S45-PE: Australia Castoro Cellars SPECIAL OFFERING 45 Argentina, Bordeaux, Beaujolais, Chablis, Cote

PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND ORDER BY DECEMBER 8, 2008

SPECIAL OFFERING 45 Argentina, Bordeaux, Beaujolais, Chablis, Cote d’Or, Canada, The wines of South Africa, New Zealand and Australia Champagne, Cognac, Malt Scots Whisky and Sherry

Tupungato Volcano, Valle de Uco, Mendoza Province Castoro Cellars

SPECIAL OFFERING 45 Argentina, Bordeaux, Beaujolais, Chablis, Cote d’Or, Canada, Champagne, Cognac, Malt Scots Whisky and Sherry This is Opimian’s annual compendium of the rare, the rich, the refined and the unusual wines and spirits that are too good to miss. To be included in this offer each wine, fortified wine, or spirit, has to be singularly good, whether that factor be reflected in their unusual origins, outstanding quality or sheer unbeatable value for money. In each selection we have chosen wines which, if omitted, would leave our offers and our cellars diminished in their complexity.

Argentina

SERGIO TRAVERSO WINES Mendoza One of the most charismatic personalities in the South American wine world, Sergio spent many years in California before returning to his native Chile. Not long afterwards, the giant Spanish group, Freixenet, sought him out to take over their enormous wine production in Argentina. The Sergio Traverso wine selection owes much to his experiences turning around the quality of Freixenet’s high volume business.

“With freedom of choice, the

possibilities for creating uniqueness are endless: in conceiving these wines, I've used the poetic license necessary to exercise winemaking as an art rather than merely a business undertaking.”

Sergio Traverso, Winemaker

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OPIMIAN SPECIAL OFFERING 45

ARGENTINA SERGIO TRAVERSO WINES >>

4735

SPUMANTE AMABILE, NV $22.17

6 BTLS/750 ML $133.00

With local demand being close to a national passion, sparkling wines of Argentina are invariably good. This, as sweet as peaches, is no exception. Sergio produces it from fully ripe, sweet Muscat grapes, gently pressed to allow the free-running juice to retain natural acidity and vigour before the onset of fermentation. This is started at very low temperature but then stopped to eliminate the yeasts. In this way, the wine retains high sugar levels with modest alcohol.

Following the second fermentation which creates the “sparkle”, the sweetness is adjusted and the bottles wrapped in their traditional dressing. With exotic flavours of Turkish Delight, rose water and summer berries, it makes a great summertime aperitif. [07] M9 D9

4736

REGALIA, BRUT NATURE, NV $28.00

6 BTLS/750 ML $168.00

Anyone who has travelled to Argentina will recall the ease and frequency with which the locals pull out another bottle of sparkling wine. It is no wonder. Their wines are really very good; some say they are worthy contenders to Champagne. This has aromas of fresh peaches and nectarines enriched with savory spice. The palate is clean with a creamy middle palate and a crisp finish, ending on notes of roasted nuts and brioche. [00] M8 D9

4737

TORRONTÉS, SERGIO TRAVERSO, 2008 $19.00

6 BTLS/750 ML $114.00

Mendoza has made this indigenous variety its own. It comes from handpicked grapes that were destemmed, lightly crushed then given four hours of skin contact to maximize flavour extraction before controlled cool fermentation over 15 days. After two weeks in tank, with lees stirring, it was filtered and bottled to conserve the supple fruit characteristics which are set up in the glass by the brilliant straw yellow colour with green hues and medium intensity.

Opulently fruity and floral with notes of pears, pineapples and bananas it is now fresh, flavourful and medium-bodied with excellent penetration in the mouth. [00] M8 D9

4738

Easy and charming Grape Variety

Muscat

Aroma

Lively floral, peach, honey and apricot

Taste

Lusciously sweet, honey and nectar

Serve

8º C

Evolution

Pop the cork now

Ideal with

On its own, as an aperitif

A delightful sparkling wine, with a crisp, graceful palate Grape Variety

Chardonnay, Pinot Noir

Aroma

Fresh toast, nutty with wild fruit

Taste

Lovely fine mousse, strawberries and oatmeal

Serve

10º C

Evolution

Perfectly ready now

Ideal with

Warm salad of pan-fried rabbit with a sherry dressing

Aromatic, delectable and distinct Grape Variety

Torrontés

Aroma

Powerful, grapey perfume

Taste

Dry, rounded, pear and white peach, mediumweight palate

Serve

8º - 10º C

Evolution

Don’t park the corkscrew, this is a “no waiting” wine

Ideal with

Warm chicken liver salad

SYRAH, SERGIO TRAVERSO, 2007 $18.67

6 BTLS/750 ML $112.00

Sergio looks for grapes from alluvial soils where the natural fertility and organic content is very low. Although Mendoza is a desert region, adequate water is provided by snowmelt, allowing the vines to benefit from the amazingly clear atmosphere of the high altitude. High daily temperatures with cold nights give the huge diurnal range needed to fix the fruit acidity in the grapes. The wine has an intense purple colour with the typical Syrah nose; spice, berries, black fruit and hints of tar. The powerful flavour opens with a shock of spice, building up black fruit into the well-balanced structure with soft tannins matching the fruit levels. M7 D8

ARGENTINA SERGIO TRAVERSO WINES >>

Intense and spicy Grape Variety

Syrah

Aroma

Dark, fruity nose of blackcurrants

Taste

Spicy bramble, plum and cassis flavours, then a soft, silky mouthfeel

Serve

18º C

Evolution

Not intended to age for a long period

Ideal with

Griddled lamb and halloumi kebabs

PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND

3

4739

TEMPRANILLO, SERGIO TRAVERSO, 2007 $18.67

6 BTLS/750 ML $112.00

The Tempranillo is the complete grape variety responsible for making northern Spanish wines so popular and such classics. In Argentina the quality continues but the wine shows more accessible fruit, is velvet soft in the mouth and matures early. This one had a brief flirtation with oak barrels, leaving it pure, fresh and expressive. Aromas of forest fruit make way for hints of coffee and tobacco. The palate is medium-bodied, fresh and amply filled with redcurrant, cherry flavours and splashes of crunchy herbs and earth at the end. M7 D8

4740

BLEND 1314, SERGIO TRAVERSO, 2007 $34.33

6 BTLS/750 ML $206.00

Naming this blend after his name-sake, Saint Sergius, born in 1314, Sergio is paying tribute to the terroir and climate of the Mendoza vineyards with this wine of outstanding quality. Primarily Malbec, it is young and fruity, with black cherry and violet flavours supported by sturdy tannins. The deep black colour holds a good measure of fruit on the nose with concentrated blackberries and a hint of smoke and leather. With excellent fruit on the palate, it is firm with very good natural acidity and tannin. Complexity will come but for now it is a very well-made wine with good concentration. M6 D6

4741

COMPASS ROSE MALBEC, CAFAYATE, SERGIO TRAVERSO, 2007 $25.00

6 BTLS/750 ML $150.00

This is the first of our three “Compass Rose” wines designed by Sergio to show the individuality of the terroir of three renowned Malbec growing regions. This is from Cafayate, the most northerly wine region of Argentina and close to the border with Bolivia at an altitude of 5500 feet above sea level. Here the arid, sandy soil is mixed with broken stone, giving the wine a profoundly deep crimson colour. It is impressive, rich and meaty with plentiful soft, smooth tannins and deep, warm, spicy fruit. M7 D8

4742

COMPASS ROSE MALBEC, TUPUNGATO, SERGIO TRAVERSO, 2007 $25.00

Grape Variety

Tempranillo

Aroma

A racy, raspberry and spice box affair

Taste

Good bite and balance on the finish

Serve

18º C

Evolution

Soft, flushed with young fruit, several years of life ahead

Ideal with

Roast pork and suet dumplings

Malbec, with great purity, depth and length Grape Variety

Malbec

Aroma

Ripe plums, blackberry, blueberry, tar, liquorice, black pepper, mint, and a hint of mocha

Taste

Grapey, soft and round, with plum and cocoa on the finish

Serve

18º C

Evolution

Very youthful but very easy, will improve with age

Ideal with

Grilled steak, spaghetti Bolognese

It’s difficult to find a red so full of flavour and style Grape Variety

Malbec

Aroma

Fresh strawberry and raspberry with watermelon and quince

Taste

Excellent balance with round tannins and a long finish packed with black fruits and spices

Serve

18º C

Evolution

Interesting already, it’s a two year edition

Ideal with

Lancashire hotpot made from mutton

Thick and modern, fully ripe with tannic structure

6 BTLS/750 ML $150.00

The volcanic cone of Tupungato is located South of Mendoza. It is a region acclaimed by winemakers even before there were many vineyards. In recent years there has been a great expansion of plantings. This wine comes from the Finca Ferrer, a single estate at very high altitude, where the free-draining sandy soil, hot summers and dazzling luminosity guarantee the perfect health and optimum ripeness of the fruit. With aromas of black fruits and liquorice, this wine is on the jammy side, the fruit backed by spicy toast. It is round, balanced, subtle and spicy. M7 D8

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Bright, fresh and crunchy Tempranillo as never seen in Spain

OPIMIAN SPECIAL OFFERING 45

Grape Variety

Malbec

Aroma

An expression of ripe red fruit, wild berries and spice

Taste

Massed ranks of blackberries with cassis liqueur

Serve

18º C

Evolution

Fine now, but it will improve with greater bottle age

Ideal with

Pork and chorizo stew

ARGENTINA SERGIO TRAVERSO WINES >>

6 BTLS/750 ML $150.00

In contrast to the other Compass Rose wines this Malbec is grown at a much lower altitude, only 750 feet above sea level, at a vineyard lying half way between the Andes and the Atlantic. This is the newest vineyard in Argentina, its harsh and cold conditions producing a small but concentrated crop of only three tons per hectare – one third of that of Tupungato! Deep, black cherry and fine fruit on the nose is complemented by concentrated blackberry with a hint of leather and fresh ground black pepper. Excellent fruit almost explodes as it fills the palate with layers of tannin; it is complex, concentrated and pure. M7 D8

4744

Grape Variety

Malbec

Aroma

Dark red cherries, ripe plums and smoky vanilla oak mix with subtle notes of rosemary and mint

Taste

Concentrated, rich and juicy with ripe black fruit

Serve

18º C

Evolution

Fine now, but leave it for awhile

Ideal with

Fried aubergine with sweet basil, chick peas, onions and tomato

COMPASS ROSE MALBEC, “TRES TERRUÑOS” COLLECTION, 2007 2 bottles from each of the three terroirs: Cafayate, Tupungato, Patagonia

Whereas the needle of the nautical compass points invariably towards the north, the needle of the winemaker’s compass is drawn to the unique qualities of the Malbec. We have given this selection the name of the “Compass Rose - Tres Terruños” in recognition of the emerging appreciation for Argentina’s site-specific “terroirs”. Nowhere produces Malbec of such quality and diversity as Argentina, where the vine flourishes under a variety of different growing conditions. The three “Compass Rose” wines are offered as a mixed case, two bottles of each to give an opportunity to taste and evaluate three different terroirs of Argentina, each separated by hundreds of miles from the others.

