 50% left on skins for a short maceration. The juice was then fermented at 16°C.
Clos de la Grange des Moines, 2013, AOP Costières de Nîmes This Gold Medal-winning wine presents great value. Syrah and Grenache vines were cultivated on clay limestone soils and have produced a deeply coloured wine with restrained aromas of dark, ripe fruits, black cherries and cooked berries. Light to medium-bodied, it has juicy red and black fruit flavours and a succulent palate with soft tannins. Produced by brother and sister team François and Fanny Boyer, they represent the fourth generation of the family to grow grapes on this estate close to the Camargue region.
Domaine des Romarins, 2013, AOC Côtes du Rhône, Xavier Fabre This is another medal-winning wine and well-deserved too. Black cherry aromas lead to a concentrated palate with good weight, dark fruits and bitter cherry flavours. It is a blend of 30% Syrah, 30% Grenache, 30% Carignan and 10% Mourvèdre. Each variety was harvested separately by hand, and the grape bunches de-stemmed. Fermentation was carried out in traditional cement tanks at 26°C to 28°C with 20 days on the skins.
Domaine des Romarins, Signargues, 2013, AOC Côtes du Rhône Villages, Xavier Fabre Signargues is the most southern of the Côtes du Rhône Villages. Its plateau is made up of rolled pebbles deposited by the Rhône River thousands of years ago, as it flowed down from the Alps. High levels of iron oxides give the soils a red colour and produce wines with great elegance. Domaine des Romarins Signargues 2013 has an intense raspberry coulis aroma and on the palate lots of appealing red fruits flavours. It is balanced and elegant with fresh acidity and a long, berry finish. Vines of Syrah, Grenache and Mourvèdre, between 30 and 50 years old, are farmed using integrated pest management. The grapes were harvested by hand with strict sorting. Part of the Syrah was aged in barrel with the balance matured in cement tanks for a year before blending and bottling.
THE RHÔNE VALLEY BERNARD PERRIN >>
Syrah, Cinsault, Grenache Strawberries, banana Pear drops, red berries, [00] 6° C 2015-2016, M8 D9 Niçoise salad
Syrah, Grenache Restrained, ripe dark fruit, black cherry Juicy red and blackberry fruits, succulent 16° C 2015-2017, M8 D9 Pork loin with roasted seasonal vegetables
Syrah, Grenache, Carignan, Mourvèdre Black cherries Concentrated, bitter cherry 18° C 2015-2018, M7 D8 Beef Daube
Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre Raspberry coulis Red fruits, elegant 18° C 2015-2017, M8 D9 Coq au Vin
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8029 $21.83
$131.00
8030
$31.50
$189.00
8031 $35.00
$210.00
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Vincent Rochette Sélection, Visan, 2013, AOC Côtes du Rhône Villages Visan is one of the 17 villages in the southern Rhône eligible to add its name as a suffix to the Côtes du Rhône Villages appellation, in recognition of its special terroir and quality potential; others include Valréas and Chusclan. Vineyards surround the village of Visan on all sides and benefit from the best exposed hillside spots. Vincent Rochette’s 7.5 hectare vineyard, located to the west of the village at an altitude of 140 metres, was planted 60 years ago. The land is hot and arid with over 60% pebbles in sandy, clay, limestone soil. His Visan 2013 has a savoury, meaty character with more cranberry, raspberry and chocolate flavours on the palate. Produced from a blend of 60% Grenache and 40% Syrah, the vineyard is farmed using the principles of bio-dynamics, paying particular attention to the moon’s cycle.
Domaine La Ferme Saint-Martin, Les Terres Jaunes, 2013, AOP Beaumes-de-Venise, Guy and Thomas Jullien Domaine La Ferme Saint-Martin vineyards lie around the village of Suzette in the north of the Beaumes-deVenise appellation. The vineyard, located at an altitude of 400 metres, is in a privileged south-facing spot with panoramic views to Mont Ventoux, the high plateau of the Luberon, the Alpilles, and the delicately named Dentelles de Montmirail. The Les Terres Jaunes cuvée is a parcel selection. It is a blend of 75% Grenache and 25% Syrah grown on ancient, deeply coloured, clay limestone soils from the Triassic period. Deep plum in colour, Les Terres Jaunes 2013 has a floral perfume, a concentrated palate with mellow ripe fruit, and floral flavours leading to a savoury finish with good structure. The grapes were picked by hand and the wine made in what was once a chapel or church, dating back to the 12th century, with 15 to 20 days maceration followed by maturation in tank, and then bottling.
Domaine du Murinais, Vieilles Vignes, 2013, AOC Crozes Hermitage, Luc Tardy Crozes Hermitage is the largest appellation of the northern Rhône. The northern Rhône differs from the south of the region in having a continental climate with the harsh, bitterly cold and strong mistral winds blowing in winter and hot, arid conditions in summer. 100% Syrah, grown on low-yielding 39 to 45 year old vines, has produced intense flavours and concentration. The wine is a deep, dark purple colour. Intense, smoky oak, charcoal, cedar and dark fruit aromas lead to a dense, savoury palate. Flavours of black cherries, spices and bitter chocolate linger on the tongue. The 17 hectare Domaine du Murinais vineyards are farmed by Luc Tardy and his wife Catherine in the south of the Crozes Hermitage appellation. Vines are cultivated on large, rolled pebble soils without the use of chemical insecticides or weed killers. This wine has huge concentration and depth and was matured for 12 months, half in traditional oak barrels, the other half in larger 600 litre oak casks.
OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 231
Grenache, Syrah Savoury, meaty Red fruits, cranberries, chocolate 18° C 2015-2017, M8 D8 Duck breast with barley risotto
Grenache, Syrah Perfumed, floral Mellow fruits, savoury finish, structured 18° C 2015-2020, M6 D8 Braised rabbit with porcini mushrooms and plum tomatoes
Syrah Intense spice, smoke, dark fruits Black cherries, olives, bitter chocolate 18° C 2015-2020, M6 D7 Lamb stew with cipollini onions and potatoes
THE RHÔNE VALLEY BERNARD PERRIN >>
Vincent Rochette and his daughter Malaury lying on the pebblecovered ground at the foot of this very old Grenache vine. Vincent favors organic farming; his Côtes du Rhône wine is complex. It can compete with any of the grand crus Côtes du Rhône.
8032
$37.83
$227.00
Château de Montmirail, Le Graminier, 2013, AOC Gigondas, SCEV Maurice Archimbaud - Monique Bouteiller The Gigondas appellation neighbours Beaumes-deVenise and the larger Vacqueyras region, and is often considered as the little brother to Châteauneuf-duPape. Château de Montmirail’s vineyards lie on the lower slopes of the Dentelles de Montmirail, the jagged limestone peaks that sit above the village and dominate the landscape. Le Graminier 2013 is marked by its 75% Grenache which gives delicious red fruits, raspberry and herbal notes. 15% Syrah and 10% Mourvèdre add depth. The wine has very fine texture and is soft and elegant with dried fruit flavours. Four generations of the Archimbaud family have farmed the estate created by Maurice Archimbaud. At the beginning of the 20th century vines were not cultivated on the slopes of the Dentelles de Montmirail, yet the area was known for its healthy environment and spa resort.
THE RHÔNE VALLEY BERNARD PERRIN >>
Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre Red fruits, raspberries, herbs Fine texture, elegant, dried fruits 18° C 2015-2018, M7 D8 Roasted grouse served with Puy lentils, roasted garlic purée, bacon and red wine jus
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8033 $40.17
$241.00
8034 $48.50
$291.00
8035 $109.00
$327.00
Les Reines, 2013, AOC Saint Joseph, Gilles Flacher Gilles Flacher’s Les Reines 2013 is hugely complex, with vanilla, nutmeg, all spice, dark cherries and custard aromas. The palate is tight and firm, a reflection of the granite soils on which the Syrah vines are cultivated. Floral, juniper, dark berries and bitter cherries flavours are present on the palate combined with chewy tannins. The wine will benefit from an additional one to two years in bottle before it starts to peak. The grapes were handpicked, de-stemmed, fermented and macerated for 23 days. The wine was subsequently matured for 12 months in barrel. The terraced vineyards of Saint Joseph lie around the town of Tournon-sur-Rhône on the west bank of the Rhône River. This tiny estate, which consists of just eight hectares, has been handed down from father to son since 1806, and is currently run by Gilles with a passion to produce outstanding wines.
Domaine des Cigalons, 2013, AOC Châteauneufdu-Pape, SCEA Emile Raymond Somehow, the small town of Châteauneuf-du-Pape in the Vaucluse department has retained its personality despite its worldwide renown. At the top of the village lie the ruins of the medieval castle built in the 14th century as the summer residence for Pope John XXII. The Domaine des Cigalons vineyards are on the left bank of the Rhône River between Châteauneuf-du-Pape and the town of Orange, on clay limestone soils containing rolled pebbles known as “galets roulés” or Alpine Diluvian. Unlike the northern Rhône regions, whose red wines are strictly based on the black Syrah grape, Grenache is the dominant grape for red wines, although 18 different grapes are permitted in the Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation. Domaine des Cigalons 2013 was produced from 65% Grenache, 20% Mourvèdre, 10% Cinsault and 5% Syrah. The climate in summer is hot and arid, the wines high in alcohol. The 2013 is restrained with raisins and dried fruit flavours. On the palate it is soft with good acidity and flavours of bitter treacle, spices and raisins.
Syrah Spicy, vanilla, nutmeg, dark berries Floral, juniper, bitter cherries 18° C 2015-2022, M6 D7 Pot roast pheasant with port and juniper served with potato fondant and braised red cabbage
Grenache, Mourvèdre, Cinsault, Syrah Dried fruits, prunes Treacle, bitter chocolate, spice, raisins 18° C 2015-2018, M7 D8 Pan-seared venison with dry fruit relish, spring roll and red wine reduction
At Domaine La Ferme Saint-Martin, the grapes are harvested by hand and are carefully sorted. Fruit quality is essential to obtaining “natural” wines of quality. Vinified without the use of winemaking additives or agents, the wines are free to express their personalities, reflections of the terroir.