CO

L

6 BTLS/750 ML $150.00

IA

$25.00

S P EC A N

ON

$25.00

Beautiful, intense, superbly flavoured

TI

COMPASS ROSE MALBEC, PATAGONIA, SERGIO TRAVERSO, 2007

G E NT R I A

4743

LLE

C

Finca Ferrer, Tupungato

ARGENTINA SERGIO TRAVERSO WINES

PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND

5

Club del Vino Buenos Aires

This is Argentina’s most influential wine club and a member of the International Wine Clubs Association. Opimian has worked with the buying team of Club del Vino, through José-Maria Cornella, for several years and has been able to source and offer an increasingly interesting and high quality range of wines.

DOMINIO DEL PLATA Lujan de Cuyo In 1999 Susana Balbo and Pedro Marchevsky decided to pursue their interest in quality wine production by setting up a family-owned winery in Lujan de Cuyo, the finest production region of Mendoza. They now have 70 hectares of vines spread over five vineyards, each site carefully chosen to favour one particular variety. From the family home, which is also the winery, nestled under the snow capped peaks of the Andes, they are able to personally control every smallest detail of the grape growing, harvesting and winemaking cycles.

Susana Balbo & Pedro Marchevsky

4745

ANUBIS CHARDONNAY, 2008, BODEGAS DOMINIO DEL PLATA, CENTRAL VALLEY, MENDOZA $22.17

6 BTLS/750 ML $133.00

The pale, brassy colour leads to a rich bouquet of ripe oak and grapefruit with some vanilla-tinged notes. In the mouth it is supple, easy tasting and initially seems forward, but the moderately rich flavour suggests there is much more to come. It has creamy, buttery influences and a vague lemony freshness with plenty of varietal flavour on which to build.

Offering charm, it shows a lovely finish with fresh, fruitdriven acidity. [00] M7 D7

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OPIMIAN SPECIAL OFFERING 45

Beautiful Argentine white with lots of fruit Grape Variety

Chardonnay

Aroma

Fruit aromas blend grapefruit with pear and pineapple

Taste

Smooth, creamy melon and peach, rich and promising with crisp acidity

Serve

11º C

Evolution

Appears ready now but has plenty of power yet to come

Ideal with

Spicy sea bass ceviche

ARGENTINA CLUB DEL VINO >>

4746

ANUBIS SYRAH/BONARDA, 2007, BODEGAS DOMINIO DEL PLATA, CENTRAL VALLEY, MENDOZA $24.33

6 BTLS/750 ML $146.00

Malbec may make the biggest waves, but Bonarda, the second most planted variety, is gaining ground, producing well-priced wines with intense fruit. Blended with Syrah, the result is very successful. The Syrah adds structured tannins that broaden the palate and lengthen the finish while adding scoops of luscious black cherry to the glass. The fruit came from Susana and Pedro’s Mundo Nuevo vineyard, 12 acres on a deep, free-draining sandy soil, with trench irrigation to help the grapes swell, but then withheld as the ripening season progresses to secure perfect bunch ripening. M7 D8

4747

ANUBIS MALBEC, 2008, BODEGAS DOMINIO DEL PLATA, CENTRAL VALLEY, MENDOZA $24.33

6 BTLS/750 ML $146.00

This is another great example from Mendoza’s arid climate.

It is made to be enjoyed young, while vibrant and youthfully zesty. It comes from the Agrelo vineyard surrounding the winery, where there is deep, alluvial, loamy clay soil with good drainage but low organic content. This forces the vines to root deeply, seeking water saturated with minerals which provide complexity. It starts with a hearty, ripe plum, blackberry, liquorice, and black pepper bouquet and leads into a hint of coffee and chocolate in the mouth showing an expressive and typical Argentine personality. Smooth tannins give a long, supple finish. M7 D8

Fresh, and zippy but there’s something big lurking in the glass Grape Variety

Syrah, Bonarda

Aroma

Strawberries, cherries and raspberries with sweet spice

Taste

Full-bodied with sweet tannins and a splash of cassis

Serve

17º - 19º C

Evolution

Enjoyable now, will keep over 2- 3 years

Ideal with

Pan-fried lamb with cannellini bean mash

Bright, pure, rich and long Grape Variety

Malbec, Bonarda

Aroma

A well-ripened basket of red fruit

Taste

Jammy with toast, black fruit and spice

Serve

18º C

Evolution

Lovely young charm; will enjoy handsome maturity

Ideal with

Peppered venison steak with garlic roasted potatoes

AVE, PERDRIEL Valle del Cafayate, Mendoza This winery was founded in 2005 by two Italians, Iacobo Di Bugno and Mario Pardini, who emigrated from Tuscany. They are concentrating on making wines with a direct Italian style, realizing a dream that started back home in the Old World. The wines are made by Tuscan winemaker, Alberto Antonini. These are the first wines he has made in the bright, clear mountain air of Mendoza.

ARGENTINA CLUB DEL VINO >>

PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND

AVE Estate

7

4748

PREMIUM TORRONTÉS, 2008, AVE, VALLE DEL CAFAYATE, MENDOZA $21.67

6 BTLS/750 ML $130.00

The grape flourishes at the high altitudes of the Cafayate vineyards of Salta province, producing a complex white with a light, shining golden hue and green highlights. The grapes were fermented at low temperature over ten days before malolactic fermentation and no other maturation before bottling. Clean and floral, the charming nose is reminiscent of jasmine, white peaches, apples and citric notes.

On the palate the flavours repeat the bouquet, lifted by finely balanced acidity and great freshness. Light, delicate and very easy, it has a very wide appeal. [00] M8 D9

4749

PREMIUM MALBEC, 2007, AVE, VALLE DEL CAFAYATE, MENDOZA $25.67

6 BTLS/750 ML $154.00

Iacobo and Mario source their Malbec from a high altitude vineyard close to Mendoza. The vineyard is characterized by the huge diurnal temperature range of up to 25 degrees between day and night that fixes the acidity in the grapes but prolongs the gradual ripening process.This means that the grapes benefit from an exceptionally long hang time, reaching perfect poly-phenologic maturity. The very fine and intense flavour is filled with red plums and raspberries while subtly toasted notes add a touch of coffee and vanilla. Well-balanced, it is complex and persistently soft with a fleshy finish. M6 D6

Stylish example of Argentina’s own white wine variety Grape Variety

Torrontés

Aroma

Sliced pears, apples and jasmine flowers

Taste

Fine citric, lime-accented acid fruit, persistent flavours

Serve

10º C

Evolution

It’s waiting to be poured

Ideal with

Sushi

Big, bold and juicy Grape Variety

Malbec

Aroma

Sweet fruit nose, a bowl of crushed blackberries

Taste

Firm red with ripe black fruit, tobacco and grilled pepper

Serve

18º C

Evolution

Showing first signs of softening

Ideal with

Grilled salmon steak on a bed of oven-roasted cherry tomatoes, splashed with lemon juice

BODEGAS LA GUARDA San Juan Situated in San Juan, the winery sources its fruit from the Tulúm Valley where the dry Zonda wind decreases humidity which helps to protect the vines from fungal diseases and reduces the need for chemical spraying. Owned by Fernando and Laura Ciacera, they continue the family’s long connection with Argentine viticulture, but with a modern winery, they are able to apply the latest technology to the winemaking.

8

OPIMIAN SPECIAL OFFERING 45

ARGENTINA CLUB DEL VINO >>

4750

CERRO AZUL SYRAH, 2008, BODEGAS LA GUARDA, TULÚM VALLEY, SAN JUAN $21.00

6 BTLS/750 ML $126.00

Deep black, cherry colours with a glossy wood enhanced brightness, the wine has a fine bouquet with floral high notes and the richness of ripe fruit that has just a neat touch of oak. In the mouth it is fruit-laden with a modest hint of sweetness as the black fruit wells up in a wave of succulent flavour ringed about with floral notes that enhance the grainy tannin structure. Lovely wine, made to last and mature in the bottle, it is an unsophisticated delight that borders on superb. M7 D8

4751

CERRO AZUL BONARDA, 2008, BODEGAS LA GUARDA, TULÚM VALLEY, SAN JUAN $21.00

6 BTLS/750 ML $126.00

The winery, lying in the lee of the Andes to the west, looks eastwards towards distant, blue hills which give the winery its name and protects the San Juan vineyards from the drying easterly wind. Many experts believe that the Bonarda grape came from the Piedmont in Italy where it has all but ceased to exist. The 2008 wine is showing concentration in a display of brilliant red colour with a dark violet heart. But while the nose is tangibly youthful it has plenty of red fruit, rather soft and ripe like a purée of summer fruit. Forceful flavours are backed by notes of earth and fallen leaves with tough rustic tannins and a firm edge of acidity. M7 D8

Intense and spicy Grape Variety

Syrah

Aroma

Berries, black fruit and hints of tar

Taste

Well-balanced with soft fruit perfectly married with the oak

Serve

18º C

Evolution

Will stay the race for a few years

Ideal with

Chicken and red pepper casserole

Rare grape, but as good as any other grown here Grape Variety

Bonarda

Aroma

Berries from the hedgerows

Taste

Cherries, plums and dark chocolate

Serve

Chilled at 12º C or chambré at 18º C

Evolution

Good for now and for three years

Ideal with

Spicy chickpeas, couscous and orange salsa

BODEGAS Y VIÑEDOS O. FOURNIER Valle de Uco, Mendoza The winery owner, retired Spanish banker, José Manuel Ortega Gil-Fournier, purchased 600 acres of vines in 2000, opening his winery for the harvest of 2001. Originally from Burgos in northern Spain, Gil-Fournier has continued to expand, having established a winery in Chile and returned to Spain where he bought a finca and vineyards in Ribera del Duero. Essentially José Manuel is driven only by the pursuit of quality. His wines are beautifully made by top winemaker José Mario Spisso, with well-priced varietals up to the super-premium Alfa and Beta Crux blends which he named after the brightest stars in the southern hemisphere.

4752

URBAN UCO TEMPRANILLO, 2007, O. FOURNIER, VALLE DE UCO, MENDOZA $22.17

6 BTLS/750 ML $133.00

The high altitude vineyards enjoy fantastic luminosity and clarity which enables the hand-harvested fruit to ripen evenly and to perfection. Fermentation lasted for 7 days in steel vat, with maceration for 12 more, then held in second year oak casks for 3 months. Emerging after 12 months in bottle, it has a lush red colour with a perfumed bouquet of spice, cloves, raspberry and redcurrant and a light touch of toasted oak. Well-integrated, rich, almost glutinous, it finishes with subtle vanilla and cocoa beans mixed with a small hint of spice. M6 D7

ARGENTINA CLUB DEL VINO >>

No surprises, only clear cut flavours Grape Variety

Tempranillo

Aroma

Redcurrants, raspberries, a touch of cloves

Taste

Medium-bodied, soft black cherries, plums and crushed fruit

Serve

17º - 19º C

Evolution

Very tempting now; go for it!

Ideal with

Chorizo, bean, pepper and butternut squash chilli

PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND

9

4753

URBAN UCO MALBEC, 2007, O. FOURNIER, VALLE DE UCO, MENDOZA $22.17

4754

6 BTLS/750 ML $133.00

A refreshing wine by itself but with meat it’s perfection Grape Variety

Malbec

Produced exclusively from Malbec, it was cultivated, picked and produced exactly as the Tempranillo but it yields a very different wine. This one has a dense purple colour with bright red highlights and powerful aroma, showing plums and prunes with a hint of spicy oak. The palate is full-bodied with a stylish balance between dense black fruit flavours, tightly knit fine-grained tannin and careful use of wood. The finish is firm; a perfect food wine. M6 D7

Aroma

Fresh, aromatic, fruity

Taste

Red fruits drive the crisp, fruit-driven flavours

Serve

18º C

Evolution

Fire the barbecue and draw the corks, it’s great now

Ideal with

Thick beef steaks

ALFA CRUX, 2003, O. FOURNIER, VALLE DE UCO, MENDOZA

A bright star from the southern skies

$57.00

6 BTLS/750 ML $342.00

Handpicking allows for the re-sorting of the grape clusters prior to cooled fermentation and a further 28 days of skin maceration. Ageing 17 months in large oak barrels, 80% French and 20% American, has added powerful, toasted oak influence to heady, ripe fruit. Like the unusual ostrich on the label, it is complex and unique, with remarkable elements in the aromatic bouquet. Sweet fruit surges through the mouth, fragrant, fresh and lined with oak and well-balanced, good acidity. This is a flavoursome wine with high perfume throughout. M6 D7

Grape Variety

Tempranillo, Malbec, Merlot

Aroma

Huge, fragrant with flowers, blackberry and ripe plums

Taste

Big, balanced, marvellous harmony of all the grapes

Serve

18º C

Evolution

It’s big, but is still very young; cellaring potential 12 years

Ideal with

Save it for a special Sunday roast

BODEGAS Y VIÑEDOS MAURICIO LORCA Valle de Uco, Mendoza Mauricio Lorca is similar to several other brilliantly talented oenologists who have historically graced the ranks of Opimian’s supplying winemakers. He is regarded as a great asset by the twenty different wineries for which he is the consulting winemaker. Mauricio’s vineyards are situated in Lujan de Cuyo, where the vines are irrigated by canals carrying melted snow which augments the natural rainfall of just 250 mm.

4755

POETICO VIOGNIER, 2008, MAURICIO LORCA, VALLE DE UCO, MENDOZA $30.67

6 BTLS/750 ML $184.00

This is rather rare; a 100 % pure Viognier from the Vista Flores vineyard high up the Uco Valley. Lorca uses high density planting. The vines are pruned on to trellises and yield only one bottle per vine. This restriction of the crop has given a wine of perfect varietal expression and intensity with a full, waxy floral aroma showing stone fruits, particularly white peach. In the mouth it exudes richness with accented, full fruit flavour showing complexity leading through citric limey notes to a long and persistent finish. [00] M7 D7

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OPIMIAN SPECIAL OFFERING 45

Fresh, peachy and dangerously drinkable!

Grape Variety

Viognier

Aroma

Exotic and spicy with peach aromas

Taste

Crisp and fresh with mandarin and apricot, clean finish

Serve

11º C

Evolution

Drink over three to four years

Ideal with

Crab cakes served with a mango salsa

ARGENTINA CLUB DEL VINO >>

4756

FANTASÍA MALBEC, 2008, MAURICIO LORCA, VALLE DE UCO, MENDOZA $21.33

6 BTLS/750 ML $128.00

The lower price is an indication of a higher crop, but even at 2 bottles per vine, there is no loss of complexity. In fact, this is a great wine, dark, almost black, with the classic chocolate and vanilla background that shows off huge fruit and a delightful touch of carefully integrated cedar.

Cherries and blackberries mix with black pepper, cloves, and a light touch of smoke. Medium-bodied, gripping tannins are on the palate where toast and fruit combine with refreshing acidity in a softly textured finish. M7 D7

4757

ÓPALO MALBEC, 2007, MAURICIO LORCA, VALLE DE UCO, MENDOZA $30.00

6 BTLS/750 ML $180.00

This is the genius of the winemaker who picked his fruit, used no oak, yet produced a wine of stunning quality. It has a perfect varietal personality, with lively, deep red colour, a ripe profile and an intensely perfumed bouquet that offers spice and ground black pepper mixed with aromas of sweet, ripe blackberry, cherries and dry figs. Ageing in steel tank added notes of fig and prune to the red berries which rounded out the flavour profile to fill the palate with soft sturdy tannins that expand the rich mouth feel. It is a wellbalanced wine with gushing fruit right through to the finish.

M7 D7

4758

ÓPALO CABERNET SAUVIGNON, 2007, MAURICIO LORCA, VALLE DE UCO, MENDOZA $29.83

6 BTLS/750 ML $179.00

The vines are trained on to vertical wires with high density planting to limit the production levels and gain concentration. In order to promote the pure features of his ripe Cabernet grapes, Lorca uses no wood ageing. The fruit has an intense colour which translates into a dark, ruby red wine, with aromas of red fruit, including sour cherries and strawberries, accompanied by fresh ground black pepper and spice. The palate is particularly juicy, with good structure, length and balance then finishing with friendly tannins and appealing acidity. M6 D6

4759

GRAN LORCA POÉTICO BLEND, 2007, MAURICIO LORCA, VALLE DE UCO, MENDOZA $54.33

6 BTLS/750 ML $326.00

Leaving the grapes on the vines as long as possible, Lorca combined structure, weight, elegance and finesse. Intensely deep red in colour, it features cherries blending with notes of blackcurrant, truffle, and clove. Aromas of cigar box and black pepper with spices raise the aromatic complexity. In the mouth it is muscular with mouth-filling tannins that reflect the domination of Malbec. The other varieties lend complexity; Shiraz its sweet, black fruit and Petit Verdot giving freshness and nerve. French oak barrel ageing adds caramel, chocolate, and cloves that linger. M5 D6

ARGENTINA CLUB DEL VINO

Featuring small red berries with intense sweet spice nuances Grape Variety

Malbec

Aroma

Prunes, peaches, cherries and figs

Taste

Oak adds sweetness that joins with well-balanced acidity and firm tannins

Serve

18º C

Evolution

Wait a while and drink until 2012

Ideal with

Pure grain-fed Faisan de Chasse

Un-oaked Malbec - superb Grape Variety

Malbec

Aroma

Intense raspberries, black pepper, and blackberries

Taste

Powerful and full-bodied, great structure and fruitfilled finish

Serve

18º C

Evolution

It will last 5 – 8 years

Ideal with

Slow-cooked lamb casserole, braised beef served with potato, swede and parsnip mash

'Big' – mouth-filling, acidic, tannic, dense Grape Variety

Cabernet Sauvignon

Aroma

Very clean fruit, blackberries and black pepper

Taste

Rich and smooth with the fruit flavours repeating

Serve

18º C

Evolution

Expect it to improve and mature over 5 to 8 years

Ideal with

Full-flavoured fine steak, venison

A natural beauty, dressed in style Grape Variety

Malbec, Syrah, Petit Verdot

Aroma

Blackcurrant smoke and cedarwood

Taste

Soft and bold but unready

Serve

18º C

Evolution

This wine is delightful today, but will improve over ten years

Ideal with

Steak, kidney and ale pie

PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND

11

Bordeaux

CHÂTEAU DE SOURS Saint Quentin, Bordeaux Of all the many wonderful people with whom Opimian works to bring great wines and spirits to members across Canada, one of the more responsive to our many various and sometimes quirky demands is Martin Krajewski, the proprietor of this beautiful property in Bordeaux. Martin bought the château in a careworn condition and was immediately required by the French heritage building authorities to restore the property. This he has done with a vengeance, turning the château into a haven of peaceful tranquility as well as a family home. He has developed the winery into a state-ofthe-art facility where the wines of Château de Sours are made and matured under the ever watchful eye of chief winemaker, Sébastien Lamothe.

Sébastien Lamothe

12

OPIMIAN SPECIAL OFFERING 45

BORDEAUX CHÂTEAU DE SOURS >>

4761

RESERVE DE SOURS, SPARKLING ROSÉ, BRUT, VIN MOUSSEUX, MÉTHODE TRADITIONELLE $30.50

6 BTLS/750 ML $183.00

The most delightful pink sparkler we have tasted over many years, it is made from a basewine produced from premium quality, free-run juice during the early stages of winemaking before pressing the Merlot and Cabernet Franc grapes. Its delicate colour, more Atlantic salmon than Pacific, is transformed into a dancing, misty haze of tiny bubbles by a specialist vin mousseux producer before being returned to the château for maturation and labelling. Once past the lovely, delicate colour the nose is delightful, fresh and clean, showing the fine quality of the grapes, followed by vibrant, zingy acidity that seduces the palate. [02] M8 D9

4762

CHÂTEAU DE SOURS ROSÉ, AOC BORDEAUX, 2008 $26.92

12 BTLS/750 ML $323.00

This has a magnificent, deep, bright rosé colour with rich fruit flavours and a long lingering finish. If you're not normally a rosé drinker this tasty example will convert you! It is perhaps the only rosé in the world to have gained such popularity that it is sold by allocation, decided by natural production limits and past orders. As strange as that may be, the rising demand for pink wines has driven the de Sours rosé to a popularity level for pink wine not seen since the halcyon days of Mateus back in the early 1970s!