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OPIMIAN CELLAR OFFERING 231
THE RHÔNE VALLEY BERNARD PERRIN >>
8036 $76.83
$461.00
8037 $110.00
$660.00
Condrieu, Les Grandes Chaillées, 2013, AOP Condrieu, Stéphane Montez du Monteillet Stéphane Montez is a rising star in the appellations of Condrieu and Côte-Rôtie. His ancestors, variously vinegrowers, mariners and barrel-makers, can be traced back to the 16th century and Claude Louis Hector, duc de Villars and maréchal of France under Louis XIV. Before taking over the reins from his father Antoine, Stéphane worked in vineyards in England, France, California and South Africa, exploring ideas and techniques that would improve the wines he makes at home. The terraces on which he tends to his vines were constructed 2000 years ago by the Romans and are held up by dry stone walls. His Condrieu 2013 has deliciously appealing aromas of honey, peaches and nectarines. The palate is soft and mouth-filling with typical peachy flavours, smooth with a long nectarine taste that lingers with elegant lemon and mandarin notes. Produced from eight small parcels of vines on granite soils, the grapes were picked and left to macerate on skins for nine hours. The wine was matured in oak for 11 months with 75% “newish” barrels and 25% larger new oak casks.
Côte-Rôtie, Fortis, 2012, AOP Côte-Rôtie, Stéphane Montez du Monteillet The steep hillsides that make up the Côte-Rôtie are split into two sectors according to the soil types. To the north the Côte Brune has dark soils based on iron-rich schist. The southern Côte Blonde is pale granite schist soils. Domaine Monteillet vineyards are on lighter-coloured gneiss soils on the east side of the Mont Pilat, south of the town of Ampuis. Mont Pilat, at 1400 metres altitude, protects the vineyards so that they have the lowest annual rainfall of the region, giving power and minerality to his wines. The 2012 is a blend of 94% Syrah with 6% Viognier which adds softness and fruit. Despite this, the 2012 demands some cellaring before drinking. On the nose, savoury, meaty aromas with notes of leather, earthy fruits and dark cherry emerge. The palate is concentrated and tight with good balance and firm tannin; a wine to be relished for years to come. After picking, the de-stemmed grapes were left to cold macerate for a full week before fermentation. The wine was matured for 18 months in new, 580 litre casks made from French oak.
THE RHÔNE VALLEY BERNARD PERRIN
Viognier Honey, peaches, nectarines, spice Peaches, mandarins, [00] 6° C 2015-2017, M8 D9 Terrine of foie gras with apricot chutney
Syrah, Viognier Meaty, leather, dark cherry Savoury, earthy notes, firm structure 18° C 2015-2025, M6 D7 Braised shoulder of wild boar with French green beans and purée of potato and celery root
View from Domaine La Ferme Saint-Martin of the vineyards on the hills. Here the vines planted on terraces follow the terrain; some plots are composed of only a few rows.
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Only Opimian gives you access to exclusive cellars from around the world. A successful innovation catered to New Members and those who are still uncertain of what to order, the Opimian Select program allows you to try a minimum of 24 wines – from every day sippers to a gourmet dinner partner – at a fixed price of $105. Sign up for Opimian Select and receive a mixed case from every Cellar Offering regardless of whether you are away, on holidays or simply forgot to place your order. Develop your palate, taste the classics from each region, discover new varietals and experience what our suppliers have to offer! Application forms are available for download at opim.ca under “Downloads”. THE SELECTION Opimian Select includes a case (6 bottles) of three to six different wines from a featured supplier on each Cellar Offering. Mostly reds with the occasional white or rosé, these wines showcase the variety of styles available through Opimian - if you happen to find a favourite wine, make note of the supplier for future Cellar Offerings! To browse past selections and tasting notes, sign in at opim.ca and click on “Opimian Select” in the left hand column. View details by clicking on each wine name or supplier.
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FOUNDERS’ CHOICE Cherish the Experience! The premium wine experience – only with Opimian!
Established in recognition of Opimian’s founders, this program offers premium wines from our most cherished suppliers – at a fixed price of $194. Each wine is specifically selected to dedicate to the spirit of Opimian. Some are hidden jewels discovered in a cellar by our Master of Wine; others are specially crafted by our suppliers with the Founders’ Choice program in mind. Application forms are available for download at opim.ca under “Downloads”. THE WINES Sign up for Founders’ Choice and receive a case (6 bottles) of premium wine from every Cellar Offering that is ready to drink and has great cellaring ability. Each wine comes with a dedicated back label and a personal message from the supplier detailing why they chose to share with us this one-of-a-kind wine. These wines are not, and will never be, on any Cellar Offering and can only be received by signing up for this program. To browse past selections and tasting notes, sign in at opim.ca and click on “Founders’ Choice” in the left hand column. Bodegas Concavins is the Founders’ Choice feature supplier on this Cellar Offering. #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