[00] M8 D8

4763

CUVÉE DU 7 JUIN, M & N, AOC BORDEAUX, 2007, WEDDING CELEBRATION CUVÉE $33.00

Freshness, fruit and the finest bubbles Grape Variety

Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon

Aroma

Light, grapey, sappy and fresh

Taste

Fine mousse followed by pleasant grapey flavours and attractive fruit acidity

Serve

9º - 12º C

Evolution

Reach out for the bottle in celebration

Ideal with

A perfect aperitif

Delicate rosé – the height of today’s fashion Grape Variety

Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon

Aroma

Ripe raspberries, roses

Taste

Light with mouth-filling sweet raspberry fruit and a crisp, clean finish

Serve

11º C

Evolution

Don’t let the sun go down before you unscrew a cap.

Ideal with

Thai red chicken curry.

Fabulous wine to mark an anniversary

6 BTLS/750 ML $198.00

Although Martin married Nicolette a year ago, demands of business deferred their celebration until June 7th, 2008, to a whizzbang party at the renovated château with many friends.

Opera singer Geoff Sewell flew in from Sydney to serenade the couple before fireworks lit up the night sky. Earlier, on the night of September 29th, 2007, Martin, who wanted to produce a wedding cuvée, decided that his grapes would be perfect. Being the weekend, only the family was present but in the dawn light all five family members went out to pick the three selected acres. The wine has developed a bright colour with ripeness and good oak on the nose that will flesh out as it matures. Black fruits and spice follow through to the palate with hints of fine tannin. It is truly a wine to commemorate a very grand celebration. M5 D6

BORDEAUX CHÂTEAU DE SOURS

Grape Variety

Merlot, Cabernet Franc

Aroma

Noble bouquet of blackcurrants, cedar, spice box and liquorice

Taste

Sweet fruit and nicely integrated wood, it builds incrementally in the mouth

Serve

18º C

Evolution

Let it go the course, it will last 10 – 15 years

Ideal with

Chateaubriand grilled in Café de Paris butter

PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND

13

Château in Beaujolais

Beaujolais

BERNARD PERRIN Ternand, Rhône Viticulteur et Negociant Our first offer of wines from Bernard Perrin was in June 1994. Clearly his own wine offered outstanding quality, but he also enthused growers from the local villages with his infectious passion. Our first shipments from the individual “Crus du Beaujolais” were received with delight, particularly as Beaujolais had lost much appeal in the rush to thrust gallons of dire “Nouveau” into our glasses. The great village wines of Beaujolais are rightly returning to favour, but few can equal those selected by Bernard, whose position on the ground provides a unique opportunity to know the best vignerons and wines of each village.

14

OPIMIAN SPECIAL OFFERING 45

BEAUJOLAIS BERNARD PERRIN >>

4766

VIN DE PAYS DES GAULES ROSÉ, BERNARD PERRIN, 2008 $19.17

6 BTLS/750 ML $115.00

This is almost Beaujolais, at least it comes from the vines planted just over the hilltop from Bernard’s domaine but lying outside the appellation boundary. Produced by the “saigné” method, which allows free run or lightly pressed juice to run off the grapes before pressing, it is chilled for 24 hours to clean the juice, then cold-fermented to retain the freshness of the fruit. This charming, light, fresh, fruity rosé has a pale cherry-red colour, delightful aromas of strawberries and a vibrant, refreshing taste. [00] M8 D9

4767

VIN DE PAYS DES GAULES ROUGE, BERNARD PERRIN, 2008 $19.17

6 BTLS/750 ML $115.00

After draining off the free-run juice the grapes were crushed, allowed to macerate on the skins, then fermented.

The result is fresh, easy to enjoy, an undemanding glass of quaffing red. Both bouquet and palate are soft, with notes of fresh, red berries, especially raspberry, and white plums.

Gentle tannins and good acidity proceed to a clean, dry finish on a renewed note of raspberry. M8 D9

4768

DOMAINE G. THOMAS, AOC SAINT-VÉRAN, 2007 $27.33

6 BTLS/750 ML $164.00

For three generations, the Thomas family has farmed 17 hectares in the south of the Maconnais, an appellation where the high limestone content of the soil determines the quality of the wine. This example has a typical greentinged, golden colour with subtle aromas of fresh pear and apple. With ageing, the bouquet will gain complexity, adding honey, roasted hazelnuts and almonds to the hints of vanilla. Intense Chardonnay fruit fills the palate and adds length. [00] M7 D8

4769

Lively Sunday pre-lunch charmer Grape Variety

Gamay

Aroma

Attractive aromas of strawberries and cherries

Taste

Lively fruit flavours

Serve

10º C

Evolution

Draw the cork before the end of next summer

Ideal with

Alone or try a fresh platter of Fruits de Mer

Convivial party wine with a bright purple colour Grape Variety

Gamay

Aroma

Accented fresh fruit

Taste

Lively, easy, soft and fine with good acidity

Serve

14º C

Evolution

Will be ready as soon as delivered

Ideal with

Ham, pork or poultry, or enjoy on its own

Charming wine, elegant without loss of fruit Grape Variety

Chardonnay

Aroma

Floral acacia and apple aromas

Taste

Subtle wine with great finesse, nuances of lime, peach and hazlenuts

Serve

11º C

Evolution

Not even showing early signs of age

Ideal with

Chicken pie

BERNARD PERRIN, AOC BEAUJOLAIS BLANC, 2008 $23.17

6 BTLS/750 ML $139.00

Following his secondary role as a regional négociant, Bernard buys wines from vignerons making the best cuvées but who are too small to bottle their own wines.

This one comes from the north, close to Pouilly-Fuissé. The production is small but the wine is excellent with a pale, golden color and an aroma of acacia and honey. A bold and crunchy palate follows with a fresh core of orchard fruits, apples and pears. [00] M7 D8

BEAUJOLAIS BERNARD PERRIN >>

Refreshing, floral, fruity white Grape Variety

Chardonnay

Aroma

Autumn orchard notes

Taste

Flavourful, honeyed, ripe fruit, with a hint of citrus and excellent length

Serve

12º C

Evolution

Made to be enjoyed young

Ideal with

Kusshi [BC] Oysters

PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND

15

4770

DOMAINE DE MILHOMME, AOC BEAUJOLAIS, 2008 $20.67

6 BTLS/750 ML $124.00

Bernard speaks passionately about his life with his cultural roots buried deep in the soil of his ancient domaine, named after the thousand souls who fought and died there during the Roman invasion. This sense of history fires his resolve to create wines that can stand against the finest.

Milhomme is not an easy vineyard. It lies high on the steep slopes above a peaceful valley but it is the harshness of the climate that restricts the yield and perfects the ripening, allowing Bernard to create a Gamay wine of great character. M7 D8

4771

DOMAINE DE THULON, AOC BEAUJOLAIS-VILLAGES, FAMILLE JAMBON, 2008 $22.00

6 BTLS/750 ML $132.00

The delightful Annie and René Jambon, who were among our first Crus du Beaujolais suppliers, have now been joined by their children Carine and Laurent. They farm a large number of tiny, pocket-sized plots close to Lantignié where the terroir turns from schist to granite mixed with limestone. This is a brilliant wine, chunky and full-bodied with a deep rubyred colour and delicate perfumes of red and black fruit enhanced by spice and liquorice. These elements transfer to the palate which shows roundness and hard tannins softened by lush fruit and persistent spice. M7 D7

4772

DOMAINE DE THULON, AOC RÉGNIÉ, FAMILLE JAMBON, 2008 $23.33

6 BTLS/750 ML $140.00

“Plus ça change, plus c’est la même chose”, with these words Jean-François Kerr summarized an earlier time, but though the wine world, with its modern technology, has changed greatly, here everything is as it was when Opimian first visited. Annie still produces her wonderful cuisine in the rustic kitchen while René works his small plots of vines.

They still live in the converted stables of a long-neglected château and their wines remain the best of the village.

From the middleweight nose of spice, dark fruit, and bramble leaf to medium body in the mouth, this wine is very juicy and sappy, with masses of dark, pungent fruit. M7 D8

4773

DOMAINE DIT BARRON, AOC BROUILLY, GILLES AUJOGUES, 2008 $25.50

6 BTLS/750 ML $153.00

This young producer entrusts his vineyard and the harvest to Bernard Perrin. The estate, just 19 acres, is planted entirely with 80-year-old Gamay vines, which produce a small crop of complex and deeply flavoured grapes.

Handpicked from a traditional “goblet” pruned vineyard, the 2008 shows a powerful, deep red with intense fruit, violets and a little spice on the nose. The attractive, dark fruit rich flavour mingles with smooth autumn leaf nuances. The earthy finish is very long and dry with small notes of sweet spice. M7 D8

16

OPIMIAN SPECIAL OFFERING 45

Absolutely “par excellence”, a classic Beaujolais Grape Variety

Gamay Noir à jus Blanc

Aroma

Ripe blackberry, complex, fresh black fruits

Taste

Great fruit clarity with gentle tannins providing structure

Serve

12º C

Evolution

Ideal for drinking young; will develop and will keep several years

Ideal with

Creamy cheeses partnered with plenty of fresh, crusty bread

More structure and power than expected Grape Variety

Gamay

Aroma

Perfumed nose with iris, violets and kirsch

Taste

Red fruits with good body and tannins

Serve

12º C

Evolution

Delicious; though an infant it will show more balance and structure with another year

Ideal with

Roast leg of lamb with rosemary

The most recently created of the Crus du Beaujolais Grape Variety

Gamay

Aroma

Crushed strawberries and forest fruit

Taste

Redcurrant, blackberry, raspberry

Serve

12º C

Evolution

Like all the southern “Crus”, best drunk young

Ideal with

Blackened game, fish fillet steaks with tomato and green sauce

Fine example of the vintage Grape Variety

Gamay

Aroma

Gushing fruit with violets and strawberries

Taste

Masses of fresh, grapey fruit, red berries and typical Gamay raspberry

Serve

12º C

Evolution

It is lovely for a young wine; it will develop for a couple of years

Ideal with

Pork chops with curried apple-onion sauce, magret de canard seared and served pink

BEAUJOLAIS BERNARD PERRIN >>

4774

DOMAINE DESMURES, AOC CHIROUBLES, 2008 $25.17

6 BTLS/750 ML $151.00

While Anne-Marie takes care of the accounts, Armand farms his estate of 22 small plots widely spread across the Chiroubles appellation. With such diversity, the wine shows great compexity. It is a much bigger wine than is typical for the village, showing deep raspberry colours then, on the nose, red and black fruit aromas mixed with the small grip of spice. On the palate, it is dry with dark berries, violets, spice and ripe tannin. With good length, this is a full-bodied, serious wine. M7 D7

4775

DOMAINE CHAMPAGNON, AOC CHÉNAS, 2008 $25.17

6 BTLS/750 ML $151.00

Well known for the excellence of his wines, Patrick Champagnon farms 30 acres in a superbly placed domaine where sand and clay soils mix to provide a well-drained terroir that provides sustenance during the growing season.

The village name, Chénas, is taken from the oak forests that covered the hillsides during the pre-Christian era.

These were replaced long ago by a sea of vines, even though a few spinneys of oak remain. Patrick’s wine is one of the fuller-bodied Crus du Beaujolais, dark in colour, soft and generous in texture with nuances of black fruit, cherries and violets. It will age for five to eight years, but drinks best after three years in bottle. M6 D6

4776

DOMAINE DE LA SIONNIÈRE, AOC MOULIN À VENT, THOMAS PATENÔTRE, 2008 $26.17

6 BTLS/750 ML $157.00

The domaine was founded by Thomas’ great grandfather, whose wine was known as the “Seigneur des Crus du Beaujolais”. More recently, Thomas has won a bundle of medals and mentions in the more important wine guides, clear evidence that the estate continues to make great wine. It has aromas of roses, black fruits and spice, with a dominant note of cherries. The colour is deep ruby red with a powerful fruit-driven palate. It will mature well, surely for up to ten years, developing broader characteristics as it ages. M6 D6

4777

DOMAINE DE LA ROCHE-BRIDAY, AOC MORGON, THOMAS COLLONGE, 2008 $25.17

6 BTLS/750 ML $151.00

Sitting one morning in the Collonge family kitchen, Wine Consultant Ken Christie fell in love with the wines of this estate. They come from the “climat” of Les Charmes, and are often described among tasters as “morgonné” because of their robust style. Full of flavour and offering a bouquet of cherries and ripe stone fruit, this wine is rich and fat from the bonding of the manganese rich soil with the living plant matter in the soil. This lends the wines both density and vigour but inhibits the speed of evolution. M6 D6

BEAUJOLAIS BERNARD PERRIN >>

Really special and pleasantly full Grape Variety

Gamay

Aroma

Full, rich aromas, flowers linger around the edges

Taste

Full-flavoured, works well on its own

Serve

14º C

Evolution

Too young to see its own horizons; right now it’s a joy

Ideal with

Spinach and cottage cheese lasagna

Good length, fresh, oozing with power and vitality Grape Variety

Gamay Noir à jus Blanc

Aroma

Aroma of blackcurrants, violets, cherry brandy

Taste

Driven by its fruit, substantial and mouth-filling

Serve

14º C

Evolution

No hurry, it will benefit from ageing

Ideal with

Penne with stir-fried beef and red bell pepper

Complex and powerful Grape Variety

Gamay Noir à jus Blanc

Aroma

Flowers, blackberries, spice

Taste

Fruity, fresh, robust, with finely shaped tannin

Serve

12º C

Evolution

Can be drunk upon arrival but, it will keep well

Ideal with

Venison, wild boar, roasted vegetables, served with a reduced red wine glaze

Robust, with ample tannin Grape Variety

Gamay Noir à jus Blanc

Aroma

Roses, black fruits, spice

Taste

Complex fruit flavours, dark berries, cherries

Serve

16º C

Evolution

Will keep well, 5 years or more, developing its distinctive elements as it ages

Ideal with

Roasted sea bass with tomato coulis and fennel salsa

PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND

17

4778

CLOS DE HAUTE-COMBE, AOC JULIÉNAS, VINCENT AUDRAS, 2008 $25.67

6 BTLS/750 ML $154.00

A remarkably fine wine, it is extraordinary for its depth, complexity, ripe fruit and long, persistent finish. It is made by the Audras family on an eleven acre site high on the hill above Juliénas, where the granite substrata lies close to the surface, making the vines pierce and penetrate through the rock to gain their sustenance. Rich and complex, only tried and tested artisanal vinification is used. The colour is deep, almost Rhône-like, with a very rich and fine nose of raspberry, cloves and peach aromas. Despite its power, it is very tender on the palate. M6 D7

4779

DOMAINE DES DEUX LYS, AOC FLEURIE, “LES BATAILLONS”, 2008 $26.67

6 BTLS/750 ML $160.00

This is a high quality domaine. Franck Mathray follows his own ancestral method of production in which the whole uncrushed grapes are tipped into concrete “cuves” (large tanks) and macerated for between 7 – 10 days before crushing. This is followed by temperature controlled fermentation. Fleurie is known as the “Queen of Beaujolais” for its softer characteristics which are both fruity and floral.

This “royal lady” is a mellow and racy wine with silken texture and structure with lovely finesse, in which full, ripe red fruits are balanced by supple freshness and acidity.

Franck’s wines have been awarded many medals, and this is expected to follow that tradition. M7 D7

Wine has been made here for 2000 years Grape Variety

Gamay

Aroma

Complex floral aromas of roses, peony and iris with concentrated fruit

Taste

Substantial, powerful, intensely fruity, with a fine, long aftertaste

Serve

13º - 16º C

Evolution

It can keep for years but don’t lose the freshness of the fruit by waiting too long

Ideal with

Coq au Vin, garni sauce forestière

Immensely coloured, wellstructured Grape Variety

Gamay Noir à jus Blanc

Aroma

Fruity with raspberry, cherry and summer fruit

Taste

Elegant and smooth qualities

Serve

17 - 18° C

Evolution

Can be enjoyed at five months but it will hold well for five years

Ideal with

Assiette Anglaise – assorted cold meats

Chablis LAMBLIN FILS Maligny par Chablis, Yonne Our first offer of the wines from Lamblin was a huge success, and that has followed with each passing year. Now, we have decided to move the basic wine up a notch of quality. The ever popular Rouge and Blanc de Monsieur Lamblin give way to two newcomers, the “Folies Parisiennes” which, while respecting traditional winemaking, call upon the two new members of the Lamblin family for their contemporary skills. Naturally, the wines of the Chablis appellations continue as strongly as before.

18

OPIMIAN SPECIAL OFFERING 45

BEAUJOLAIS BERNARD PERRIN >> CHABLIS LAMBLIN FILS >>

4784

FOLIES PARISIENNES, LE BLANC DES HERITIERS LAMBLIN $13.08

12 BTLS/750 ML $157.00

This refreshing, dry white wine from the beautiful South of France brings together Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier, Ugni Blanc and Colombard grapes blended into a light, dry, clean and fragrantly vivacious style. While the nose shows fruity melon and peaches, the palate has fresh, dry notes, nice limey acidity and a vigorous, lip-smacking finish. [00] M8 D9

4785

FOLIES PARISIENNES, LE ROUGE DES HERITIERS LAMBLIN $12.75

12 BTLS/750 ML $153.00

We asked Lamblin to produce a wine with greater colour and weight than the replaced Rouge and were pleased to fill our glasses with this garnet-coloured wine with a spicy, ripe fruit nose. Modern, with forward fruit, it has been designed for immediate drinking with the palate offering easy and enjoyable fruit characteristics and a hint of pepper with good balance. It ends with a splash of ample but soft, juicy tannins. M8 D9

4786

PETIT CHABLIS AC, 2007 $29.17

6 BTLS/750 ML $175.00

This has to be a bargain, comparing more than favourably with most of the Chablis on the market, yet at an affordable price. Lamblin make great Petit Chablis. It seems to go with their name as naturally as bread with butter or toast with marmalade. Bright and fresh, the bouquet is rich and faintly enhanced by a dash of citrus orange blossom with a hint of oatmeal and butterscotch. Fresh, limey flavours join oats, nuts, kernels and fruit in a tightly knit harmony that is perfect already. [00] M7 D8

4787

Light, refreshing, great value Grape Variety

Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier, Ugni Blanc, Colombard

Aroma

Vanilla-tinged ripe melon and peach, mineral touches

Taste

Bracing strands of lime and sloe fruit acidity

Serve

12º C

Evolution

Ready to enjoy

Ideal with

Fish, chicken and pasta dishes

Shows plenty of primary fruit Grape Variety

Grenache, Syrah, Cinsault

Aroma

Ripe damson fruit

Taste

Soft with subtle tannin, spiced black pepper and a fruity finish

Serve

17º C

Evolution

Ready now

Ideal with

Grilled beef tagliata with rosemary, capers and lemon

Concentration and flavour with fine, mineral quality Grape Variety

Chardonnay

Aroma

Clean mineral notes and hints of citrus

Taste

Crisp, apple acidity with pure flavours of white peach and pear

Serve

8º C

Evolution

Meant to be drunk young

Ideal with

Boiled lobster with tarragon butter

CHABLIS AC, “VIEILLES VIGNES”, 2007 Vivid, fine and steely $34.67

6 BTLS/750 ML $208.00

Lamblin handpick their grapes before re-sorting at the winery, where any fruit that has a hint of rot is discarded.

Fermentation follows in temperature controlled stainless steel, with the wine then resting on the lees for a short time to add complexity and promote the extraction of flavour. Typically this is an austere wine with an aroma of white stone fruit, chalk and minerals. The palate is crisp, dry and medium-bodied with steely acidity and a well-defined, elegant palate. [00] M6 D6

CHABLIS LAMBLIN FILS >>

Grape Variety Aroma Taste

Chardonnay Pronounced, vibrant nose showing citrus and flowers with a hint of oat biscuit Mineral flavours with zippy citrus and green apple features

Serve

12º C

Evolution

Still young, structure promises quality

Ideal with

Fresh seafood platter

PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND

19

4788

CHABLIS PREMIER CRU, PREMIER CRU CONTROLÉE, “MONT DE MILIEU”, 2007 $46.00

6 BTLS/750 ML $276.00

Only 856 hectares of the Chablis region can be labelled as one of the 48 Premier Cru or 7 Grand Cru. “Mont de Milieu” is one of the finest of the Premier Cru. Much of the unique characteristics of Chablis come from the hard, continental climate that constantly stresses the vines with ice cold winters and hot dry summers. Out of this comes the brilliance that combines a superb but subtle bouquet, a fragrance of wax and honeysuckle and a full palate where blossom and an edge of herbs meets the ripe, sweet grapefruit creaminess and the charm of a long, lingering finish. This is a big, impressive wine. [00] M6 D6

4789

CHABLIS GRAND CRU, GRAND CRU CONTROLÉE, “VAUDESIR”, 2007 $83.17

6 BTLS/750 ML $499.00

This is classic Chablis of a remarkably high quality from one of the seven Grand Cru that line up across a southerly facing hillside just outside Chablis. In total the vines cover just over 200 acres, but their fame is legendary. Lamblin use no oak casks in the making of their wine as they want only the fruit and the limestone terroir to influence the flavour profile. For such a rich wine it takes a moment to see the benefit of this approach. Then, one enjoys the wonderfully bright and intense, austere aspects that offer razor sharp details packed with intense fruit right through to the long, steely finish. [00] M5 D6

4790

6 BTLS/750 ML $133.00

The only Sauvignon Blanc produced in Burgundy comes from a small village in the Auxerrois called Saint-Bris-leVineux. The characteristics are typically Sauvignon, mineraledged and notably a wine of a cool climate, relying on fresh acidity to carry the green stalky flavours and green fruit aromas. Lamblin Fils, at one time almost alone, recognized the outstanding quality and value of the local grapes and has made a huge effort to develop the vineyards and promote the appellation. The nose shows capsicum and flinty notes as well as chalk and the tell-tale gooseberry aroma. The palate offers green apples, lime and grapefruit with more minerality and mouthwatering acidity to finish.

[00] M8 D8

BOURGOGNE CHARDONNAY AC, 2008, “FLEURS DU PRINTEMPS” $23.83

6 BTLS/750 ML $143.00

Lamblin’s wine is a straight up, no nonsense, fine Burgundian Chardonnay. It shows a lovely, golden, greentinged colour with fruity lemon and malic flavours both in the mouth and nose. Offering great value for a wine with such fine attributes, it is dry and still fresh and young. The delicate aromas of orchard fruit follow on to the palate with apple, peach, white currant and a lively impression with good body and length. [00] M7 D7

20

Grape Variety

Chardonnay

Aroma

Medium-bodied with pure mineral-edged fruit

Taste

Ripe, citric fruit provides lovely poise rounded off in a classic flinty finish

Serve

12º - 14º C

Evolution

No rush, Chablis like this will wait for you

Ideal with

Sautéed langoustine, lobster with a reduced Chardonnay glaze

A wine to guard for the big occasion Grape Variety

Chardonnay

Aroma

Intensely aromatic, powerful, graceful

Taste

Fresh, rich, chalky, shafts of fruit pierce the firm mineral flavours

Serve

12º C

Evolution

It would be a crime to open too soon; can be cellared up to 10 years

Ideal with

Sautéed and flambéed langoustines, John Dory cooked in chervil butter, farmyard chicken steamed in Chablis

SAUVIGNON DE SAINT BRIS AC, 2007 $22.17

4791

Arguably Chablis' finest Premier Cru

OPIMIAN SPECIAL OFFERING 45

Passionfruit flavours Grape Variety

Sauvignon Blanc

Aroma

Aromatic, powerful, fresh, fruity nose

Taste

Mineral tang, great freshness, green fruit

Serve

11º C

Evolution

Nice now; as it ages it fattens and developes but loses vitality

Ideal with

New Brunswick Caraquets or Saint Simons [Eastern oysters]

Crisp wine with a clean mineral influence Grape Variety

Chardonnay

Aroma

Grapefruit and lemon moderated by apple and pear

Taste

Tight and hard-edged palate with a splash of lemon zest

Serve

12º C

Evolution

Weight suggests that there is more to come

Ideal with

Chicken fillets with polenta and cheese crust

CHABLIS LAMBLIN FILS >>

4792

BOURGOGNE ALIGOTÉ AC, 2007, “FRUITS D’ETÉ” $23.83

6 BTLS/750 ML $143.00

For most producers Aligoté either doesn’t excite or it scarcely exists, but grown on a fine limestone terroir, it produces a wonderful alternative to Chardonnay. The Lamblin wine comes from close to Chablis and shows a distinctly plump, rounded identity. It may not age for as long as Chardonnay, but when young it is far too frequently overlooked and deserves greater exposure. Greenish-coloured, tending to ripen to golden, it shows plenty of fruit, mainly white peach, pear and a crisp slice of apple. The lime-acid influenced palate enhances the pear and apple flavours. It is indispensible for making summertime Kir at its very best.

[00] M7 D7

4793

BOURGOGNE PASSETOUTGRAIN AC, 2007, “RAISINS DE L’AUTOMNE” $21.83

6 BTLS/750 ML $131.00

The regulations state that this wine may be a blend of Gamay with Pinot Noir, with the better wines having a higher percentage of the latter grape. Lamblin have always produced wines which rapidly develop fine Burgundian profiles showing real elegance and style. This vintage is succulent if rather simple and straightforward with heaps of fruit texture, sweet cherry with musky, earthy overtones and nicely furry tannins. It finishes with a pleasing mouthfeel and perfumed quality. M7 D7

4794

CÔTES DE BEAUNE-VILLAGES AC, 2007 $31.67

6 BTLS/750 ML $190.00

I feel that I write this every year, but it is as true today as it was some thirty-five years ago when Opimian made its first offerings. It is difficult to make great Pinot Noir! No matter how many try, it is a task that few succeed in accomplishing. This one has a shiny, red colour, with a well-perfumed bouquet and a dab of liquorice, mushrooms and a warm stable nuance. It is concentrated and juicy, emanating ripe cherries and a pinch of sweet spice, not big but nicely layered with mellow tannins. M6 D7

4795

VOLNAY AC, 2007 $47.67

6 BTLS/750 ML $286.00

The village lies roughly half way between Beaune, with its great red vineyards, and Meursault, one of the finest of the Côte d’Or villages. Volnay, with south-easterly facing vineyards, produces only red wines of high quality; it is the home of 26 Premier Cru! Crowned by a limestone plateau at the top of the slope, the Volnay vineyards have a sub-soil of fractured marlstone that gives the wines a powerful tannic presence. Lamblin buy their wine from growers under long term contracts, and this, now blended and bottled in their cellars, combines the fragrance of violets with red berries, mushrooms, composted earth and a small touch of vanilla. It is entirely typical of the village. M6 D6

CHABLIS LAMBLIN FILS >>

Perfect in summer, but there are no seasonal limitations Grape Variety Aroma Taste

Aligoté Bouquet brings flowers and fresh fruit to mind mostly lemons and green apples Crisp and dry, ripe pears and red and green apples, finishes fresh

Serve

10º C

Evolution

Will keep its youth 3 to 4 years

Ideal with

Chilled as an aperitif

Great balance, an attractive all-rounder Grape Variety

Gamay, Pinot Noir

Aroma

Lovely ripe cherries with nice herbiness

Taste

Fruity palate, soft and full, with firm tannins, appropriate acidity and spicy elements

Serve

14º - 16º C

Evolution

As it ages so the Pinot personality develops

Ideal with

Grilled charmoula lamb chops, duck in a red wine sauce

Juicy ripe Pinot with warming spicy touches Grape Variety

Pinot Noir

Aroma

Dark cherry fruit notes

Taste

Juicy and ripe with an earthy tannin structure and a spicy mid-palate

Serve

16º C

Evolution

Pinot changes but lasts for ages

Ideal with

Roast lamb rump served with balsamic syrup and a warm salad of wild rocket and roasted baby beetroot

An intensely fruity red burgundy Grape Variety

Pinot Noir

Aroma

Classic ripe red fruit and leather with earthy notes

Taste

Soft fruit with fine tannin that provides excellent structure

Serve

16º - 18º C

Evolution

8 to 10 years in a temperature-controlled cellar

Ideal with

Medallions of venison with port and cranberries

PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND

21

4796

ALOXE-CORTON AC, 2007 6 BTLS/750 ML $286.00

$47.67

From an outstanding village that has half its area covered

by Grand Cru vineyards, it is a certain sign that the wines are very special. Aloxe-Corton is the most northern of the great Côtes de Beaune red wine communes. It is also home to one of the world’s greatest whites, the fabled Corton-Charlemagne. Here is proof that terroir is much if not all of winemaking. The whites are grown on limestone soil, whereas the reds, from lower down the slope, thrive on a red, calcareous and clay soil. The style of this wine is intensely fruity with blackcurrant and cherries linking with muscular tannins that leave the palate filled with long-lasting nuances of spice that add complexity. M6 D6

4797

GEVREY-CHAMBERTIN AC, 2007 $56.17

6 BTLS/750 ML $337.00

The northernmost wine village of the Côte de Nuits, the wines are rich and refined, filled with ample vinosity, sturdy and forceful. It is the site of eight of Burgundy’s Grand Cru and in addition contains 28 Premier Cru. Our wine was produced in vineyards lying on the extension of the slope on which the greatest Cru are situated. The soils vary considerably, making the name of the producer more important than that of the village. This powerful and perfumed wine has a deep colour with a multi-faceted nose of red berries and plums, a full tannic structure and mellow texture that carries through to a long finish. M5 D6

4798

NUITS-SAINT-GEORGES AC, 2007 $56.17

6 BTLS/750 ML $337.00

This is the most southerly of the communes of the Côte de Nuits where the terroir is composed of limestone and marl, both of which play their part in the formation of the characteristics. The vines are aligned towards the east, providing perfect conditions to produce great wine. Typically these are the sturdiest and longest-lived of all those of the Côte de Nuits. It has a medium colour, with a small note of oak on the nose and the red fruit showing its succulence.

There’s a lot of depth with good harmony showing real concentration and intensity. M6 D6 Batonnage–Stirring the lees to increase flavour extraction

22

OPIMIAN SPECIAL OFFERING 45

Fine wine from a delightful, touristy village Grape Variety

Pinot Noir

Aroma

Full and rich, the pungency of spice almost masks the fruit

Taste

Big, well-structured, soft fruit with some tough, old, leathery tannins

Serve

16º - 18º C

Evolution

Wine for the coming decade, nice now, but better to wait

Ideal with

Roast stuffed goose with prunes soaked in Armagnac

Pinot Noir has a thin skin, so its colour is never as deep as other red wines Pinot Noir Grape Variety Aroma

Fresh, plump nose with a touch of spice

Taste

The austerity of the village, refined tannin, ripe finish

Serve

16º C

Evolution

Just started on a long journey

Ideal with

Pork medallions with mustard cream sauce

Classic Pinot Noir from a great village; elegant and stylish Grape Variety

Pinot Noir

Aroma

Lovely fruit, still youthful, still closed

Taste

Adolescent but has balance with concentrated fruit

Serve

16º C

Evolution

Enjoy from 2009 to 2015

Ideal with

Braised pork loin cutlets with thyme-lemon sauce

Chablis

CHABLIS LAMBLIN FILS

Canada BLACK PRINCE WINERY Loyalist Parkway, Picton, Prince Edward County This innovating winery in Prince Edward County is making better wines with each passing vintage. Both red and white wines are good, although to date the whites have shown greater continuity of class, benefitting from their ability to draw from the terroir at an earlier stage of maturity.

4799

RIESLING-TRAMINER ICEWINE, VQA NIAGARA-ONTHE-LAKE, 2007 $48.50

6 BTLS/200 ML $291.00

With an air of great anticipation, pull the cork, take a large snifter and pour the precious nectar. It falls, almost lazily, into the glass with a polished, golden colour that sends fresh quince and pineapple, honeysuckle and perfumed flowers into the room. The palate is glutinously rich and thickly concentrated with oodles of sweet grape sugar that fills the mouth. Gradually the acidity draws out the astringency to leave the mouth clean and full of delicate flavours.

[10] M6 D8

4800

Grape Variety

Riesling, Traminer

Aroma

Beeswax, apricot jam with honey

Taste

Fresh, sweet and fat

Serve

8º C

Evolution

It could last a lifetime

Ideal with

Try Canada’s blue cheeses, Naramata Bench Blue [BC], Highland Blue [Ont], Bleu d'Auvergne [Que]

CHARDONNAY, 2007 $33.33

6 BTLS/750 ML $200.00

Light yellow in colour, it has a grapefruit, cream cheese and oatmeal nose that is both fresh and delightfully fragrant.

On the palate the same attractive freshness makes this a pretty wine, one that would best be enjoyed alone as an aperitif, even though its sweet grapefruit taste gives it a charming creamy palate. A pleasant drink with a light finish.

[00] M8 D8

4801

A golden-coloured pot of honey

Lightly caresses the taste buds Grape Variety

Chardonnay

Aroma

Fragrant lemon peel and vanilla with rolled oats

Taste

Filigree pattern of delicate flavours

Serve

11º C

Evolution

Ready now

Ideal with

Ideal with lemon chicken or pan-fried sole

CABERNET FRANC RESERVE, 2007 $35.83

6 BTLS/750 ML $215.00

The varietal originally came from the Bordeaux district but has been much planted in many other climates and countries. Less well-known or recognized than its near relative, the Cabernet Sauvignon, it develops very similar features. This has a magenta plum colour with highly toned aromas of raspberry and plum fruit tinted with cinnamon spice and good notes of oak. The palate is more reminiscent of black fruit, mainly blackberry, with an attractive layer of herbs and a pinch of spice. A deep and steady wine with mouth-filling tannins. M8 D8

CANADA BLACK PRINCE WINERY

Well-made, succulent Cabernet Grape Variety

Cabernet Franc

Aroma

Cassis, vanilla

Taste

Red fruits, blackberries, black pepper

Serve

18º C

Evolution

Soft tannins suggest it will be ready very soon

Ideal with

Barbecued beef or herbed rack of lamb

PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND

23

Gardet caves

Champagne

GARDET & CIE Chigny-les-Roses, Montagne de Reims One never tires of the description given to this brilliant producer of top quality Champagne by Christian Pol Roger, head of the world famous grande marque House owned by his family; he said, “Gardet, the greatest of the small Houses, the smallest of the large, but always at the top”.

Note: Champagne is held by its producers until the wine is perfectly ready to enjoy. For this reason we do not give Maturity and Drinkability ratings to these wines.

24

OPIMIAN SPECIAL OFFERING 45

CHAMPAGNE GARDET & CIE >>

4802

CHAMPAGNE GARDET, BRUT, NV $56.67

6 BTLS/750 ML $340.00

This is a great glass of bubbly, well-balanced, with plenty of oatmeal flavours and masses of tiny bubbles making a lasting mousse that clings to the glass gradually releasing the perfume of the wine. It is dry, crisp, elegant, vivacious and light with a purity of style. Floral aromas with complex fruitiness lead to a fresh finish. [02]

4803

6 BTLS/750 ML $352.00

One of the rare but remarkable aspects of Gardet as a primary producer, is that they are able to produce this wine, a Premier Cru, coming only from vineyards mostly belonging to the House, that have been designated to be of the highest quality. It is an eight year old blend, fully mature and drinking superbly. The extra bottle age makes Gardet broader and fuller-flavoured than many other non-vintage Champagnes and helps to fill out the individual qualities.

Aromas, chiefly characterized by pear and blackberry, give way to hints of cut hay. It is light and refined with a touch of citrus on the finish. [02]

CHAMPAGNE GEORGES GARDET, BRUT SPÉCIAL, NV $37.00

4805

12 BTLS/375 ML $444.00

Fresh hay, rhubarb, honey, floral aromas with a slice of white peach

Taste

Crisp with good fruit structure, a sharp liveliness and a noticeable lemony finish

Serve

8º - 10º C

Evolution

Perfectly complete and ready

Ideal with

Blanquette of veal with morels

Clean, fresh and very elegant Grape Variety

Pinot Meunier, Pinot Noir

Aroma

Hints of honey, hazelnuts, grilled almonds and fresh pastry

Taste

Powerful and well-rounded, rich and savoury

Serve

8º - 10º C

Evolution

Delicious and will remain so for several years

Ideal with

Ideal with seafood and light white meat dishes or fine to drink on its own

Pinot Noir dominates giving a rich style Grape Variety

Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, Chardonnay

6 BTLS/750 ML $364.00

Aroma

Citrus fruits, sugared grapefruit and hints of fresh baked crusty bread

It has been said of Gardet that their wines are France’s “best kept secret”. With a chance to enjoy wine like this there is no need for secrets any more. This is the cuvée that made the name of the House. Of tangibly high quality with a dry, gently spicy, aromatic bouquet, the rich, toasty, buttery flavours are complemented by a complex, biscuit finish. A high percentage of Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier give the wine weight and depth while long ageing on the yeast lees has heightened the toasty flavour and rich mouthfeel. [02]

Taste

Biscuits, pear slices and toast all wrapped up in fizz

Serve

9º - 11º C

Evolution

Only waiting for the cork to be eased out

Ideal with

Nova Scotia lobster with strawberry and mango salad

CHAMPAGNE GEORGES GARDET, BRUT SPÉCIAL, NV $60.67

4806

Aroma

CHAMPAGNE GARDET, PREMIER CRU, NV $58.67

4804

Finely crafted Champagne made by Gardet’s talented winemaker Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, Chardonnay Grape Variety

CHAMPAGNE GEORGES GARDET, BRUT ROSÉ, NV $69.50

6 BTLS/750 ML $417.00

In the early stages of production, the Pinot Noir adds body but not colour to the cuvée. This comes later after the second fermentation, with the addition of the reserve red wine which creates the gentle salmon colour. Raspberries and strawberries fill the nose and palate, but there is a positive note of mineral cranberry adding finesse and a persistent light touch.

This is one of the finest Rosé Champagnes sourced only in great vintages to maintain the quality of an iconic wine. [02]

CHAMPAGNE GARDET & CIE >>

Bursting with fresh summer fruit Grape Variety

Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier

Aroma

Elegant with strong notes of red fruit

Taste

Ripe white currants, with full toasty, yeasty elements

Serve

10º - 12º C

Evolution

Great wine now, it has several years of life ahead

Ideal with

Duck or pheasant in a cranberry sauce, fresh goat cheese and crusty bread

PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND

25

4807

CHAMPAGNE CUVÉE CHARLES GARDET, 2000 $79.50

6 BTLS/750 ML $477.00

The wine of a wonderful vintage, the Milennium year, it is now perfectly mature. Only the juice from first pressings was used for this vintage wine, which was aged for six years on the lees to allow the light characteristic of the wine to express itself. The nose is very elegant, blending ripe fruit with citric notes and peach, then expanding to include hints of chocolate and crème brûlée. The palate is pleasantly firm, with a touch of vanilla opening to yellow fruit and citrus before fading to a lingering, crisp finish. [02]

Fabulous year, superb wine becoming a rare treat Grape Variety

Chardonnay, Pinot Noir

Aroma

Herbs bloom into candied grapefruit and cinnamon, rounded out by oatmeal biscuits and dried fruits

Taste

One sensation follows another and expands, rhythmically and precisely structured

Serve

10º - 12º C

Evolution

It’s time to enjoy a rare treat, but no need to hurry

Ideal with

Grilled Dover sole with lemon butter

Épernay

26

OPIMIAN SPECIAL OFFERING 45

CHAMPAGNE GARDET & CIE

Cognac

Passion of the Charente

UNICOGNAC Jonzac, Charente The countryside of Cognac is a quiet place. Life seems as tranquil as the calm of the great dark buildings in which countless oak casks of Cognac lie during their long years of ageing. Through the heart of Cognac flows the Charente, a river that stirs no emotion, it carries no traffic, its only claim to fame being the number of small pools where anglers cast their bait. This changeless scene belies the truth that this is a centre of great economic activity, for goldencoloured Cognac brings much gold to France from export markets in every country of the world.

Jonzac

4808

CALVADOS, LERICHE $37.50

ARMAGNAC, *** LERICHE $38.00

4815

6 BTLS/750 ML $287.00

For many years highly priced Cognac blends became younger with each year, but a changed market has altered course and our Fine Cognac is now, once again, a blend of much older spirits, not all from one year but blended across many to provide smooth, soft nuances. The components all come from the two best districts, the Grande and Petite Champagne, which make up only 30% of the Cognac district. Finally judged by the master blender to be mature, our “VS” [Very Special] proudly shows its rich, golden colour with a velvet-smooth palate enriched by notes of dark chocolate,MANZANILLA coffee and beguiling spirit.

OPIMIAN PASADA, SANLÚCAR DE

BARRAMEDA

$00.00 COGNAC XO,6 BTLS/750 “ROI DES ML ROIS” 4811 $00.00

6 BTLS/750 ML $228.00

Hidden away in the clearings of the great forest of the Landes, Armagnac is distilled in old-fashioned pot stills.

Above all other brandies, Armagnac is a small country affair, produced by artisan distillers on small farms. It is rarely made on an industrial scale but it is all the more interesting for its individuality. This is a blend, some parts matured in the increasingly rare casks of native Pyrenean oak which influences much of the subtle flavour. It is wonderfully mellow, smokey, rich and long, the soft finish repeating nuances of smoke and aromas of wild flowers.

LAURIAC VS FINE CHAMPAGNE COGNAC $47.83

6 BTLS/750 ML $225.00

There is simply nothing to compare with Calvados. It is utterly unique, being distilled from the native apples of Normandy, where a visit to any farm reveals that the apples are a nightmare. They are invariably cankerous looking, pitted and ugly and as bitter as lye. The best varieties are the Blaquet, Benet and Violet, but others are used as well.

Following crushing, fermentation and distillation, the young Calvados was matured for five years in small oak casks from which it emerged for bottling as a beautifully clean, apple-flavoured, very dry spirit that explodes, then buzzes about the palate with a long-lasting malic grip.

4809

4810

4816

Pale, straw-coloured, this is entirely dry with a touch of salt $111.67 3 BTLS/700 ML $335.00 flavour in the mouth from the grapes grown close to the Every Cognac distillery has its “top of the mark” the Atlantic where the sea breezes deposit spray on brand, the vines bottle hallmarking the quality of the and fruit.and It islabel refined, light-bodied, elegant andcompany. perfectly For Unicognac, co-operative by more growers mature.

In theasmall town ofowned Sanlúcar wherethan it is 500 produced, the Charente, is “Roi des Very old, the youngest it of is quaffed in the itevenings as Rois”. the inhabitants take their component in the stroll bottledown is close to nine years.

With traditional evening to the cafés along theother quay parts the going back for decades, it is wondrously smooth, where gypsies dance the flamenco to the music of unca tuous and as soft as velvet.music Homogenized by time its pervirtuoso playing melancholy on a solitary guitar.

[00] fume includes smoke, toffee, dried orange peel, and chocolate.FINE In theAMONTILLADO, mouth there is initial sweetness followed OPIMIAN RARE BALLAST BUTT by powerful, smooth spirit, nothing harsh, endlessly long. $00.00 6 BTLS/750 ML $00.00 For three centuries the seafarers sailing out of the Port of

COGNAC UNICOGNAC

PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND

27

Isle of Skye

Scots Malt Whisky PRÀBAN NA LINNE Isle of Skye, Scotland Sir Iain Noble of Lamraig followed his eccentric dream and love for the Isle of Skye to establish a whisky blending company that would provide “whisky as it used to be” for the hardy Celtic islanders who inhabit the islands off the west coast of Scotland. Over the years, the company, Pràban na Linne, [the accent lengthens the “à” to “praa-ban”] has flourished not only in Scotland but in the predominently Scots communities of the Maritimes and in other countries. Sir Iain is now planning further expansion by building his own distillery on the island to provide malt for future fillings and to continue to develop financial support to Skye’s economy.

28

OPIMIAN SPECIAL OFFERING 45

SCOTS MALT WHISKY PRÀBAN NA LINNE >>

4812

CÙL NA CREAGAN, 8 YEAR OLD MALT SCOTCH WHISKY, DISTILLED 2001 $59.00

6 BTLS/700 ML $354.00

The name means literally, “the cleft in the rocks”, and indeed there is a deep cleft close to the Pràban na Linne premises where two hundred years ago the islanders distilled their whisky in secret, hidden from the eyes of the King’s customs and excise inspectors. To select the blend, the professional tasters of Pràban called for samples from many Malt Whisky distilleries right across the spectrum of Scotland’s different styles and locations. They sought out those malts whose characteristics are compatible with each other, making the synergy of the blend finer than its individual parts.

4813

CÙL NA CREAGAN, 12 YEAR OLD MALT SCOTCH WHISKY, DISTILLED 1997 $72.00

6 BTLS/700 ML $432.00

During a visit by Ken Christie to Eilean Iarmain on the Isle of Skye, he tasted with the Pràban team, selecting whiskies from the Isle of Islay, the Northern Highlands, Speyside and the Eastern Highlands. These glorious “fillings” have now blended together for three years and have married harmoniously into three whiskies of differing distillation age but all of the highest possible quality.

After years of maturation, partly in used sherry butts which add to the complexity of the flavours, it was bottled at 43%, without filtration, as Sir Iain believes that even light filtration steals some of the more subtle aromas.

4814

CÙL NA CREAGAN, 21 YEAR OLD MALT SCOTCH WHISKY, DISTILLED 1988 $137.00

6 BTLS/700 ML $822.00

There are many illustrious blended malt Scots whiskies, perhaps the best known being Chivas Regal. In Opimian’s quest to produce an exclusive label which epitomizes the very finest, we believe that there are no other blended malts that surpass those that wear our Cùl na Creagan label.

SCOTS MALT WHISKY PRÀBAN NA LINNE

PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND

29

Sherry

The Golden Wine of Andalucia

“God honours me and will have me to die for his sake, thus now I must call for a glass of sherry sack.”

Philip Powell [martyr] 1594 -1646

Sherry, the wine so much loved by William Shakespeare that he introduced it into several of his plays, comes from the small city of Jerez de la Frontera, once a frontier town between Islam and Christianity. It is thought that the vines were first planted in the region by the Phoenicians, who knew well the value of limestone in the making of quality wines and admired the stark white landscape between Jerez and the ancient port city of Cádiz.

In recent years the area under vines has been much reduced as the popularity of table wine has spread while fortified wine sales have contracted. But Sherry remains one of the greatest of all aperitif wines. It may be served alone and sipped or in summertime served on a bed of crushed ice; in either case it is simply irreplaceable.

TOMAS ABAD Jerez de la Frontera A medium-sized bodega that has supplied wines to Opimian since 1990, it has, in recent years, been taken over by a larger House but it remains independently managed, concentrating on wines of the highest quality.

30

OPIMIAN SPECIAL OFFERING 45

SHERRY TOMAS ABAD >>

4815

OPIMIAN MANZANILLA PASADA, SANLÚCAR DE BARRAMEDA $25.33

6 BTLS/750 ML $152.00

Pale, straw-coloured, this is entirely dry with a touch of salt flavour in the mouth from the grapes grown close to the Atlantic where the sea breezes deposit spray on the vines and fruit. It is refined, light-bodied, elegant and perfectly mature. In the small town of Sanlúcar where it is produced, it is quaffed in the evenings as the inhabitants take their traditional evening stroll down to the cafés along the quay where the gypsies dance the flamenco to the music of a virtuoso playing melancholy music on a solitary guitar. [00]

4816

OPIMIAN FINE AMONTILLADO, RARE BALLAST BUTT $24.33

6 BTLS/750 ML $146.00

For three centuries the seafarers sailing out of the Port of Cádiz to the fishing grounds of the New World or to the Spice Islands of the East Indies, used full butts of Sherry grown on the white albariza limestone soil as ballast. The voyages were long, sometimes lasting several years, but on their return the merchants of Cádiz and Jerez found that the wines had deepened as they had matured, becoming crisp and nutty, with nuances of vanilla, almonds, walnuts and dried fruit. Today this unique wine is sweetened slightly with a small dose of Pedro Ximénez wine before shipping, making it perfect as an after dinner digestif or, chilled over ice, a perfectly refreshing appetizer. [03]

4817

OPIMIAN EAST INDIA RICH CREAM OLOROSO $24.33

6 BTLS/750 ML $146.00

A rich, golden wine, almost the colour of mahogany, it has a strong aromatic nose featuring hints of smoke, notes of walnuts, roses and raisins. It is unashamedly sweet, implying no loss of balance nor acidity which keeps the palate fresh and long. Fortified with Spanish Brandy prior to shipping, it weighs in at 20% alc./vol. so there is no imperative to empty the bottle at one sitting. [05]

Top: Jerez Bottom: Tomas Abad Cellars

SHERRY TOMAS ABAD

PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND

31

COUPON PROGRAMS

WINE PROGRAMS

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

OPIMIAN SELECT

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

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

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

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

FOUNDERS’ CHOICE

YOUR FREE CASE CHOICES FOR THIS SPECIAL OFFERING

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

4764

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.

VIN DE PAYS DES GAULES ROSE, BERNARD PERRIN, 2008 Coupon

6 BTLS/750 ML

Packaged in cases of 6, this is the same wine as lot 4766, available only with the coupon as explained above.

4765

VIN DE PAYS DES GAULES ROUGE, BERNARD PERRIN, 2008 Coupon

A Collection of Premium Wines

The Founders’ Choice feature supplier is Bernard Perrin.

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

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

6 BTLS/750 ML

Packaged in cases of 6, this is the same wine as lot 4767, available only with the coupon as explained above.

opim.ca CONDITIONS OF PURCHASE FOR SPECIAL OFFERING 45

• 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 Special Offering: December 8, 2008

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

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

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

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

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

SYMBOLS

Members’ Choice

White

Drink this year

Red

Enjoyable now; will develop 6 months-2 years

Rosé

This symbol denotes wines most ordered

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

Opimian Suggests

Heavy oak

Medium concentration

Light in body

Medium oak

Light oak

Less than 100 cs available

Extremely limited quantities

Very limited quantities

Limited quantities

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

Appeared in the C177/S44 Select Cases (2008 Season)

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

Wine meant for laying down

Sparkling

Great concentration

Medal Winner

Sweetness scale 00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10

gms/litre 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

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